It’s a common misconception that smaller dogs need less exercise, and worse, less adventuring than their full to large-sized k9 counterparts. DJANGO is here to prove that any furry friend can accompany you on any adventure with the right gear.

If you’re a seasoned adventurer, surely you’ve held onto soggy dog leashes and attempted to dry smelly harnesses and collars. With DJANGO’s water-repellent or waterproof designs, you can spend more time strolling the boardwalk without smelling like a wet dog.

DJANGO supplies the appropriate gear for every adventure; from beaches to cities, and all the way into the mountains, with bundles that equip you and your adventure partner for whatever comes your way.

Overview

Our Experience

During my many years as a dog owner, avid hiker, and adventurer, I’ve always loved having a dog or two (or four) by my side. Our mountain lifestyle carries us into the woods, hiking along the shores of roaring rivers and marching up mountain tops. All three items from DJANGO that I trialled held up in our rural setting, and are well-suited to impress anyone in different environments as well.

The easily adjustable straps of the Tahoe No-Pull harness make minor size changes simple while on the trail. Each d-ring is large enough to accommodate a bigger leash clasp, such as the carabiner-style waterproof leash connection. I was thrilled to see how quickly I could change between the collar connect and the front and back harness connects.

The Tahoe Dog Collar is made of polyester webbing with the same heavy-duty side-release buckles and d-ring. The Tahoe dog collar is durable enough for leash use, but isn’t so big that it interferes with the harness. Pet owners who frequently walk their dogs in town, like I occasionally do, can appreciate a set that still provides control without needing to remove the collar to place the harness.

The Waterproof Dog Leash from DJANGO is my personal favorite part of the Tahoe bundle. As humans who treat our dogs like family, we often find ourselves surrounded by a body of water. On our latest outing, Bruce frolicked through the mountain streams while I popped down to sit by the creek. The leash fell from around my shoulders into the stream, but thankfully, the water beaded off and the leash remained perfectly comfortable to carry. I’ve carried far too many muddy, sandy, damp, stinky leashes not to rejoice in this moment.

Pros & Cons

Key Features

Sizing

Django (the adventure doggo that inspired the company) may be a smaller-sized pup, but this brand accommodates mid to large-sized dogs well. Other brands geared toward or built around larger dogs tend to have slightly different sizing guides, so be sure to measure before buying! My Australian Cattle Dog, Bruce, is midsize and would usually be a Medium, but in DJANGO’s harness, he is an XL, so be aware of the size guide while ordering. The size guide is very well detailed and makes ordering easy.

Note that the neck girth on the Tahoe No Pull Harness doesn’t allow for much wiggle room. The benefit of this is that it fits snug to the dog’s chest and neck area to prevent catching on anything or your dog slipping out of the harness. Again, be sure to measure before purchasing.

About DJANGO

DJANGO is a brand created by Steph and Mike, around their beloved pup Django. While travelling the world with their trusty dog in tow, Mike and Steph created a line of dog accessories and gear that allow you to adventure with your dog in various settings. DJANGO is a well-recognized brand, with nods from Forbes, MSN, Bark & Co, and more, and has carved its way into many pet lovers’ homes globally.

Are DJANGO products a Good Value?

Yes, DJANGO provides their customers with high-quality gear at an affordable price point. DJANGO’s bundles encourage more savings. While on the mid-to-high end of the market in comparison to what you see in local pet stores, DJANGO’s products won’t beg to be replaced often, so spending a little extra should save your pocketbook in the long run.

How We Tested

I travel with extra water, leashes, bear spray, and more to keep my dogs safe. But I’ll admit there are often things I don’t travel with, and it’s usually a harness. Generic harnesses are often ill-fitting, prone to twisting, get caught on branches, and double in weight when wet.

While initial testing and fit checks of DJANGO’s Tahoe No Pull Harness were encouraging, I wanted to put it to the test in an active, wild environment. I buckled my Australian Cattle Dog, Bruce, into the harness and headed into the woods. As a dog with impeccable recall, Bruce remained off leash for most of the walk, darting through trees, jumping in streams, and traipsing through mud. The Tahoe No Pull Harness didn’t budge! It stayed in place while the water and mud dripped right off, which made for pleasant handling after our hike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the exchange policy?

Purchases made within the US are eligible for exchange for 30 days. International exchanges are welcome, however, DJANGO does not cover shipping labels for returns.

How many varieties, colors, sizes, or options are there?

The Tahoe collar comes in 3 sizes: Small, Medium, and Large, with six color options (see above).

The Tahoe No Pull Harness comes in 5 sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, and XX-Large.

The Tahoe Waterproof Leash comes in small and standard sizes.

How do I measure my pet?

Each of DJANGO’s products is accompanied by a size chart on their website and a description of how, where, and what to measure your pet with.

Conclusion

In conclusion, DJANGO’s products are well-made and impressive in a world full of pet accessories. Dog owners can shop DJANGO’s site and become inspired to adventure with their smaller dogs, enabling mental stimulation, physical exercise, and a closer bond. Those of us with mid-to-large-size dogs can purchase their larger sizes for the durable material, high quality, and well-thought-out design. DJANGO products are meant for real-world use and will get the job done in many different scenarios.

The post DJANGO Tahoe Harness & Collar Bundle Review 2025: Dog Adventuring Made Easy appeared first on PangoVet.

If you’re looking to spice up your cat’s culinary experience, then I’ve got a cat food company for you. Applaws has an extensive line of cat dietary options, from complete and balanced meals, to puree treat pouches, to mousse packs designed to add flavor and nutrition to your kitty’s routine.

This cat food company packs each of their offerings with natural, quality ingredients available in various flavors and textures so you can find the perfect match for your cat’s tastes.

I had a chance to try several different treats, canned food, and mousse options from Applaws. With the help of Makoa, my two-year-old Domestic Shorthair, I put these offerings to the test. Find out how he liked them, if they met my high standards, and more in my full Applaws Cat Food review.

At a Glance: What We Reviewed

Rating	Image	Product	Details
		Applaws Vitality Canned Food	Grain-free Available in many flavors Complete and balanced nutrition	CHECK PRICE
		Applaws Natural Cat Food Mousse	Meal additive Smooth texture Superfood ingredients	CHECK PRICE
		Applaws Natural Cat Food Puree Treat	Multiple flavors Highly palatable Limited ingredient	CHECK PRICE

About Applaws

Applaws believes what a cat eats is just as important to their health as our diet is to our health. They created a long line of cat food recipes based on this simple idea.

Who Makes Applaws and Where is it Produced?

Applaws is owned by MPM, a premium natural food B Corp that also owns Encore and Reveal cat food companies. The canned and dry food from Applaws is manufactured in Thailand and Ecuador using globally sourced ingredients. All their manufacturing facilities are GFSI-accredited for food safety or operate to IFS standards.

Which Types of Cats is Applaws Best Suited For?

Applaws offers a huge variety of diets for cats, seniors, and kittens over 12 weeks of age. The number of different recipes, textures, and flavors to choose from makes it easy to find something your cat will love no matter their preferences or needs.

Many of Applaws’ “diet addition” foods contain limited ingredients, making it easy to find a recipe that even sensitive cats and those with food allergies can tolerate.

In addition to wet food, they also have various kibble and treat products.

Overview

Here, we give a brief overview of what makes Applaws unique in the cat food world, including the different product types they offer, the ingredients they use, the texture and flavor options available, and where you can purchase their products.

Product Types

For a long time, Applaws’ wet food options were focused on complementary foods—or what is known in the industry as food “for intermittent and supplemental feeding only.”

This means that Applaws’ original wet food recipes are meant to be fed alongside a nutritionally complete diet, such as their dry cat food. They are not designed to be a complete and balanced meal.

These recipes are all 100% natural and contain a short list of ingredients. Some of them, such as the mousse options, include superfood superstars such as omega-3s and glucosamine. These limited-ingredient options are intended to be added to your cat’s normal food to make it more palatable or to add some variety.

Now, in addition to their original lineup of all-natural wet food recipes, Applaws also offers their Vitality canned food. This food has a base of all-natural ingredients plus added vitamins and minerals to make it a complete and balanced option.

Ingredients

Every one of Applaws’ wet food options starts with premium animal-based, protein-packed meats or seafood. Two of the most common first ingredients you’ll find in their recipes are chicken breast and tuna fillet.

These main meats are typically followed by other quality animal ingredients, including salmon, egg whites, and chicken liver. While some recipes include quality salmon oil as an added fat, others rely on less desirable sunflower oil.

Many of the recipe options include some potatoes or potato starch. A few options have rice in them, and many of the senior foods include pumpkin. But in general, these are the only vegetable ingredients you’ll find, which leaves a lot of room for quality meat ingredients.

The ingredient lists for the “complementary” foods only contain these few ingredients. The Vitality line starts with these simple ingredients but also includes a long list of added vitamins and minerals, including taurine.

Texture Options

Applaws offers many different texture varieties for most of their recipes.

For the vitality line, you can choose from pate or “in broth.” The former has a very smooth texture – almost as smooth as their mousse line. The latter has a flaky texture (similar to canned tuna fish) with larger chunks and a brothy base.

For an even smoother texture than the pate option available in cans, you can opt for Applaws’ mousse recipes. Flavors in this texture come in small pouches. The texture is super smooth and a great option for seniors and young kittens.

Lastly, Applaws has a line of “in gravy” options. These recipes have smaller flaked chunks than the “in broth” option and much more liquid. These are a good choice for picky eaters, as the gravy adds an enticing flavor while the chunks make for a more interesting eating experience.

Flavors

In all texture categories, Applaws offers many different recipe—or “flavor”—options.

Many of these recipes include only the ingredients listed on the front of the package, making it easy to find options for cats with food allergies or sensitivities.

Where to Purchase

While Applaws’ website is a great resource for pursuing their long line of cat food options, you can’t order directly from their site.

Instead, you’ll need to visit one of their pet supply partners, including Petco, PetSmart, Pet Supplies Plus, and a handful of other brick-and-mortar chains.

You can also purchase Applaws online at Amazon or Chewy.

Reviews of the Applaws Products We Tried

1. Applaws Vitality Canned Food

For everyday feeding, Applaws’ Vitality line is the option you want. This food is made with a base of quality natural ingredients like all Applaws offerings, but contains added vitamins and minerals to ensure your cat gets everything they need to thrive.

Each of these flavors comes in pate or “in broth” textures.

This adult cat food is perfect for both indoor and outdoor cats. All the flavors are very high in protein, providing energy and lean calories. Many of the flavors are low-fat, a good option for less active cats.

My cat was a big fan of these canned foods and loved the pate just as much as the “in broth” texture. Because these cans are smaller than your typical small cat food cans (2.47oz vs. 3oz) and lower in fat, it did take some time to figure out the right amount to feed Makoa to ensure he was getting enough calories. It certainly didn’t help that he enjoyed this option so much that he was always asking for more!

2. Applaws Naatural Cat Food Mousse

If you’re looking for a way to get your picky cat to eat or just want to add some extra flavor or nutrition to your cat’s diet, Applaws Mousse is the way to go.

These little packets provide a heaping of protein from quality animal-based ingredients, plenty of moisture, and a ton of flavor. Because they don’t contain added nutrients, bone meal, or much organ meat, they are not nutritionally complete and should not be fed alone. But they do make a great addition to an already balanced diet.

The high palatability of these recipes and their pleasing texture make them a great enticer for picky kitties. My cat is anything but picky (he will happily eat hair ties and rubber toys, after all), but he did seem to particularly enjoy this food. He never left his bowl unlicked after I mixed in this supplement.

The two senior options include whole chicken, which provides glucosamine and chondroitin. And the pumpkin adds extra fiber to support elderly tummies. While these are marketed for seniors, they make great super-food add-ons for adult cats too. (Makoa loved the chicken and pumpkin flavor and so did his sensitive stomach.)

3. Applaws Natural Cat Food Puree Treat

Whether you’re looking for a yummy way to reward your cat or need an effective feline training treat, Applaws’ Puree Treats are a great option.

These tubes of smooth “mousse” have an enticing smell, texture, and flavor, and kitties go crazy for them.

Each recipe contains chicken broth or fish broth, the named meat, potatoes, and guar gum. They are fairly low in calories, have a moderate amount of protein, and contain a decent amount of carbohydrates from the potatoes.

They may not be the most nutritious thing on Applaws’ menu, but they are very enticing for cats and make a great occasional treat.

Makoa is a big fan of these, and I use them during his training sessions. The smooth, thin texture makes it easy to dole out a small amount at a time without overdoing it.

Our Experience With Applaws Cat Food

As anyone who has ever read my pet food reviews before knows, I am always on the lookout for quality pet diets that feature high protein and biologically appropriate ingredients. These kinds of diets are getting easier to find for dogs, but still difficult to track down for cats.

This is a shame, considering that cats are obligate carnivores and therefore have much more specific diet requirements than dogs. High protein, animal-based, natural diets have the potential to really benefit cats, but as I said, they are hard to find.

And that’s exactly why I was so eager to see what these diet options from Applaws were all about!

What I Liked

I received a variety of products and recipes from Applaws. When I first saw the mousse pouches, I was so excited about the ingredient lists—I thought I had finally found a cat food that didn’t require synthetic nutrients to meet AFFCO nutrition standards. But do note that these products are only meant to be fed on a supplemental basis,

The Vitality line, which is meant to have complete and balanced nutrition, does include synthetic vitamins and minerals.

Still, the base ingredients for both of these products include quality meat and seafood, and that, I can get behind.

As far as Makoa is concerned, all three of the products I received get two paws way up. He loved all the flavors and was an especially big fan of the Puree Treats.

I transitioned him onto the food fairly quickly, over about three days, and he handled it well. He has a fairly sensitive stomach, but he had no problem with this food. Even more, he had zero issues switching between the flavors or between the Vitality cans and the Mousse pouches.

Where I See Room for Improvement

For the most part, I was pretty satisfied with this food. I like the base ingredients and the simple approach to what’s included in each recipe. Aside from the added vitamins and minerals, the recipes are all-natural and don’t contain any dyes or artificial preservatives.

A few of the recipes do include white potato, which has the potential to reduce taurine levels in dogs and could potentially cause similar issues in cats. And some of the recipes contain rice, a less desirable plant-based ingredient for cat food.

I also worry that the front packaging of the Mousse products is a bit misleading. “Applaws Natural Cat Food – Chicken Recipe” sounds like a type of cat food you could feed as your cat’s sole source of nutrition. It took me a week of feeding this in rotation with the Vitality cans before I read the back label and realized it is only supposed to be fed as a dietary supplement.

Overall though, I have been impressed by this food. More importantly, my cat really loves it and he seems to be doing very well on it.

Conclusion

For cat owners looking for a way to do more at feeding time, Applaws is worth looking into. They are a premium brand, and this comes with a premium price tag, but one that is comparable to other products of a similar quality.

Their many recipe, flavor, and texture options make it easy to find something new and exciting to offer your cat at every meal. And the quality, biologically appropriate, high-protein ingredients are made to help your cat thrive. Whether you want a complete and balanced diet or something to add extra flavor or nutrition to your cat’s meal, Applaws has an option for you.

The post Applaws Cat Food Review 2025: Making Meals Yummier & More Nutritious appeared first on PangoVet.

Every person who shares their home with a dog knows the importance of regular grooming. Even dogs with short hair require periodic bathing, but what’s the best type of pet shampoo? Well, just like with humans, the best shampoos for regular use are going to be both gentle and effective. And just like with us, it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals in the products we put on their skin – like sulfates, parabens, and phthalates. So, when the human shampoo company UNITE decided to add pet products to their lineup, they made sure to craft these products following the same guidelines they use for the human stuff.

The UNITE company, founded by a celebrity hairdresser, made its focus on providing gentle hair care products that still perform at the top of their class. This American-made product line is formulated without harsh chemicals, is cruelty-free, and appropriate for all hair types. This is a quality brand that you can feel good about purchasing because it not only offers one of the best pet cleansers on the market, but the company also gives back to charity. We enjoyed using UNITE in our house for those reasons, and we think you will, too.

At a Glance: What We Received

Rating	Image	Product	Details
		DOGGY’POO Shampoo	Ginger lily scent No harsh chemicals Moisturizing cleanser	CHECK PRICE
		DOGGY’POO Detangler	Softens coat Loosens tangles Long-lasting scent	CHECK PRICE

About UNITE

Who Makes UNITE and Where is it Produced?

The UNITE company was founded in 2003 by Andrew Dale, a celebrity hairdresser with over 30 years of experience. Dale wanted to create a top-performing line of hair care products that would be safe and effective for all hair types. This California-based brand has succeeded in what they set out to do and now provide dog shampoo and a detangler in addition to their wide variety of human hair products. UNITE products are American-made, certified cruelty-free, and free of common harsh chemicals such as formaldehyde, phthalates, parabens, and sulfates. And in an effort to do the most good for the community, 100% of net proceeds from their DOGGY’POO shampoo and detangler go to two charities – the San Diego Humane Society and Shelter to Soldier, which helps veterans with PTSD by pairing them with a shelter dog.

Which Types of Pets is UNITE Best Suited For?

UNITE DOGGY’POO shampoo and detangler are safe for all dog breeds and hair types according to the brand’s website. So, whether you have a Poodle, a Border Collie, or a long-haired Afghan Hound, you should be pleased with how these products perform. Whether you need something gentle for weekly maintenance bathing or a powerful cleanser for the dirtiest of dogs, UNITE has you covered. And you can rest assured that no harmful chemicals will be left on the skin after use, which is something every loving pet parent will appreciate. These are also great products for owners who enjoy a lingering scent on their pets, as the fragrance in both the shampoo and the detangler are long-lasting.

Discussion of Key Features

UNITE DOGGY’POO shampoo and detangler have proven safe and effective, and through their sales, this brand is able to support two fantastic causes in the California area. Furthermore, these products are not tested on animals and are certified by PETA to be cruelty-free. They are also vegan!

Ingredients

UNITE’s dog shampoo and conditioner were designed to be highly effective at removing dirt but still leave the coat in beautiful condition. An emphasis was put on achieving this with safe non-toxic ingredients and UNITE mostly succeeded. Absent from the ingredient list are some of the top chemicals to avoid in shampoos, such as formaldehyde, parabens, and phthalates, which can have side effects like endocrine disruption, skin allergies, and even cancer. UNITE products also claim to be sulfate-free, which reduces the chance of skin irritation and hair damage, but I did notice one sulfate listed on these products – sodium sulfate.

I was somewhat disappointed with the choice of fragrance ingredients used in these products. In addition to one ambiguous ingredient listed simply as “Fragrance/Parfum,” these products include cinnamyl alcohol, hexyl cinnamal, coumarin, eugenol, linalool, and geraniol. Multiple sources I found across the web – including the National Library of Medicine and the European Scientific Committee for Consumer Safety – advise against using these ingredients due to toxicity concerns and the risk of allergic skin reactions. In the future, I would love to see this brand be more transparent with the fragrance ingredients and choose more natural options instead.

How to Use

UNITE’s DOGGY’POO shampoo lathers fairly well on a wet coat and rinses clean. For best results, it is recommended to follow a bath by misting the still-damp coat with the DOGGY’POO detangler. This product helps leave the coat soft and smelling great for days, and can be used to help loosen stubborn tangles and prevent future matting. Both products require special caution to avoid getting in the eyes but are safe to use as needed with no frequency restrictions according to the brand.

Pet Benefits

DOGGY’POO shampoo is great for cleansing the skin and coat and leaves the hair soft and easy to brush. The pleasant scent is also long-lasting in the coat, but the fragrance can be extended by using in combination with the leave-in conditioning detangler. The combined use of these two products will help keep your pet smelling fresh and facilitate a tangle-free coat for weeks. Furthermore, these products are designed to be gentler and safer than the average pet shampoo on the market.

Charitable Contributions

One key feature of UNITE DOGGY’POO products that puts this brand ahead of so many others is their commitment to regular charitable donations. Currently, 100% of the net proceeds from UNITE’s two pet products goes to two worthy charities – the animal welfare organization San Diego Humane Society, and the non-profit Shelter to Soldier that pairs rescue dogs with veterans suffering from PTSD.

Our Reviews of the Products We Received

1. DOGGY’POO Shampoo

UNITE’s dog shampoo is a great cleanser designed to be gentle on both skin and coat. It lathers fairly well in wet hair, removing dirt and excess oil while also soothing dry skin because it contains oatmeal and Argan oil to moisturize. It can be used as needed and has a great scent that lasts for days. The ingredients used are all vegan, but some are naturally derived while others appear to be synthetic. UNITE does not specify the source of their ingredients on the label, and the ones used for fragrance have the potential to irritate pups with very sensitive skin. For pets that don’t experience any adverse reactions to this shampoo, this is a great pick for frequent bathing as the bottle is generous in size and affordably priced.

2. DOGGY’POO Detangler

UNITE’s pet conditioner is a leave-in spray that won’t weigh down the coat yet reduces frizz to leave your pet’s hair soft and sleek. It can be used on tangles to help owners brush them out and also serves to prevent matting between baths. While the label advises spraying on damp hair, this pleasant-smelling spray can also be used between bathing to freshen your pup or to spot-treat any sneaky knots forming in the coat. While still wet, however, this product is rather slippery, which can not only make the bottle difficult to grip if it gets on your hands but can also make surrounding hard surfaces slippery – so use caution to avoid you or your pet slipping.

Our Experience With UNITE

With three scruffy dogs in our household, it seems like someone is always needing a bath. There’s Turtle, a 60 lb Lab-mix with a fluffy coat like a Golden Retriever…Rooney, a 20 lb Schnnoodle-mix with a thin wiry coat…and Candy, a 15 lb Shih tzu/Pekingese with silky medium-length hair. Despite the vast differences in their appearance, they all have one thing in common – they get stinky! So recently I decided to give UNITE DOGGY’POO shampoo and conditioner a try to see if these products have staying power when it comes to fragrance.

To preface, my dogs are inside dogs, only going out to potty, take a walk, or enjoy a brief siesta in the sun. While they might roll around in the grass, they don’t have the opportunity to get muddy or grimy. But that doesn’t keep them from getting stinky, and when your dogs sleep in bed with you, stinky is not optimal. When they start to smell like “low tide,” it’s time for a bath!

I bathed all three dogs using the DOGGY’POO shampoo and found it to be pleasant smelling but not overly perfumy. It created a decent lather, although I’ve used other shampoos that lathered better and required less shampoo overall. The soap did rinse cleanly though, and I followed it up with the leave-in conditioning detangler sprayed on a towel-dried coat. The instructions did not indicate to do so, but I rubbed it into the fur after spraying it on to ensure better saturation. After each pup was bathed, dried, and sprayed, I let them air-dry in a sunny spot in the living room.

Once dry, I found all three dogs smelled great and their coats felt softer and looked sleeker. Although not an overpowering fragrance, my husband said he could tell I had bathed the dogs when he first walked in the door later that day and commented that it was just a nice fresh scent. I found the freshness only lasted on their coats for about three days, but that’s where the detangling spray comes in handy as you can use it in between baths to bring back the fragrance.

During our trial, I researched every ingredient listed on the bottles and was pretty satisfied with the formula in relation to safety except for the ingredients that directly contribute to these products’ scent. According to multiple sources, these fragrance chemicals, are considered potential allergens and may irritate sensitive skin, which goes against the brand’s claims that this is a soothing formula. Likewise, the chelating, emulsifiers, and preservative Phenoxyethanol used have been linked to skin irritation. However, these chemicals are only present in small amounts, as they are listed towards the end of the lengthy ingredient list, so it is unlikely most pups will experience a reaction, and mine certainly did not. Overall, I am happy with this product and will continue using it, and I especially love the leave-in conditioner. My pups are clean, smell nice, and I love the way their coats look and feel since we started using DOGGY’POO!

Conclusion

The UNITE brand of human hair care products has formulated a top-tier pair of pet products, DOGGY’POO shampoo and DOGGY’POO detangler. This powerful duo has been formulated to be both safe and effective and leaves coats in beautiful condition. Owners who use these products will be pleased with their pets’ new softer coats and the pleasant scent that replaces the usual doggy odor, while budget-conscious shoppers will be thrilled with the affordable price. And if you’re someone who likes to see your money go to a great cause, UNITE is the brand for you due to their charitable contributions to two worthy animal welfare causes.

The post UNITE DOGGY’POO Shampoo & Detangler Review 2025: How Our Dogs Fared With These Superior Pet Products appeared first on PangoVet.

I don’t know about your pet, but my dog absolutely loathes anything to do with sprays, gels, wipes, and more. If it touches her fur, she hates it. So, when she needs something to help her keep calm or prevent ticks during our mountain hikes… we tend to get into a little scuffle.

Then NATPAT came across my radar, and our unpleasant routine changed for the better with the help of stickers.

Yup, stickers! NATPAT devised a unique and simple way to deliver calming essential oils and tick preventative scents in the form of a sticker you slap onto your pet’s collar. It has cute designs to make us pet people happy and a non-oily-fur solution for pups like mine to keep her happy. But with this brilliant idea comes the most critical question: Do these stickers work?

At a Glance: What We Received

Rating	Image	Product	Details
		Pet Zen Vapor Stickers	Easy-to-apply sticker Scientifically proven to work Essential oils to calm your pet	CHECK PRICE
		Pet Tick Repellent Stickers	Pet locket on the collar Sticker instead of a spray Non-medicated with no side effects	CHECK PRICE
		Pet Locket	Easily attaches to collars Holds the NATPAT stickers Lightweight and unobtrusive	CHECK PRICE

About NATPAT

When it comes to pets and children (where NATPAT started), delivering pills or cream medications can be difficult. This rings especially true for children who may have texture sensitivities or pets who have anxious or fearful responses to medication. NATPAT is a company that wanted to find a solution to these issues and discovered it as a cute little sticker out of the founder’s homes. Since then, NATPAT has expanded to worldwide distribution, helping people and their pets globally.

These stickers are infused with natural remedies, releasing essential oils while worn. The company expresses that this is a great first step before jumping into a medicated option for a variety of issues such as anxiety, allergies, bug prevention, sleep aids, and more. But unlike other holistic companies, NATPAT has scientific backing for the efficacy of the ingredients used within those cute stickers, partnering with veterinarians, aromatherapists, pediatricians, and bug experts.

Who Makes NATPAT and Where is it Produced?

NATPAT’s cofounders are Michael Jankie, Gary Tramer, and Andrei Safonau. NATPAT is from Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia, but ships worldwide. Although NATPAT started as patches for children, they have begun adding patches for our four-legged best friends as well with calming patches, tick prevention, and training aids.

Which Types of Pets Is NATPAT Best Suited For?

Any dog or cat, regardless of size or age, can benefit from NATPAT. The patches are just oil releases, so there is no risk for side effects except if your pet is allergic to any of the essential oils (which is uncommon). The Pet Zen Vapor Stickers are excellent for pets who suffer from anxiety or separation issues or need a calming aid for an overstimulated mind. The Pet Tick Repellent Stickers are good for outdoor adventurers who find themselves where ticks are prevalent.

Key Features

The fact that NATPAT uses stickers is already a cool feature, but these products have even more in store than just that.

Price

NATPAT offerings are priced very well, especially for the amount of product you receive for the cost.

If you subscribe, you get an additional 15% off. Bundle discounts are also available.

The Pet Locket (which holds the stickers on your pet’s collar) is $9.99.

Shipping is always free, with a money-back guarantee if you aren’t satisfied with your stickers.

Ingredients

What To Expect

The package is beautifully designed, with quirky cartoon pets adorning the mailing sleeve and the product packages themselves. Both sticker sets come in easy-to-tear bags with a ziploc-style seal to keep the unused stickers safe from the elements.

The stickers themselves are arguably the cutest part, with each one featuring a funny cartoon. This feels like something that carried over from the children’s products, but I greatly appreciated it.

The Pet Locket is precisely as it sounds: just a sticker holder on a ring that attaches to your pet’s collar. The holder is designed in the same shape as the sticker, and all you have to do is open it up and put the sticker inside.

How It Works

To use NATPAT, all you have to do is place the sticker. The sticker can be attached directly to a collar or harness or into the Pet Locket designed to hold it on a collar ring. NATPAT uses its own patented AromaWeave technology to slowly release the oils throughout the use of the product. Each sticker is made of biodegradable bamboo fibers blended with the essential oil concoction.

The Zen stickers work when placed near your pet’s face (such as the locket that goes on your pet’s collar) to engage with the olfactory receptors in the nose. The scent molecules from the sticker are detected, which then sends signals to the limbic system (the part of the brain responsible for behavior and emotion) to encourage relaxation and tone down anxiety response.

The Tick Repellent stickers are designed to mask your dog to discourage ticks from latching on. The essential oil mix in the stickers interferes with a tick’s chemoreceptors, which are responsible for detecting hosts. The strong scent then overwhelms the tick’s Haller’s organ which detects heat, carbon dioxide, and body odors. The tick is no longer able to sense your pet and cannot figure out where to latch on – like an invisibility cloak for your dog.

Efficacy

The Pet Zen Vapor Stickers are best placed closer to their face (such as using the Pet Locket on the collar), and only one is needed, regardless of pet size. Dogs and cats responding well to essential oils will significantly improve with these stickers, but this is not guaranteed as not all animals are affected. It is also important to note that a holistic approach may not be the right one for animals that suffer from severe behavioral disorders and anxieties, for which medication is more appropriate. Talking to your veterinarian about the best solution for your pet is always encouraged.

The Pet Tick Repellent Stickers uses a similar method to discourage ticks from latching on to your dog. That being said, larger dogs will need more patches than smaller ones to cover their entire body against ticks, so it is best to place multiple stickers on a harness rather than just in a locket on the collar. According to NATPAT, Small dogs are typically okay with just one sticker used, while larger dogs need two, and giant dogs (such as Great Danes or Irish Wolfhounds) may need more.

Scientific Backing

Although names are not directly mentioned by NATPAT, both the Pet Zen Vapor Stickers and Pet Tick Repellent Stickers were formulated by a certified veterinarian and expert in essential oil use for animals as well as various bioactive compounds specialists.

Each of the individual components used in both NATPAT pet products is supported by existing scientific research.

For the Pet Zen Vapor Stickers, the lavender oil ingredient has been proven to reduce stress-related behaviors in domestic pets. There is currently a published study on lavender oil used in household cats. The orange essential oil contains a compound called limonene, which has been studied for its anti-anxiety effects. Geranium has antimicrobial effects, and clary sage contains linalyl acetate, which has been studied for its sedative effects.

Geranium has been heavily studied for its insect-repellent effect in the Pet Tick Repellent Stickers. Cedarwood and vetiver are also well-known as insect repellents, and mixing all three together creates a powerful result.

Safety

The risk of an adverse reaction is extremely low because the stickers do not have direct contact with skin and would be challenging to ingest. The natural products do not tend to pose side effects except if your pet is allergic to any of the oils, which is considered unlikely.

The amount of each oil in the formula for the stickers keeps the exposure minimal and is used in concentrations far below known toxicity thresholds for dogs and cats. The oils are also diluted with ingredients such as fractionated coconut oil, which is used as carrier oil.

Our Reviews of the Products We Received

1. Pet Zen Vapor Stickers

This set of stickers releases calming aromas to soothe your pet, intended for about 8 hours of calming. The package opens to a sheet of stickers, and just one is used per pet. Each sticker has an adorable little critter drawn on it, making this a rather fun experience! Just stick it into the Pet Locket or on your pet’s collar and the sticker will release the oils slowly throughout the day.

2. Pet Tick Repellent Stickers

Similar to the Pet Zen Vapor Stickers, the Pet Tick Repellent Stickers work the same way. Also adorned with cute designs per sticker, this one you place when you are heading to the great outdoors with your pup. The stickers release a scent that messes with the tick’s ability to find and latch on to a host, so your pup is essentially “invisible” to them. The use time is 8 hours, and the sticker is strong enough to withstand outdoor romps.

3. Pet Locket

The Pet Locket from NATPAT is specially shaped and designed to use the various pet stickers. It is a small plastic locket that opens up to hold the sticker in place. Being so small and lightweight, it doesn’t interfere with your pet’s daily activities and simply dangles from the loop on the collar. This is a much better way to use the NATPAT stickers than simply sticking them onto the collar or harness because the sticker cannot be ripped off on accident.

Our Experience With NATPAT

My (and my dog Lorelei’s) experience with NATPAT was a piece of cake. Lorelei is a 10lb mixed breed dog, so size-wise, she’s probably ideal for the NATPAT sticker products.

The package came in a specially designed shipping sleeve that I already thought was absolutely adorable. Everything is very well curated and branded, including the actual product bags inside. The stickers themselves had sweet drawings on them, and as someone who is very visual, I really appreciated this extra effort. The package included calming stickers, tick repellents, and a pet locket.

The locket is a clever design, shaped perfectly for the stickers, and weighs next to nothing! It’s easy to use, just open the locket up and place a sticker inside. I do have longer nails, though, so I did find that it wasn’t as easy to open the locket as I had expected, but it likely would have been simpler if my nails were a shorter length.

I used to have to spray this oil-based concoction when taking my dog outside, and she absolutely hated the experience (and I did too because it required fussing with my dog). You probably wouldn’t expect ticks in Southern California, but they absolutely exist – especially after the recent rain this past weekend that create a moist environment that is perfect for them. All I had to do was place a sticker in the locket, put the locket on her harness, and off we went on an adventure. We came back with no ticks!

As for the Zen stickers, we’ve been dealing with some construction happening outside, and the drilling has been rather loud. This is just an annoyance for me, but it has been really bothering Lorelei – she’s gotten anxious and scared by the abrupt, loud sounds. The construction begins around 8 am each day, and that’s when I would plop a sticker on my pup – and lo and behold, she displayed far fewer stress signals than she had before.

10/10, would recommend it for the ease of use and efficacy on my baby!

What Our Vet Says

When you’re dealing with ticks and trying to prevent tick-borne diseases, it’s important to keep in mind that natural and homeopathic products can’t kill ticks and be safe for use on pets. Although the NATPAT Tick Repellent Stickers may discourage ticks from choosing to live on your pets, they can’t provide the same protection as commercial products specifically formulated to kill ticks. If your pet is not regularly exposed to ticks, natural tick repellents may be a good option. However, if you live in a tick-heavy area, especially one with a higher risk of tick paralysis or infectious diseases like Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, or Ehrlichiosis, you will need to use a stronger product.

Conclusion

I really don’t think it gets any easier than NATPAT – a sticker you add to a collar? Sign me up! No fussing with a pet who doesn’t want to be covered in a spray or take a medication. I found that the stickers and little pet locket holder worked so well for my dog, and I’ll be ordering more in the future.

The post NATPAT Pet Zen & Tick Sticker Review: How They’ve Kept My Dog Stress & Pest Free appeared first on PangoVet.

We all know that dogs are highly sociable animals and love having us around. Unfortunately, some dogs become anxious and distressed when they are left on their own and this is commonly referred to as separation anxiety.

The signs that a dog will display with separation anxiety are variable but are typically unwanted and destructive behaviors, causing upset for both them and their human family. If, as a pet owner, you have ever suffered from anxiety or anxious feelings yourself, you can understand how unpleasant it is for your pup.

Separation anxiety is not uncommon, but it’s not always straightforward as to where or when it started. To help your dog learn that it’s ok to spend some time on their own, let’s ascertain some facts and answers regarding separation anxiety.

What Is Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety is the response your dog exhibits when you, their bonded carers, or the people they are used to having around them are not there. This can occur if you leave the house or your dog is left at the groomer. In extreme cases, it may be triggered by you merely leaving the room you are both in.

Signs of Separation Anxiety

It can be awful for you when, for example, you return home from leaving your dog to find a clearly distressed pet. In an age where stress and fear are becoming increasingly common in dogs, likely because we are becoming more aware of it as a disorder, what are the signs of separation anxiety so you can become aware as quickly as possible and take action?

You may find that your dog exhibits one or multiple of these signs:

If your dog is showing signs of separation anxiety, we suggest you speak to a vet.

The 4 Tips on How to Help Your Dog with Separation Anxiety

This takes time, consistency, and persistence, but is possible to solve. The goal is to help your dog become less fearful and more relaxed when you are not around while helping your dog feel less reliant on you and other members of the household.

Separation anxiety is a complex and vast area to treat, and advice and help should be sought from your veterinarian and a qualified dog behaviorist to yield the best results. A treatment plan is very much based on each dog and situation.

However, there are some general steps to take.

1. Recognize the Signs and Identify the Triggers

This initially reverts to the previous list and you as their pet parent noticing the signs and acknowledging there is an issue going on needing your attention. It’s then important to contact your vet so they can check your dog for any medical conditions that might display similar signs, before identifying that separation anxiety is the root of the problem.

Although there can sometimes be an obvious disruptive life event, or a significant change in routine that has led to the development of anxiety, often the underlying reason for your dog developing separation anxiety is not known. It can, however, be useful to see if you can pinpoint any specific triggers.

It is advisable to observe your dog and write these down so you have a clear picture. Is it when you leave the room or house, or is it when you leave them in unfamiliar places? Is it all of these? What signs and behaviors do they exhibit and when? After how long do they occur?

This can help you try and decipher if the behaviors are due to, or made worse by, loneliness, boredom, frustration, needing to go potty, wanting exercise, or because of noises and disturbances outside.

2. Start Training

Some sort of training or retraining program needs to be instigated, ideally under the direction of a qualified behaviorist. The following suggestions are a helpful start for most dogs.

Your veterinarian or behaviorist may suggest anxiety medication or similar to help with their retraining program.

3. Don’t Ignore the Issue

Letting your dog “cry it out” is advice given by some training guides. This technique, sadly, is practiced quite widely but it is neurologically damaging and needs to be avoided. This is due to:

4. Get a Specialist Involved

With cases such as separation anxiety, especially if you tried the advice from here or from other reputable sources, getting a specialist involved is key. Treating separation anxiety can be complex and take time so it is always recommended to seek advice from a veterinarian, or a clinical behaviorist.

Any expert should be certified and fully qualified and you may wish to get information from places such as The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behaviour.

Do you have an anxious dog? A high-quality, pet-safe CBD oil may be able to help. We like CBDfx’s Pet Tincture, which comes in four different strength levels and is made from human-grade, organic hemp. Even better, your dog will love the natural bacon flavor!

Conclusion

Separation Anxiety in dogs is a big topic to unravel. Rest assured, though, there is plenty of help available. Always consult with your veterinarian or dog behaviorist and act as soon as you notice any signs rather than ignoring it or seeing how it goes. Separation anxiety will only become worse and will not get better if no intervention is taken.

See Also: 

• • Dog Anxiety Awareness Week
  • Protein for Dogs: How Much Do They Need?

Featured Image Credit: eva_blanco, Shutterstock

The post How to Help a Dog With Separation Anxiety: Vet-Reviewed Tips & Tricks appeared first on PangoVet.

Life’s more fun and exciting when you live with an energetic dog. However, finding ways to calm them down is a common challenge that involves creative solutions. Sound therapy is one creative method proven to help some dogs manage their anxiety and hyperreactivity.

Sound Oasis has been creating sleep and sound therapy products since 1993. They have a notable team of doctors with decades of experience in sleep and sound research. Along with making sound machines, Sound Oasis produces sound samples that are scientifically proven to promote relaxation and sleep.

While I usually welcome my dog’s playful antics, I also work from home and need my dog to remain calm while I work and log into meetings. I was ready to try out a new product that could soothe my dog and prevent me from getting distracted from work.

I tested out the Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System, which had a noticeably positive effect on my dog’s reactivity. Despite its small size, the Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System has convenient features and high-quality sound options. My review is here to provide everything you need to know about the Pet Sound Therapy System and how you and your dog can benefit from using it.

Overview

Our Experience

While sound therapy isn’t the silver bullet for anxiety or hyperreactivity in dogs, it can help them stay calm when incorporated into a healthy lifestyle routine. My Cavapoo Nora has previously shown a positive response to other forms of sound therapy, so I was looking forward to testing out the Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System. I wanted to see how it would compare to other sound machines I’ve used.

Despite being 10 years old, Nora remains easily excitable. The tiniest noise can pique her interest and cause her to start barking. I’ve had to come up with many different ideas to manage her hyperreactivity, and this became especially important when I started working from home. I couldn’t have a dog that started barking at every little noise made both inside and outside the house.

I’ve used several different sound therapy devices, and I have to say that I’m quite impressed with the Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System. The first thing that I noticed was the superior sound quality. Other sound machines I’ve used often start to buzz or hum once they exceed a certain volume. This sound machine consistently emitted clear, high-quality sounds that made it pleasant for both Nora and me to listen to.

I spent time testing out each of the 20 built-in sounds. I appreciated how they all played continuously for 8 hours without any gaps of silence. The nature sounds, including rain, streams, and woodlands, seemed to be the most effective in masking outdoor noises. Nora was less likely to pick up on noises and start barking. The ambient sounds were all very calming and soothing, but they didn’t really seem to mask other sounds. There were several times when Nora would wake up from a noise and start barking or whining.

Another notable feature was its Bluetooth connection. It does take some time to manually toggle between the different built-in sounds when using the sound machine’s buttons. So, the Pet Therapy By Sound Oasis mobile app was a game changer for convenience. Connecting to the sound machine via Bluetooth was a quick and straightforward process. The app also had a user-friendly interface, and I could easily switch between sounds and adjust the volume with just a couple of swipes.

The only minor inconvenience I experienced with the Pet Sound Therapy System was the battery life and charging time. When completely charged, the sound machine could play sounds for a little under 5 hours. It took about 30 minutes of charging for the sound machine to operate after being completely depleted, and it took about 3 hours to fully charge a drained battery. This could cause an inconvenience for days when you have to leave your dog at home for over 5 hours. Fortunately, the sound machine still works when it’s charging and can play sounds for much longer than 5 hours when plugged in.

Overall, I would recommend the Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System to anyone interested in trying out sound therapy with their pets. Because it’s convenient and easy to use, it provides a positive experience for first-time users. The many different sound options enable people to experiment and discover sounds that effectively calm and soothing their dogs.

Pros & Cons

Key Features

How It works

The Pet Sound Therapy System emits sounds designed to soothe your dog’s stress and anxiety. It also helps to block other distressing or distracting noises like thunder, traffic, and people walking past your home.

There are two ways to use the Pet Sound Therapy System. It comes with an SD card that contains 20 unique sounds. The sound machine has buttons for switching between sounds and adjusting the volume. If you want to listen to other kinds of sounds, you can download mp3 files to another SD card and insert it into the sound machine.

You can also play sounds using the Pet Sound Therapy System’s Bluetooth connection. Once you pair your mobile device or computer and download the Sound Oasis mobile app, you’ll have access to a variety of calming sounds. You can use the app to adjust the volume and set the playtime duration to 30 minutes, 60 minutes, or 90 minutes.

What to Expect

The Pet Sound Therapy System is available for purchase through Sound Oasis’ website or Amazon store. Sound Oasis offers free shipping within the continental US and standard ground shipping timeframes.

The Pet Sound Therapy System includes the BST-80-20P sound machine, an SD card with therapeutic sounds, a charging cable, and a pet relaxation and sleep guide. Once you receive your Pet Sound Therapy System, you can start using it right away. It can play sounds wirelessly for up to 5 hours when fully charged. It comes with a USB charging cable and will be fully charged within 2 to 3 hours.

The Pet Sound Therapy System also includes private listening options. It has a headphone jack for you to plug in your own headphones or pillow speakers. The sound machine can also be used as a speaker, and you can play your own sounds or songs on your mobile device via Bluetooth.

Pet Therapy By Sound Oasis App

One of the most convenient features is the Pet Therapy By Sound Oasis App. This free mobile app is available for both Apple and Android mobile devices and includes several different sound options with unlimited run times. Sound connoisseurs will appreciate the app’s equalizer, which enables customizations to create the perfect sound. You can also overlay every sound with a cat’s purring or a steady heartbeat for added comfort and relaxation.

About Sound Oasis

Is the Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System a Good Value?

Considering its Bluetooth capabilities, portability, and wide range of sound options, the Pet Sound Therapy System is a good value. It may be slightly more expensive than other sound machines of its size, but most of these sound machines don’t have Bluetooth and other wireless features. Many also don’t have a rechargeable battery and must remain plugged in and stationary at all times.

You can experience additional savings throughout the year, as Sound Oasis regularly offers discounts to customers. You can also register your product online to receive discounts on other Sound Oasis products.

How We Tested

It’s important to note that I tested the Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System on a dog with previous exposure to sound therapy. Because of Nora’s sensitivity to noises, I used sound therapy in her puppyhood to help her to remain calm when she hears thunderstorms, fireworks, sirens, and other loud, distressing noises. Therefore, she’s already used to hearing white noise and nature sounds, and she associates these sounds with calmness and relaxation.

I used my previous sound machine to compare the Pet Sound Therapy System’s performance. I tested out the Pet Sound Therapy System for a week and kept an eye out for any noticeable differences in Nora. Other than switching products, I kept everything else the same. There weren’t any changes in Nora’s routine, and I placed the Pet Sound Therapy System in the same location as my previous sound machine.

The Verdict

The Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System performed equally well as the system I have been successfully using in the past, but didn’t have any noticeably different effects on Nora. For me, the benefits of the Sound Oasis product are about the interface and ease of use, rather than it having any vastly different effects on my dog.

Using the Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System helped both me and my dog share a relaxing space where she can sleep and I can get on with my day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the warranty for the Pet Sound Therapy System?

Sound Oasis has a 1-year warranty for their BST-80-20P sound machine. They will replace the product at no charge if there are any defects in materials or workmanship within 1 year of the product purchase date. The warranty doesn’t cover any damages caused by misuse, lack of reasonable care, and accidents.

How do I change the sounds on the Pet Sound Therapy System?

The BST-80-20P sound machine doesn’t have separate buttons for switching between sounds. You must press the volume buttons twice to change sounds or play a previous sound. You can more easily choose between different sounds when using the app.

How can I play more sounds on the Pet Sound Therapy System?

Sound Oasis has an extensive library of therapeutic sounds that you can purchase and download through their website. Every sound comes in an mp3 format and is accessible and playable on both Apple and PC computers. Once you purchase a sound, you can download it onto an SD card. Once you insert the SD card into the BST-80-20P sound machine, the sound machine will begin playing the new sounds.

What is the Bluetooth connectivity range for the Pet Sound Therapy System?

The Pet Sound Therapy System has a wireless range of 30 feet or 10 meters. You can connect your mobile device or computer to the sound machine. The sound machine can pair with one device at a time.

Why is it better than a regular speaker?

The main features that make this system stand out are the quality of the sound that is produced from a very small device, particularly when compared to similar speakers available, and the types of sounds included. Not only are you getting a very high-quality speaker, but it comes preloaded with sounds that have been specifically chosen for their positive effects on pets, as well as being pleasant to our ears.

Conclusion

The Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System provided a calming and relaxing experience for both my dog and me. The high-quality sounds created an easy listening experience, and the sounds were the perfect background noise that kept Nora calm without distracting me from work.

It’s rare for both dog owners and their dogs to directly benefit from the same product, but this sound therapy system can provide you both with a pleasant experience as you immerse yourselves in a peaceful soundscape.

The post Sound Oasis Pet Sound Therapy System Review 2025: Vet Approved Benefits & Our Verdict appeared first on PangoVet.

Most people were first introduced to St. Bernards through the popular 1992 film, Beethoven. This giant breed has captured the hearts of many, and their gentle, calm, and patient natures are what makes them suitable for all sorts of families, including those with older children.

These massive dogs can get as tall as 30 inches and can weigh up to 180 pounds. They come in various coat colors, such as mahogany, brown, white, red, red bridle, brownish-yellow, black, and orange. Not only are they exceptional pets, but they’ve also been around for a long time, with records of these dogs dating back to 1707. They typically live until they are between 8 and 10. They were first bred to be watchdogs, but in the years since then, their life-saving abilities have been recognized and homed in on, and these dogs are often used in search-and-rescue missions.

What’s the Average Lifespan of a St. Bernard?

The sad reality, and one that St. Bernard owners must be aware of, is that this breed doesn’t live as long as many other dog breeds. Giant breeds, such as St. Bernards, tend to have a 2-year shorter lifespan than large dog breeds, which usually live 10–12 years. They live about 5 years less than medium dog breeds, which can live up to 15 years. Therefore, you can expect a healthy St. Bernard to live between 8–10 years.

There are not actually many studies into factors affecting the longevity of dogs and their various breeds. However common sense, experience and extrapolation from human studies are likely to give us a good base line.

The 5 Reasons Some St. Bernards Live Longer Than Others

1. Nutrition

It’s important to get your St. Bernard onto a good-quality dog food that is formulated for giant breeds. Make sure that it is also the right food for your dog’s life stage, as age-appropriate dog food will have the correct nutrition for your dog and help their bodies develop properly, which will contribute to a longer life expectancy. This is especially true for St. Bernards because of their size. Feeding them adult food while they’re still puppies could increase their risk for developmental orthopedic diseases.

Always make sure the dog food you get is high-quality and from a trusted brand. Much research goes into dog food formulation, so look for a food company that employs veterinarians and board certified veterinary nutritionists. Only give your St. Bernard the recommended portions for their life stage to avoid obesity and other weight problems.

2. Environment & Conditions

A St. Bernard is a dog that loves to be a part of the family, including all the activities they’re involved with. If they’re not included, they will often sulk, so it’s important to reassure them with all the love and attention you can give them.

Regardless of their coat type, they should be brushed at least once a week. However, it’ll benefit you both if you brush them more often during shedding season. They are happy in cold climates, thanks to their thick coats, but those same thick coats are a disadvantage in hot climates, as they can cause this breed to overheat. You should think carefully about the environmental conditions where you live before deciding to own this cold tolerant dog.

3. Exercise

For the health of this breed, they do need both mental and physical exercise. If you’re not a fitness junkie, this breed will compliment your lifestyle nicely because they only require 30 minutes of exercise a day, which can be in the form of a walk or short jog. It’s important to exercise these dogs to keep them in good shape as they tend to be a bit overweight, which can play a part in issues with their joints.

Training your St. Bernard from puppyhood is a good idea because it’ll help you manage this giant dog as well as stimulate their mind. They’re pretty easy to train because they love to please their owners, but they can be stubborn.

4. Breeding History

When you get a puppy from a breeder, it is important to ask to see the puppy’s parents and find out about any health issues they may have. An untrustworthy breeder will try to sell you a puppy without clear paperwork, so look for a reputable one. They’ll have screened the parents of your puppy before the breeding process has begun to ensure that they’re healthy and not going to pass down genetic health issues to your pup. The degree of relation between the parents also plays a part as in-breeding reduces life expectancy.

5. Healthcare

Unfortunately, St. Bernards are predisposed to certain health conditions, such as bloat, hip dysplasia, and certain eye conditions. They are also at risk for parasites and should receive preventative treatment that kills fleas and ticks that come onto their body. They should also be taken for regular health checkups with the vet, and you’ll need to stay on top of all their vaccinations.

Checking their ears regularly and brushing their teeth will help prevent infections from developing. If you have any concerns about your St. Bernard, contact your vet, as it is essential to catch any health issues early before permanent damage has been done.

The 4 Life Stages of a St. Bernard

Newborn

A St. Bernard can give birth to large litters, averaging at around 6 puppies per litter, but they are known to give birth to up to 12 pups. These puppies are born fully dependent on their mother for food and care, as they are unable to see for the first 2 weeks of their lives. Their hearing usually only comes in at around 3 weeks of age, so they have to rely fully on their sense of smell to navigate the world.

Puppy

Your puppy will get the food source from their mother until they start to wean off the milk and onto solids at around 4 weeks old. At this stage, all their senses will have kicked in, and they will have developed some independence. By the time they reach 2 months of age, they should only be eating solid food.

However, some vets may recommend that you have it done earlier than a year. It is important to start taking your puppy to obedience and training school once they’ve had their initial vaccinations. Your vet will tell you which vaccinations your dog will need, and there will be quite a few, but they are essential.

Sterilizing your St Bernard should be discussed with your vet who will recommend what age this should be performed.

Adult

Your St. Bernard is a giant breed, which means they’re going to take longer to reach their full size than other smaller breeds. They’ll only be fully mature from the age of 2–3 years, so your dog will be in the puppy phase for quite some time. From around 24 months of age, you can start transitioning your St. Bernard onto giant-breed adult dog food.

Senior

Your dog will reach their last life stage at around 8 years old. They may develop some health conditions by this stage, so it is important to take them for regular health checkups and put them on the treatment your vet recommends. You’ll also need to change their food to giant-breed senior dog food. These last few years should be filled with lots of cuddles and making your dog feel comfortable.

How to Tell Your St. Bernard’s Age

A St. Bernard can take 2 years to reach their full size, so if yours is much smaller than the average size, they’re likely still puppies. If their paws look too large for their body or they have a lot of loose skin, these could be other indicators that they’re still young. However, gender and genes can affect their size.

A dog’s teeth are a big giveaway, as puppies should have all of their adult teeth by about 24 weeks. If they’re stained and not in the best condition, your dog is likely older.

Summary

A healthy St. Bernard can live between 8–10 years, which is quite short. However, most giant breeds have a similar life expectancy as they don’t live as long as smaller dog breeds. It’s important to feed your St. Bernard dog food specifically formulated to their size as well as their life stage.

Giving them daily exercise, keeping them up to date with their vaccinations, and taking them for regular checkups are great ways to keep your dog healthy.

Featured Image Credit: Rita_Kochmarjova, Shutterstock

The post How Long Do St. Bernards Live? Vet Reviewed Average Lifespan, Data & Care Guide appeared first on PangoVet.

As a pet parent, you know when something isn’t right with your four-legged friend. Whether they’re constantly scratching or they have an upset stomach, it’s heartbreaking to watch them suffer and frustrating to not have answers, especially if you’ve tried everything you can think of to help them feel better. That’s where at-home sensitivity tests can be lifesavers (literally).

In your quest for answers you might have stumbled across intolerance tests you can do at home. They’re pretty popular for humans, but a few brands have tests for pets as well. 5Strands is one of the brands that makes at-home sensitivity tests for humans and animals, and their Pet Intolerances & Imbalances Test is one of their most comprehensive tests for pets. With over 460 items tested, 5Strands helps you get to the root of the problem by testing to see if your pet has food and environmental intolerances or vitamin and mineral imbalances.

After sending in a hair sample, you’ll receive a detailed report showing exactly what your furry friend is sensitive to and how bad the sensitivity is. If you’re looking for a non-invasive way to check up on your pet, this test is a great one to get.

Overview

Our Experience

Since Micah was a puppy, he’s struggled with a few health issues, like digestive upset. As he grew up, he started to show signs of itching and discomfort: constant scratching, paw biting, and dry skin. While these have always been more of chronic and annoying intolerance problems than acute, life-threatening issues (thank goodness!), he’s clearly miserable when the signs flare up.

Over the years, I’ve tried different supplements and vet-recommended diets with little to no success. His vet recommended allergy treatments, but most were based on steroids and I wasn’t keen on giving him these meds right off the bat. Even though there are a few foods I know he’s sensitive to, it’s mostly been trial and error trying to figure out what works for him and what to stay away from.

Needless to say, when I heard about 5Strands, I was eager to give them a shot!

When the test kit arrived, I followed the instructions to register the ID code and collect the hair sample. Micah has a lot of doodle fluff so the sample was easy for me to get (I used scissors to cut a small chunk of his fur). Once I secured the sample in the bag, I folded the box with the sample inside, put the box in the provided mailer, and shipped the package back to 5Strands using the pre-paid label.

The turnaround time was impressively fast. I got the results via email three days after the lab notified me they received the sample.

I thought the results were fairly easy to understand (the color-coded chart definitely helps), but it can be overwhelming to see all the colored dots. Having the test come back with so many red dots was a little alarming for me, but at the same time, they made so much sense.

The flagged items matched up with what I know Micah is sensitive to (beef, quinoa, and yeast to name a few), and the ones that were new to me felt like a lightbulb moment. Even the most random ones made sense. Micah tested in the red for pear trees, which initially seemed irrelevant, but I have a pear tree in my yard that he wanders around all the time!

I love that the test includes vitamins, minerals, and heavy metals as well. These have been crucial in understanding Micah’s health picture and 5Strands does a fantastic job of including the essential ones.

After everything I’ve tried, 5Strands has been one of the most helpful resources. It’s allowed me to take action without worrying about making Micah worse and I’m looking forward to starting the elimination protocol. One of the first things I’ll do is change his diet so he’s not eating any Level 2 or 3 food items and minimize his exposure to Level 3 environmental items (I’ve already sectioned off the pear tree so he can’t go anywhere near it). I’ll also work with his vet to address any vitamin and mineral deficiencies or heavy metal imbalances.

Pros & Cons

Key Features

What to Expect

The test kit arrives in a padded mailer with the contents packaged in a box. This is the same box you’ll use to mail the sample back, so be sure to open it carefully. After opening the package, the first thing you’ll do is register the kit on 5Strands’ website using your unique ID code. This connects the sample to your account so you can see your pet’s results once they’re posted.

Next, collect a hair sample from your pet and place it in the provided bag. How you collect the sample is up to you, but be sure to get at least  20-25 strands of hair if your pup’s hair is less than 1 inch long, for an accurate sample. At this point, you can reconstruct the box and place the sample inside. Put the box in the provided mailer with the prepaid shipping label on it and drop it off at the post office. Results are available within five business days of the lab receiving the sample.

How it Works

The hair sample is tested with bioresonance technology, an innovative technology that uses energy to detect Intolerances & Imbalances in the body. Humans, animals, foods, and pretty much every other item (environmental agents, minerals, metals, etc.) emit frequencies that can be detected energetically. When the lab gets your pet’s hair sample, they use bioresonance to pick up on those frequencies and identify which items your pet is sensitive to and how severe the sensitivity is.

Results

When the results are ready, you’ll receive an email with a document where you can view them. Your online account will also have a copy of the document, a downloadable spreadsheet, and a list of the results that you can filter and sort through. One of the first things you’ll probably notice is each item is labeled with a color and a level. The colors and levels correlate with each other and tell you what your pet is sensitive to and the degree of severity.

5Strands recommends eliminating Level 2 and Level 3 food items for 6-8 weeks and minimizing Level 3 environmental items as much as you can. For the imbalances section, they recommend supplementing vitamins and minerals as needed and mitigating heavy metal exposure. If you need help interpreting the results, 5Strands offers one-on-one consultations for an additional cost.

About 5Strands

Is the Pet Imbalances and Intolerances Test a Good Value?

This is an expensive test, but if your dog has chronic issues that you can’t seem to figure out, it’s well worth investing in. Within a few weeks, you’ll have a clear picture of what’s causing their discomfort and a solid understanding of how you can help relieve it. 5Strands has several different test options for pets as well, so if the Pet Intolerances & Imbalances Test is a bit too pricey, you can always choose a different one that matches your budget and your pet’s needs.

How We Tested

After receiving the test kit, I followed the instructions on the box to collect the hair sample and mail it back. The whole process–from kit registration to boxing up the sample–took about 20 minutes. Since Micah has longer hair, I only needed 10-15 strands, but if your pet has short hair, you’ll need at least 20. A few days after sending out the package, I received an email letting me know the lab received the sample, and three days after that, they emailed me the results (super fast turnaround!).

After reviewing the results, I focused on the food section first since digestive issues have been such a big problem for Micah. I wanted to know if there were any Level 2 and Level 3 items in his food (there were several). Since these are the ones Micah is most reactive to, I’m planning to find a diet that doesn’t have these ingredients.

Next, I focused on the environmental section. Along with several outdoor elements, I was surprised to see he’s highly sensitive to cotton and polyester–definitely good to know! I then finished off by reviewing the vitamins, minerals, and metals and will supplement and minimize his exposure accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I know if my pet has intolerances or imbalances?

How do I know which test is right for my pet?

A free quiz is available on 5Strands’ website to help you determine which test is best for your furry friend. The quiz only takes a few minutes to complete and results are available immediately.

Will I need to retest my pet?

5Strands recommends retesting your pet every six months. Intolerances & Imbalances are constantly in flux depending on your pet’s diet and lifestyle, so retesting every six months keeps you up-to-date on sensitivities and helps you stay ahead of your pet’s health.

How much hair do I need for the sample?

If the hair is longer than 1 inch, 10-15 strands are needed. If the hair is shorter than 1 inch, 20-25 strands are needed.

Conclusion

5Strands’ Pet Intolerances & Imbalances test is a great way to find out exactly what’s making your animal companion sick without invasive testing or dropping hundreds of dollars at the vet. By testing over 460 items, you’ll know exactly what’s causing your pet discomfort and have a clear idea of how you can help them moving forward.

The post 5Strands Pet Intolerances & Imbalances Test Review 2025: At-Home Test Kit appeared first on PangoVet.

On average, dogs live for 11 to 12 years, but their exact lifespan differs based on their size and breed.¹ Science has proven that smaller breeds tend to live longer. Scientific research has shown that smaller breeds generally live longer than larger ones and it is believed to happen because larger dogs tend to age faster.

The Goldendoodle, a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, is a relatively new breed, so the data about them isn’t long-standing or extensively backed by science. The average lifespan of a Goldendoodle is approximately 12–13 years, with some extending to 15 years or more. As a large-sized breed, their lifespan is influenced by their size and weight. If you want your pet to live longer, make sure to maintain excellent healthcare and choose them from a reputable breeder.

Goldendoodle Average Lifespan

Goldendoodles can live for 12–13 years. Jamie Whittenburg, a Kingsgate Animal Hospital vet, says that you should only buy from a breeder that conducts hip testing through PennHIP and OFA screening, heart, and genetic testing prior to breeding to ensure optimal health and wellbeing for your Goldendoodle.

The Life Stages of a Goldendoodle

A Goldendoodle goes through the following life stages:

How to Tell Your Goldendoodle’s Age

If your dog is still young, you can determine their age by examining their teeth. A dog’s baby teeth should start to erupt at 3-4 weeks old. Adult teeth start erupting when the dog is 16 weeks old, and all permanent teeth finish erupting at 6-7 months of age.

Another way to estimate your dog’s age is to conduct a DNA test. The lab will check your dog’s blood and examine the telomere length of their DNA. Telomeres are the protective ends on chromosomes that shorten as animals age. The length of telomeres is used as a biomarker of human aging, and it may help you gauge your pup’s approximate age.

How to Care for Your Goldendoodle for a Long Lifespan?

Caring for your Goldendoodle can help them live a long life. Here are some ways to keep your pet healthy.

Feeding & Diet

Obesity becomes the root cause of many health conditions that can deteriorate your pet’s quality of life. You can prevent this by feeding your Goldendoodle a complete and balanced diet.

You should always look for dog foods compliant with the Association of American Feed Control Officials standards.

It is recommended not to overfeed your Goldendoodle and, generally speaking, divide your pet’s daily calorie intake into two feedings. Consult a vet to determine the right amount of food for your Goldendoodle. Also, don’t let treats exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake.

Environment

Goldendoodles like to live in a family environment where they can play with their pet parents and siblings. They don’t mind being around other dogs, provided that they have received socialization training early in life. They have also been known to successfully hang out with cats if socialized properly.

They need at least two walks per day that last a minimum of 30 minutes. Some options for physical activity include walking, hiking, playtime with pet siblings, and running.

Care

Caring for Goldendoodles involves not keeping them on their own for too long. The family-loving breed tends to get anxious when left alone. Some signs of separation anxiety are destructive behavior, vocalization, pacing, and toileting indoors.

Make sure you can give your dog the company they need before adopting one. If your Goldendoodle has a hard time staying at home alone, you could hire a pet sitter. Alternatively, you can ask a neighbor or family member to give your four-legged friend company while you’re gone.

Grooming & Cleaning

Once you get a Goldendoodle, your hairdresser appointments are not the only thing you need to book. The breed has a beautiful coat that benefits from professional grooming and regular brushing.

If you do not brush your dog’s coat regularly, it might get matted or tangled. You should also book an appointment with a professional every 1-3 months, depending on your dog’s needs.

Goldendoodles do not need frequent baths. If your canine friend likes playing out in the yard, you can let them splash in the tub for a bit to get clean.

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Ask your professional groomer if your dog needs a trim above their eyes so that they can see properly. Ensure you keep their eyes clear of debris and germs.

Inspect your Goldendoodle’s ears every few days. If your dog plays in water or takes a bath, dry their ears quickly, too.

Healthcare

Like every dog breed, Goldendoodles are susceptible to certain health problems. Hereditary health problems can be present at birth (congenital) or develop over time. Some laboratories offer genetic testing, and even a Goldendoodle DNA bundle, for common conditions in this breed such as degenerative myelopathy, progressive retinal atrophy, and von Willebrand disease type I. Considering their Retriever and Poodle background, Goldendoodles commonly suffer from hip dysplasia. The first step in ensuring the good health of your dog is to buy them from a responsible breeder who conducts genetic testing to only breed healthy dogs.

After the pup comes home, it’s your responsibility to feed them well to keep them healthy. There are many options out there, you can consider fresh food options or high-quality dry foods with suitable ingredients.

It also helps to get medical attention as soon as possible. If you notice signs of any disease, consult a vet immediately. An early intervention might help prevent the condition from worsening.

Conclusion

We all want our pet friends to be our lifelong companions. While that’s not possible, you can surely take some steps to ensure your Goldendoodle stays by your side as long as possible.

It all starts with the purchase. Only buy a Goldendoodle from a reputable breeder. Follow the diet guidelines the vet recommends. Also, look for signs of congenital diseases in your Goldendoodle, and get them early treatment to prevent serious issues.

• Also see: Surprising Facts About Goldendoodles: Traits, Energy Levels & More

Featured Image Credit: JarieMame, Shutterstock

The post How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Vet-Reviewed Average Lifespan Data & Care Guide appeared first on PangoVet.

Before the development of pharmaceutical laboratories, traditional medicine started by using many plants and herbs to help the body heal and naturally treat skin conditions and other ailments. And in fact, we still use herbs and plants for their medicinal properties. One of the plants better known for their medicinal applications is the burdock plant (Arctium lappa), particularly the burdock root. In fact, burdock root was valued in traditional Chinese medicine due to its ability to“detoxify” blood and promote circulation. It has also been used topically to treat conditions such as eczema.

In this guide, we’ll learn more about the burdock root, what it is it what are the claims and what has been studied and what are potential medicinal applications in dogs.

The information in this post is merely informational and it is in no way intended as a prescription or recommendation. At Dogster, we do not recommend offering any supplement or medication to your dog without your veterinarian’s prescription.

What Is Burdock Root?

Burdock, also referred to as Greater Burdock (Arctium lappa), is a plant belonging to Asteraceae family just like the aster, daisy, and sunflower. This plant is native to Europe and Northern Asia and while it has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, there is very little research out there about its use in canines.

Anecdotal reports say the root is successfully used topically in dogs to help with skin issues such as swollen and red skin due to allergies the medical term for this condition is canine atopic dermatitis or canine eczema. And while there are no in vivo studies to prove this,  concluded that Burdock root extract stimulates chondroitin sulfate biosynthesis, and modulates pathways that regulate cellular functions which are particularly important for the wound healing process. These properties might be linked to the anecdotal success of the use of burdock root as a treatment to reduce pain and inflammation caused by arthritis in dogs.

Burdock root is one of the ingredients listed on some of the immune support dog supplements sold online. The antioxidant compounds found in the root would be behind this claim, however like with many of the herbal medicines, the reality is that we lack sufficient studies to firmly support its effects.

This thistle-like plant is hardy and easy to grow in your garden in rich soil. How you store the root will depend on how it is prepared, which we’ll discuss further in the next section.

How Is Burdock Root Given?

Typically, the most common way to give your dog burdock root is given to a dog is in the form of commercially available supplements that consist of a combination of this root plant and other herbal medicines.

Several of the herbal blend products containing Burdock root are liquid tinctures that can be mixed with your dog’s food. The root doesn’t taste very pleasant, so a disguise will be beneficial in getting it into your dog’s system, but the liquids can be squirted into your dog’s mouth if they tolerate it. You can also find burdock root extract in a chewable tablet or powder form.

Each commercially available herbal blend containing Burdock is marked for different purposes including detoxification, allergy relief, immune supplement,  joint care, and even urinary tract support.

Before choosing any of these herbal supplements, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. We do not recommend taking it upon yourself to decide whether or not any of these commercially available supplements will help your dog.

Holistic veterinarians occasionally recommend herbal medicine, they have the necessary knowledge and experience to decide if your dog will have any benefit from this herb.

The vet will give you the most appropriate preparation and recommend how much and how often to give the root to your dog, as the dose will vary depending on your dog’s weight, size, and the ailment(s) you’re treating. We advise you never to give your dog the root unless you get the go-ahead from your veterinarian for safety.

What Happens if You Miss a Dose?

Since burdock root is a natural herbal remedy for particular ailments, dose frequency is not as detrimental as other allopathic medications. If you miss a dose, it’s safe to wait until your dog’s next meal or even wait until the next day to give the dose. But again, burdock root should only be offered if your vet approves it and per their instructions.

Potential Side Effects of Burdock Root

While side effects from burdock root in canines are rare, you should still familiarize yourself with possible side effects for your dog’s safety. It’s important to monitor your dog while giving burdock root and to consult your vet if you notice any of these rare but possible signs due to adverse reactions:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Other Benefits Does Burdock Root Offer Dogs?

Not only does burdock root provide a natural remedy for certain ailments and conditions, but it also has vitamins and minerals that benefit humans that might also be beneficial to your dog’s health, such as vitamins C, E, B5, B6, B9, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, potassium, zinc, copper, and more.

Another interesting fact about Burdock root is that it contains inulin, a probiotic fiber that might benefit a dog’s gut microbiome.

Burdock root has also been proposed as a flavor enhancer in doga and cat food, however,  the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP)

What Health Conditions in Dogs Is Burdock Root Not Advisable For?

It’s important to note that burdock root may affect blood sugar levels, making it potentially dangerous, especially for dogs with diabetes. Pregnant or nursing dogs should also not use burdock root.

Where Can I Buy Burdock Root for My Dog?

After determining if this is the correct treatment for your dog or if they will have any health benefit from it, holistic veterinarians will usually prepare a tincture or might even provide you with the dry root to offer to your pup in the form of an infusion or mixed with their food.  They might also recommend a commercially available product. There are many online stores where you can buy burdock root for your dog. It’s available in liquid tinctures, chewable tablets, and powder form, usually with a combination of other herbs.

Please remember that herbal medicine while natural can have dangerous and detrimental effects on your dog’s health if not properly used. We recommend that you do not buy it before consulting it with your veterinarian first to ensure it’s safe for your particular canine.

Conclusion

Burdock root has been used for different medicinal properties in traditional medicine. In canines, this root has been used as a natural remedy for many ailments, such as arthritis, UTIs, digestion, skin issues, and immune and liver support, among others. The root has also been proposed but not officially accepted as a flavor additive in dog feed, due to the lack of evidence on its safety and efficacy. This root is most commonly found as an ingredient in pet supplements containing multi-herbal blends. However, despite the many potential benefits the root has to offer, we advise you to consult your vet before giving any to your dog.

Featured Image Credit: John_T, Shutterstock

The post Burdock Root for Dogs: Vet Reviewed Uses, Potential Benefits & Side Effects appeared first on PangoVet.