October marks a significant month for pet owners all over the world. Why? Because it’s Pet Wellness Month of course!
Our fur kids do not just deserve the best, they need it. We, humans, are able to communicate and express our emotions and well-being; when we’re sick. However, our pets can’t tell us when they’re under the weather. That’s why our goal as pet owners is to prioritize their well-being and it’s on us to ensure they stay healthy all year round — not just in October.
Here’s a simple checklist of things to look out for to ensure your pet is the picture of health!
Exercise, exercise, exercise!
Like humans, the key to living a long and healthy life is exercise. All dogs should, at the minimum, go for a walk or two every day, keeping in mind the limits for puppies. Get your cats active by playing with them in short but frequent sessions.
You may also supplement with a jog, hike, swim, and even canine conditioning if your pup is ready for it. Keeping active will help develop muscles that support their joints!
Keep them occupied
It doesn’t take long for your pets to get bored, and boredom leads to different problems. Play with them, even if it’s just five minutes. Fight the boredom by giving them activities to partake in — and one healthy way is through toys.
Pets benefit from mentally stimulating activities, like chew-toys and puzzle toys with hidden treats. So, hide their toys and let them go on a treasure hunt.
Dogs love tug of war. It is a great display of their predatory nature and it provides mental and physical exercise for them. Cats on the other hand get bored very easily. Hence, you need to understand your feline’s needs. You can get them a scratching post to help them ‘blow off some steam’ or release their excitement. Be sure to find the right one!
Keep an eye on your pet’s weight
Just like us, pets can face a number of health issues if they become too heavy. Obesity among pets has been on the rise with pet owners oblivious to the health threats that it poses to them.
Here’s how you can keep your pet’s weight in a healthy range:
Feed them a diet with wholesome ingredients that meets the requirements of their size, breed, and age
Schedule appointments to the vet regularly for check-up
Give them treats sparingly
Plenty of exercise
Schedule regular health appointments
Our pets age faster than we do, meaning changes in their health can occur quickly. Scheduling wellness check-ups often is the best way to keep them free from illnesses.
With a trip to the vet, you can seek medical advice regarding your pet’s health. This would often lead to certain changes in their routine, be it exercise or diet, which can prevent potential health problems.
Additionally, a trip to the vet can also increase your pet’s chance of survival as early detection can lead to early treatment. Veterinarians would recommend a trip at least once a year.
Don’t forget about dental health
Often overlooked, dental health is just as important for pets as it is for humans. Periodontal disease can occur when plaque build-up on your pets’ teeth leads to infection in the gums and bone loss. This infection can cause pain, tooth loss, and internal organ damage if left untreated.
Luckily, there are ways to prevent it. Regular dental exams can help veterinarians detect and treat dental issues before they become irreversible. At-home dental care consists of daily brushing. You can also complement brushing with a special diet, water additives or sealants.
Prioritizing their health
There are many ways to show our pets that we care. By taking steps to promote their physical and mental health all year long, we can help keep them happy and healthy throughout their lives.
Pet Wellness Month may be celebrated in October, but always remember that it’s a lifelong commitment that should be promoted all year long!
We’re proud to finally introduce the brand new Pawjourr Creator Dashboard with key features that will help you make the most out of your content creator experience. Expect a full rundown of what it is, how it works, and what’s new!
Everything you need in one place
Say goodbye to forgotten applications. With the new dashboard, you can now manage your profile and track your campaign progress on your homepage – allowing you to keep track of your application status and earnings efficiently!
In addition, we made sure it’s easier than before to upload your drafts. Ongoing Jobs allows you to view your active campaigns in greater detail and upload your content with ease – isn’t that such a breeze?
Watch your funds fill up
That’s not all! You no longer have to worry about how much you’ve earned or how much you’re making from your campaigns.
Your Treat Jar helps you to keep tabs on your earnings and you can be an expert navigator by following these steps:
Step 1: Choose your preferred payment method.
Step 2: Add and save your preferred payout method for easy withdrawals.
Step 3: Keep track of your earnings and withdrawals through your transaction history.
Level up your job search
Skip the endless scrollings! With our improved filters, your next opportunity is only a few clicks away. Select specific requirements based on your campaign preferences using the search filter on the left. From countries to creator types, we got them all!
Have a question?
For new creators, fret not! With the Pawjourr Help Center, you can easily access FAQs and answers to your questions. You can even connect with our team directly via our chatbot and we’ll be there for you in a jiffy!
Now that everything you need is all in one place, we hope you are ready to navigate your way through the world of exciting and fun branded opportunities.
I am an only child. My life was dead set on staying ahead of the curve through tuition and enrichment classes. The days felt long and mundane. Before long, I began to yearn for a companion I could come home to. A companion who would pull me from these cold, dull greys.
On my seventh birthday, my mom drew the curtains to the bright morning sun. She said something about taking me to lunch with her friends, so I paid her no mind and followed her.
Perhaps it was then that I would learn something my textbooks could never teach me.
I remember hearing the pitter-patter of tiny feet scrambling behind the door. I remember tugging my mother’s blouse in anticipation, in anxiety, overwhelmed by the opportunity presented before me. Mother’s friend has a pet dog who had just birthed a litter of puppies and was looking to give these kids new, loving homes. Who could’ve known? Not me, that’s for sure.
So began the warm days with my new Silky Terrier pup, Bubi. The journey back home with Bubi was mixed with glee and uncertainty, but I was resolute in giving her my share of forever.
Our Journey Together So far
Years later, Bubi and I have grown and matured as individuals joined at the hip. Come hell or high water, I knew I could count on her to be my little emotional support Bubi, and she could always lean on me no matter what.
At 10 years old (around 60 in dog years), Bubi started developing tumours around her belly, a concerning discovery for the Yang household. We hurriedly sought medical advice at the nearest veterinary clinic, fingers crossed and praying the tumours were benign.
My vet braced us for the worst — the tumour could be easily removed surgically, but there’s a high chance Bubi (an elderly dog) might not wake up after being put under anaesthesia. Fear gripped us all. It would be an immediate fix, but the risk of our dear Bubi not waking up… and her condition was still stable…
We decided to hold off on the surgery.
It happened in the middle of class. I was preparing for my O’Levels at school when my phone buzzed. Granddad was frantic. Said that Bubi seemed very weak, that pus had begun to leak from her urinary tract. He was on the way to the vet, and I should remain calm until the next call. But how could I? My best friend is at death’s door, her health is in critical condition and I might not have another chance to see my beloved Bubi. How could I not panic?
Mustering what little strength I had, I rushed to the clinic. The hallway outside the operating room was tight and narrow, and the cold, stale air almost seemed to drain the life out of me. I prayed and prayed for Bubi to walk out of there like the little rockstar she is, face full of joy to see us as she wags her tail. Which is exactly what happened. Our trooper greeted us spirited as ever; my prayer was answered.
That day made it painfully clear that the days I have left with her are precious, and that every moment spent with her must be held close and cherished.
Months flew by and her tumour began to re-emerge despite countless measures to keep her health in tip-top condition. We immediately went ahead with surgery; we already knew how the alternative went. While Bubi recovered very well from the anaesthetic, cleaning her wound proved to be an unforeseen challenge. My mother and I were afraid of causing more discomfort for Bubi, but pulled through and took turns dressing her wounds. We wanted Bubi to know that we will always be by her side and that we could be relied on when the going gets tough. My fear of losing Bubi still crept up on me from time to time, as I would find myself checking on her — the rise and fall of her chest, and sigh that came from each breath she released. It weighs me emotionally and mentally, but it is one I must no doubt carry to the end of our journey.
Bubi Post-Surgery
Time will not come between us
As Bubi ages, I receive a lot of “Oh she doesn’t have much time left”, “Have fun with her while she is still here”, and most upsettingly, “Why do you still have to buy her things? She might leave anytime soon”. Every receipt of these comments leaves me despairing over the inevitable I refuse to look at. These hollow remarks, these unwanted reminders that only stings senior pet owners like me, telling us what we already know — our pets will be leaving us behind soon.
I would rather drown that negativity and have it bring me down.
Bubi may be old, but she is family. She is my family, and she is loved and treasured in this household. Not because of how little time I have left with her, but in spite of it. It took a lot in me to disregard these comments, and I am not one to tell people off for it. The thought of mortality and loss is immensely heart-wrenching. Some might choose to avert their eyes from the gaze of an inevitable separation. In my moments of weakness, I still let that pain grasp me (albeit ever-so-gently) that the inevitable still ought to be faced head-on. Let us stay strong for our pets and help them live out an amazing life.
“We owe it to our pets to walk the whole journey of life beside them.”
Just because your pet is old does not mean that you should love them any less. Every mark and wrinkle testament to the memories you have made together, proof of the time spent growing up by each other’s side. As they age and become less vocal, start paying attention to their actions — that will be their new ‘language’.
As humans, we step out of our homes each day, exploring the world family both nuclear and found. When we come back to rest, our pets never fail to be there, a purr, a bark, and nothing but innocent ecstasy to welcome us home. We are all they will ever know. Their world, their universe, their every day and every moment. It’s us — their family.
I’d like to believe, no— I want to believe, that when our pets cross those pearly gates, they will find their way back to us in another form. I want to believe that when the extremely heart-breaking time comes for Bubi, she too will find her way back to me. Treasure your pets and love them regardless of age, we owe it to them to walk the whole journey of life beside them.
A Letter to Bubi:
Thank you for growing up with me and loving me unconditionally. Through the toughest of hurdles I had to go through, I could always count on you to be there for me whenever I got back home, greeting me with your excited barks and tail wags. My heart always rests easy with you by my side. I am so incredibly fortunate to be your sister and watch your growth from a young puppy. Thank you for teaching me patience and compassion.
I remember staying up late watching “A Dog’s Journey” with you by my side sleeping and unaware of where the plot will take us. The movie came to an end, the emotions came in waves, and I hugged you so tight because to me, you are my Bailey. The movie followed a dog who would always return to its former owner, no matter how many lifetimes it took and no matter what circumstances stood between them. The harsh truth of our inevitable separation cuts deep, but please find your way back to me every time. I promise that I will be there for you throughout all your lives.
As your eyes begin to cloud, I pray that you can still see us and smile. As your paws start aging and bones start weakening, I pray that you still have enough strength to go down for walks. As your fur begins to grey, I pray to have more days with you. As your barks get softer, I pray that you will continue being your bubbly self and full of personality.
Thank you for being the overprotective sister I never had. The only sibling I have ever known. The love I have for you will forever be etched deep in my heart and remain with me for a lifetime.
A very Happy New Year to everyone! 2022 is the year of new beginnings and better chances, and how else can one move forward, without first knowing what has been done before? For our very first article of the new year, we look inward to our staff’s 2021 with their furbabies and hear from them what they truly wish for their pawpals for the year ahead.
Jane and her ChowChow, Milky
What is one memorable experience you have had with your pawpal in 2021?
There’s no one memorable experience but I’ve always enjoyed the little moments with Milky, be it during mealtimes, work or just chilling by the living room. He is always there for me, providing solace to me with his company.
What is something you wish you could do better for your pawpal this past year?
To have been more present; Oolong and Milky don’t hang out well, coupled with the fact that we don’t drive, transportation is a HUGE issue. I definitely didn’t spend enough time with Milky the past year — but he is always surrounded by people who love him so I think he still had a good year in 2021!
*Clap* *Clap* You are now making a prayer for your pawpal.
Good health for Milky.
Ever since he contracted cherry eyes (despite the successful surgery), I still feel that his eyesight has deteriorated ever since then. I hope to spend more time with him in 2022, and also that he will finally be on good terms with Oolong, his younger brother!
I think he will wish for more outings in 2022 (but I know he loves his naps and air-con the most).
Shermaine and her Pomeranian, Dexter
What is one memorable experience you have had with your pawpal in 2021?
There wasn’t one experience more memorable than the other, but Dexter was able to meet some new friends in 2021 which was pretty interesting! We also managed to visit some new pet-friendly places like a dog water park which helped me confirm Dexter’s dislike for water activities ):
What is something you wish you could do better for your pawpal this past year?
I definitely could/ should get my driving license and bring Dex to explore more places and meet more fur friends. Dexter really enjoys interacting with new fur friends (sometimes his overly enthusiastic personality even scares others off) and is always curious about new places. However, expensive pet-friendly transportation does throw me off and discourage me from travelling far. Hence, I usually stick to places nearby where we can travel on foot.
I really should stop procrastinating :’)
*Clap* *Clap* You are now making a prayer for your pawpal.
Similar to the rest of the team, I’ll pray for a long and healthy life for Dexter. Having experienced it once, I know the pain of losing your bestest friend and while I know that our pets cannot be with us forever, I do hope that Dex will remain by my side for the longest time so that he can be there as I hit different milestones in my life. I look forward to bringing him out more often in the new year! If you’re up for a play date, do hit us up on Instagram 😉
Tracey and her Corgi, Loki
What is one memorable experience you have had with your pawpal in 2021?
It’s very hard for me to pinpoint a specific moment because we managed to have a couple of enjoyable experiences this year. Given the current situation, I always look for quaint nature places to explore with Loki. We love the quiet moments with nature and also Loki being himself in nature spots. He won’t forget to return to me even after having his fun.
What is something you wish you could do better for your pawpal this past year?
There are many things I can’t control and I would like to believe that I have done my best as much as I could. Be it health or company, I try to involve Loki in my life as much as possible and let him be prepared for the real world. If I were to name one thing I wish I did better was to win the $10M lottery so I can better prepare him for the future and save up for overseas travel with him.
*Clap* *Clap* You are now making a prayer for your pawpal.
I pray for the best of health for Loki so that he can continue going on different adventures with his furriends and eventually overseas when the time is right. Corgis are very prone to certain health conditions and there’s only so much prevention can help with. I will never know what can happen the next day.
Isabel and her Singapore Special, Kopi
What is one memorable experience you have had with your pawpal in 2021?
2021 was very memorable for us as Kopi has had many opportunities to try out new things and go out on various adventures! I really loved how Kopi overcame her fear of water. I had brought her out to swim many times and even though she didn’t seem to like it as much, she would still try to swim towards me when I call out to her. After about 6 to 7 sessions, I was very surprised and happy when I saw her entering the pool on her own without any prompting! She is still afraid to jump into the water, but she’s trying!
We also went on many car rides together as I have finally gotten my license, and I’ll bring her out whenever I can even. if just for a short while.
*Clap* *Clap* You are now making a prayer for your pawpal.
I wish the best of health for Kopi. She is not young anymore and I hope that she will always be as active, affectionate and healthy. I will definitely be making sure that she keeps fit and is active by going swimming and for short jogs!
I will watch her diet closely (as her body might change due to age) to make sure she does not develop sudden allergies and to make sure that her current diet is suitable for her.
I think Kopi is wishing that everyone can always be at home to accompany her or that she gets to follow us whenever someone goes out. I think she wishes that Tobi does not come over anymore as she gets jealous.
Sherlyn and her Silky Terrier, Bubi
What is one memorable experience you have had with your pawpal in 2021?
One of the most memorable experiences I had with Bubi would be our cafe-hopping adventures. As someone who loves to explore good places to eat, I love going to different cafes and exploring the quiet nooks around the cafe streets with Bubi. Her curious nature and presence always uplifts the atmosphere and brightens up my days.
What is something you wish you could do better for your pawpal this past year?
I wish that I could have helped Bubi be more willing to socialise with other dogs. She is very unwilling to open up to new dogs and often becomes scared and aggressive, which is something that breaks my heart as I really hope that she has more friends of her kind. I can allow her to slowly meet new dogs from afar and hopefully, she acclimates well in the future.
*Clap* *Clap* You are now making a prayer for your pawpal.
I pray that Bubi will live a long, healthy and happy life. As she ages, it has definitely affected her active spirit which often saddens me as it will remind me of her ageing bones and weakening health. I truly wish that she carries on the rest of her life with bliss and the best of health and that we have more years together.
I will definitely do my best to always stay by her side and let her live a very comfortable life so that she is able to enjoy every waking moment. I’ll also bring her out more to go on adventures together and explore more cafes and parks.
Similar to my wishes, I think Bubi wishes for a long, healthy and happy life for my family and I so that we can bring her on more adventures, bring her on windy car rides and give her more treats hehe. I think she would also wish that all of us would be there for her until the very end.
Jaslyn and her Hamster, Hamz
What is one memorable experience you have had with your pawpal in 2021?
I think the most memorable experience was the first time that Hamz let me carry him! We brought him into our home around… early march, this year? It took him a few days (and banana chips) to warm up to me. But the one night when he finally let me carry him in my palms, I was overjoyed! It felt like he finally trusted me and like he felt at home.
What is something you wish you could do better for your pawpal this past year?
I wish I could’ve provided him with more opportunities to explore? I tried getting a hamster ball for him but he hated it… So he was pretty much confined to his enclosure and my room. I would let him run around the room, on the bed and where he couldn’t get into tight spaces but still feels like he could’ve explored more areas. I will work on that in the following year!
*Clap* *Clap* You are now making a prayer for your pawpal.
I pray that Hamz lives a long, healthy and happy life. I think it’s a pretty common fact that hamsters usually live up to 2-3 years and Hamz is currently about 9 months old! So I really pray that he lives happily and he doesn’t fall sick, and I get to cuddle and feed him his favourite banana chips for a long while.
So, what do you wish for your pawpal for 2022? Let us know. Who knows? With the pet community this large (and still expanding) we might all be able to help one another out (:
