Category: Pets

Are you one of the over 43 million Americans who own a dog?

Do you want to upgrade the over 16 hours of sleep that your beloved kitty cat gets every day (we know, we’re jealous, too)?

If you’re like most people, you already spoil your pets rotten. They probably eat better than you do, dress impeccably, and you’re on their schedule, not vice versa.

Your pet may not be a celebrity (not yet, anyways) but that doesn’t mean they can’t sleep like one!

In this post, we’re sharing just a few of our favorite luxury pet beds, so that your furry friend can dream of chasing mice and squirrels in a fabulous setting!

1. The Felix Chien Toile Dog Bed

Toile isn’t just for wallpaper anymore!

First up on our list of luxury pet beds? This elegant offering from Felix Chien, which depicts a lovely country scene and lots of wildlife to entertain your pet.

You can choose from four different sizes to ensure that your pet has all of the space they need. If you’re crate training your dog, you also have the option to purchase a crate cover and mattress in the same Toile print.

The bed is machine washable for easy cleaning and has a 100% cotton cover to keep your pet comfy in any room in the house.

2. The Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed

Does your pet sometimes struggle with walking? Do they have back or hip problems? Have you just noticed that their fur has a nice salt-and-pepper sheen to it now that they’re getting older?

If so, then this orthopedic dog bed is likely the right choice. Featured on Pawcastle’s guide to choosing the best beds for dogs, it’s expert and pet-approved.

It comes with three foam layers for added comfort that, like a memory foam human mattress, remembers and conforms to your dog’s shape. But don’t worry — the bed doesn’t get “sunken in” after a few weeks.

In fact, it’s been proven to hold almost all of the original shape for nearly 10 years. Even better? It’s cover quickly zips off, so you can toss it in the washing machine when it’s completely covered in fur.

Choose from burgundy, chocolate brown, or khaki brown to fit with your decor and your pet’s personal preference.

3. Beasley’s Couch Pet Bed

Next on our list of luxury pet beds?

This incredible, couch-shaped bed from Beasley. Especially if you’ve been trying (with limited success) to get your furry friend off of your sofa, this bed is exactly what you need to hammer the message home.

We love that it has an overstuffed bolster to support even larger breeds of cats and dogs, and is made from recycled fibers to minimize your impact on the environment.

Additionally, the bed doesn’t shift or mat up, which means that even if your pet is on the more rambunctious side, there won’t be any issues. If you have a larger breed, we highly recommend this option.

4. The Snuggle Sofa Bed From Enchanted Home Pet

Another one of our favorite luxury pet beds is this amazing option from Enchanted Home Pets.

It’s essentially a miniaturized version of a human couch, complete with legs and an elegant backrest!

The legs don’t only elevate the look of the bed. It will also help to keep your pet warm, especially if your home tends to get a bit drafty during the winter months.

We also love the minimalist white and gray pattern of this bed, which is essentially a take on the “hygge” trend for animals.

To clean it, use a damp rag with all-natural cleaning solution — or simply soap and water.

All you need to do is toss their favorite toy on the couch, and they’ll be sleeping peacefully for hours.

5. The Outdoor Chaise Bed From The Refined Canine

Do you have an animal that loves to spend just as much time outdoors as it does indoors?

If so, we think that this curved wicker bed from The Refined Canine is a perfect choice. Especially if you have a larger dog that’s between 55-75 pounds, they’ll enjoy the spacious look and feel of this bed.

Concerned about keeping the bed outside in the wind and the rain? There’s no reason to be. It’s been specially designed to stand up to the elements, and is even waterproof!

The pillow can be washed by machine, and for best results, we recommend letting it dry naturally in the sun to help it keep its shape.

We think it makes a great addition to any outdoor deck or porch.

6. The Haute House Isabella Pet Bed

Let’s be honest — if you’re shopping at Neiman Marcus for items for your pet, then you’re living life the right way.

We just can’t get enough of the final offering on our list of luxury pet beds, the Isabelle bed from Haute House, retailed at Neiman Marcus. It’s available in stark white (for those whose animals find muddy paws unbecoming) or blush pink for the millennial pet in your life.

It’s been designed with an elegant Alder wood frame and even comes with nailhead trim adorned with jewels. So, for pets who know that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, this is simply the only choice.

At 50 pounds, it’s on the heavier side, which is why we suggest that the bed take up a more permanent residence in your home.

Haute House also has several other offerings, including a Hollywood Regency-style circular pet bed that matches perfectly with the human-sized furniture the brand also designs.

Pamper Your Pet With These Luxury Pet Beds

Your pet can now live in the lap of luxury — but instead of falling asleep on your lap, they’ll snooze in one of these luxury pet beds.

Looking for more pet inspiration from your favorite celebrities? Need to find pet-friendly hotels for your next vacation? Can’t resist browsing through the latest trends in dog fashion?

We get it — and we’re here to help.

Spend some time on our website and blog to ensure that your pet is the envy of the park!

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.

Owning a fish tank is one thing, but fish owners interested in taking it up a notch should consider keeping saltwater fish.

Keeping a saltwater fish tank is a bigger challenge than freshwater, but the benefits are immeasurable.

For instance, saltwater tanks replicate actual ocean water and give access to some beautiful reefs and exotic tropical fish. With that said, fish owners will get back what they put into the aquarium — so it’s important to make some sound decisions.

Start by using the tips below in order to build the most attractive saltwater tanks and to keep fish that are healthy and long living.

Understand The Different Types of Saltwater Fish

Researching fish is the first step of setting up an exquisite saltwater fish tank.

Some popular types of saltwater fish include clownfish, blue devil damselfish, angelfish, and gramma. When looking up the different types of fish, it’s crucial to learn what food they eat, their stages of development, breeding information and other important info.

The different attributes that each species has will inform the best ways to take care of these fish. Using that information will strike the right balance in the tank chemistry.

Buy the Right Aquarium

When buying a saltwater fish tank, it’s important to start by choosing the right size. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to buy a tank that is slightly than the buyer thinks they need.

It’s important to leave room both for natural fish growth and to add new fish. A 50-gallon tank is a great aquarium to start with.

On top of buying the aquarium itself, fish owners will need to buy a quality heating mechanism, thermometer, and filters that are efficient and long lasting. This will keep the water clean and comfortable for the fish and will keep them alive.

Get the Accessories That Bring it To Life

A saltwater tank is every bit as much a lifestyle statement as it is a hobby. It adds life and pizazz to home interior in the same way that garden marquees add to the landscape.

Keeping a tank filled with exotic fish is a cool conversation starter any time company is over.

Because of this, many fish tank owners go above and beyond to add the most beautiful reefs, rocks, decorations and other fixtures.

Adding live plant life to saltwater tanks makes the fish more healthy and the tank more attractive. Some examples of live plants that are great for any saltwater aquarium include java moss, pygmy chain sword, anubias nana, and different types of ferns.

Keep the Aquarium Clean

Cleanliness is essential when keeping a saltwater tank. Saltwater leaves more deposits, so must be cleaned more frequently than freshwater tanks.

Always get rid of fish food that isn’t eaten, and swap out the water every week or so. Keep the filters clean and always maintain lighting in order to see when the tank is accumulating too much dirt, waste and algae.

Contemplate these points and start looking for some thrifty DIY ideas that will make the aquarium a beautiful centerpiece in any home.

Share Your Tips

Do you own saltwater fish? Maybe you have a specific type of saltwater fish that you enjoy breeding more than others. Let us know in the comments!

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.

Pet ownership can be pricey. One study found that a dog can cost over $40,000 over its lifetime.

But having a pet doesn’t have to break the bank. You can still give your four-legged friend the care they need while keeping costs down. We’ve got five money-saving tips that will keep both your pet and your wallet happy.

1. Buy Food in (Realistic) Bulk

It’s no surprise that buying pet food in bulk can lower the costs. You’ll pay less per pound by buying a bigger bag, especially with some online retailers.

But these savings are no good if the food goes bad!

Before getting sucked into the idea of bulk savings, think realistically about how much your pet eats. The amount a husky eats will be drastically different than a pug.

Measure out your pet’s daily intake and compare that to the food’s best before date. This way, you can get the best bulk discounts without wasting food (any money).

2. Make Your Own Pet Toys

Have you shelled out for store-bought toys only to see that your cat is more fascinated by a crumpled up tin foil ball?

While you may prefer the look of toys from the pet store, your pets aren’t so picky. There are tons of online tutorials that let you get crafty with household materials.

Plus, you can make it a family event and keep both your kids and pets entertained with the same craft!

3. Be Pro-active

Think of ways that you can avoid future problems and expenses by preparing now. For example, if you drive with your dog in the back seat, get a seat cover.

The seat cover itself isn’t that expensive, but it can save you a ton down the road. If your dog has an unfortunate accident, the cover will ensure you don’t have to pay for a full upholstery cleaning.

This also means preventative care for possible medical problems. Getting dental treats — or better, brushing their teeth — keeps your pets healthy and helps avoid expensive medical bills. Flea and tick medication for dogs who go outdoors can help prevent insect-borne diseases.

4. Don’t Pay for a Kennel

Do you have neighbors or friends with pets? Instead of paying for costly care for your furry friend every time you go out of town, consider making a pet-care agreement.

You agree to take care of your friends’ pets when they’re on vacation, and they’ll do the same for you. Just make sure to keep expectations fair and reasonable for both sides.

5. Brush Up on Grooming

Grooming your pet is definitely something you can do at home. Invest in a good brush and clippers and find some breed-specific grooming tutorials online.

If you’re not comfortable doing all the grooming, you can at least do some maintenance at home to lengthen the time between trips to the pet store.

Wrapping Up

Your pets should always be a source of love and joy, not financial stress. With these easy tips, you can save a ton on pet care without sacrificing their care.

How do you save money on your pet care? Let us know what tips we missed in the replies!