Category: Pets

Your dog is apart of your family; therefore, you want your dog to join you for all of your adventures.

Exploring a new city? What better companion to have than your dog. Maybe you’re moving to a new home and your dog is high on your moving priorities.

If you plan on traveling with your dog, you need to plan carefully. Traveling with a dog means keeping their safety in mind and traveling under acceptable conditions.

In certain cases, traveling with a dog is more expensive than boarding up your dog or hiring a dog sitter.

Read these 8 tips on dog travel before doggo joins you on your next excursion.

1. Visit the Vet

Make sure you bring the dog in for a check-up before you embark on dog travel. Inform the vet you’re going on vacation and are planning on bringing your dog.

Here’s what the vet will look for:

• Making sure your dog is up-to-date with all vaccinations
• Deliver a health certification (is required for air travel)
• Check their medical records and any medications prescribed

Even though the health certification is the only required document, bring their shot records and prescriptions to be safe. All airlines are different and they have different requirements for bringing pets on planes.

And always bring food and water. Feed your dog regularly with similar feeding times and duration that you do while at home.

2. Choose the Right Crate

A crate is the safest method of dog travel.

A crate also comes in handy when you stay in someone’s home or have to be in a hotel. You can buy a crate from almost any pet store; however, you have to be sure you’re choosing the right crate.

Here are some pointers when buying a crate:

• The dog should be able to stand, sit, and lie down in the crate
• Make sure it’s made of a strong material and there are handles on the crate
• Check if the bottom is leak-proof
• The crate is fully ventilated
• Place ‘live animal’ marking on the crate plus your name, address, and phone number.

You should also add some of their favorite stuff inside of the crate. These include a favorite blanket and a favorite toy. Find a way to always have water for the dog to drink, such as a water bottle.

3. Identification Tag

When you’re in unfamiliar territory, the chances of your dog running away increase.

In case this happens, make sure your dog can always be properly identified.

The best way is an ID tag hanging from its collar. On this tag, write your name, address, and phone number. You should also write the dog’s name and try to include proof of rabies shot.

If you want to increase your chances of finding your dog, implant a microchip before you leave.

Always have a picture of your dog on you. This way, you can show strangers or make ‘missing dog’ posters.

4. Travel By Car Instead of Air

Your dog is already used to the car. You know how excited your dog gets when you drive it to the park, the beach, or the dog bar. When you travel by car, your dog will be far happier instead of traveling on a plane.

Traveling by plane can be scary for a dog. They’re locked in a crate. They’re away from you and aren’t familiar with their surroundings. And there are extra costs associated with air dog travel.

Just remember: if you’re on the interstate or a major road, leave the dog in a crate or keep the windows rolled up.

And always stop to let your dog go to the bathroom and drink water.

Feel free to walk your dog when you stop for gas or food. Last but certainly not least, never leave your dog unattended in the car with the windows rolled up. If you’re traveling over the summer, doing this can be life-threatening.

5. Look for a Dog-Friendly Hotel

If you’re on a long road trip or backpacking, you’ll want to stay at a hotel. Always be sure the hotel is dog-friendly.

When you find a dog-friendly hotel, be sure to respect the property and other guests. Make sure the dog isn’t barking a lot and they don’t have an accident inside of the room. If the dog makes a mess, clean it so the staff doesn’t have to.

Try to be with the dog as much as possible. If left alone, they could become anxious and destroy the room.

Are you not 100% sure you can trust your dog in a hotel room? Ty the Dog Guy offers training and coaching.

6. Take Your Dog on a Cruise

There are dog-friendly cruise lines. Some even provide special accommodations for dogs, such as a lounge and free dog food. But before bringing your dog on any cruise ship, make sure you read the guidelines before boarding the ship.

7. Always Keep Your Dog Calm

Traveling can be excited — some dogs enjoy the thrill of being somewhere new, but others can easily become scared or uncomfortable. Even if your dog is more adventurous, always bring a little token of home.

A blanket and their favorite toy are great travel entertainment for your dog.
Is your dog still stressed out? Give your dog some love. Regularly pet your dog to reassure it. As long as you’re there, your dog will be fine.

8. How to Explore New Surroundings with a Dog

Traveling is exciting but can be overwhelming. You feel out of comfort zone, and so does your dog.

But exploration could also be good for your dog; they love seeing new surroundings, sniffing new items, and hearing the different commotion.

While you’re taking your adventure in, don’t forget about your dog.

Make sure they’re not eating foreign objects and aren’t terrorizing anyone. If your dog seems stressed, take the dog back to the hotel or car.

Have Fun with Dog Travel

Your next vacation will be so much more fun with your dog companion at your side. Understand your dog is more vulnerable to a lot of different issues when away from home. Always keep your dog comfortable and happy.

You want to have a fun trip, and you should make the trip equally fun for your dog.

If you want more advice for your pets and children, read our blog.

Ah, the joys of being a puppy parent. Cuddling up to a sweet pooch is priceless, but the cost of having a dog can add up.

For example, getting a dog groomed can cost between $30 – $80.

Don’t spend a fortune on grooming when you can do it for less. Here’s how you can save money on puppy grooming:

1. Do All of It Yourself

Who knows? You might have a knack for puppy grooming! You can save money by rolling up your sleeves to groom your pup yourself.

Try watching some videos on YouTube or taking a class to learn the ropes. If your dog has a simpler cut, it won’t be too hard

The biggest perk? You get to see how adorable your puppy looks while it’s drenched in shampoo!

2. Do Some of It Yourself

If the idea of razors scares you, start small. If you just give your dog a bath at home, you can save money at the grooming salon. You can also do other small things like clipping their nails in advance

Cut out any tangles or mats in their fur before you send them in. Some grooming salons charge by the hour.

Do as much as you can, only use the professionals for the things that you can’t do yourself.

3. Get a Deal

Sometimes, you have to pay to get your dog professionally groomed. The key is not paying full price! Browse discount websites to look for puppy grooming discounts or deals.

Sign up for loyalty programs at local salons, they might send coupons via email that can save you some bucks.

4. Find a Student Groomer

Dog groomers have to start somewhere! Student groomers who are looking to build portfolios are always looking for new dogs to work on.

You could save major cash by letting a student groomer or hobbyist groom your dog. You can find them on sites like Craigslist or local animal care schools.

You can also ask around for other owners’ recommendations. Word of mouth is the best way to find someone you can trust.

5. Get Simple Cuts

If you have a high-maintenance dog, consider getting simpler cuts. Fido doesn’t always have to get the most fabulous cut.

Save the expensive cuts for special occasions. Get an inexpensive, low cut for every day.

Every now and then, treat your pup to the glam special. But for most grooming appointments, less is more.

6. Visit Less Frequently

Next time you go to the grooming salon, consider getting a shorter cut than usual. This will buy you more time between visits.

A pair of dog clippers will go a long way. Shave a half of an inch of fur between appointments. A little work along the way will save you more work later on.

In colder months, you want to be careful not to let your pooch sleep outside. Dry, cold air can dry out their skin. This means more visits (and money) to the salon.

So, where can my dog sleep?

Bring them inside to cozy up during cold weather!

Puppy Grooming for Any Budget

Using these tips is just one of the things pet owners can do to cut back on spending.

Being on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t afford to spoil your dog. Pamper your pup without the extra perks. Your wallet will thank you later.

Learn more ways to save money on pets.

It’s obvious that children love animals. From toys to clothing to movies, animals are everywhere!

Even more than animals in general, kids love their pets.

There’s a reason why veterinarian is always a top answer when kids are asked what they want to be when they grow up.

Getting pets for kids can benefit them in so many ways. In this article, we’re breaking down the top five reasons why.

5 Benefits of Pets For Kids

Pets teach kids valuable lessons and life skills. Plus, they just make them so happy. What’s cuter than kids and puppies together?

Here are the best of those lessons, life skills, and joys!

1. Companionship

It’s no secret that pets and their owners experience a special bond. This bond gives both parties a sense of companionship. This companionship can be particularly comforting for kids.

It’s been proven that pets help reduce stress levels, likely because of their non-judgmental affection.

Kids are comfortable in front of their pets, even when it comes to developing skills like reading.

Reading to pets can help kids feel more confident when reading aloud. It helps shelter pets feel less anxious too.

2. Socialization

Interacting with pets helps kids learn how to socialize with humans too.

Kids, especially infants and toddlers, often find a connection with pets that is much easier to navigate than the complicated social world of humans.

Studies show that kids with pets often develop higher levels of self-esteem. This is likely due to the sense of competency that results from successfully taking care of another being.

3. Responsibility

It is important for kids to learn the effects of their actions, specifically the importance of responsibility.

Assigning a child with the responsibility of caring for their pet gives them the appreciation that they won’t get from completing other chores: the animal’s love.

The fun aspects, like play time and meal time, are great for young kids to take on. As they get older, it’s also good for a kid to learn the less fun responsibilities, like cleaning up after the pet. This helps to teach them to put in the work for the things they love in life.

4. Nurturing

Having to remember to care for another living being is a great lesson for a child’s developing mind and developing ego.

Kids who learn to instinctually care for a pet at a young age have a leg up in developing their sense of empathy.

Plus, the practice of being a caregiver builds instincts that we keep for a lifetime.

5. Family Bond

A pet that the whole family cares for can help strengthen the bond between family members.

Families grow closer with the shared experiences centered around the pet.

Even if a pet isn’t conducive to your lifestyle, animal centered activities can still help the family bond.

For example, a trip to an Interactive Aquarium can give the whole family new shared experiences outside of the day-to-day activities of school and work.

There You Have It!

Pets for kids can be a great developmental tool and a great way to make them happy all in one.

For more articles on kids and parenting, click here.

Catnip and Cat Condo not cutting it anymore?

Don’t fret, Fearless Feline-Mom. We’ve scoured the Internet for you to find some of the coolest, newest kitty products for your four-legged friend. Think of them as the “new essentials” for your furry companion.

And now, after tirelessly whittling down the list to its cat necessities, we present the 5 crucial products all cat-moms and cat-dads need to have. Be sure to look for online coupons before you buy them!

1) Kitty Products For the Cat Abroad

We all have to travel. That means we all have to make the decision: Do I bring my cat with me or hire a sitter?

For those of you who like to bring your cats along for the ride, or those who have just moved into a new place, we’d like to share “Feliway”.

Feliway contains no drugs or sedatives. Instead, it simulates a “natural feline facial pheromone.” This enables cats to feel a sense of security.

This product is proven to significantly reduce urination incidents, as well as other territorial or anxiety-driven behaviors.

2) For the Cat with an Itch that Won’t Quit

Responsible pet owners know the importance of applying flea and other pest-shielding medications.

Unfortunately, fleas are growing immunities to traditional methods. This often leaves owners at a loss.

That’s where Pet-Lok comes to the rescue. This cat flea medicine is different from other brands, because it is comprehensive.

The result is a family of products that not only prevents fleas and other pests from ever biting, but also treats cats if they get fleas. It also has products for inside the home and out in the backyard. This creates a barrier far beyond your pet.

3) For the Cat with a Sneezy Parent

We examined dozens of air purifiers, and we’ve found one that’s quite impressive.

Called Molekule, this purification system is different in that it breaks down irritants at the molecular level. So, it leaves behind pure air that is free from any chemicals.

Other air purifiers have filtration systems, which help to trap pollutants. This one is different — it doesn’t filter the air, it fundamentally changes it.

4) For the Cat with an Appetite

The feeding frenzy may be familiar to you. You put a bowl of food down and before you know it the food is gone.

The brand “Catit” has a variety of nifty products, and the “Senses 2.0 Digger” is a great solution.

It requires dexterity and simulates what it’s like for your cat to hunt for food. Best of all, it helps your cat to slow down and enjoy its meal.

5) For the Cat who Has Everything

Okay, Big Spender, this one’s for you. Go Pet Club has created a series of huge “Cat Trees” and condos.

This is not your momma’s scratching post.

These have ladders, tunnels, swings, plants, and rope bridges.

Kitty Products For Everyone Else

We go to incredible lengths for our furry companions. We love them, and they love us back.

These five products will never replace the love and kindness that pet owners display every single day. Check out our site to ensure you get the best deals on them.

Nevertheless, they’re sure to make for one happy feline.

Are you trying to find a dog food that fits your budget and that offers nutritional value for your pet?

Walking down the grocery aisle to find the perfect dog food can be an overwhelming and confusing task. Brands constantly throw around words like “holistic,” “organic,” and “all-natural,” to entice you to buy. But what do these words really even mean?

If you are considering switching to an organic dog food, don’t just grab the first bag you see off the shelf. First, you need to learn what organic really means before you buy.

Here’s everything you need to know:

What Does Organic Mean?

Organic is a word that gets thrown around a lot. However, most people don’t even know what it means. 

For a dog food to be considered organic, it must comply with all the same USDA regulations human food manufacturers need to.

When a food qualifies as organic, it means it’s been raised pesticide-free for at least three years. Organic livestock must be given organic feed and access to the outdoors.

This can differ greatly from foods that are labeled as “natural” or “holistic.” Foods with this label may not have undergone chemical processes. However, their ingredients are not necessarily organic.

How Can I Tell If It’s Organic?

Organic foods will contain the USDA seal on the front. Typically, the color of the seal is black and white.

In order to receive the USDA seal of approval, the dog food must contain 95 percent organic ingredients. Dog foods that are labeled “100 percent organic” or simply “Organic” must also meet this 95 percent requirement.

Dog foods with the label “Made With Organic Ingredients” must contain at least 70 percent organic ingredients.

If you are going for 100 percent organic, it is important to read the labels carefully.

Why Buy Organic?

Dog foods that aren’t organic often contain a number of suspect ingredients. When you buy organic dog food, you can rest easy knowing that all the ingredients are natural and additive-free.

Here are some benefits to buying organic dog food:

• Improved quality of life
• Stronger immune system
• Fewer digestive disorders
• Reduction in skin ailments
• Allergy reduction
• Healthier coat

What are Some Trusted Brands?

If you are serious about making the switch to organic dog food, it may help to start with a few recommendations. The ones listed below are certified-organic and are available in most large pet food stores.

Castor & Pollux Organix

This company has won numerous awards since its founding in 2003. It offers an extensive line of premium-quality organic dog foods. All food is produced in the United States with organic chicken being their number one ingredient.

Natura Karma

Natura Karma uses extremely gently cooking procedures to ensure the quality of the ingredients isn’t compromised. They use 95 percent organic ingredients with chicken also being their number one ingredient.

Natural Planet

A family-owned pet manufacturer, Natural Planet offers a wide range of products that includes an organic line. Chicken, pumpkin, and brown rice are some of the main ingredients they use in their organic line. The brand is Oregon Tilth certified, which makes it at least 70% organic.

Of course, depending on your dog’s breed and size, it is important to take a look at more than one dog food buying guide. 

Organic Dog Food:  Wrap Up

Buying the right organic food can seriously make a difference in your pet’s life. So we hope this article helps you during your next trip to the pet food store.

Did we forget your favorite organic dog food? Let us know in the comments!