The Science Behind Playgroups: How Dogs Learn from Each Other

Choosing the right diet for your dog isn’t always simple. Each feeding style — kibble, fresh, and raw — has its benefits, drawbacks, and best matches depending on your dog’s age, lifestyle, and health. Let’s dig deeper. Dry Kibble Pros: Affordable, convenient, long-lasting, easy to measure and store. Often fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. Cons: Highly processed, lower moisture, may contain fillers, preservatives, or allergens. Best For: Busy pet parents who need convenience. Dogs with healthy digestion and no known food sensitivities. Multi-dog households where cost and storage matter. Dogs who like crunchy textures , which can help reduce tartar buildup. Fresh-Cooked Diets Pros: Made with real, lightly cooked ingredients. Higher moisture content, highly palatable, easy on digestion. Often formulated by nutritionists. Cons: More expensive, requires refrigeration/freezer space, shorter shelf life. Best For: Senior dogs who may struggle with digestion or need softer foods. Picky eaters who turn their nose up at kibble. Dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies , since fresh diets tend to be limited-ingredient. Health-conscious owners who want more transparency in what goes into their dog’s bowl. Raw Diets Pros: Mimics an ancestral diet, high in protein, can improve coat shine, energy, and muscle tone. Often lower in carbs. Cons: Bacterial contamination risk, nutrient balance requires careful planning, more expensive, requires freezer space. Best For: Active and working breeds like German Shepherds, Huskies, or Belgian Malinois, who burn a lot of energy. Dogs with skin or coat issues , since raw often improves fur quality. Highly food-motivated dogs who benefit from varied textures and flavors. Owners committed to safe handling and storage — raw isn’t a “set it and forget it” food choice. Final Thoughts The “best” diet really depends on your individual dog. Some thrive on high-quality kibble, others do best on fresh meals, and some benefit from carefully balanced raw. Many owners even mix and match , using kibble for convenience with occasional fresh or raw toppers for nutrition and variety. At Pet Care Plus, we’re happy to talk with you about your dog’s diet and how it might connect to their behavior, coat health, and energy at daycare or boarding. Always check with your vet before making major changes, but know there’s no one-size-fits-all answer — only what’s right for your dog. Come visit out store and we can help you pick out which food type is best for your furry friend!

Bringing a dog into your life means committing to their care from the very first tail wag to their golden years. Just like people, dogs’ needs change as they grow. A puppy’s world revolves around exploration and learning, while a senior dog may need extra patience and comfort. Understanding what your dog needs at each stage of life helps you keep them healthy, happy, and thriving. Puppies: Building the Foundation The puppy stage is as exciting as it is overwhelming. These first months are when lifelong habits — both good and bad — are formed. Socialization : Puppies need exposure to other dogs, people, and new environments. This helps prevent fear or reactivity later in life. Routine and Structure : A consistent feeding, play, and potty schedule helps puppies feel secure. Early Grooming : Even if your puppy’s coat doesn’t need much yet, short grooming visits help them get used to being handled, brushed, and bathed. Positive Reinforcement Training : Rewarding good behavior builds confidence and sets the tone for future learning. Tip for puppy parents : Short, frequent training sessions are more effective than long ones. Puppies have short attention spans — keep it fun and end on a success. Adolescents and Adults: Maintaining Balance Once dogs hit adolescence (usually around 6–18 months), they often test boundaries. By adulthood, most settle into a routine, but their need for stimulation and exercise doesn’t go away. Physical Exercise : Daily walks, play sessions, or supervised group play help prevent destructive behavior and keep bodies strong. Mental Stimulation : Toys that encourage problem-solving (like puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing balls) provide more fulfillment than physical activity alone. Regular Health Care : Annual vet visits, vaccinations, dental care, and parasite prevention are critical during this stage. Consistent Grooming : Brushing, bathing, and nail trims prevent matting and discomfort, especially for active dogs. Tip for adult dog parents : Mix up your dog’s routine. A new walking route, rotating toys, or introducing simple enrichment games at home can keep adult dogs sharp and engaged. Seniors: Comfort and Quality of Life Dogs are considered seniors at different ages depending on their breed and size — larger dogs often show signs of aging earlier than smaller breeds. Seniors may slow down, but they still benefit from mental and physical engagement. Gentle Exercise : Slow walks, swimming, or low-impact play help maintain mobility without strain. Diet Adjustments : Older dogs may need special diets to support joints, digestion, or weight management. Enrichment Without Overexertion : Snuffle mats, scent games, or easy puzzle toys keep their minds sharp while respecting their energy levels. Extra Monitoring : Watch for changes in appetite, behavior, or movement. Subtle shifts can signal health issues that should be checked by a vet. Comfort : Orthopedic bedding, easy access to food and water, and a quieter environment help seniors feel secure. Tip for senior dog parents : Don’t underestimate the power of routine. Predictability can be soothing for older dogs who may be dealing with vision, hearing, or mobility changes. Final Thoughts Caring for a dog is a journey that evolves over time. Puppies require patience and consistency, adult dogs thrive on balance and stimulation, and seniors need compassion and comfort. The common thread across all life stages? Dogs flourish when their physical, mental, and emotional needs are met with love and attentiveness. As pet parents, we can’t stop the clock, but we can make every stage meaningful. Whether you’re teaching a puppy their first “sit” or giving a senior dog a soft place to rest their head, you’re shaping a life well lived.

At Pet Care Plus, we believe every dog deserves more than just a safe place to spend the day — they deserve an environment that challenges their mind, nurtures their instincts, and keeps their tails wagging. That’s where enrichment comes in. What is Enrichment? Enrichment is all about mental stimulation and variety of experience . Just like people, dogs can get bored when their days are predictable or under-stimulating. Boredom in dogs often leads to unwanted behaviors like chewing, barking, or anxiety. Enrichment provides activities that engage a dog’s brain and body, leaving them happier and healthier. Why Enrichment Matters Reduces stress and anxiety : Mental exercise helps dogs relax and feel more balanced. Builds confidence : Shy or nervous dogs gain courage through problem-solving and positive reinforcement. Improves behavior at home : A mentally satisfied dog is far less likely to engage in destructive habits. Strengthens your bond : Dogs that participate in enrichment are more engaged with their humans. Enrichment at Pet Care Plus We’ve built our programs around the idea that every dog deserves variety and fun: Enrichment Memberships : From puzzle feeders to treadmill runs, we offer tailored options to keep pups engaged. Interactive Toys : LickiMats, treat puzzles, and tennis ball games challenge dogs to think and explore. Special Activities : Peanut butter Kongs, nap-time brain games, and one-on-one play sessions add excitement to their day. Safe Playgroups : Structured groups where toys and activities are rotated to keep things fresh. Enrichment isn’t a luxury — it’s essential to your dog’s wellbeing. If you want your pup to live their best life, check out our Daycare Enrichment Memberships or ask us about add-ons during your next visit.

Cats are famously mysterious creatures. One moment they’re curled in your lap, purring contently, and the next they’re darting under the bed after a shadow. The secret? Cats are constantly “talking” — just not in a way humans always understand. Key Cat Body Language Cues Tail up = friendly greeting: When your cat approaches with their tail held high, they’re saying hello and showing trust. Slow blink = I love you: That lazy, soft blink is cat-speak for affection. Try blinking back — many cats will return it! Ears flat = back off: Flattened ears are a warning that your cat feels scared or threatened. Twitching tail tip = agitation: A fast-moving tail tip often signals frustration or overstimulation. Belly exposed = trust (but not always an invite): Rolling on their back shows vulnerability, but doesn’t always mean “rub my tummy.” Why Understanding Cat Body Language Matters Builds stronger trust and connection with your cat. Helps prevent bites, scratches, and stress by recognizing warning signs. Supports overall well-being since you can respond to their needs more quickly. Final Thoughts Cats may seem mysterious, but once you know what to look for, they’re actually great communicators. Learning their body language is one of the best ways to strengthen your bond — and keep everyone in the household happy.

Emergencies happen — and when they involve your dog, every second counts. Knowing a few basic first aid skills can make the difference between stabilizing your pup and waiting helplessly for help to arrive. Build a Pet First Aid Kit: Keep these essentials at home and in the car Gauze and non-stick bandages Adhesive tape and vet wrap Digital thermometer (pet-specific) Hydrogen peroxide (for poison control use only under vet direction) Tweezers and blunt-tip scissors Saline solution for flushing eyes or wounds Common Scenarios & What to Do Cuts or bleeding: Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze. Wrap snugly but not too tight. Choking: If safe, try to clear the object. For large dogs, you may need to perform a modified Heimlich maneuver. Heatstroke: Move the dog to shade, apply cool (not icy) water to paws and belly, and seek immediate veterinary care. Poison ingestion: Call your vet or the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline before inducing vomiting. Final Thoughts Pet first aid doesn’t replace professional veterinary care — but it buys you critical time until you can get help. At Pet Care Plus, your dog’s safety is always our first priority, and we encourage every pet parent to brush up on first aid basics. It’s one of the best ways to keep your furry family member safe.

When people think of enrichment, dogs often get all the attention — walks, daycare, training classes. But cats? They need stimulation just as much as their canine counterparts. In fact, indoor cats can easily become bored, stressed, or even overweight without daily activities that challenge their minds and bodies. Why Enrichment Matters for Cats Prevents boredom & destructive behavior : A cat without enough stimulation may claw furniture, overeat, or meow excessively. Supports healthy weight & exercise : Movement keeps joints and muscles strong, especially for indoor cats. Encourages natural instincts : Hunting, climbing, scratching, and hiding are all behaviors cats are wired to do. Easy Enrichment Ideas for Cats 1. Interactive toys : Wand toys, laser pointers, and feather teasers tap into your cat’s hunting instincts. 2. Food puzzles: Slow feeders and treat-dispensing toys make mealtime engaging. 3. Vertical spaces: Cat trees, perches, or even cleared shelves give your cat a chance to climb and survey. 4. DIY fun : A cardboard box or paper bag can turn into the best hide-and-seek playground. 5. Scheduled playtime: Just 10–15 minutes twice a day of active play can make a huge difference. Final Thoughts Cats thrive when their environments are stimulating and fun. Adding just a few new games or toys can improve their mood, health, and bond with you. At Pet Care Plus, we’re big believers in keeping every pet’s day full of safe, structured fun — cats included.

At Pet Care Plus, we believe responsible pet ownership goes beyond food, exercise, and love—it also means making choices that protect your pet’s health and improve the lives of animals in our community. One of the most important of those choices is spaying or neutering your dog. While the topic may feel routine, the truth is that spaying and neutering have lasting health, behavioral, and community benefits you don’t want to overlook. 1. Health Benefits for Your Dog Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) can prevent or reduce the risk of several serious health issues: Females: Prevents uterine infections (pyometra) and drastically lowers the risk of mammary cancer. Males: Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate issues. When done at the appropriate age, these surgeries can contribute to a longer, healthier life for your pet. 2. Behavioral Benefits While training and enrichment play a major role in a dog’s behavior, spaying and neutering can help reduce hormone-driven tendencies, such as: Roaming in search of a mate (reducing the risk of accidents or getting lost) Mounting or marking behaviors Aggression related to mating instincts Your dog will still have their unique personality—they’ll just be less likely to be driven by reproductive urges. 3. Helping the Community Every year, shelters across the U.S. take in millions of unwanted pets, many of whom are the result of unplanned litters. By spaying or neutering your dog, you’re helping reduce pet overpopulation, which means fewer dogs in shelters and more resources for the animals already waiting for homes. 4. When to Spay or Neuter The right timing depends on your dog’s breed, size, and health. For most dogs, veterinarians recommend the procedure between 6–12 months of age, though some may advise earlier or later. Always consult your vet for the best plan for your individual pet. 5. Recovery and Aftercare Spay and neuter surgeries are routine and relatively low-risk. Recovery typically takes 10–14 days, during which your dog will need rest, limited activity, and close monitoring for any swelling or redness around the incision site. Our Special Care Suites at Pet Care Plus are ideal for pets recovering from surgery—providing a quiet, monitored space where they can heal comfortably. A Responsible Choice with Lasting Impact Spaying or neutering is a simple step that offers lifelong benefits to your dog and helps make our community a better place for all animals. If you have questions about the procedure, timing, or aftercare, talk to your veterinarian—or reach out to our team for trusted recommendations.

Summer is the perfect time to spoil your pup with cool, refreshing treats that also pack a punch of nutrition. Instead of grabbing store-bought snacks loaded with preservatives, you can make healthy, dog-safe treats right at home. Best of all—these recipes are quick, budget-friendly, and vet-approved for most dogs. Here are three simple DIY summer treats that will keep tails wagging and bodies healthy. 1. Frozen Blueberry & Yogurt Bites Why they’re great: Blueberries are full of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, while plain unsweetened yogurt supports gut health with probiotics. Ingredients: 1 cup plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries Instructions: Blend blueberries and yogurt together until smooth (or leave berries whole for texture). Pour into silicone molds or ice cube trays. Freeze for at least 3–4 hours before serving. Pro Tip: These make perfect bite-sized rewards for after a swim or a walk on a hot day. 2. Watermelon Pup Pops Why they’re great: Watermelon is 92% water, making it excellent for hydration, and it’s rich in vitamins A and C. Ingredients: 2 cups seedless watermelon (no rind) ½ cup coconut water (unsweetened) Instructions: Blend watermelon and coconut water until smooth. Pour into molds or paper cups with dog-safe sticks for fun. Freeze until solid, about 4–6 hours. Pro Tip: For smaller dogs, use mini ice cube trays for easier portion control. 3. Peanut Butter Banana Freezer Cookies Why they’re great: Bananas are loaded with potassium and fiber, while natural peanut butter offers healthy fats and protein. Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas ¼ cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol) 2 cups rolled oats Instructions: Mash bananas and peanut butter together in a bowl. Stir in oats until well combined. Scoop small spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 1–2 hours). Pro Tip: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. A Note on Safety Always introduce new treats slowly and in moderation, especially if your dog has food sensitivities. Avoid ingredients like xylitol, added sugars, and artificial sweeteners. At Pet Care Plus, we know healthy dogs are happy dogs—which is why we love sharing simple ways to make their lives even better. Try these recipes this summer, and don’t forget to share your pup’s taste-testing photos with us on social media!

We get it—life in the city moves fast. Between work, errands, family, and travel, getting your dog to daycare, grooming, or boarding can be one more thing on an already packed to-do list. That’s why our Pet Taxi service was designed to take the stress off your plate and keep your pet’s routine right on track. This summer, we’re offering a special to make it even easier: from May 27 to July 31, 2025, new clients or first-time riders can enjoy round-trip Pet Taxi service for just $5 when you book 2 or more rides per week. We offer door-to-door service in the West Loop and surrounding neighborhoods—anywhere between Pulaski Rd, North Ave, Roosevelt Rd, and the Chicago River. Not in that zone? Give us a call and we’ll provide an estimate. The best part? Your dog still gets to enjoy their day at Pet Care Plus while you handle everything else on your schedule. Whether you're stuck in meetings, heading out of town, or just need an extra hand, our Pet Taxi gives you peace of mind knowing your pup is getting the care, play, and attention they need—without skipping a beat.