Category: Article

Understanding your dog’s emotional well-being is crucial to providing them with the best care. Veterinarians emphasize that a happy dog exhibits certain behaviours and physical cues. Here’s how to recognize if your canine companion is content and thriving.​

1. Relaxed Body Language

A happy dog carries itself with a relaxed demeanour. Their body posture is loose, not stiff or tense. You might notice them lying down comfortably, rolling over to show their belly, or wiggling their body in excitement. These behaviours indicate that your dog feels safe and at ease in their environment. ​

2. Bright, Engaged Eyes

The eyes are often referred to as the windows to the soul, and this holds true for dogs as well. A happy dog has bright, alert eyes that are soft and relaxed. They may maintain gentle eye contact with you, signaling trust and affection. In contrast, a dog that avoids eye contact or has wide, fearful eyes may be experiencing stress or discomfort.

3. Playfulness and Energy

Play is a significant indicator of a dog’s happiness. If your dog eagerly engages in games like fetch, tug-of-war, or chasing, it’s a sign they’re feeling joyful. Behaviours such as play bows—where they lower their front end while keeping their rear up—are classic invitations to interact and show that your dog is in a good mood. ​

4. Healthy Appetite

A consistent and healthy appetite is a strong indicator of a happy dog. Dogs that are content and feeling well have good appetites. They show enthusiasm during mealtime and eagerly look forward to treats and snacks. A sudden loss of appetite could indicate stress or health issues, so consistent eating habits are a good indicator of overall well-being. ​

5. Seeking Affection

When your dog seeks out your company, leans into you, or cuddles up beside you, it’s a clear sign of happiness. These behaviours demonstrate that your dog enjoys your presence and feels secure with you. Dogs that are happy often initiate physical contact and show affection, reinforcing the bond between you and your pet. ​

6. Good Behaviour and Calmness

Happy dogs are generally well-behaved and exhibit calmness in their daily routines. They are less likely to engage in destructive behaviours like excessive chewing or digging. A relaxed demeanour during walks, along with a calm and steady gait, indicates that your dog is comfortable and content. ​ Recognizing these signs can help you assess your dog’s happiness and overall well-being. If you notice any changes in your dog’s behaviour or physical cues, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any health issues. By paying attention to these indicators, you can ensure that your dog leads a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.

Malnutrition during pregnancy and nursing can lead to serious health issues for both the mother and her puppies, says Dr Akanksha Diwakar

Proper nutrition for pregnant and nursing dogs: A comprehensive Guide

Pregnancy and nursing are crucial stages in a dog’s life, requiring specific attention to nutrition to ensure the health of the mother and her puppies. The right diet is vital for optimal growth, milk production, and overall well-being. Malnutrition during pregnancy and nursing can lead to serious health issues for both the mother and her puppies, making it essential to address their unique dietary needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly feed pregnant and nursing dogs to support their health and the development of their puppies.

Nutritional needs during pregnancy

a dog’s pregnancy typically lasts around 58-63 days, during which her nutritional requirements increase significantly. as her body supports the growing puppies, it’s important to provide her with a nutrient-dense, high-quality diet. Key nutrients to focus on include:

increased calories and energy: By the end of pregnancy, a dog’s energy needs may increase by 25-50%, mainly due to the growing puppies. However, the calorie increase typically doesn’t begin until the second half of the pregnancy. a diet high in fat and protein is essential to meet these increased demands, ensuring both the mother’s and puppies’ health.

protein: Protein is vital for tissue development in the puppies and for the mother’s overall health. a diet rich in high quality protein (like chicken, soya, egg, and fish) e.g. Bowlers nutrimax club will support muscle mass and help the puppies develop properly.

Fat: Fat is a concentrated source of energy. Increasing fat content in the diet helps supply the additional calories needed during pregnancy. Healthy fats like fish oil containing omega-3 contribute to the puppies’ brain development and the mother’s milk production.

Calcium and Phosphorus: These minerals are essential for bone development in puppies and for maintaining the mother’s bone strength. However, too much calcium can interfere with other minerals, so it’s important to maintain the right balance which will typically meet these needs. consult your Vet for the right calcium supplement.

DHA (docosahexaenoic Acid): DHa, an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oils, is crucial for the development of the puppies’ nervous systems, promoting cognitive function and healthy eye development.

Nutritional needs during nursing

Once the puppies are born, the mother’s nutritional requirements increase even further by 25-30 %. nursing mothers need up to 4-8 times the energy required by non pregnant/non-lactating adult dog. Ensuring that the mother has enough food and hydration is crucial for milk production and the well-being of both the mother and her puppies.

Increased caloric intake: Nursing dogs require significantly more food to support milk production. They may need two to three times their regular caloric intake. Offer highly digestible, nutrient-dense foods to meet these energy demands.

Hydration: Milk production requires a lot of fluid, so providing fresh water at all times is essential for nursing dogs. If your dog refuses to drink, you can try offering wet food or broth to help keep her hydrated.

Protein and fat: The mother’s diet should continue to be rich in protein and fat to support milk production and energy needs. aim for a diet containing upto 30% protein and 15-20% fat. These levels will support the health of the mother and the growth of her puppies.

Feeding Guidelines for Pregnant and Nursing Dogs

1. feed puppy food: High-quality puppy food is the best choice for pregnant and nursing dogs. Puppy formulas are specifically designed to meet the nutritional demands of growth and lactation. Look for puppy food brands like nutrimax club Puppy or other high-quality options that offer the necessary protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. avoid feeding large-breed puppy formulas, as they may not provide enough energy or calcium for pregnant and nursing dogs. Ideal metabolism energy requirement being up to 400 kcal per 100 g of food.
2. Multiple Meals a Day: Due to reduced stomach space from the growing puppies, pregnant dogs may not be able to consume large meals. Offer smaller, more frequent meals to ensure they are getting enough nutrients. after birth, the mother may also experience a loss of appetite or be too focused on her puppies to eat regularly. Encouraging her to eat small amounts of food throughout the day can help maintain her strength.
3. Free-Choice Feeding: For nursing dogs, free-choice feeding (providing unlimited access to food) is often the best strategy. This allows them to eat as needed, supporting their increased caloric and energy requirements. Be sure to provide fresh, clean water at all times.
4. Monitor weight and condition: During pregnancy, monitor your dog’s weight and body condition regularly. Pregnancy typically involves gradual weight gain, with rapid growth in the final weeks. After birth, the dog may lose some weight but should regain her strength with proper feeding. If your dog loses her appetite or becomes lethargic, consult your veterinarian.
5. Transitioning After Weaning: By 3-4 weeks, puppies will begin to show interest in solid food. at around 6-7 weeks, they should be fully weaned. at this point, you can gradually return the mother to her pre-pregnancy diet. Puppies should continue to eat high-quality puppy food until they are ready to transition to an adult diet, typically around 6 months of age.

Common Questions About feeding Pregnant and Nursing Dogs

what is digestibility and why is it important?

Digestibility refers to how efficiently a dog’s body absorbs nutrients from food. For pregnant and nursing dogs, high digestibility is essential because they may be eating smaller portions. Highly digestible food ensures that the dog absorbs the maximum amount of nutrients and calories, which is especially important when space is limited in her stomach due to the growing puppies.

Can i feed my pregnant or nursing dog regular adult dog food?

Regular adult dog food is not sufficient for pregnant or nursing dogs. adult dog food lacks the extra calories, protein, fat, and other nutrients needed for the development of puppies and milk production. Puppy food designed for all life stages is the best choice during pregnancy and lactation.

When to see a veterinarian

It’s important to work closely with your veterinarian throughout pregnancy and nursing. Regular check-ups can help ensure that the mother is maintaining a healthy weight, receiving the right nutrition, and producing enough milk. Your vet can also provide guidance on adjusting her diet or managing any complications.

Conclusion

Pregnancy and nursing are demanding times for a dog, and proper nutrition is key to ensuring the health of both the mother and her puppies. By providing a high-quality, nutrient dense diet that supports the increased caloric, protein, and fat requirements, you can help your dog navigate these stages successfully. always consult your veterinarian to create a feeding plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs and monitor her condition closely throughout the pregnancy and nursing periods. With the right care and nutrition, both the mother and her puppies can thrive.

Crazy Rich Asian’s actress Crystal Lynn launches new range of luxurious pet accessories.

Are you really living the luxe pet parent life if you don’t have a luxurious lead chain for your small dog? It’s more than just fashion. Founded by crazy Rich asian’s actress crystal Lynn (and her dog sir Manolo Pigmop), Mon Petit amour Manolo has launched a new range of luxurious pet accessories. at Mon Petit amour Manolo, luxury and love unite. The company was founded on the belief that your furbaby is not just a pet but a cherished member of the family and their products reflect that. The actress Crystal Lynn, an aficionado of the finer things in life and inspired by her beloved dog, Manolo Pigmop, the brand truly is a heartfelt celebration of the bond between pet and guardian. crystal Lynn’s journey took a beautiful turn the day she met Manolo – a bundle of love who instantly captured her heart and became her greatest muse. Inspired by the rich tapestry of history and mythology, Mon Petit amour Manolo presents a collection of elegant accessories that honor the warmth, devotion, and beauty of the soul connection between a fur baby and their guardian. Perfectly crafted to reflect a shared love for life’s most cherished luxuries.

Design with a purpose: Each collection at Mon Petit Amour Manolo carries a deeper significance, thoughtfully designed to serve as a daily reminder of life’s beauty and the cherished connections people hold dear. There is a philanthropic mission behind every piece, integrating purpose with elegance. The commitment to giving back is woven into the fabric of the brand, from support of the Pound Paws charity to the pledge encouraging lifelong dedication between pet guardians and their companions.

Philanthrophy: The vision for Mon Petit amour Manolo is to be a luxury brand with philanthropic missions woven into its very essence. Each collection holds significance beyond aesthetics, with every piece telling a story. The f inest materials, exceptional craftsmanship and exquisite design, all are infused with a deeper purpose—a reminder of the profound bond one shares with beloved fur companions. The company also supports initiatives that spread awareness and provide support to furry friends in need, striving to make a meaningful impact on the lives of animals everywhere.

About the founder

crystalynn: Founder of Mon Petit amour Manolo & Manolo’s Little Legacy Foundation. Inspired by the special connection she shares with her beloved dog Manolo, crystal Lynn embarked on a journey to create Mon Petit amour Manolo. Manolo, the source of boundless love, ignited crystal’s passion to celebrate the unique bond between pets and their owners. With a focus on integrating our furry family members into every aspect of our lives, Mon Petit amour Manolo offers a range of products that stand as a testament to the extraordinary love animals share with their humans. Through Manolo’s Little Legacy Foundation and her seat in Pound Paws charity board, crystal is committed to ensuring every pet lives their best life. Her involvement in animal Welfare assists stray pets and shelters, promotes education and awareness about pet adoption, provides grants for domestic violence survivors to train their dogs as therapy animals, and supports future medical research for the well-being of canine companions. More information at : www.monpetitamourmanolo.com.

Heat-related illnesses in pets include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy and vomiting, say Dr T. A. Shafi & Dr A. K. Wankar, Faculty, College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Parbhani.

During the hot summer months, it is crucial to pay extra attention to the well-being of our beloved pet dogs and cats. Just like humans, dogs and cats are susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke when exposed to high temperatures and humidity. This essay discusses the importance of caring for pet dogs and cats during hot weather, focusing on ways to prevent heat-related illnesses and keep our furry friends safe and healthy.

One of the key factors to consider when caring for furry friends during hot weather is the concept of the Temperature Humidity Index (THI). The THI combines temperature and humidity levels to determine how hot it feels to both animals and humans. High THI values indicate an increased risk of heat stress and heat-related illnesses for pets. Therefore, it is important to monitor the THI regularly and take necessary precautions to protect our furry companions.

To ensure the well-being of pets during hot weather, it is important to provide them with a cool and comfortable environment. For dogs, make sure they always have access to shade and plenty of fresh water. avoid walking them during the hottest parts of the day and opt for early mornings or evenings when temperatures are lower. Moreover, never leave dogs in parked cars, as temperatures can quickly soar to dangerous levels, leading to heat stroke. similarly, cats should have access to cool and shaded areas indoors, away from direct sunlight. Ensure they have an ample supply of fresh water to stay hydrated throughout the day. If your cat enjoys spending time outdoors, create designated shady spots for them to relax in and consider providing a small kiddie pool filled with water for them to cool off if they like water play.

common signs

signs of heat-related illnesses in dogs and cats include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to cool your pet down immediately by moving them to a cooler area, offering water, and using damp towels to help lower their body temperature. In severe cases, seek veterinary assistance as heat stroke can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Medical care and management of pet dogs and cats during hot weather

Pets, especially dogs and cats, require special attention during hot weather to ensure their well-being and prevent heat-related health issues such as heat stroke. With rising temperatures during the summer months, it is essential for pet owners to be aware of how to provide proper medical care for their beloved animals.

When the mercury rises, dogs and cats are susceptible to heat stroke, a potentially life threatening condition that occurs when their body temperature rises to dangerous levels. It is crucial to recognize the signs of heat stroke in pets, which include excessive panting, drooling, rapid heartbeat, weakness, and vomiting. If you suspect that your pet is experiencing heat stroke, you should immediately move them to a cool, shaded area, provide them with water to drink, and seek veterinary assistance promptly.

In terms of therapy for heat-related issues in pets, the primary focus is on cooling down the animal gradually to bring their body temperature back to normal. This can be achieved by applying cool (not cold) water to their body, using wet towels or fans to lower their temperature, and allowing them to drink small amounts of cool water. It is crucial to avoid ice-cold water or ice packs, as these can shock the pet’s system and may be harmful.

In conclusion, taking proper care of pet dogs and cats during hot weather is essential to ensure that they stay healthy and happy. By being attentive to their needs, recognizing the signs of heat stroke, and providing appropriate therapy when needed, pet owners can help their furry friends enjoy the summer months safely. Remember, a little extra care and attention during hot weather can go a long way in keeping your pets cool and comfortable.

References

Toscano, M. J., Glickman, L. T., & Lavach, J. D. (2002). The diagnosis of hyperthermia in dogs: combined history, physical examination, and clinico-pathologic findings. International Journal of Biometeorology, 46(5), 159-165.

Davis, M. s. (2009). Environmental problems associated with hot weather: Heat stress in dogs and cats. Journal of small animal Practice, 50(4), 178-182.

national Research council. Pets in Ecological contexts: The Ethical Basis of Regulation of the Institutions for animal Welfare. cambridge University Press, 2003.

Zangwill, Linda M. “Impact of High Temperature on Hospital admissions: comparative Results from Five Us cities by Different Temperature Indicators,” Journal of Epidemiology, vol. 117, no. 2, 2018, pp. 89-97.

In the quiet coastal town of Pondicherry, a unique pet food brand quietly taking shape — one that blends the heart of a devoted pet parent with the mind of a product innovator and restaurateur. Founded by Sudanshu Goyal, Paw Entrèe is a natural dog food venture born out of persistence, purpose, and a deep respect for the dietary needs of our canine friends.

With years of experience in product development a restauranteur Sudhanshu completed the certificate of AAFCO and FEDIAF to maintained the nutritional standards of his product. After testing over a dozen formulations, he arrived at a recipe that met not only high benchmarks but also his personal standards.

 The philosophy of this product is “Real food, no shortcuts.”

Recognising a gap in India’s pet food landscape product where processed the market favours convenience over nutrition, often relying heavily on synthetic additives or anthropomorphised feeding trends that ignore the biological needs of dogs.

Paw Entrèe focusing on human-grade, whole ingredients — fresh meats, organ cuts, vegetables, grains, and eggs — all well cooked and air-dried to preserve their natural quality. The brand opting for a clean, honest formulation that opts for nutritional without compromise. This approach has its own hurdles, viz shelf life and palatability challenges, but ultimately led to a product that’s both wholesome and healthy.

The result is a warm, rehydratable, slow-cooked meal— with no artificial flavours. It’s real food designed to fit the demand of modern pet parents, offering both nutrition and convenience. Which love dog naturally.

More than just a brand, Paw Entrèe reflects a growing shift in how Indian pet parents view food — not just as fuel, but as a vital part of a dog’s well-being. For Sudanshu, it’s not about trends; it’s about values.

Warmly,
Sudanshu Goyal
Founder – Paw Entrèe Foods
paw.entree.foods@gmail.com | +91-73053-69579
www.paw-entree.com

Bengaluru, April 10, 2025: This National Pet Day, Instamart, India’s pioneering quick commerce platform and Vetic, India’s largest Pet healthcare organization have partnered to offer free vet teleconsultations to pet parents.

From April 8 to April 11, Instamart users can avail a free veterinary consultation with one of the 250+ veterinarians on the Vetic app. To ensure continued support, Vetic will also provide an additional 1,000 consultations over the following 30 days. Each user can avail one free teleconsultation during this extended window.

Speaking on the collaboration, Gaurav Ajmera, founder of Vetic, said, “Access to quality veterinary care remains a significant challenge across India, especially during emergencies. By partnering with Instamart—a platform trusted by millions—we’re breaking that barrier and making quality vet support available instantly. This collaboration is a step forward in our mission to provide 24/7, human-grade pet healthcare across India, that meets the needs of today’s pet parents.”

Mayur Hola, VP Marketing said, “Instamart has always focused on making everyday convenience more accessible for our users.  Pet parents are one of the biggest user groups on Instamart, buying everything from pet food to toys on the platform. We are delighted to offer this service to the many pet parents in the Instamart community.”

How it Works

Once a user completes a purchase of any product on Instamart, a post-order screen banner directs them to the Vetic app. where they can learn more and schedule a free consultation.

• Users can book a preferred time slot on the Vetic App(slots open 2 hours in advance)
• Vetic’s  team will coordinate and confirm the teleconsultion
• A detailed doctor’s prescription is shared post consultation on the Vetic App
• Each eligible user from Instamart can claim one free teleconsult over the 30-day period

This collaboration by Vetic and Instamart reinforces both brands’ commitment to leveraging technology to make everyday lives of pets and pet parents easier.

About Instamart

Launched in August 2020, Instamart is India’s pioneering quick commerce platform. Present in 100+ cities, Instamart uses Swiggy’s superior technology and dedicated delivery fleet to bring groceries and other daily essentials to the doorsteps of Indians in 10-15 minutes.   

About Swiggy Ltd.

Swiggy is India’s pioneering on-demand convenience platform, catering to millions of consumers each month. Founded in 2014, its mission is to elevate the quality of life for the urban consumer by offering unparalleled convenience, enabled by over 5 lakh delivery partners. With an extensive footprint in food delivery, Swiggy Food collaborates with over 2 lakh restaurants across 680+ cities. Swiggy Instamart, its quick commerce platform operating in 100+ cities, delivers groceries and other essentials across 20+ categories in 10 minutes. Fueled by a commitment to innovation, Swiggy continually incubates and integrates new services like Swiggy Dineout and Swiggy Genie into its multi-service app. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and Swiggy One, the country’s only membership program offering benefits across food, quick commerce, dining out, and pick-up and drop services, Swiggy aims to provide a superior experience to its users.

For more details, please visit our website: www.swiggy.com/corporate/

About Vetic:

Vetic is India’s largest Pet healthcare organisation with a network of 41 state of the art Pet hospitals and clinics across 11 major cities, which includes nine 24/7 multi-speciality hospitals, advanced diagnostics, specialised treatments and professional grooming services.

Founded by Gaurav Ajmera and inspired by his personal experience with his cat Simba’s illness, Vetic has transformed the pet healthcare landscape by bringing human-grade medical standards to veterinary services.

For more details, visit https://vetic.in/

One can select nutrients and fresh ingredients avoiding fillers and artificial additives found in commercial pet foods, say Dr D J Kalita and Dr Jyotika Sangale of Zenex Animal Health India Pvt. ltd.

There has been a significant increase in pet owners’ awareness regarding the health, wellbeing, and nutritional requirements of their animals. With the increasing awareness of eating fresh, and cutting down on preservatives and processed foods, many pet parents are switching to fresh home cooked food and with many reporting positive changes. Home-cooked food can be a great option for dogs when prepared correctly, that offers freshness, quality and variety to relish. numerous independent studies have shown that home cooking is one of the ways to improve dog’s long-term health and longevity. While there is no hard scientific evidence to support the statement that a homemade diet is healthier for dogs than commercial dog foods, there are appreciable benefits that make the option of home cooking appealing. However, one of the major limitations of homemade diet is that most recipes have no precise determination of ingredients and quantities. Such diets may be deficient in the essential nutrients required by dogs. Therefore, external supplementation of nutrients may be required to bridge the nutritional gap along with homemade food.

Benefits of homemade food: wholesome food

With homemade dog food, one can select ensured quality of nutrients with variety of fresh ingredients, avoiding fillers, preservatives, and artificial additives commonly found in commercial pet foods. Feeding dog, a meal that looks similar to what we have for dinner might be an appealing alternative to offering commercial dog foods.

Improved Digestion

Like humans, dogs benefit from eating whole foods that are rich in fibre and nutrients and free from preservatives. Home cooked food can ensure the best possible ingredients for optimal digestion. some studies have even shown that feeding your dog a homemade diet can reduce gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and vomiting.

Overcoming selective Eating behaviour

 Homemade meals can be customized according to dog’s individual tastes and preferences. This can help picky eaters become more adventurous eaters since they will no longer be stuck eating the same dry kibble day after day. Besides, adding variety to your dog’s diet can help them stay interested in mealtimes.

Natural Weight Control

Obesity is a common problem among pets. With homemade meals, pet owners have control over portion sizes and ingredients. This makes it easier to offer meals to their pets tailored to its specific needs and energy levels. One can also experiment with different proteins and carbohydrates to find the ideal combination for weight management of their pets.

Alleviates Allergies & Skin Issues

Allergies are common in pets; pet parents should consider the possibility of skin issues being caused by their dog’s food. Many processed and dry commercial dog foods contain large amounts of fillers and preservatives which can lead to itching, rashes or even dry coats in dogs.

Cost Savings

Homemade food is far economical than ready-made pet food. Besides, it may prevent digestive and other disorders due to continuous use of processed food.

Few Scientific & Independent studies on home cooked diet for dogs:

Independent university research demonstrates that feeding dogs fresh, healthy, whole food diets instead of highly processed kibble and cans results in improvements in measures of health.

In a landmark study conducted over 12 months by animal science researchers in California university concludes that feeding a group of dogs a freshly prepared, whole food, lightly cooked, nutritionally balanced diet made from real food -shown to increase white blood cells and blood proteins that could benefit immune health.

The study, states that the long-standing practice of feeding dogs highly processed kibble diets, made from feed grade ingredients not allowed in the human food chain, is scientifically challenged. The results support what human nutritionists have been advising for decades – stay clear of heavily processed foods, and eat wholesome, balanced meals that are prepared fresh from the highest quality ingredients available, are lightly cooked, and have no preservatives. This same advice appears to be true for our canine best friends.

Dr John Tegzes, VMD, diplomat of the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology, professor of veterinary medicine at Western University Health sciences, states that “it may be healthier to feed our dogs a balanced real food diet made with USDA certified ingredients, instead of a processed commercial dog food. It’s exciting to ponder that if the trends we saw in our data continue over the lifetime of the dogs, we may see a decrease in chronic diseases such as cancer, renal failure, kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, dental disease, etc. in our pets.”

The USDA and Us Department of Health publication, 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, specifically recommends a balanced whole food diet over heavy vitamin and mineral supplementation or processed foods for people. a report revealed that the FDA feels that the process by which ingredients are defined in the pet food industry “ultimately falls short” and that “the majority of ingredients that are included in the AAFCO official publication are neither approved food additives nor are they generally recognized as safe (GRAS).”

Dr Oscar E. Chavez, veterinarian, professor of clinical nutrition, and member of the American society for nutrition says “I see a future where feeding your pets real food is the best medical recommendation. Our role as veterinarians will be to help support pet parents achieve this level of wellness by ensuring the diets are properly balanced for long term feeding.”

The clinical results obtained in this study conducted by Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Italy, reveals favourable results on a group of dogs that experienced improved wellbeing and reduced symptoms following a homemade dietary plan. Particularly impressive outcomes have been observed in dogs with gastrointestinal and dermatological pathologies.

Multiple studies have shown the correlation between fresh food and a dog’s longevity. Integrating as little as 20% of fresh food can make a big difference – as little as small pieces of fruit and vegetables each day rather than processed treats.

There has been a growing trend of feeding dogs proprietary commercial pet food. However, the long-term consumption of processed food can lead to adverse effects, particularly on gut health and related disorders. as a result, many pet parents are switching to fresh home cooked food and with many reporting positive changes in their pets’ health. Several independent studies reported that feeding dogs fresh, whole food diets instead of highly processed kibble or canned food leads to measurable improvements in health. Home cooked food can be a great option for dogs when prepared correctly, that offers freshness, quality and variety to relish. It’s important to note that a dog’s nutritional needs differ from that of humans. Therefore, even if a home-cooked meal is considered healthy for people, additional supplements may be required to meet a dog’s specific nutritional requirements. careful selection of supplements like protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals etc. are vital to bridge the nutritional gaps, ensuring that our furry companions remain healthy, active, and able to express their true breed characteristics.

In a world often driven by profit and convenience, compassion can sometimes feel like a forgotten virtue. But on the eve of his 30th birthday, Anant Ambani reminded us all that kindness still exists—and it can make a world of difference.

While en route to Dwarka for a personal celebration, Anant came across a harrowing sight: a truck packed tightly with 250 chickens, their fate sealed for slaughter. The birds, crammed together with barely any space to breathe, represented just another transaction in the meat industry’s relentless chain. But to Anant, they were lives—sentient beings who deserved more than a cruel end.

What happened next was nothing short of extraordinary. Moved by the suffering he witnessed, Anant asked his convoy to stop. He stepped out, approached the truck driver, and began a conversation that would change the fate of those 250 lives. Rather than turning a blind eye, he negotiated with the owner, paid the full asking price, and secured the release of every chicken on board.

But he didn’t stop there.

The chickens were immediately taken to VANTARA, Anant Ambani’s animal welfare initiative, where they will now live out their days in peace. At VANTARA, these birds will be given the space, care, and dignity they were denied in the poultry industry. No longer numbers on a ledger, they are now individuals with a second chance at life.

This compassionate act is more than just a birthday gesture—it’s a powerful message about empathy, responsibility, and using one’s influence to do good. Anant’s decision to rescue these birds wasn’t orchestrated for headlines or social media clout; it was a spontaneous, heartfelt reaction to suffering—and a reminder that real change starts with personal choices.

As one of India’s most influential young figures, Anant Ambani has shown a rare level of awareness and compassion. His commitment to animal welfare isn’t new—VANTARA itself stands as a testament to his dedication to creating a safe space for rescued and rehabilitated animals. But this moment, raw and real, captured the true essence of what he stands for.

In an era where birthdays are often marked by lavish parties and grand celebrations, Anant Ambani chose to celebrate with empathy. His gift to himself was not something wrapped in paper, but a decision that unwrapped hope for 250 innocent beings.

It’s not just about saving chickens—it’s about valuing life in all its forms. And in doing so, Anant Ambani has inspired countless others to look beyond themselves, to choose compassion, and to recognize that every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the power to transform lives.

This is more than a story. It’s a lesson. A reminder. And above all, a celebration of the human heart.

Colour causes irritation on skin and if licked or inhaled, it can have deadly results, says Mradul Goel, Director Marketing, Goel Vet Pharma.

Every year we are eager to celebrate Holi with our beloved family members. However, in the excitement of Holi, we forget that our pets may not enjoy being coloured. The chemicals that make up the colours can cause irritation to their skin and if they do lick it or they inhale it, it may cause deadly poisoning. Holi is a time for everyone to be aware and understand that Holi is not a day for playing with colours only, it is a day when you can have fun with your pet without using colours and water.

There are several essential aspects that you should know to keep your dog secure during the Holi festival.
1. Dyes are contaminated with harmful chemicals: The gulal powder we use for the festival is composed of a synthetic compound that is toxic and full of harmful chemicals. It causes skin irritation and itching and blindness in humans and animals. Pets can lick poisonous chemicals, leading to severe illnesses and diseases. not just pets, even if you play with your human pals, choose natural colours.

2. Please keep your pets inside: When it comes to Holi celebrations, you are at risk of being hit by colourful powder or water balloons. Therefore, the best method to protect your pet is to keep them in a safe place. also, make sure that you keep the party out of the reach of dogs that might wander by. set out drinking water that is clean for dogs who walk around so that they don’t drink unclean water on the roads.

3. children should be taught not to spurt water on dogs: Throwing water balloons could cause injuries to dogs. children may not know the dangers and harms to the canines. Therefore, you should teach your children not to shoot water balloons at dogs during Holi celebrations.

4. Make sure you are aware of your local area: The buildings should place notices on the walls that warn residents not to let out their pet companions from their homes during Holi and never throw colours or water on animals.

5. Be on the lookout for your dog and your pet’s stray companions to look for signs of trouble: If you spot an animal or dog having coloured particles on its face or body, it is best to clean it off using clean water. If irritation continues, seek assistance from a veterinarian.

6. Be sure to keep sweets out of your pet’s reach: Holi is all about sharing sweets with your beloved ones, but you must be sure to keep them away from your pets. But, you can offer treats to the pooches.

What do you do if your pet is spotted with coloured fur?

Use Dr Goel’s shampoo

The shampoo will not only remove the colour from the roots but also make your pet feel fresh instantly after every shower session.

Give dr Goel’s DERMISULE

DERMISULE for pets is the best remedy for dogs suffering from different skin conditions like eczema, allergies, rashes, lesions with hair loss, redness, dry, scaly, pus or bloody discharge. Specific or general lesions or spots as in Mange disease can also be improved. You can give 15 drops twice a day.

Me & My SKIN & COAT supplement

Me & My SKIN & COAT Pet supplement is a medicine for our pet’s skin and coat. It helps in retaining natural skin and coat after injuries, chaps, cracks, scaly eruptions, or any acute skin lesion in pets. It is highly recommended to treat hair fall for any reason.

Dissolve one spoon in milk and give it to your dogs to get rid of colours. Make use of hot water and wash the colour off. Don’t attempt to remove stains from your dog’s coat by using the spirit for paint removal. Visit www.goelvetpharma.com or call on 8191006007 for more information.

With globally trained vets, the facility will make premium pet healthcare more accessible.

Crown Vet, India’s leading chain of advanced veterinary clinics, has officially launched its newest facility in Gurugram, reinforcing its commitment to elevating pet healthcare standards across the country. Known for its medical expertise, globally trained veterinary professionals and premium pet care services, crown Vet’s latest expansion marks a significant milestone in its journey toward redefining veterinary care in India.

Located in Sushant Lok, Gurugram, crown Vet’s clinic offers unparalleled accessibility to pet parents in one of NCR’s most thriving residential and commercial hubs. Designed with modern infrastructure and the latest diagnostic and treatment technology, the 2,300 sq ft facility ensures that pets receive the highest level of medical care with consultation rooms, treatment areas, surgical suites, imaging, and inpatient care.

The Gurugram clinic is a small animal practice which caters to dogs, cats and exotics, providing specialized services tailored to their unique healthcare needs.

Speaking about crown Vet’s expansion, Pratap Singh Gaekwad, Founder of crown Vet, said, “Our vision has always been to provide pets in India with world-class veterinary care, matching global standards. The launch of our Gurgaon clinic is an important step toward making high-quality pet healthcare accessible to more families. We are investing heavily in international training and cutting-edge medical advancements to ensure the best outcomes for pets and their owners.”

Global expertise, Local care

What sets crown Vet apart is its unwavering dedication to continuous learning and global best practices. Here the veterinarians undergo specialized international training in Italy, France, Singapore, Dubai, United Kingdom, Thailand and other leading veterinary institutions, bringing back the latest advancements in pet medicine.

Dr Vanya, Head Vet at Gurgaon, is a highly qualified veterinary surgeon, who practiced in Hong Kong’s leading 24-hour emergency hospitals with over six years of clinical experience. Her expertise spans internal medicine, behaviour medicine, dermatology, integrative medicine, palliative care, and emergency surgical procedures.

Additionally, the team includes a highly skilled expatriate veterinary nurse – Dr. Rosalia from Spain, further enhancing the level of care and ensuring pets benefit from international expertise right here in Gurgaon.