Jun 26, 2025
Know What’s Safe & What to Avoid for Your Furry Friends!
Not all human foods are pet-friendly! Learn which snacks are safe and which can pose hidden dangers.
Safe Foods:
Vegetables: Carrots, Green Beans, Sweet Potatoes, Pumpkin, Cucumbers
Proteins: Cooked Chicken (plain), Turkey (without skin/seasoning), Eggs (cooked), Salmon (boneless)
Other: Rice (plain, cooked), Oatmeal (plain), Peanut Butter (xylitol-free), Plain Yogurt
Harmful Foods:
Chocolate, Coffee & Caffeine: Can cause vomiting, tremors, and seizures
Grapes & Raisins: May lead to kidney failure
Onions, Garlic & Chives: Can damage red blood cells and cause anemia
Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener): Found in sugar-free gum, baked goods, and some peanut butter; can cause liver failure and dangerously low blood sugar
Milk & Dairy: Can lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, and discomfort
Macadamia Nuts: May cause weakness, vomiting, and tremors
Alcohol & Yeast Dough: Can cause serious digestive issues and alcohol poisoning
If your pet ingests harmful food, contact your vet immediately. Contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. They are available 24/7 to assist with pet poisoning emergencies. Another resource is the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661, which also provides expert guidance on toxic exposures. For a full list of foods, check out the AKC’s guide at www.akc.org.
The Trendiest Names for Pups 2024
Choosing the perfect name for your pup? These top dog names of 2024 are leading the pack!
- Luna
- Bella
- Daisy
- Lucy
- Willow
- Stella
- Maggie
- Sadie
- Lola
- Rosie
Top Boy Dog Names
- Milo
- Max
- Teddy
- Charlie
- Cooper
- Bear
- Toby
- Finn
- Tucker
- Ollie
- Pawtraits 101: Snap the Cutest Pet Photos
Whether your pet is posing, zooming, or snoozing, these photography tips will help you get the perfect shot!
Get on Their Level
Crouch down or lie flat to photograph at eye level. It makes the image feel more intimate and shows your pet’s personality.
Natural Light Is Your Best Friend
Avoid flash—it can startle pets and cause red-eye. Soft, natural daylight creates beautiful, warm tones.
Use Treats or Toys for Focus
Hold a treat or favorite toy near your camera lens to grab their attention—instant sparkle in their eyes guaranteed.
Embrace the Goofy Moments
Sometimes, the mid-yawn, head-tilt, or zoomies shots are the most delightful. Don’t just wait for the perfect pose—capture the character.
Keep Backgrounds Simple
A clutter-free background puts all the focus on your adorable subject. Solid colors or open outdoor spaces work wonders.
Use Burst Mode for Action Shots
If your pet is a blur of wiggles, burst mode can catch that one magic frame in the chaos.
Pet-Friendly Dining in Bakersfield
Enjoy a meal with your four-legged friend at these pet-welcoming patios and restaurants, from coffee shops to BBQ joints.
- Covenant Coffee – A welcoming café with outdoor seating where pets are welcome. Known for its specialty coffee and commitment to supporting foster youth. https://www.covenantcoffee.org/
- Chuy’s Mesquite Broiler – A Baja-style grill with a spacious outdoor patio for pets. https://chuysbajagrill.com/
- Cafe Smitten Southwest – A cozy café with outdoor seating and water bowls for furry friends. https://www.cafesmitten.com/
- Temblor Brewing Company – A casual brewpub with a pet-friendly patio featuring fans and misters. https://temblorbrewing.com/
- Old River Grill – A locally loved diner-style eatery with a welcoming outdoor space for pets. https://www.oldrivergrill.com/
- Uricchio's Trattoria – Family-owned Italian restaurant with cozy outdoor seating. https://www.uricchios.com/
- Nuestro Mexico Restaurant – Authentic Mexican cuisine with outdoor seating for furry friends. https://www.nuestromexico.online/
- Moo Creamery – Burgers, sandwiches, and ice cream, with a pet-friendly patio. https://www.moocreamery.com/
- Salty’s BBQ & Catering – A local favorite for oak-grilled tri-tip and pulled pork, featuring a dog-friendly patio. https://www.saltysbbq.com/
- Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt – A self-serve frozen yogurt spot with outdoor seating where pets are welcome. https://tuttifruttifrozenyogurt.goto-restaurants.com/
