Dog-Friendly Winter Gear: Must-Haves for Chicago’s Cold Months

Toys aren’t just about fun—they’re essential for your pet’s mental stimulation, physical health, and emotional well-being. At **Pet Care Plus** in downtown Chicago, we see firsthand how the *right* toy can help a pet thrive. Factors to Consider: 1. Size: A small toy can be a choking hazard for large dogs, while an oversized toy might intimidate smaller breeds. 2. Chewing style: Aggressive chewers need durable rubber or nylon toys; light chewers may enjoy soft plush toys. 3. Breed instincts: Retrievers love fetch toys. Terriers enjoy tug-of-war and puzzle toys. Herding breeds may benefit from toys that engage their tracking or problem-solving instincts. 4. Age: Puppies: Teething toys and gentle rubber chews. Adult dogs: Durable toys for interactive play. Senior pets: Softer, soothing toys that are easy on teeth. Did You Know? We have a variety of pet toys in different shapes, sizes, and materials available for sale in the lobby of Pet Care Plus! Whether you’re shopping for a chewer, a fetch fanatic, or a snuggler, we’ve got something just right. And if you’re not sure what to pick, feel free to ask any of our friendly front desk team members. We love helping you find the perfect enrichment option for your pup!

Pets may not speak with words, but they communicate clearly through body language. At Pet Care Plus, we’ve worked with thousands of pets, and we know how important it is for pet parents to recognize the subtle cues their furry companions are giving. Dog Body Language Basics: Tail wagging : Not always happy—it depends on the speed and position. A low, slow wag can signal uncertainty. Ears back and head down : Nervousness or submission. Yawning or lip licking : Stress signals, not tiredness or hunger. Exaggerated play bow : “Let’s play!” This is a friendly, happy gesture. Understanding your pet’s body language helps you respond with empathy, correct behavior issues early, and build stronger trust. Our team at Pet Care Plus is always happy to share insights into your pet’s behavior, whether it’s during daycare, grooming, or just a chat at pickup!

As the flowers bloom and trees fill out in downtown Chicago, allergy season is in full swing—not just for humans, but for pets too! Many pet parents don’t realize their furry friends can suffer from seasonal allergies, especially in April when pollen counts start to rise. Common Signs of Allergies in Pets: Excessive scratching or licking Red, inflamed skin Watery eyes Sneezing or coughing Chewing paws Ear infections or frequent head shaking What Causes These Allergies? In spring, the most common culprits are: Tree and grass pollens Mold spores Dust and dander Fleas (yes—they're back!) How to Help Your Pet Feel Better Wipe paws after every walk: Especially important in city areas like Chicago, where pollen and pollutants stick easily. Bathe regularly: Schedule a bath or grooming appointment at **Pet Care Plus** to soothe itchy skin and reduce allergens. Try allergy-friendly diets or supplements: Ask your vet about food sensitivities and immune support. Keep bedding clean: Wash your pet’s bed weekly in hot water. At Pet Care Plus, we know how hard this season can be. Our professional groomers are trained to help soothe seasonal skin irritations and can recommend treatments that support your pet’s comfort. Please reach out to your veterinarian if you have any further concerns about allergies in your dog!

Did you know that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by the age of three? February isn’t just about heart health—it’s also National Pet Dental Health Month, making it the perfect time to focus on your furry friend’s oral hygiene. At Pet Care Plus we know that a healthy mouth means a healthier pet, and we’re here to help you understand why dental care is so important, what signs to look out for, and how to keep those teeth clean.

February isn’t just about Valentine’s Day—it’s also American Heart Month, a great reminder to focus on your pet’s heart health! At Pet Care Plus, we know how important it is to keep your furry friends happy, active, and free from preventable heart conditions. Just like humans, pets can suffer from heart disease, obesity, and heartworm infections.

Winter can pose unique challenges for your pet’s health.

Winter in Chicago doesn’t have to mean staying indoors!

The holiday season brings joy, celebrations, and visitors, but it can also be a stressful time for your furry friend.

As winter settles in and Chicago’s streets are covered in snow and ice, it's important to remember the toll the cold weather can take on your pet’s paws. From salt to ice to frozen puddles, your pet’s feet are exposed to harsh conditions that can lead to irritation, cracking, or even injury. Here are some tips from Pet Care Plus on how to protect your pet’s paws this winter.