by California Casualty | Helpful Tips, Pets |
If you’ve noticed your dog looking a little rounder than usual, you’re not alone. It happens gradually, almost sneakily — even to the most loving and attentive owners. The good news? Helping your dog get back to a healthy weight doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, it can be a rewarding, bonding journey filled with new routines, more play, and a happier, more energetic pup.
Why Those Extra Pounds Matter
A chubby dog may look adorable, but the health risks are anything but cute. Obesity is linked to serious conditions in pets, including:
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Heart, liver, and kidney disease
- Certain cancers
- A shortened lifespan
Even a few extra pounds can place stress on your dog’s joints and organs. Think of weight-loss efforts not as a diet, but as an investment — one that pays off in more comfortable movement, better sleep, extra years of life, and that unmistakable sparkle in your dog’s eyes when they feel good.
Is Your Dog Overweight?
Every dog breed has its own natural shape, so it’s important to look at your pet’s individual build. Here are three simple checks you can do at home. These quick visual cues give you a starting point, but your veterinarian remains the best source for an accurate assessment.
- Rib Check
Run your hands along your dog’s ribcage. You should be able to feel the ribs easily beneath a thin layer of fat — not pressing hard, just lightly gliding your fingers.
- Waist Check
Look down at your dog from above. Do you see an obvious waistline behind the ribs? If not, or if the body looks oval instead of hourglass, that may indicate extra weight.
- Tummy Tuck Check
Now look from the side. Your dog’s abdomen should slope upward slightly from the ribcage toward the hind legs. A sagging or straight line usually means excess fat around the belly.
Start with a Vet Visit
Before making any changes, schedule a checkup. Think of your vet as your dog’s personal trainer and nutritionist rolled into one. Your veterinarian can:
- Rule out underlying health issues like arthritis or thyroid disease
- Identify an ideal weight goal
- Recommend a safe daily calorie target
- Suggest food options tailored to your dog’s needs
Think Slow and Steady
Crash diets are unsafe for dogs and ineffective long-term. A healthy pace for canine weight loss is typically 1–5% of current body weight per month. Gradual progress prevents metabolism slowdowns, reduces hunger-driven begging, and helps your dog lose fat while maintaining muscle. Small improvements, made consistently, lead to big results.
Choosing the Right Food
You may want to stay with your dog’s current food or switch to a healthier diet. That doesn’t necessarily mean buying the most expensive bag on the shelf. What matters is choosing a formula that aligns with your dog’s goals. Options to consider include:
- Prescription weight-loss diets: Great for dogs with significant weight to lose or underlying health issues.
- Low-calorie kibble: Many brands offer lighter formulas.
- Senior formulas: Often lower in calories to match lower activity levels in older dogs.
- Wet food: Higher water content keeps pups fuller while reducing overall calories.
Count the Calories (Yes, It Matters!)
Just like with people, portion size is often the real culprit.
- Measure every meal — don’t eyeball it.
- Use a kitchen scale or a measuring scoop for accuracy.
- Track calories from treats. (They count!)
When it comes to treats, think outside the (biscuit) box. Many dogs enjoy baby carrots, blueberries, plain green beans, or ice cubes. These crunchy snacks satisfy without blowing the daily calorie budget.
Smaller, More Frequent Meals
If your schedule allows, breaking meals into two or three smaller feedings throughout the day can help curb hunger and begging. This simple shift can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort—and your sanity.
Movement: Make It Fun — and Make It Daily
You don’t have to train for a marathon. You just need to get moving together. Aim for 30 minutes of daily activity, adjusted for your dog’s fitness and health. Options your dog may enjoy include:
- Walks
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Fetch
- Tug play
- Games
- Doggie playdates
- Agility or fitness classes
If your dog is significantly overweight, start slow. Watch for heavy panting, lagging behind, or signs of discomfort. Keep water available and increase activity gradually. Most importantly, make it enjoyable. Your dog will feed off your energy — so smile, laugh, chat with your pup, and celebrate the moments you’re spending together.
Keep Track of Progress
Some animal hospitals offer free weight checks, and many pet stores have scales as well. Progress can be subtle at first, but seeing those numbers shift (even a little!) is incredibly motivating.
Celebrating non-scale victories keeps the journey positive. You can also track:
- Energy level
- Mobility
- Ease of getting up
- Endurance on walks
- Coat condition
Get the Whole Family on Board
Helping your dog reach a healthy weight is an act of love, and consistency is key. If one person sneaks table scraps, adds extra kibble, or gives too many treats, progress stalls. Agree as a household on the plan — portions, treats, activity, and rules. That way, your dog gets a clear, consistent message and a greater chance at success.
A Final Note About Protection
Health journeys sometimes come with unplanned vet expenses. Having pet insurance can help offset larger costs and keep your dog’s wellness on track. You can easily add Pet’s Best pet insurance to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Talk with a California Casualty customer service representative to learn more about what pet insurance can cover.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Helpful Tips, Homeowners Insurance Info, Safety |
When fire breaks out, every second counts. Knowing exactly what to do—and what to avoid—can mean the difference between safety and tragedy. Whether you’re at home, at work, or out in public, understanding how to respond in a fire emergency gives you the power to act quickly, protect loved ones, and make it out safely.
Understanding the Phases of a Fire
Before you can respond effectively, it helps to understand how a fire behaves. Fires move through distinct phases, though the timing can vary depending on what is burning and where the fire occurs:
- Incipient Phase – This is the very beginning, when the fire first ignites. If detected quickly, it may still be possible to put it out safely with the right tools.
- Growth Phase – Flames spread, heat builds rapidly, and conditions begin to change. This is when a small fire can suddenly get out of control.
- Fully Developed Phase – At its peak intensity, a fire consumes all available fuel, producing thick smoke and toxic gases. Escape is the only safe option.
- Decay Phase – As the fire runs out of fuel, flames and heat decrease, but smoke and gases can still be dangerous.
What to Do in a Fire Emergency
When you encounter fire, your actions need to be quick, calm, and deliberate. Here are the key “Do’s” to remember:
1. Act Early if It’s Safe
If you catch the fire in its earliest stage (the incipient phase), and you have the right type of extinguisher, you may be able to stop it from spreading. Always aim the extinguisher at the base of the flames, not the middle or top.
In the kitchen:
- Turn off the heat source.
- Smother small stovetop flames with a metal lid, baking sheet, or fire blanket.
- Use baking soda or salt on grease fires—but never water or flour.
- Follow these tips for other ways to put out a fire.
- If a fire starts inside your oven or microwave, keep the door closed. The lack of oxygen will usually cause the fire to die down.
If the fire is spreading quickly, do not try to fight it. Get out immediately and call 911.
2. Get to Safety
Plan for at least two exits from every room in your home. Fires often make the most obvious path unusable. Heavy smoke can quickly disorient you, so it helps to know the layout of your home by memory. Practice fire drills with your family so that everyone knows how to react without hesitation.
3. Stay Low
Smoke rises and carries carbon monoxide, which can make you dizzy or even cause unconsciousness. Crawling low to the ground gives you cleaner air to breathe and increases your chance of escape.
4. Stop, Drop, and Roll
If your clothing catches fire, don’t run. Running only fuels the flames. Instead, stop, drop to the ground, and roll back and forth while covering your face. This smothers the flames and helps prevent serious injury.
5. If You’re Trapped
Sometimes escape isn’t possible. If you can’t get out:
- Stay away from doors that are hot to the touch.
- Block smoke by placing wet towels or blankets along the bottom of doors.
- Open windows cautiously, crouching down to avoid rising smoke and heat.
- Signal for help by waving a flashlight or cloth out the window.
What NOT to Do in a Fire Emergency
Just as important as knowing what to do is knowing what not to do. Certain instinctive reactions can actually make things worse:
- Don’t use elevators. Fires can cause electrical failures or trap you inside. Always use the stairs.
- Don’t pour water on grease fires. Water splashes burning oil and creates explosive steam.
- Don’t pour flour on a fire. Flour is combustible. Stick with baking soda, salt, or a fire extinguisher.
- Don’t use water on electrical fires. Water conducts electricity and can cause electrocution.
- Don’t fan flames. Adding oxygen only makes a fire grow.
- Don’t stand too close or reach over flames. Loose clothing can ignite quickly.
- Don’t move burning objects. This can spread flames to new areas.
- Don’t aim a fire extinguisher at the flames themselves. Remember: always target the base of the fire.
Preparing Before a Fire Happens
While these tips can help in the moment, preparation is your best defense. Here’s how to protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, especially near bedrooms. Test smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
- Create and practice a fire escape plan with your household. Make sure every member—children included—knows how to get out and where to meet once outside.
- Keep fire extinguishers accessible. Place them in the kitchen, garage, and near exits. Learn how to use them before an emergency arises.
- Understand the common causes of fires so you can take steps to fireproof your home and minimize these risks.
- Know your insurance coverage. Even when you do everything right, fires happen. Having the right coverage can make the recovery process easier and less stressful.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Pets, Safety |
Summer is here, and our four-legged friends are ready to make the most of it—soaking up the sun, chasing butterflies, and joining us for backyard barbecues and beach days. But while the season is packed with tail-wagging fun, it also brings a few hidden hazards that can sneak up on even the most watchful pet parents. From sizzling sidewalks to tempting picnic snacks, summertime can be trickier than it looks. Here’s how to keep your fur babies safe, healthy, and ready for all the warm-weather adventures ahead!
Barbecues, Picnics, and Parties
Nothing says summer like a backyard cookout—but it’s not always a pet-friendly affair. Popular BBQ foods like rib bones, corn on the cob, and watermelon rinds may seem harmless but can cause serious health issues, including choking and intestinal blockages. Onions, grapes, and alcohol are outright toxic to pets, and treats like ice cream and potato salad can upset sensitive stomachs. Also be mindful of wooden skewers and toothpicks, which can splinter and cause internal injuries if chewed or swallowed.
Remind your guests not to share their food with your pet. Instead offer pet-safe treats as an alternative. Supervise your furry friend closely, especially if they’re known for getting into mischief—or are particularly sociable.
Lawn and Pool Chemicals
Beautiful lawns and sparkling pools can hide serious dangers. Fertilizers, pesticides, and pool chemicals are harmful if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through your pet’s paws. Always store chemicals securely, clean up spills right away, and keep pets off freshly treated grass. When possible, choose pet-safe products that reduce the risk while still maintaining your outdoor space.
Dangerous Plants
Gardening this summer? Be sure your landscaping isn’t a hidden health hazard. Azaleas, lilies, rhododendrons, tulips, and daffodils are just a few of the plants that can be toxic to pets. Ingesting them can lead to vomiting, seizures, heart issues, and even death. Before heading out on a walk or letting your pet explore the garden, brush up on which plants are safe. (Check out our pets and plants blog for a detailed guide.)
Itchy and Stinging Insects
Summer means bugs—and lots of them. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos can make your pet miserable and may carry dangerous diseases like heartworm and Lyme disease. Bees, wasps, and fire ants also pose risks, especially to curious pets who like to sniff and paw at anything that moves.
To protect your pet:
- Use flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives
- Check daily for ticks, especially after walks in wooded or grassy areas.
- Eliminate standing water and trim overgrown plants to deter pests.
- Monitor your pet for signs of bites or stings, such as swelling, excessive scratching, or difficulty breathing. In the case of a severe allergic reaction, seek veterinary help immediately.
Heat and Humidity
High temperatures and humidity can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, especially for older pets, overweight pets, or breeds with short snouts like pugs and bulldogs. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, and dry gums (a sign of dehydration). Your pet also may appear lethargic.
Always provide shade and fresh water and avoid intense activity during the hottest parts of the day. Never leave your pet in a parked car—not even for a few minutes. On a 75-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle can soar to 100 degrees in just 30 minutes.
Also, be cautious of hot pavement and sand. Use the hand test: place your hand on the sidewalk for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws. And don’t forget about sunburn! Pets can get burned too—especially on ears, noses, and bellies. Use pet-safe sunscreen, never human sunscreen, to protect exposed areas.
The Beach and the Pool
Many dogs love the beach, but it can come with unexpected dangers. Hot sand can burn sensitive paw pads, and ingesting sand can lead to a dangerous bowel obstruction. Sand can also irritate your pet’s eyes if it gets lodged under their eyelids.
As for water safety, not all dogs are natural swimmers. Never force your pet into the water, and always use a pet lifejacket, especially if you’re on a boat or near deep water. After a swim, rinse your dog off to remove salt or chlorine.
Fireworks and Thunderstorms
The loud booms of summer storms and fireworks can terrify pets, causing stress, anxiety, or even escape attempts. Prepare a safe, quiet space indoors where your pet can retreat. You can also try anxiety wraps, pet pheromone sprays, and soft music or white noise. For severe anxiety, talk to your vet about possible calming medications. And always secure doors, gates, and windows in case your pet tries to bolt.
Traveling with Your Pet
Planning a road trip with your fur baby? Keep your pet secured in a well-ventilated carrier or use a pet seatbelt harness. Never leave them unattended in a parked vehicle. Bring along water, treats, and poop bags, and schedule regular breaks.
Make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing ID tags with up-to-date contact info—just in case you get separated. If you’re flying, be sure to review your airline’s pet policy or check out our blog on flying with pets for extra tips.
One More Layer of Protection
We love our pets and no matter how careful we are, accidents happen. Pet insurance can offer peace of mind, helping cover unexpected vet bills so you can focus on keeping your pet happy and healthy all summer long.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Homeowners Insurance Info |
Living with roommates can be a blast—movie nights, shared snacks, and someone to laugh with after a long day. But let’s be real: it’s not always sunshine and chore charts. From thermostat wars to mysteriously disappearing leftovers, sharing a space can get tricky fast. The good news? With a little planning and a lot of communication, you can dodge the drama and keep your living situation friendly, functional, and maybe even fun. Here’s how to avoid the most common roommate conflicts before they turn into full-blown feuds.
Establish House Rules
The first step to peaceful cohabitation? Set clear expectations from the start. A simple conversation can go a long way toward avoiding misunderstandings down the road—but make sure to take the next step. Create a written roommate agreement that outlines house rules everyone agrees on. Be specific:
- Chores – Who does what, and how often? A calendar or app can keep things fair and consistent.
- Quiet hours – When is it okay to play music, watch TV, or take phone calls? Is soft music acceptable during quiet time?
- Guests – Are overnight visitors okay? How often? Are parties allowed, and if so, what’s the protocol for notifying roommates?
- Shared vs. private items – What’s okay to borrow, and what’s off-limits? This includes food, clothing, toiletries, and electronics.
- Thermostat settings – Agreeing on a temperature range can prevent passive-aggressive battles over the A/C or heat.
- Pets – If pets are allowed in your apartment, will you have one? If so, who will be responsible?
And don’t forget the basics of roommate etiquette: knock before entering someone’s room, always ask before borrowing something, and treat common areas with respect.
Manage Shared Expenses
Money issues can drive a wedge between even the closest roommates. Avoid awkwardness by deciding up front how bills and expenses will be handled.
- Will one person be in charge of collecting and paying rent and utilities, or will everyone pay their share directly?
- Are you sharing groceries, or keeping your food separate?
- Will you pitch in together for shared items like cleaning supplies and toilet paper?
Apps like Splitwise and Splittr can make cost-sharing easy and transparent, so everyone feels they’re treated fairly.
Keep Communication Open
Good communication is the key to any successful relationship—including with your roommates. Make it a priority to talk face-to-face about anything important. Texts are convenient, but they can easily be misread or misunderstood.
Establish a culture of respect and openness by:
- Scheduling regular check-ins or house meetings.
- Creating a safe space where everyone feels heard.
- Practicing active listening—that means making eye contact, withholding judgment, and reflecting back what you hear before responding.
Remember, it’s not just about speaking your mind—it’s also about listening with empathy.
Respect Differences
Roommates often come from different backgrounds, cultures, and belief systems. While these differences can enrich your living experience, they can also be a source of confusion or tension if not approached with understanding. Take time to learn about each other’s customs, holidays, and values. A little curiosity and compassion can help you avoid unintentional disrespect and build a more inclusive and harmonious home.
Handle Conflict the Right Way
No matter how well you plan, conflicts will arise. Maybe one roommate hogs the TV every night, or political debates get a little too heated. Whatever the issue, address it early—before frustration turns into resentment. Here’s how to resolve conflicts respectfully:
- Don’t avoid the issue. Delaying only makes things worse.
- Use “I” statements. Instead of “You never clean up,” say “I feel overwhelmed when the kitchen is messy.”
- Take responsibility. Be mindful of personal patterns that could be adding fuel to the fire. Reflect on how your actions may have contributed to the problem.
- Work together on solutions. Brainstorm, compromise, and find common ground.
You don’t have to agree on everything—or be best friends—to be great roommates. But a little kindness, accountability, and flexibility can go a long way.
Don’t Forget the Renter’s Insurance
Even the most harmonious households can face the unexpected—like a kitchen fire that damages your personal laptop. That’s where renter’s insurance comes in. Renter’s insurance is like homeowner’s insurance but for tenants. As a start, it protects your personal belongings (that’s right, your landlord’s insurance policy will not cover your belongings) but that’s not all. It’s an important safeguard if you’re found at fault for property damage or injuries at your place (and even around the world). It also can help if you don’t have access to your apartment or home due to a covered loss. Renter’s insurance policies offer (1) personal property coverage, (2) liability insurance, and (3) additional living expenses when your apartment or home is uninhabitable. It’s an affordable way to protect yourself—and your roommates—from unexpected financial stress.
Drama-free roommates and worry-free coverage? Yes, please. Contact your insurance provider today—and happy renting!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Pets, Travel |
Whether your pet is a seasoned jetsetter or a first-time flyer, navigating air travel with a four-legged friend takes planning, patience, and know-how. From booking the right seat to ensuring a smooth security check, here’s how to make flying with your pet a paws-itively stress-free adventure!
Cabin or Cargo? Choosing the Best Travel Option
Your pet’s size will determine whether they can fly in the cabin with you or if they must go in cargo. Cargo is not for every pet, and if you must consider it, make sure to check with your vet that it is safe for your pet’s breed, age and health.
Carry-On Pets:
- Pets in the plane’s cabin are limited to cats and small dogs meeting size requirements.
- Your pet must remain in a carrier under the seat in front of you for the flight.
- Some airlines allow you to purchase an extra seat for your pet carrier. You still will need to keep your pet in the carrier, and you also will need to place the carrier under the seat during takeoff and landing.
- Choose a window or aisle seat which will have the most room to stow your pet’s carrier under the seat. Avoid emergency exit rows and bulkhead seats.
- A pet fee applies. Check with the airline for the exact amount.
Cargo Travel:
- Larger dogs must fly in cargo, which is the space at the bottom of the plane where luggage is stored.
- While cargo is ventilated, it is not temperature controlled, and airflow is not the same as in the cabin. Pets may not be allowed in cargo during extreme heat or cold.
- Short-nosed breeds like bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats are at higher risk for breathing issues and should never fly in cargo.
- Pets must be placed in cargo-approved kennels. Check your airline for specifications.
- While most pets travel safely in cargo, poor ventilation or mishandling can pose risks.
- Most airlines are required to report on companion animal safety. Check your airline’s safety record before booking your pet in cargo.
- A pet fee also applies.
Service Dogs:
- Service dogs are an exception to the pet traveling policies. They are allowed to be out of a carrier but must not block the aisle. Generally, they are not allowed on seats.
- To qualify as a service dog, they must be fully trained and certified to assist a person with a disability.
- Emotional support animals are considered pets and not service dogs. They must follow standard pet travel guidelines.
- Service dogs will usually fly free of charge.
Booking Your Flight
- Research quarantine, vaccine, and other restrictions for your destination so you will have the right paperwork.
- Always communicate with the airline in advance. You don’t want any surprises.
- Book direct flights. There is less chance of handoffs going wrong.
- For cargo, if traveling in the summer, pick early morning or evening flights to avoid the hottest parts of the day. In winter, book midday flights to avoid the cold.
Prepping Your Pet for Takeoff
Before your trip, make sure your pet is in tip-top shape for travel. Here’s how:
- Vet Visit: Schedule a checkup to ensure your pet is healthy enough to fly. Some destinations require a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.
- Skip Sedatives: Tranquilizers can affect breathing. Ask your vet for guidance on whether you should use them. You also can consider pet calming chews with melatonin or chamomile. For nervous cats, try pheromone sprays to help ease anxiety.
- Microchip & ID: Make sure your pet’s microchip info is up to date and their collar includes both your home address and temporary travel address.
Helping Your Pet Adjust to Air Travel
Crate Training: Get your pet comfortable with their travel carrier well in advance. Reward them with treats and praise.
- Crowd Exposure: Airports are busy and noisy! Take your dog to a crowded, dog-friendly area to get them used to similar sights and sounds.
- Practice Security Checks: TSA requires pets to go through security outside of their carrier. Practice taking your pet in and out calmly.
Packing List: Don’t Forget These Essentials
Proof of vaccinations and vet contact info
- Microchip number and pet license
- Airline-approved carrier (waterproof & spacious enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down)
- Collapsible water bowl
- Small bag of food in case of delays
- Treats and chew toy (helps with pressure changes)
- Poop bags and pet wipes for clean-ups
- Extra collar and leash
- A recent photo of your pet (for ID purposes)
Pro Tip: For pets traveling in cargo, freeze water in the collapsible water bowl. This will help prevent spills. By the time your pet is thirsty, the water will have defrosted. You can also attach a water bottle dispenser.
Airport Tips: Navigating the Terminal with Your Pet
Strange sounds, sights and smells can be challenging even for the most well-trained pet. Changes in diet and water also can affect your pet. Here are some ways to navigate specific issues with traveling.
Skip Breakfast? A light stomach may help prevent nausea—check with your vet.
- Pre-Flight Potty Break: Ensure your pet relieves themselves before heading to check-in.
- Cargo Flyers: Label crates with LIVE ANIMAL in large letters and add arrows to indicate the upright position. Attach a photo of your pet, and line the bottom with towels. This will help absorb any liquids if there are accidents. You will be dropping off your pet at the check-in counter along with your luggage.
- Cabin Flyers: Be prepared to remove your pet from the carrier for TSA screening. Once through security, locate pet relief areas before boarding.
- Alert the Flight Crew: If your pet is traveling in cargo, notify a flight attendant so they’re aware. They should be able to confirm that your pet is safely on board.
- Meet Your Pet: The airline will direct you to a place where you can meet your pet and show them some love following your flight.
Are you flying with small children, too? Check out our blog on Flying with Kids.
Travel with Peace of Mind
Finally, don’t forget to protect your fur baby with pet insurance for added peace of mind, and to save on your vet bill. Remember, you can easily add pet insurance from Pet’s Best to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Find out more about what pet insurance can cover by talking with a California Casualty customer service representative today.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
