Fur Baby Feasts Treating Your Dog to the Best with Organic Meals

No, Your Dog Isnt Your Baby

My dog Jerry is a lot of things. Hes a cuddle monster who steals all the sheets at night. Hes also an expert tug-o-war player, a carrot lover, and a nap champion. But hes not my child, and never will be. Hes a dog, and that means I treat him differently than I treat actual children, for everyone's benefit (including his).

I personally don't love the term fur babies, explains Phillip Tedeschi, MSSW, LCSW, executive director for the Institute for Human-Animal Connection. I really want them to be able to be a dog or a cat, not comparable to a human child. In some cases, there are similarities, but there are differences too. Observing and taking note of those differences doesnt just keep our pets happy it can help prevent aggression too.

Weve all seen so-called "fur babies" riding down the street in strollers or trotting next to their pet parents, wearing twee outfits that wouldnt look out of place on a toddler. Sometimes, theyre posed on Instagram with ice cream cones, TV remotes, slices of pizza, or empty beer bottles with hashtags like #sundayfunday and #caseofthemondaze. These pets usually look happy enough. Their tongues are lolling out, and if you look closely, they may even appear to be smizing. But I cant help but wonder, would these noble beasts ancestors regret first wandering into that warm circle of firelight for a bite of bison if they knew it would lead to wearing a striped onesie with a tail cutout?

You may be reading this with your dogs Instagram account open in another tab, thinking of the hand-embroidered dog vest hanging in the coat closet. Maybe youre even wearing a paw-shaped necklace. Let she who has not called her dog My Little Fuzz-butt throw the first stone. I also own a t-shirt that says dog walks are my happy hour, and have bought dog toys based almost solely on their aesthetic value. This isnt to say dressing up your pet like a person is unequivocally wrong, or that doting on your pup makes you a bad pet parent. But before you stage that perfect like-bait on Instagram, think of how the animal beneath the costume feels.

Tedeschi prefers to treat his pets like their own, unique members of the household rather than just another one of the kids. I think, in some ways, many people could have a deeper relationship with their pets if they allow an animal to be themselves, he explains.

Think about all the decisions you make for your pets. You decide when they eat and what goes in the bowl. The placement of those bowls, their beds, and even which toy they play with is up to the humans, too. But Tedeschi explains that animals have preferences just like we do, and not paying attention to their subtle signals can have disastrous ramifications.

We tend to force animals to do things that they don't want to do, he says. And we often ignore signs of distress or in worst-case scenarios, see problems like unexpected bites. It's not that we have an aggressive animal, its that we have an animal whos advocating for itself in the best way it can.

Preventing those kinds of consequences all comes down to communication. If your dog always drags one toy out into the living room and ignores the rest, thats their favorite plaything. Dogs who shake or shiver, put their ears back and their tail between their legs when you bring out that cute little sweater are telling you theyd rather stick with their natural coat, thanks. And if a dog averts his eyes, licks his nose repeatedly, or starts to curl their lips when they see another dog or person, thats their way of saying, Im not in the mood to play.

When we're really observant of the animals in our lives, we get information about what they prefer, whats comforting for them, who they enjoy meeting on a walk, those sorts of things, Tedeschi explains. That doesn't always mean they get their way. In any healthy relationship, we have to negotiate, but we should at least recognize they have an opinion.

And that communication goes both ways. If youve caught your pup staring at your out of the corner of your eye, theyre not just trying to Jedi mind trick you into an early dinner. A dog can detect changes in your facial expression down to 1/16 of a millimeter, making them acutely aware of changes in your emotions. You may be able to tell your partner youre fine when really, youve had the worst day in the history of the workplace. That wont fly with your dog. They know the truth, because theyre watching you carefully, ready to come to your rescue at the slightest sign of foul weather. A truly good pet parent will pay their pups that same courtesy.

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The 12 best organic dog treats of 2023, approved by vets

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Organic food isn't just for people. In recent years, pet food companies have been rolling out organic grub, including some of the best organic dog treats. That may be in response to consumer demand, especially as people become more environmentally conscious, something a report from Future Markets Insights notes.

But there's something more that may be fueling interest in organic treats for dogs. According to Dr. Nancy Welborn, associate professor and service chief of community practice at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, consumers who assume that organic food is safer or more nutritious may seek out these treats.

The question is, though, do these treats, which are often pricier, have a nutritional edge over their conventional counterparts? It's possible. "Organic foods have been shown to have small increases in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants when compared with their non-organic counterparts," says Dr. Kasey Aona, medical director and owner of GoodVets in Columbus, Ohio. "That said, though, there haven't been any studies to prove the nutritional benefits of feeding organic treats over non-organic ones in dogs."

Although there are fewer organic than conventional dog treats, the options are growing. To help you narrow down the best organic dog treats, we looked at dozens of brands and flavors and made our picks based on the criteria veterinarians shared.

Why Millennials are Treating Fur-Babies Like Their First Born Child

Millennials have become increasingly attached to their fur-babies. From dressing them up in stylish outfits and taking their pictures for Insta-worthy posts to calling their fur baby their first born child, millennials are treating their pets like family, more so like their own children. While this trend is making headlines, its worth asking why millennials are treating their fur-babies like they would a real child or perhaps, why many millennials actually prefer having dogs than actual babies.

The Fur-Parent Trend and Changes in Lifestyle

Unlike generations before them, millennials are more likely to focus on their careers and personal development. With the current economy being not so forgiving when it comes to having children, many millennials find that they cannot afford to take the financial and lifestyle hit associated with having kids.

According to a Pew Research Center survey, the median age for a first-time mother in 2018 was 26.5 yearsnearly five years older than it was in 1970. Today, the median age for first marriage is 29.8 years for men and 27.8 years for womenalso a marked increase from the past.

Interestingly, as millennials are waiting longer to commit to marriage and children, theyve embraced a new kind of familythe fur-baby family. According to pet ownership statistics, the number of households owning pets in the U.S. has increased greatly in the last 30 years. As of 2023, 66% of U.S. households (86.9 million homes) own at least one pet, which is higher than the 56% recorded in 1988.

Pandemic-Fueled Growth

Since the pandemic forced people to stay in their homes, many millennials found solace in the companionship of a pet. According to a survey conducted by Forbes Advisor, 78% of pet parents obtained their pets during the pandemic. This surge in pet adoption reflected the desire for more meaningful connections as people sought emotional support during a time of isolation and uncertainty.

In addition to providing companionship, pets offer millennials an entertaining distraction from the monotony of quarantine life. Millennials are taking their pet-parenting duties very seriously, recording funny videos of their furry friends and sharing them on social media. This has added a whole new dimension to how millennials interact with their pets and has led to an increase in pet-related spending.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual household spending on pets has increased from $460 in 2013 to $770 in 2021. Consequently, both baby boomers and millennials have started seeking pet care products and services, such as pet insurance, pet grooming, and pet food subscriptions.

All-in-all, millennials have embraced the fur-parent culture and its clear why this trend has taken offfrom providing companionship and entertainment to offering an alternative to having children, pets play a crucial role in their owners' lives as millennials view them as a significant emotional support. And as such, millennials tend to even spend more money on their fur babies from expensive food to fashionable outfits.

Indeed, pet ownership has grown in popularity among millennials, who view their furry friends as a source of unconditional love and acceptance that can help reduce stress and anxiety. So, from huskies to cats, millennials are having fun with their furry friends. Theyre taking them on adventures, dressing them up in the latest designs and documenting it all on social media for everyone else to enjoy too.

5 Reasons Why Millennials Prefer Pet Care to Baby Care

Since the pandemic struck, more and more millennials have chosen to become pet parents instead of having kids. Heres why:

1. Less Expensive

Compared to raising children, taking care of pets is much less expensive. From food and basic accessories such as collars and leashes to healthcare costs like vaccinations and check-ups, all these expenses are much lower compared to those associated with raising a child.

2. Less Time-Consuming

Having a pet does not require the same level of commitment as having a child does. Pets need to be fed, walked, and entertained, but they do not demand constant attention like children do. While babies need to be watched at all times, pets are generally independent and don't need constant attention. This frees up time for millennials to focus on their own projects and interests.

3. Increasingly Independent Lifestyle

Millennials are living increasingly independent lifestyles. Many are juggling full-time jobs with their passions and side hustles. Its no wonder then, that keeping a pet can be seen as an easier option than having a child. Pets don't require the same level of commitment as children do and they don't need as much financial or emotional support.

As many millennials opt to live in the cities, theyre often restricted on the type of pet they can own, due to space and cost restrictions. This means that many millennial pet owners opt for smaller breeds like cats or small dogs which are much easier to manage in the city.

4. Commitment Issues

Millennials are also more likely to avoid commitment than previous generations. This is due in part to the rapidly changing economic landscape, with jobs often being unreliable and short-term. Commitment to a pet, however, can be seen as a safer alternativethey don't require a long-term commitment like having a child might. Baby boomers, on the other hand, are more likely to expect marriage and a long-term commitment.

5. Environmental Awareness

Finally, millennials are much more environmentally conscious than previous generations, so having a pet is seen as the ethical choice. Pets can be adopted from shelters and they don't require the same resources as raising children doesfrom diapers to formula milkall of which have a negative environmental impact.

So, while millennials still view having children as an important part of life, they are increasingly using pets to fulfill their need for companionship and love. By providing unconditional love and entertainment without the same financial and emotional commitments that come with having kids, pets offer a great alternative for millennials who want to enjoy all the benefits of parenthood without the long-term commitment or hefty price tag.

How Pet Care Products Are Big Business Nowadays

As the trend of treating pets like family continues, companies are taking advantage of this opportunity to provide pet owners with a variety of products that cater to their needs. From stylish collars and leashes to personalized food bowls, and even pet food delivery services, there is no shortage of pet care products on the market.

For instance, dog day care center franchises have grown in popularity over the past few years. These centers provide a safe and fun space for pet owners to leave their pets while theyre at work, providing them with much-needed socialization and exercise.

Additionally, pet food delivery companies are popping up all over the country, catering to young adults who don't have the time to shop for pet food. This service allows millennials to easily purchase healthy, quality food for their pets without ever having to leave their homes.

Whether it's high-end pet clothing or treats made of organic ingredients theres no shortage of products for millennials looking to provide the best care for their fur-babies.

Preparing Your Home for your New Furry Friend

As more millennials are welcoming pets into their homes, many of them may not be aware of the necessary preparations that need to be made. To ensure that your pet's transition is as smooth as possible, here are some tips for getting your home ready:

1. Pet-proof Your Home Be sure to remove any small objects, like toys and jewelry, that could pose a choking hazard. Also, cover wires or cords with protective tubing or place them out of reach.

1. Invest in Quality Accessories Ensure you have all the basics such as leashes, food dishes and beds. If youre adopting a cat or dog, make sure to get ID tags for collars as well.

1. Take Time Off Work If possible, try to take a few days off work when introducing your new pet into the home. This will allow you to spend some quality time with your new furry friend and help them adjust more easily.

1. Make Time for Walks Depending on the type of pet youve adopted, walks are essential for their mental and physical health. Create a schedule that works around your own commitments and make sure to stick to it.

1. Allow them to socialize with others Pet owners should also consider socializing their pets with other animals early on. This will help them become more comfortable with different people and animals. Bring your pet to a playground or to visit friends with pets.

By taking the time to prepare your home and lifestyle for a pet, youll ensure that both of you have a smooth transition. After all, they will be part of your family now, so it is important to give them the love and care they need.

So, whether youre taking the plunge into pet parenthood or have been a proud fur-parent for years, its never too late to start thinking about how to best care for your furry loved one. With the right preparation and commitment, millennials can ensure that their fur-babies are as happy and healthy as possible!