Building a Better Life for Your Pet: Daily Habits Every Pet Owner Should Practice (and the Products That Help)

Being a responsible pet parent goes beyond providing food and cuddles—it’s about creating a safe, healthy, and enriching life for your furry companion every single day. Here’s how you can build a better life for your pet—plus helpful product picks to support you along the way.

1. Prioritize Regular Vet Visits (and Complete Their Vaccinations)

Staying on top of your pet’s health starts with something simple: regular checkups. These appointments help catch early signs of illness, track growth or weight changes, and keep your pet on a proper health plan.

Part of this plan includes completing their full vaccination schedule. Vaccines are your pet’s first line of defense against dangerous (and often preventable) diseases like rabies, parvovirus, and distemper. Skipping or delaying shots can put not only your pet at risk, but also the other animals they interact with.

Need help getting started? Select Pet Lovers Centre branches offer in-store veterinary services—making it easy to book a checkup or keep up with your pet’s vaccine. Visit your nearest branch to learn more or request an appointment.

2. Practice Good Hygiene and Grooming

Grooming is an essential part of keeping them healthy, clean, and comfortable. Especially in a tropical country like ours, where heat and humidity can trigger skin issues, regular grooming helps protect your pet from discomfort and preventable conditions.

Maintain an At-Home Grooming Routine
Between salon visits, keeping up with regular hygiene at home is key.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • A gentle, pet-safe shampoo suited for your pet
  • A slicker brush or grooming glove to manage shedding
  • Nail clippers and an ear-cleaning solution
  • A microfiber towel or pet dryer for safe, quick drying

Make Time for Professional Grooming

While brushing or bathing your pet at home is a great habit, visiting a grooming salon provides a deeper, more thorough clean. Professional groomers are trained to spot potential health concerns—like skin infections, ear mites, matting, or abnormal lumps. They also have the right tools and techniques to safely trim nails, clean ears, and groom sensitive areas.

Looking for a groomer you can trust? Request an appointment with Pet Lovers Centre grooming services, so your furry friend can get expert care in a clean, pet-friendly environment. Ask in-store about grooming packages and availability.

3. Create a Happy, Enriching Home Life

A big part of responsible pet parenting is making sure your pet’s daily needs are met—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. The goal? A happy, balanced life they can thrive on.

Feed a Balanced and Appropriate Diet

Good nutrition is the foundation of your pet’s health. Royal Canin, formulated to meet your pet’s unique nutritional needs based on their breed, size, and age.

Keep Them Stimulated and Comfortable

Pets need play and enrichment to stay mentally sharp and avoid boredom. Daily walks, toys, puzzle feeders, and cozy beds go a long way in keeping them happy and stress-free.

Train with Compassion
Use positive reinforcement like treats and praise to guide behavior. Compassionate training builds trust and strengthens your bond—without fear or punishment.

4. Keep Your Pet Identified

Even the most well-behaved pets can wander off. An ID tag with your contact details is a simple but essential safety measure. Try the My Family Pet Tag, available at select Pet Lovers Centre branches—it’s customizable and can be engraved on the spot to help your pet find their way back home. And to go with their new tag, pair it with a Rogz collar to keep them secure and looking extra stylish.

My Family |
Personalized Pet Tag

Building a better life for your pet means committing to their health, comfort, and happiness every day. From regular checkups and proper grooming to the right nutrition and safety tools, each habit plays a role in responsible pet parenting. Drop by your nearest Pet Lovers Centre branch and let us help you care better, every day.

Pet Lovers Centre opensits 11th store at Ayala Malls Feliz

Pet Lovers Centre (PLC) opened its 11th store at Ayala Malls Feliz in Pasig on February 14, 2025.

PLC is a one-stop shop for pet supplies, offering a wide range of quality products from popular local brands as well as its own exclusive brands like Burp, Trustie, Applaws, Rogz, Chomper, and Amy N Carol. Pet owners can also book grooming appointments for their pets at PLC’s Pet Salon.

To officially welcome pet parents and their furry companions to the newest branch, a leash-cutting ceremony was held. The event also featured exclusive deals and engaging activities.

The ceremony was attended by several guests, including Mr. Gerard Poa of Royal Canin, Operations Cluster Head Ms. Maan Guilas and General Manager Mr. John Rey Talavera of Ayala Malls Feliz, Mr. Edmond Tobias of Pet One Inc., Ms. Isabel Magno of Bumi & Coco, and Rio Antonio of Perfect Companion Philippines Corporation.

Pet Lovers Centre PH Celebrates Year Two of its Pet Wellness Walk, Promoting Responsible Pet Parenting Across the Community

Pet Lovers Centre Philippines held its second annual Pet Wellness Walk on April 27, 2025 at Robinsons Antipolo, drawing more than 600 pet owners and their animal companions.

The event’s community walk highlighted not only physical activity but also responsible pet ownership and social connection, with pet owners Rico Refia, Mark Anthony Oximar, and Ralph Velasco finishing in first, second, and third place, respectively. Pet Lovers Centre also turned over a donation to Hound Haven PH, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to the rehabilitation and rehoming of retired working dogs.

“Responsible pet parenting goes beyond daily routines—it’s about building a more compassionate world for all animals and that caring for pets also means showing up for the larger community that supports their well-being,” said General Manager Pearly L. Templado.

Pet Lovers Centre continues to grow its footprint across the Philippines with 11 stores in Metro Manila, Central and Southern Luzon, and Cebu.

Mutt-Haves for Traveling with Pets: Your Ultimate Packing Guide

Traveling with pets can be an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning to ensure their comfort and safety. Whether you’re heading out on a road trip or flying to a pet-friendly destination, having the right essentials will make all the difference. Here’s a guide to everything you need for a smooth journey with your furry companion.

1. Book Pet-Friendly Accommodation and Transportation

Before setting off, make sure your chosen accommodation and transportation are pet friendly. Many hotels, homestays, and airlines have specific pet policies, so it’s important to check in advance. Look for places that provide pet-friendly amenities such as designated pet areas, beds, or welcome treats.

If you’re flying, review the airline’s regulations regarding pet carriers, weight limits, and additional fees. For road trips, confirm whether your chosen car rental or ridesharing service allows pets, and always ensure they have proper ventilation and safety restraints during travel.

2. Pack the Travel Essentials

Packing the right essentials ensures that your pet stays comfortable, hydrated, and stress-free throughout the journey. Traveling, whether by car, plane, or train, can be overwhelming for pets due to unfamiliar surroundings and disruptions in their routine.

🥣Pet Bowl

A lightweight and portable pet bowl ensures your pet stays hydrated and well-fed throughout the trip. Opt for a silicone or foldable bowl that’s easy to wash.

💧Water Dispenser

Keeping your pet hydrated is essential, especially during trips. A multi-functional, leak-proof pet water bottle with a foldable silicone drinking cup ensures quick, mess-free hydration. Plus, with built-in storage for water, food, and poop bags, it’s a must-have for convenient and worry-free travel with your furry friend!

Dogness | Dog Water Bottle Blue 438ml

💩Poo Bags & Disposable Pads

Always clean up after your pet! Bring enough waste bags for the trip, and if traveling with a puppy or senior dog, disposable pee pads can be a lifesaver.

3. Ensure Safe Travel with a Pet Carrier or Stroller

Keeping your pet secure while traveling is essential, whether you’re flying or driving. A well-ventilated pet carrier is ideal for airline travel or car rides, providing a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend. Look for one with soft padding, breathable mesh, and a secure closure to prevent escape. If you’re planning long walks or sightseeing, a pet stroller can be a great option, especially for small breeds or senior pets who may tire easily. Strollers provide a comfortable way to explore new places while keeping your pet safe from crowded areas and rough terrain.

4. Follow Proper Pet Etiquette

Good pet etiquette ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip for both you and those around you. Being mindful of rules and maintaining cleanliness makes traveling with your pet hassle-free.

🔗Leash

Always keep your pet on a leash in public spaces to prevent them from wandering off or startling other travelers. A sturdy yet comfortable leash gives you control while allowing your pet some freedom to explore.

🩲Pet Diaper

Pet diapers help prevent accidents by absorbing urine and keeping your pet dry, making them ideal for long trips, hotel stays, and public spaces. This keeps surroundings clean and is hassle-free.

Pakeway | Male and Female Pet Diaper Wrap Small to XL

5. Keep Them Comfortable with Treats & Accessories

Long journeys can be tiring for pets, so ensuring their comfort is a top priority.

🧸Comfort Toys & Blanket

Long journeys can be tiring for pets, so ensuring their comfort is a top priority. Bringing a familiar toy or blanket can help them feel at ease in unfamiliar environments.

🦴Travel-Friendly Treats

These treats serve as both a reward and a great way to keep your pet engaged during long waits, making travel more enjoyable for them.

Visvit | Dog Treat Premium Chicken Bite

🛏️Portable travel bed

For warm destinations, a cooling mat helps prevent overheating, while a portable travel bed provides a cozy resting spot wherever you go

Traveling with pets can be stress-free when you’re well-prepared. With the right essentials from Pet Lovers Centre, your furry friend can enjoy the journey just as much as you do! Before your next trip, stop by our store or browse online for travel must-haves designed to keep pets safe, comfortable, and happy.

Meet the Ragdoll: The Gentle Giant of the Feline World

The Ragdoll is a large, affectionate cat known for its relaxed nature and love of cuddles. True to its  name, this breed goes limp with pleasure when petted, making it the ultimate lap cat. Despite their  size, Ragdolls are gentle, sociable, and thrive in homes with people and friendly pets. Their striking  blue eyes and deep purrs reveal their sweet disposition. They don’t require much exercise but crave  attention and snuggle time. With their loving nature, Ragdolls make perfect companions for adults,  children, and even other pets. 

Mental Enrichments Needs 

Ragdolls are smart and easy to train. While kittens are more playful, adults enjoy gentler activities like  food puzzles, trick training, and exploring. They thrive on interactive play, especially with wands or  toys like Amy and Carol’s. A Trustie Cat Tree provides the perfect spot for climbing, scratching, and  lounging, helping to keep them active and entertained. 

Treats are a great way to enrich your Ragdoll’s life, providing mental stimulation and positive  reinforcement. Rewarding them with Burp! treats after playtime or training sessions  encourage good behavior. Just be sure to offer them in moderation to maintain a healthy  weight!

The Right Litter 

Choosing the right cat litter is essential for your Ragdoll’s comfort and hygiene. Their fluffy coats can  trap dust, so a low dust, clumping option like Trustie helps keep them clean. A spacious, easily  accessible litter box ensures comfort, while regular cleaning maintains freshness and encourages  good habits—keeping both your cat and home odor-free! 

Diet and Nutrition 

A well-balanced diet is essential for your Ragdoll’s health. They thrive on high-quality protein,  and a mix of wet and dry food can help meet their nutritional needs. Wet food, Fish 4 Cats,  comes in many varieties, provides essential moisture to support urinary health, while dry food 

helps maintain dental health. Some owners opt for a combination of both to ensure variety  and balanced nutrition.

The Purr-fect Companion and Ultimate Lap Cats – Gentle,
Affectionate, and Always by Your Side!

The Ragdoll is truly a special breed, known for its affectionate nature, adaptability, and gentle  personality. Whether you live in a bustling household or a quiet apartment, this easygoing cat will  happily become a loving part of your family. With proper care, enrichment, and the right diet, your  Ragdoll will thrive and reward you with endless companionship.

The irresistible charm of Bulldogs and why we love them!

Bulldogs have so much more than their unique appearance. Bulldogs, the wrinkly wonders that steal hearts, are loyal, loving, and laid-back nature that makes them irresistible to pet lovers – ultimate blend of goofy and affectionate. Safety, warmth and plenty of affection will be among your Bulldogs’ most basic needs, but they also require a few tangible essentials.

Dietary Needs

Bulldogs are prone to certain health issues, such as food allergies and digestive sensitivities. Feeding them a diet free from common allergens like wheat and grains can be beneficial. The grain-free nature of Little BigPaw’s dog food and treats make them a suitable option. Rich in delicious and natural ingredients, each recipe is packed full of goodness and has a big taste in every kibble.

Little BigPaw offers the highest-quality ingredients, ensuring every product is both nutritious and enjoyable for your pets.

8013663 | Little Big PawBritish Roast Chicken Oven Baked Dog Treats 130g ₱330.00
8006336 | Little Big PawPot Traditional Turkey & Vegetable Dinner 85g ₱80.00
8006337 | Little Big PawTraditional Steamed Atlantic Salmon & Vegetable 85g ₱80.00

Understanding that every pet has unique nutritional needs, Little BigPaw provides a variety of flavors and options, including dry and wet food, all carefully crafted to support superior health benefits. Makingmealtimes more exciting, Little BigPaw also offers healthy oven-baked treats, perfect for all canine, including Bulldogs.

Keeping Bulldogs Hydrated

Hydration is crucial for bulldogs as they are prone to overheating and dehydration due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) anatomy. Ensuring they have constant access to fresh water helps regulate their body temperature and supports overall health, including digestion, nutrient absorption, and joint
lubrication. Using a reliable water dispenser like the Savic Water Dispenser can make it easier to keep your bulldog hydrated throughout the day.

Savic
Loop Water Dispenser
₱530.00

Take a Walk

Even though Bulldogs are often portrayed as couch potatoes, they still need regular exercise. Equip your Bulldog with a sturdy leash and harness from Trustie to enjoy their walks, or let them chase and play with a ball, such as Rogz. Regular activity helps prevent obesity-related issues, including heart disease and hip dysplasia.

Rogz
Fetch Squeekz Ball Dog Toy ₱280.00

Trustie
Reflective Dog Leash ₱395.00

Low-Maintenance (Mostly!)

Bulldogs are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming, as their short coat requires minimal brushing. However, they are prone to skin allergies and irritation, and their deep wrinkles require special care — clean them with Proteger Pet Wipes to prevent irritation or infection.

Proteger Pet Wipes Olive Leaf
Extract & Aloe Vera 100pcs ₱235.00

Health and Wellness

Ensuring your bulldog’s health and comfort is key. Due to their heavy build and short stature, they’re prone to joint issues, making Dr. Shiba Jolly Joint essential for joint health and mobility. Bulldogs also have sensitive digestive systems, and their squished faces can make eating difficult, which is why Dr.
Shiba Happy Tummy Supplement supports gut health. However, it’s important to consult a veterinarian for guidance on a healthy diet, and regular vet visits are essential to keeping your bulldog happy and thriving.

Dr. Shiba
Jolly Joint Supplement Beef ₱449.00

Dr. Shiba
Happy Tummy Supplement Duck ₱449.00

English Bulldogs are calm—even lazy—dogs that
serve as four-legged companions.

From their wrinkled brows to their wagging tails, Bulldogs are proof that true beauty lies in their lovable quirks. If you’re lucky enough to share your life with one of these wrinkly wonders, you’ll quickly learn why they’re impossible not to adore

Pet Lovers Centre PH opens new store, helps protect community cats

Pet Lovers Centre PH opens new store, helps protect community cats

Pet Lovers Centre Philippines opened its newest store on February 23, 2024 at Alabang Town Center in Muntinlupa City.

The new store features a wide selection of pet food, pet care supplies, and accessories from local brands as well as Pet Lovers Centre’s own exclusive brands.

“At Pet Lovers Centre, we believe that a healthy and happy pet is due to a responsible pet owner. Our mission is to be your go-to store for products and services that allow you to provide the very best care for your FUR-mily,” said Deputy Group General Manager Pearly Lorenzo-Templado.

Together with the opening, Pet Lovers Centre also launched a Feed A FURend partnership with Cats Around Town (CAT), a group set-up to help cats in the mall. All pet food and pet care items collected through the Feed A FURend campaign will be given to CAT to help keep their community cats healthy.

Present at the ribbon-cutting ceremony were Vice Chairman Wilfred Co, Petchola founder Nico Bolzico, Pet One Comptroller Conrad Que, Royal Canin Market Head Gerard Pua, Benby Commercial Excellence Director Jennie Yap, and Alabang Town Center Operations Manager Isabel Soriano.

Pet Lovers Centre PH celebrates International Pet Month with first pet wellness walk

Pet Lovers Centre PH celebrates International Pet Month with first pet wellness walk

Pet Lovers Centre Philippines held its very first Pet Wellness Walk to celebrate International Pet Month last April 28, 2024 at Robinsons Antipolo.

Close to 500 pet owners and their furry friends participated in the event, which aimed to highlight the importance of physical exercise in responsible pet ownership and holistic pet care. Participants not only enjoyed a day filled with fun fitness activities but also received freebies from Pet Lovers Centre and its partners.

“At Pet Lovers Centre, we hope to continue raising awareness on responsible pet ownership and to empower pet owners make informed decisions on the well-being of their pets as we collectively create a safer, more compassionate world, not only for pets, but for all animals,” said Deputy General Manager Pearly Lorenzo-Templado.

Pet Lovers Centre Philippines currently has a network of 10 stores and is also available through GoCart.

6 Hypoallergenic Cat Food Products Recommended by Pet Experts

6 Hypoallergenic Cat Food Products Recommended by Pet Experts 

It’s important to note that cats can develop food allergies at any point in their lives. While it may be tricky to identify the allergen(s) and work around it, we believe that it’s possible and necessary to help your cat achieve a balanced diet.

Common food allergens for cats

The most common food allergens for cats include chicken, beef, fish and dairy.

Do note that it’s possible for your cat to develop allergies to more than one food type.

If a cat is allergic to a certain type of food, you may notice the following reactions:

  • skin inflammation
  • dry flaky skin
  • recurrent skin infections
  • recurrent ear infections
  • gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhoea and vomiting

How to Identify What Food Your Cat is Allergic to

There’s no cure for food allergies. The only solution is to learn how to work around it by finding a feasible diet that’s nutritious.

But first, you have to identify what food your cat is allergic to.

According to  Dawn LaFontaine, Founder of Cat in the Box, a food trial is used to identify what food your cat is allergic to.

  1. Vet recommends a diet
    Your veterinarian may recommend a commercial food product or homemade recipes, involving a protein that your cat has never been exposed to before.
  2. Observe your cat for symptoms
    During the trial, you are to strictly follow the diet set by the vet and observe your cat for any symptoms in the next 6 – 8 weeks.
  3. Determine what to do next
    If your cat is feeling better after the food trial:
    You can begin reintroducing foods one at a time to see if any of them trigger the symptoms again.

However, if your cat isn’t feeling better after the food trial chances are the symptoms have a different root cause.

Tip!
Cats experience a range of severity in their food allergies. Some cats can’t tolerate even a trace of the allergen, while others are less sensitive.

Best Food Products for Cats with Allergies

There’s a lot of trial and error when it comes to determining what food your cat is allergic to. Once you’ve discovered it, here’s a list of food products from Applaws that are suitable for cats with allergies!

1. Chicken Breast (#8004257)

Suitable for: cats with allergies to fish, beef and dairy

Applaws Tin Chicken Breast only has 3 ingredients – chicken breast, chicken broth and rice – ideal for cats allergic to fish, beef and dairy.

Wet food with limited ingredients

With 82% moisture, this canned food is easy on the stomach.

Natural formula with no additives

Applaws products don’t contain any artificial flavours, stabilisers and preservatives. This minimises the risks of toxicity and poisoning in your cat.

Rich in protein

Cats love chicken, and it has high protein requirements for their optimum growth and performance.

2. Chicken Breast with Pumpkin (#8004264)

Suitable for: cats with allergies to fish, beef and dairy

For cats allergic to fish, this Chicken Breast with Pumpkin wet food is ideal. Apart from having limited ingredients, all Applaws’s recipes are natural and don’t contain any additives.

Benefits of chicken breast

Chicken breast is a good source of lean protein which is low in fat and sodium. Moreover, this meat is rich in nutrients such as vitamin B6, selenium and phosphorus, which will enhance your cat’s bone health, immune system and brain development.

Benefits of pumpkin

Pumpkin is rich in fibre – beneficial for weight control and treating diarrhoea and constipation. Aside from that, it’s also nutrient-packed as it contains vitamin A, C, E, calcium, iron and alpha-carotene.

 Backed by Cheryl Dayotao, Pet Care Consultant of Pet Lovers Centre

3. Tuna Fillet (#8004259)

Suitable for: cats with allergies to chicken, beef and dairy

The Applaws Tin Tuna Fillet only has 3 simple ingredients so you know what you’re getting in the tin!

Limited ingredients

This is especially important for cats with allergies as it reduces the likelihood of exposure to allergens. Additionally, this product doesn’t contain any additives and preservatives.

Rich in nutrients

This tuna fillet recipe is rich in essential amino acids and fatty acids such as Omega-3 and -6. Omega-3 fatty acids is vital for cats with allergies because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, essential amino acids maintains their health and function.

Note!
A tuna-only diet is not nutritionally balanced. This protein should be fed with other sources of protein and foods.

4. Tuna with Salmon for Senior Cats (#8009889)

Suitable for: cats with allergies to chicken, beef and dairy

Applaws is one the few hypoallergenic cat food brands in the market. Their Tuna with Salmon for Senior Cats is great for cats with allergies for several reasons.

Great protein source

Protein is essential to provide your cat with energy and amino acids to build muscles. All Applaws products meet the nutritional requirements outlined by AAFCO or FEDIAF.

Wet food

According to the National Research Council, wet foods usually have more protein and fat than dry foods, which is more favourable to achieve a healthy diet.

Suitable for senior cats

This means that this food is easy to eat and digest, great for cats with allergies.

5. Ocean Fish (#8004260)

Suitable for: cats with allergies to chicken, beef and dairy

This Ocean Fish recipe features 45% mackerel and 30% tuna fillet with fish broth and rice.

Apart from being inexpensive, its natural ingredients guarantees many benefits including

Improves heart health because of omega-3 and -6 fatty acids

Boosts immunity and reduces free radicals in the cat’s body

Enhances blood circulation and maintains blood pressure

High-quality and rich source of protein and energy

Promotes the overall growth and development of your cat

Plus, Applaws meals are free from any additives, preservatives, flavours and stabilisers. This makes it safe to feed your cat as there’s no risk of toxicity associated with it.

6. Tuna Fillet with Crab  (#8009890)

Suitable for: cats with allergies to chicken, beef and dairy

The Applaws Tuna Fillet with Crab only has 4 ingredients: tuna fillet, crab, fish broth and rice. This nutritious wet food follows a limited ingredient recipe and is great for hydrating.

Benefits of crab

Other than being rich in protein, crab has a ton of other nutritional benefits. It’s rich in vitamin D, vitamin B12 and Omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients aid in boosting heart health, improving immune system and brain development.

Benefits of tuna

Tuna provides protein and Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) which improves skin and coat health, while relieving inflammation and allergic reactions.




Pet Lovers Centre launches Howliday kit of hope

Pet Lovers Centre launches Howliday kit of hope

Unleashing the joy of Christmas, Pet Lovers Center launched the Feed A FURend Howliday Kit last October 15, 2023. This project is designed to provide nutritious meals to over 300 dogs at the Leah Borbon Hope for Angels and Island Rescue Organization. For every kit purchased, a rescued dog will receive pet food, treats, toys, soap, and vitamins. This initiative will significantly contribute to the health and well-being of these dogs as they await their forever homes.

Photo Credit: John Orven Verdote | The Manila Times