After years of living outside, a gentle tom cat stumbled upon a kind person who let him in and showed him the good life. EwokChatonsOrphelinsMontrealA thick-coated street cat appeared alone in a neighborhood last winter. A neighbor recognized him from the summer when he'd been seen scrounging for food.The tom cat, Ewok, was a bit nervous, but he didn't have a mean bone in his body. He let his finder take him in and looked relieved to have a warm bed and a full bowl of food. His fur was tangled and matted with a crusty patch on his back pulling at his skin.When Chatons Orphelins Montreal (an animal rescue) was contacted, they immediately welcomed him with open arms. ChatonsOrphelinsMontreal"Once we took Ewok, the little teddy bear, into our care, he was off to the veterinary clinic," the rescue shared.They carefully trimmed away all the tangles and knots, soothing him with gentle pets and encouraging words. Even though he was scared, he remained calm and cooperative, letting the veterinary staff tend to his needs. ChatonsOrphelinsMontrealHe was estimated to be three years old. His paw pads were hardened from trekking through snow. "The vet also discovered he had an old rib injury that hadn't healed properly, likely from an accident during his time on the streets—though it didn't cause him any pain."A loving foster family welcomed Ewok into their home, and his gentle, sweet nature quickly shone through. ChatonsOrphelinsMontreal"When he first arrived, he was lost, anxious, and withdrawn. But as soon as he started socializing, his cuddly, gentle side emerged. Feeling so much better, all he wanted was to be loved."His eyes were constantly watery due to a condition called entropion, where the eyelids curl inward, causing irritation and increasing the risk of infection. ChatonsOrphelinsMontrealEwok underwent eyelid surgery to correct the issue. Even with a cone on for two weeks, he remained his sweet self, delighting in being spoon-fed and soaking up all the extra attention and pampering."After enduring such a hard life on the streets, he was more than deserving of the best care." ChatonsOrphelinsMontrealEwok is a gentle and calm soul who thrives on routine. He may seem reserved at first, but a few scritches are the key to his heart. He adores having his chin and lower back stroked, stretching his paws and purring with delight each time.He enjoys lounging in his hammock by the window, basking in the sun. But the moment he sees his foster mom, he gets to his feet to greet her, leaning in for a cuddle. ChatonsOrphelinsMontreal"He's starting to show his playful side in the evenings when it's quiet in the house. You can hear him digging out his toys and chasing them around."He's still skittish around sudden movements, but once he feels safe, he becomes a total cuddle bug, nuzzling up to his people and begging for more affection. Ewok is quiet and rarely meows, but he more than makes up for it with his powerful purrs. ChatonsOrphelinsMontrealEwok has embraced other cats in the house like a true gentleman, respecting their space and enjoying their company. "He gets along well with them, but he very much prefers spending time with his humans."His fluffy paws make biscuits whenever he's petted, and his rumbling purrs fill the room. ChatonsOrphelinsMontrealAfter braving the streets nearly all his life, Ewok is now safe indoors with a doting foster family, living a pain-free life, and he has never looked back. ChatonsOrphelinsMontrealShare this story with your friends. More on Ewok at Chatons Orphelins Montreal on Instagram and Facebook.Related story: Cat Spotted High Up on a Building, Suddenly Comes Out of Her Shell When She Realizes Life is About to Change

Poodles are known for their elegant appearance and distinctive coats. At DogingtonPost, we understand that maintaining your poodle’s luxurious fur requires dedication and skill. In this guide, we’ll share essential dog grooming tips for poodles to help you keep your furry friend looking and feeling their best. From brushing techniques to popular cuts, we’ve got you covered. What Makes Poodle Coats Special? The Unique Nature of Poodle Hair Poodle coats stand out from other dog breeds. Their dense, curly, and continuously growing hair requires consistent care to maintain health and prevent tangles. Poodles shed less and have less dander than other breeds, which makes them a top choice for allergy sufferers. This low-shedding trait, however, presents its own set of grooming challenges. The Curly Conundrum Poodle hair resembles human hair more than typical dog fur. It grows in tight curls that can easily become matted without proper maintenance. These curls trap loose hair and debris, which can lead to skin irritation and even infections if left unchecked. Regular brushing removes these trapped particles and prevents matting. Grooming Frequency Brushing the coat frequently and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks helps manage this. Neglecting this can lead to skin issues and discomfort for the dog. This frequency helps maintain the coat’s health and prevents the formation of painful mats. Essential Grooming Tools To effectively groom your poodle, you’ll need specific tools: Slicker brush: For daily detangling and removing loose hair Metal comb: To work through stubborn knots and add finishing touches Grooming scissors: For trimming sensitive areas (face and paws) Quality clipper with various blade attachments: For more thorough grooming sessions The American Kennel Club recommends using a #15 blade for face, feet, and tail areas, and a #5 or #7 blade for body clipping. The Bathing Basics Bathe your poodle every 2-3 weeks to keep their coat clean and healthy. Use a dog-specific shampoo to maintain the natural oils in their skin. After bathing, dry your poodle thoroughly. Moisture left in the coat can lead to skin problems and make the coat more prone to matting. Proper grooming isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a vital part of your poodle’s health care routine. Regular grooming sessions allow you to check for any skin issues, lumps, or parasites that might otherwise go unnoticed. Now that we understand the unique characteristics of poodle coats, let’s move on to the step-by-step grooming process to keep your furry friend looking their best. How to Groom Your Poodle Like a Pro Brushing and Detangling Start your grooming routine with a thorough brush-out. Use a slicker brush to work through your poodle’s coat, starting from the skin and moving outward. This technique (known as line brushing) prevents matting and removes loose hair. Focus on areas prone to tangling, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail. For stubborn knots, use a metal comb and work through them gently. Never pull or tug harshly, as this can hurt your poodle’s skin. If you encounter a severe mat, seek professional help to avoid injuring your dog. Bathing Basics After you detangle the coat, it’s time for a bath. Use lukewarm water and a shampoo formulated for dogs. Don’t use human shampoos, as they can disrupt the pH balance of your dog’s skin. Massage the shampoo thoroughly into the coat, including often-neglected areas like the paws and underbelly. Rinse your poodle completely to remove all soap residue, which can cause skin irritation. Apply a conditioner to keep the coat soft and manageable. The American Kennel Club suggests bathing your poodle every 3-4 weeks to maintain coat health without stripping natural oils. Drying and Fluffing Proper drying is essential for poodle coat care. Start by towel-drying to remove excess water, then use a blow dryer on a low heat setting. Keep the dryer moving constantly to avoid overheating any one area. Use a slicker brush while drying to help straighten the coat and add volume. For the signature poodle fluff, use a metal grooming comb and comb him as much as you can. This helps get out small tangles and fluff the coat, but it’s a finishing move. Trimming and Shaping The final step in your poodle’s grooming routine is trimming. Start with the face, using a #15 blade to carefully trim around the eyes, nose, and mouth. For the body, choose a blade length based on your desired style – a #5 or #7 blade is common for a moderate length. When trimming the legs, use scissors to shape them into neat columns. The Poodle Club of America recommends maintaining a slight flare at the bottom for a balanced look. For the tail, trim it into a neat pompom, leaving the base wider for a tapered appearance. Regular trimming every 4-6 weeks helps maintain your poodle’s coat and prevents it from becoming unmanageable. If you’re unsure about trimming at home, visit a professional groomer for guidance or to maintain your poodle’s specific cut. Now that you’ve mastered the basics of poodle grooming, let’s explore some popular poodle grooming styles to give your furry friend a unique look. Poodle Grooming Styles: From Classic to Contemporary Traditional Show Cuts The Continental and English Saddle cuts stand as iconic poodle styles in dog shows. These elaborate cuts require significant skill and maintenance. The Continental features closely clipped hindquarters and legs, with pom-poms left on the ankles and hips. The English Saddle resembles the Continental but retains more fur on the hindquarters. While stunning, these cuts demand daily grooming and don’t suit most pet owners’ lifestyles. Modern Pet Styles For everyday poodle owners, simpler cuts offer easier maintenance without compromising style. The Puppy Cut maintains the coat at an even length all over (usually between 1 to 2 inches long). This versatile style works well for all poodle sizes and allows for easier home maintenance with regular brushing and occasional trimming. The Teddy Bear Cut has gained popularity among poodle enthusiasts. It mimics the look of a cute teddy bear, with the exact style depending on the dog and the groomer. This cut requires more frequent grooming to maintain its shape but provides a cute, cuddly look that many poodle owners adore. Practical Considerations Your lifestyle and grooming abilities should influence your choice of poodle style. Active dogs or those who swim frequently might benefit from a shorter cut like the Sporting Clip, which keeps the body short while preserving some length on the legs and topknot. Climate also affects style selection. In warmer regions, the Miami Cut (also known as the Bikini Cut) helps keep your poodle cool with a short body coat and pom-poms on the tail, feet, and head. Maintenance Requirements Most poodle cuts require professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, with daily brushing at home to prevent matting. If you’re new to poodle grooming, start with a simpler style and work with a professional groomer to find the perfect look for your pet. Choosing the Right Style Consider your poodle’s personality and activity level when selecting a cut. A more elaborate style might suit a calm, indoor dog, while an active poodle might prefer a shorter, low-maintenance cut. Your grooming commitment level also plays a role – some styles demand daily attention, while others allow for more relaxed care routines. Final Thoughts Grooming your poodle goes beyond aesthetics; it’s vital for their health and well-being. Regular brushing, bathing, and trimming allow you to check for skin issues while keeping your poodle comfortable and happy. Consistency in your grooming routine will strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. Your choice of poodle cut should reflect your lifestyle and grooming abilities. Traditional show cuts require more maintenance, while modern styles offer easier upkeep for everyday pet owners. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, combined with daily brushing at home, will help prevent matting and maintain your poodle’s coat health. If you need more dog grooming tips for poodles (or advice on any aspect of dog care), don’t hesitate to consult a professional groomer or visit DogingtonPost. With patience and practice, you’ll become skilled at keeping your poodle looking their best. Your efforts will result in a happy, healthy, and beautifully groomed poodle companion.

Feeding a farmer’s dog requires special attention to their unique nutritional needs. These hardworking canines need a diet that supports their high energy demands and maintains their overall health. At DogingtonPost, we’ve compiled essential farmer’s dog feeding tips to help you keep your working companion in top shape. From understanding their nutritional requirements to creating an optimal feeding schedule, we’ll guide you through the process of nourishing your farmer’s dog effectively. What Do Farmer’s Dogs Need to Eat? High-Protein Diet for Working Canines Farmer’s dogs require a diet rich in protein to support their high activity levels and demanding work. These hardworking canines need more protein than the average pet dog. For them, 40-50% carbohydrates (dry matter basis) and 12-17% fat is appropriate, with 300-400 calories per cup of food. This balanced intake helps maintain muscle mass and supports recovery after long workdays. Balanced Fats and Carbohydrates for Energy Farmer’s dogs burn many calories, so their diet should include a good balance of fats and carbohydrates. Fats should constitute about 12-17% of their diet, providing concentrated energy and supporting coat health. Look for foods with healthy fat sources like fish oil or chicken fat. While not essential, carbohydrates can serve as a good energy source. Complex carbs (e.g., sweet potatoes or brown rice) can provide sustained energy throughout the day. The recommended carb content is around 40-50% of the diet on a dry matter basis. Essential Vitamins and Minerals Working dogs need a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals to support their active lifestyle. Key nutrients include: Vitamin A B vitamins (biotin, folate, niacin, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin B-6, and vitamin B-12) Vitamin C Vitamin D Many commercial dog foods formulated for active breeds already include these nutrients. If you prepare homemade meals, consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure you meet all your dog’s nutritional needs. Hydration: A Critical Component Water, while not a nutrient, plays a vital role in a farmer’s dog’s diet. These active pups can easily become dehydrated, especially during hot weather or intense work periods. Always provide fresh, clean water and consider adding moisture-rich foods to their diet. Tailoring the Diet to Individual Needs Every farmer’s dog has unique nutritional requirements. Monitor your dog’s weight and energy levels, and adjust their food intake accordingly. What works for one dog may not work for another. Regular check-ups with your vet can help ensure your hardworking companion receives the nutrition they need to thrive. As we move forward, let’s explore the various food options available for farmer’s dogs and how to choose the right one for your canine companion. What Food Is Best for Your Farmer’s Dog? Commercial Dog Food for Working Breeds Many commercial dog food brands offer specialized formulas for working breeds. These foods contain higher protein levels, balanced fats, and complex carbohydrates to meet the energy demands of active dogs. You should look for options that meet the AAFCO recommendations of at least 22% protein for growth and 18% for maintenance. Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance 30/20 Formula stands out as a top choice. This food provides 30% protein and 20% fat, which is ideal for high-energy working dogs. It also includes EPA and glucosamine to support joint health (crucial for dogs engaged in physical labor). Eukanuba Premium Performance 30/20 Working & Endurance Dog Food is another excellent option. This formula is specifically designed for working dogs, with added antioxidants to support immune function and L-carnitine to help maintain lean muscle mass. Homemade Diets: Benefits and Challenges Some farmers prefer to prepare homemade meals for their dogs. This approach allows for complete control over ingredients but requires careful planning to ensure nutritional balance. A typical homemade diet for a working dog might include: Lean meats (chicken, beef, or fish) Complex carbohydrates (brown rice or sweet potatoes) Vegetables (carrots or green beans) However, without proper supplementation, homemade diets can lack essential nutrients. A study found that 95 percent of homemade dog food recipes were lacking in the necessary levels of at least one essential nutrient. If you choose this route, you should consult with a veterinary nutritionist to create a balanced meal plan. Raw Food Diets: A Debated Option Raw food diets, also known as BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food), have gained popularity among some dog owners. Proponents argue that it mimics a dog’s ancestral diet and provides better nutrition. However, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) discourages feeding raw or undercooked animal-source protein to dogs due to the risk of bacterial contamination. A study published in the BMJ Veterinary Record found that over 50% of raw meat diets contained bacteria dangerous to both pets and humans. If you consider a raw diet, you should discuss it thoroughly with your veterinarian. They can help you weigh the potential benefits against the risks and ensure you follow safe food handling practices. Tailoring Your Choice to Your Dog’s Needs The best food for your farmer’s dog depends on various factors, including age, size, health conditions, and activity level. You should monitor your dog’s weight, energy levels, and overall health when introducing a new diet. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help ensure your hardworking companion receives the nutrition they need to thrive. As we move forward, let’s explore how to create an effective feeding schedule and control portions to maintain your farmer’s dog’s optimal health and performance. How to Feed Your Farmer’s Dog: Schedule and Portions Optimal Feeding Times Adult dogs typically do well with two meals a day, one in the morning and one in the evening. This schedule maintains consistent energy levels throughout the day. For dogs working long hours or performing intense physical labor, you might add a midday meal or snack. Puppies under six months old need three meals per day. As they grow, you can transition them to the adult feeding schedule. Calculating Portion Sizes The right amount of food for your farmer’s dog depends on several factors: Weight and size Activity level Age Health condition Active dogs’ caloric needs vary based on their size. For example, a 10-pound dog might need 200 to 275 calories per day, while a 50-pound dog could require 700 to 900 calories daily. These numbers serve as estimates. You should consult with your veterinarian to determine the ideal portion size and monitor your dog’s body condition. You should feel your dog’s ribs without seeing them, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above. Adapting to Seasonal Changes Your farmer’s dog’s caloric needs may fluctuate with the seasons. During peak working seasons, they might need more calories than during less active periods. In winter, dogs working outdoors may require extra calories to maintain body heat. During slower seasons or periods of reduced activity, decrease their food intake to prevent weight gain. Always adjust gradually to avoid digestive upset. Accurate Measurement Techniques Use a standard measuring cup or a kitchen scale to ensure consistent portions. Avoid eyeballing or using random scoops, as this can lead to unintentional overfeeding or underfeeding. Some dog owners pre-portion meals for the week (especially if multiple family members feed the dog). This method prevents accidental double-feeding and ensures consistency. Treat Management Treats work great for training and bonding, but they should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. When giving treats, reduce the regular meal portion slightly to maintain calorie balance. Farmer’s dogs have different nutritional needs than typical house pets. A consistent feeding schedule and careful portion control help ensure your hardworking companion stays healthy, energetic, and ready for work. Final Thoughts Feeding a farmer’s dog requires careful consideration of their unique nutritional needs and lifestyle demands. We’ve explored the importance of a high-protein diet, balanced fats and carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals for these hardworking canines. Your choice of commercial dog food, homemade meals, or raw diets should align with your dog’s individual requirements. Proper portion control and a consistent feeding schedule maintain your farmer’s dog’s health and energy levels. Adjust their diet based on seasonal changes and activity levels, and use accurate measurement techniques to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding. Regular veterinary check-ups help monitor your dog’s health and make necessary diet adjustments. At DogingtonPost, we provide valuable resources for responsible dog ownership. Our farmer’s dog feeding tips support you in giving your canine companion the best possible care. Follow these guidelines to help your hardworking dog thrive and continue to be a valuable asset on your farm.