Brake Fast Dog Bowl
The Brake Fast Dog Bowl is fantastic if your dog eats too fast or bolts their food.
To find out more click here: Brake Fast Dog Bowl
September 10, 2008
November 15, 2007
Dog Kennels - What to Look For
We all hate to leave our pets behind if we go on vacation or have to leave home for a few days. However, we can't always take them with us so if you don't have family or friends that are able to take care of them you most likely need a dog kennel.
To find a good kennel ask for recommendations from friends, family, your veterinarian or grooming shops.
You should then visit the kennel and look for these things.
License
Staff - are they friendly, knowledgeable, seem to care about the dogs there?
Sanitation - Are the runs clean? Do they look like they have an effective system? Do they have barriers high enough to prevent male dogs from urinating into adjacent runs?
Facility - Is it in good repair, neat, clean, smell clean and clear of debris?
Exercise area - Do dogs have freedom of movement? It the floor concrete so it can be easily disinfected? How much time do they get outdoors?
Climate - Is there proper temperature control and is ventilation good with no draughts?
Sleeping area - Is there clean, dry and large enough for a dog to stand, stretch out or turn around? Do they have solid dividers between kennels? Is the bedding clean?
Cages and gates - Are they secure and in good repair?
How many dogs in facility - Are there to many?
Food - You may want to bring food that your dog is already eating if they don't have it. You don't want him to get sick from a change in diet.
Water - Is it available at all times, does the water look clean in the dog bowls and are the dog bowls clean?
Veterinarian - Do they have a vet on call? Will they contact your vet if needed?
Find out the cost, drop off time and pick up. How far in advance should you book?
When you do take your dog for his stay take along:
Vaccinations records
Emergency contacts - veterinarian and your numbers.
Pet schedule - also pet medications with instructions.
Take something from home like a blanket or toy.
Food if needed
Usually if a dog is introduced early in life to kennels be doesn't have a problem. Of course all dogs are different and it's hard to predict how they will react. You should start with a weekend to see how he does. Ask the staff how his behavior and appetite were so you can judge how it went. Of course check his general condition and grooming to see how well he was taken care of.
If they do have trouble maybe next time you should look into a bonded pet-sitting service. Maybe you know someone who does pet sitting in your home. Check out your options.
Lastly, ask your veterinarian if your dog needs kennel cough intra-nasal vaccination.
About The Author Sandy Oberreuter has a web site on small dog breeds with articles on popular small dogs, dogs good with children and seniors, breeders, dog diseases, dog day care, hypoallergenic dogs and more.
View their website at: http://www.small-dogbreeds.com
dog collars, dog toys, dog beds, pet supplies, dog health
To find a good kennel ask for recommendations from friends, family, your veterinarian or grooming shops.
You should then visit the kennel and look for these things.
License
Staff - are they friendly, knowledgeable, seem to care about the dogs there?
Sanitation - Are the runs clean? Do they look like they have an effective system? Do they have barriers high enough to prevent male dogs from urinating into adjacent runs?
Facility - Is it in good repair, neat, clean, smell clean and clear of debris?
Exercise area - Do dogs have freedom of movement? It the floor concrete so it can be easily disinfected? How much time do they get outdoors?
Climate - Is there proper temperature control and is ventilation good with no draughts?
Sleeping area - Is there clean, dry and large enough for a dog to stand, stretch out or turn around? Do they have solid dividers between kennels? Is the bedding clean?
Cages and gates - Are they secure and in good repair?
How many dogs in facility - Are there to many?
Food - You may want to bring food that your dog is already eating if they don't have it. You don't want him to get sick from a change in diet.
Water - Is it available at all times, does the water look clean in the dog bowls and are the dog bowls clean?
Veterinarian - Do they have a vet on call? Will they contact your vet if needed?
Find out the cost, drop off time and pick up. How far in advance should you book?
When you do take your dog for his stay take along:
Vaccinations records
Emergency contacts - veterinarian and your numbers.
Pet schedule - also pet medications with instructions.
Take something from home like a blanket or toy.
Food if needed
Usually if a dog is introduced early in life to kennels be doesn't have a problem. Of course all dogs are different and it's hard to predict how they will react. You should start with a weekend to see how he does. Ask the staff how his behavior and appetite were so you can judge how it went. Of course check his general condition and grooming to see how well he was taken care of.
If they do have trouble maybe next time you should look into a bonded pet-sitting service. Maybe you know someone who does pet sitting in your home. Check out your options.
Lastly, ask your veterinarian if your dog needs kennel cough intra-nasal vaccination.
About The Author Sandy Oberreuter has a web site on small dog breeds with articles on popular small dogs, dogs good with children and seniors, breeders, dog diseases, dog day care, hypoallergenic dogs and more.
View their website at: http://www.small-dogbreeds.com
dog collars, dog toys, dog beds, pet supplies, dog health
8 Simple Visual Indicators Your Dog Is Fat
Your dog is fat. OK, possibly not.
But there's a very good chance he or she is, and you don't even know it.
Statistics vary, but veterinarians report that as many as 25 - 44% of all dogs are overweight, and that obesity is the number-one canine health disorder. Obesity is defined as weighing over 15% more than the standard accepted weight for the dog's height.
With nearly half of our dogs weighing in on the heavy side, it's no surprise, then, that obesity-related conditions are on the rise within the pet population. These conditions include diabetes mellitus and orthopedic, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, endocrine, respiratory, immune and reproductive disorders. These can be devastating conditions for your dog to live with.
Doctors ascribe the rise in obesity to a combination of the general lack of fussiness of dogs, their natural gorging behavior, and insufficient exercise.
And since dogs don't do their own grocery shopping or prepare their own meals, we must add to this a prevailing ignorance among their owners in providing a nutritious, well-balanced, calorie-controlled diet.
Do you know if your dog is fat or fit? Do you know her daily caloric requirements? Do you know what factors may mitigate those daily caloric requirements?
Did you know regular dog food is packed with sugar and fat to make the toxic crap they put in it palatable?
A healthy dog is ready to eat at any time. Some dogs quite literally can eat while flat on their side and more or less asleep. Therefore, it is pointless to use your dog's begging behavior as any indicator of how much to feed him.
Knowing how many calories he needs and how that translates into food will help keep him trim and healthy. Energy needs for the dog change throughout his life, increasing the more active he becomes, and, as you might surmise, decreasing as the dog reaches his senior years.
Your vet will help you determine if your dog's weight is on target, or if she is headed for fat city, and all diet-related considerations should definitely be discussed with your vet before introducing any major changes into your dog's nutritional sphere. But, before your next office visit, you can do an assessment to determine (albeit imprecisely) your dog's general body condition and weight.
Can the ribs be easily felt with slight fat cover, or are they difficult to feel under moderate or thick fat cover?
From the side view, do you see an abdominal tuck?
Is there thickening at the tail base?
From the overhead view, is there a well-proportioned waist?
Or, from the overhead view, does she have a marked hourglass shape? (an indicator of being underweight)
Or, from the overhead view, is the back slightly or markedly broadened at the waist? (indicators of being moderately to severely overweight)
Is your dog slow to rise or move around?
Is she reluctant to exercise, or does she tire easily with activity?
Individual metabolism, exercise, age, environment and overall health will determine what your dog really needs to remain lean and healthy. Since your dog can only have so many calories every day, it is important to pack lots of nutrition, bulk and appeal into those calories.
Our wildly popular Dog Food SECRETS-- information products can help you step-by-step overcome your nutritional naivete.
Embracing this information doesn't mean you have to prepare every meal with a set of scales on the counter, no. Do it a few times and you can do it forever.
After you determine your dog's caloric needs, the ideal solution to meet those needs is to prepare your dog's food at home, where you can have total control over the caloric and nutritional content.
Our books can help you there, too -- as it includes a collection of easy, healthful, natural and delicious recipes created with your dog's palate and welfare in mind. In fact the Silver and Gold packages include over 200 easy-to-make healthy recipes.
About The Author Andrew Lewis
Discover everything you need to know about http://www.thedogfoodconspiracy.com/dog-food-secrets.php , the 1 element in dog health. Subscribe to http://www.thedogfoodconspiracy.com newsletter to learn more.
October 27, 2007
Safe and Enjoyable Pet Travel Takes Planning, Preparation
So you're thinking about venturing out on your next trip with Fido? Sounds like a fun idea, but unless you're well prepared, you may end up wishing you had left him at home.
But don't get discouraged; traveling with pets is becoming as commonplace as traveling with children. In a sense, they really are our children. We feed them, clean up after them, groom them, praise them, and love them… why shouldn't we take them along?
Problem is, some folks think just letting the family dog jump in the back seat is all it takes. Never mind securing that loved one in a car seat or harness like we do Junior. Why not? Okay, I'll ask it again… why not?
In case of a sudden stop or crash, what happens? Oops. Or big OOPS, depending on the size of your pooch. He could cause a serious injury or even death to you or one of your passengers if he becomes a projectile. Why take the risk?
Making the best of pet travel begins with planning. You must first think about what it is you're doing, where you're going, how you're going to get there, what you need… you know, like you do when you take a trip by yourself or with friends or family. Don't exclude your pet's needs and essentials just because… what, he's a pet?
What vitamins or meds will he need? What about food, treats and water? Yes, it's always a good idea to have a supply of good, cold water with you. Sometimes you just can't just find water anywhere when you need to stop.
Do you have a car seat for the pet to see out (mainly for smaller pets) or a harness or seat belt? What about emergency contacts like vet phone numbers or a pet hospital near where you are traveling? In case you become separated, did you remember his ID tag? How else will anyone know to whom your four-legged child belongs? A travel ID tag is also becoming more popular that lists the contact information of where you're planning to stay when you get to your destination or a cell phone number that could easily track you down in the event you get separated from your pet.
One of the most comforting things a pet can have with him is something familiar like a favorite toy or blanket. Remember how Junior is? By the way, did you remember his, too?
How about a portable exercise pen? Aunt Sally says she loves your canine, but does she really want him running loose all over her house? That exercise pen can be assembled in no time, and you sure won't have to keep your eye on Aunt Sally's glass figurine collection every second of the day.
And when you and your canine are ready to bed down for the night, are you just going to let him sleep where he finally drops? Is that where Junior will end up for the night? I don't think so. That's right, don't forget that pets like to sleep comfortably, too, and that portable dog bed sure feels a little more like home.
There's another thing you should remember. And that's all you have to do, just remember it. And that is… reassurance. Your pet knows you better than anyone else. Give him the reassurance that you're there for him and that you're going to have a good time together. He knows your voice. You're the one he trusts. So give him confidence in this new traveling environment. Provide him with the things he needs to make his trip as safe and enjoyable as yours, and I'm sure you will have many fun excursions together for years to come. Happy travels!
About The Author Tom James is founder and president of PetTravelCenter.com, an Internet resource website and online community serving the pet travel industry and pet lovers everywhere. Information about pet-friendly accommodations and destinations, RV parks, dog parks and campgrounds, tips for traveling with pets using various modes of transportation, recreational activities with pets, articles by pet experts, a photo gallery to post images of one’s pet travels, and special features, including a monthly newsletter for PTC Club members, are included in the site. In the fall of 2006, PetTravelCenter.com will roll out an online store of product solutions to make the pet travel experience fun and easy. Visit online at . http://www.PetTravelCenter.com
keywords: dog beds, dog health, dog carriers, dog collars, dog toys
But don't get discouraged; traveling with pets is becoming as commonplace as traveling with children. In a sense, they really are our children. We feed them, clean up after them, groom them, praise them, and love them… why shouldn't we take them along?
Problem is, some folks think just letting the family dog jump in the back seat is all it takes. Never mind securing that loved one in a car seat or harness like we do Junior. Why not? Okay, I'll ask it again… why not?
In case of a sudden stop or crash, what happens? Oops. Or big OOPS, depending on the size of your pooch. He could cause a serious injury or even death to you or one of your passengers if he becomes a projectile. Why take the risk?
Making the best of pet travel begins with planning. You must first think about what it is you're doing, where you're going, how you're going to get there, what you need… you know, like you do when you take a trip by yourself or with friends or family. Don't exclude your pet's needs and essentials just because… what, he's a pet?
What vitamins or meds will he need? What about food, treats and water? Yes, it's always a good idea to have a supply of good, cold water with you. Sometimes you just can't just find water anywhere when you need to stop.
Do you have a car seat for the pet to see out (mainly for smaller pets) or a harness or seat belt? What about emergency contacts like vet phone numbers or a pet hospital near where you are traveling? In case you become separated, did you remember his ID tag? How else will anyone know to whom your four-legged child belongs? A travel ID tag is also becoming more popular that lists the contact information of where you're planning to stay when you get to your destination or a cell phone number that could easily track you down in the event you get separated from your pet.
One of the most comforting things a pet can have with him is something familiar like a favorite toy or blanket. Remember how Junior is? By the way, did you remember his, too?
How about a portable exercise pen? Aunt Sally says she loves your canine, but does she really want him running loose all over her house? That exercise pen can be assembled in no time, and you sure won't have to keep your eye on Aunt Sally's glass figurine collection every second of the day.
And when you and your canine are ready to bed down for the night, are you just going to let him sleep where he finally drops? Is that where Junior will end up for the night? I don't think so. That's right, don't forget that pets like to sleep comfortably, too, and that portable dog bed sure feels a little more like home.
There's another thing you should remember. And that's all you have to do, just remember it. And that is… reassurance. Your pet knows you better than anyone else. Give him the reassurance that you're there for him and that you're going to have a good time together. He knows your voice. You're the one he trusts. So give him confidence in this new traveling environment. Provide him with the things he needs to make his trip as safe and enjoyable as yours, and I'm sure you will have many fun excursions together for years to come. Happy travels!
About The Author Tom James is founder and president of PetTravelCenter.com, an Internet resource website and online community serving the pet travel industry and pet lovers everywhere. Information about pet-friendly accommodations and destinations, RV parks, dog parks and campgrounds, tips for traveling with pets using various modes of transportation, recreational activities with pets, articles by pet experts, a photo gallery to post images of one’s pet travels, and special features, including a monthly newsletter for PTC Club members, are included in the site. In the fall of 2006, PetTravelCenter.com will roll out an online store of product solutions to make the pet travel experience fun and easy. Visit online at . http://www.PetTravelCenter.com
keywords: dog beds, dog health, dog carriers, dog collars, dog toys
Tips For Traveling With Your Dog
Tips For Traveling With Your Dog by: Terry Hanson
Taking your dog with you when you travel, whether you go by land, air or sea, can present real problems. I know - I do 100k miles a year, and most of them I get to take Beck with me. It's worth the extra hassle, no question. But what tips can I offer you?
Air travel with your dog
It takes most dogs a long time to get used to traveling by plane. It took Beck about 6 flights before he stopped getting stressed about it. The big thing is to make sure your dog knows that it's just a temporary thing - to a woofer, a flight can seem to last forever! Each airline has their own set of rules - you need to check these before the flight. No good turning up and finding you are denied access to the plane because you didn't bone up on the regs!
Number one tip is - get a vet to sign a health certificate for your dog certifying that he has no diseases. Also make sure the dog is up to scratch on his anti-flea programme, and bring documentary evidence with you if you can. No airline wants a flea infested plane! Check his dog tags. Make sure YOUR contact details are there and easy to read. If you do get separated, this ensures you'll be re-united fast. For the same reason, you carry a photo of your dog in your wallet.
Number 2 tip - no food for Fido for 6 hours before the flight, and no water for 2 hours before. We wouldn't want any nasty 'accidents' now, would we???!!! Also put a note on his crate saying what his eating and drinking needs are - if the flight gets delayed, the ground staff will have a duty to live up to these.
Number 3 tip - buy a crate big enough for your dog to stand up in. Only buy custom made crates from your pet shop. Buy one that is designed for the rigors of air transport. NEVER try to 'get by' with any old crate. Trust me - your dog will thank you for the gift! Also remember that the airline you are using may have specific requirements for cases that go in the hold. Check the livestock regs.
Car Travel with your Dog
Tip 1 - Just like air travel, make sure your dog has all his ID with him, and you carry a photo. Even in the car, keep him leashed. Dogs have been known to get excited and leap out the window. Bad things happen on the freeway!
Tip 2 - Always book your hotel or motel ahead of time. If they don't allow dogs, you will be turned away whether or not you have a booking. I learned this the hard way with Beck - sleeping in a car ain't fun!
Tip 3 - acclimatization. Get your dog used to trips - start out with short trips, and gradually extend them. Let him experience the aircon, and maybe even stick his head out the window (dogs love this - make sure he's on the leash first, and that there is no contra traffic!)
These tips have enabled Beck and I to enjoy many great trips together, and believe me, it's nice to have some company on those long empty miles! If you like Beck, please vote for him on the petmillions.com contest at Vote for Beck in the petmillions contest!
About The Author Terry Hanson is in sales, but doesn't like to be separated from his pooch Beck, who is entered in the http://www.petmillions.com/ pet contest .
keywords: dog carriers, pet supplies, dog health, dog beds
Taking your dog with you when you travel, whether you go by land, air or sea, can present real problems. I know - I do 100k miles a year, and most of them I get to take Beck with me. It's worth the extra hassle, no question. But what tips can I offer you?
Air travel with your dog
It takes most dogs a long time to get used to traveling by plane. It took Beck about 6 flights before he stopped getting stressed about it. The big thing is to make sure your dog knows that it's just a temporary thing - to a woofer, a flight can seem to last forever! Each airline has their own set of rules - you need to check these before the flight. No good turning up and finding you are denied access to the plane because you didn't bone up on the regs!
Number one tip is - get a vet to sign a health certificate for your dog certifying that he has no diseases. Also make sure the dog is up to scratch on his anti-flea programme, and bring documentary evidence with you if you can. No airline wants a flea infested plane! Check his dog tags. Make sure YOUR contact details are there and easy to read. If you do get separated, this ensures you'll be re-united fast. For the same reason, you carry a photo of your dog in your wallet.
Number 2 tip - no food for Fido for 6 hours before the flight, and no water for 2 hours before. We wouldn't want any nasty 'accidents' now, would we???!!! Also put a note on his crate saying what his eating and drinking needs are - if the flight gets delayed, the ground staff will have a duty to live up to these.
Number 3 tip - buy a crate big enough for your dog to stand up in. Only buy custom made crates from your pet shop. Buy one that is designed for the rigors of air transport. NEVER try to 'get by' with any old crate. Trust me - your dog will thank you for the gift! Also remember that the airline you are using may have specific requirements for cases that go in the hold. Check the livestock regs.
Car Travel with your Dog
Tip 1 - Just like air travel, make sure your dog has all his ID with him, and you carry a photo. Even in the car, keep him leashed. Dogs have been known to get excited and leap out the window. Bad things happen on the freeway!
Tip 2 - Always book your hotel or motel ahead of time. If they don't allow dogs, you will be turned away whether or not you have a booking. I learned this the hard way with Beck - sleeping in a car ain't fun!
Tip 3 - acclimatization. Get your dog used to trips - start out with short trips, and gradually extend them. Let him experience the aircon, and maybe even stick his head out the window (dogs love this - make sure he's on the leash first, and that there is no contra traffic!)
These tips have enabled Beck and I to enjoy many great trips together, and believe me, it's nice to have some company on those long empty miles! If you like Beck, please vote for him on the petmillions.com contest at Vote for Beck in the petmillions contest!
About The Author Terry Hanson is in sales, but doesn't like to be separated from his pooch Beck, who is entered in the http://www.petmillions.com/ pet contest .
keywords: dog carriers, pet supplies, dog health, dog beds
5 Essential Dog Accessories Shopping Tips
5 Essential Dog Accessories Shopping Tips
We accessorize many things. Cellphones, computers, homes, cars and PDAs are just some of the things that can be accessorized. Some people use accessories to emphasize the beauty of a thing; others use accessories to make things easier to use; still others use accessories to protect an item against harmful elements.Accessories are not only limited to objects; in fact, there are accessories for living things, dogs for instance. There are a variety of dog accessories available -- ranging from accessories to enhance the appearance of a dog, accessories for pampering dogs and accessories that can both help dog and its owner.
If you're a dog lover, shopping for dog accessories is an important aspect of taking care of your pet. In fact, many dog lovers experience a great deal of satisfaction shopping for their beloved pets in the same way they do when shopping for their loved ones.
With a plethora of dog accessories in the market today, finding and choosing the best dog accessories for your pet can be a bit of a challenge. So here are some shopping tips to keep in mind when you're looking into buying dog accessories for your pooch.
Tip #1: When shopping for a dog collar...
Dog collars range from plain to fancy. However, more than the look of the dog collar, it's important that you choose one that properly fits your dog. The perfect dog collar for your dog is one wherein the space between your dog's neck and the collar is about two fingers wide. Never buy a dog collar based on how it looks. How a dog collar fits your dog should be your top priority.
Tip #2: When shopping for a dog leash...
Many types of dog leashes are available in the market. However, when shopping for a leash for your dog, choose the one that is appropriate to the size of your dog. If you have a big dog, get a dog leash that is wide and strong enough to hold him. In the same manner, don't get a big leash if you have a small dog. When choosing a dog leash, it's always best to go with one that costs a bit higher. Cheap dog leashes usually are of cheap quality.
Tip #3: When shopping for food and water bowls...
Choose food and water bowls that won't easily tip over. If you are considering buying a watering system that gives dogs a supply of drinking water for a longer period of time, choose a size that is appropriate for your dog. Water should always be fresh and clean so make sure that your dog can consume fairly quickly the water in the watering system you are about to purchase.
Tip #4: When shopping for dog toys...
Dogs are playful animals. When shopping for dog toys, consider those that your dog can gnash, chew or bite. Instead of chewing on slippers and shoes, these particular dog toys will encourage your dog to be more behaved. When choosing dog toys for your dog, consider those that are just the right size for him. Avoid dog toys that are too small; your dog may accidentally swallow small dog toys and choke. On the other hand, don't get a dog toy that is too large for your pet that he is unable to lift it.
Tip #5: When shopping for doghouses...
Your dog needs to have his own place outside of your home. A doghouse will protect your pet from the elements. Thus, when shopping for a doghouse, choose the one that is appropriate for your dog's size. The doghouse should be big enough to protect your dog from the harsh rays of the sun, rain and snow as well as be comfortable enough for your dog to live in if you ever leave your dog alone for long periods of time.
About The Author Shannon Lueck
I have owned dogs for most of my life and can't imagine living without them. I've put together a site with free information about dogs for dog owners. Please visit: http://www.adogownersdogsite.com/Guidelines_for_Choosing_the_Right_Dog_Toys.php