J-B Pet Supplies Blog Posts

  Winter Wellness Checklist for Dogs & Cats As temperatures drop and winter settles in, our pets face new environmental challenges — from dry indoor air to icy sidewalks and reduced daylight. A little preparation goes a long way in helping dogs and cats stay healthy, comfortable, and active throughout the colder months. This Winter Wellness Checklist covers the essential areas pet owners should look at as the season changes. ❄️ 1. Skin & Coat Care Winter air is cold outside and dry inside, which can lead to itchy skin, dandruff, and coat dullness. What to check: Is your pet scratching more than usual? Do you see flakes or dry patches? Has their coat lost some shine? Tips: Regular brushing increases natural oils and supports skin health. Make sure your pet’s diet includes healthy fats and omega fatty acids. Consider using a humidifier indoors if the air is very dry. Wipe your dog’s paws after walks to remove ice melt and salt, which can irritate skin. ❄️ 2. Hydration & N...

  Thanksgiving Foods That Are Unsafe for Dogs – And What to Offer Instead Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather with family, friends, and of course, our beloved pets. But while it may be tempting to let your dog sample some of the holiday feast, many traditional Thanksgiving dishes contain ingredients that can be harmful.This guide explains which foods to avoid , why they’re unsafe , and what dog-friendly alternatives you can safely share so your pet can enjoy the holiday too. 1. Turkey Bones and Skin Why to Avoid: Turkey bones — especially cooked bones — can splinter easily and cause choking, internal punctures, or blockages. Turkey skin is often seasoned with butter, salt, herbs, and spices that can irritate the digestive system. Rich, fatty skin can also trigger pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas. Safe Alternative: A small amount of plain, boneless, skinless turkey meat is perfectly safe for most dogs. Keep it unseasoned and offer it in moderation. 2. St...

  Cold Weather Nutrition for Dogs: What Your Pup Needs When Temperatures Drop As winter settles in and temperatures fall, dogs experience several physiological changes that can affect their nutritional needs. Just like people adjust their habits throughout the colder months, dogs may require changes to their diet to stay healthy, energized, and comfortable. Here’s a look at how cold weather impacts canine nutrition — and what kinds of foods or nutrients can help support your dog during the winter season. ❄️ Why Cold Weather Affects a Dog’s Nutritional Needs 1. Dogs Burn More Calories to Stay Warm When it’s cold, dogs use more energy to maintain their body temperature. This is especially true for: Short-haired breeds Small dogs Senior dogs Underweight dogs Active breeds that spend a lot of time outside Because of this extra energy demand, some dogs may benefit from slightly increased calories during winter. 2. Dryer Air Can Affect Hydration & Digestion Indoor heating systems dr...