05/19/2013

Summer Water & Land Trip Dog Safety Tool Kit

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Summer brings plenty of enjoyable activities for pet and parents like swimming, hiking and road trips. As much as they all fun, there are also safety issues to be aware to. Being knowledgeable and prepared is the key for preventing unwanted surprises.

1. Plane your trip and make sure pets allowed in.

2. Most trips starts with your car. Rule one is to NEVER leave a pet in a closed car unattended (not even when you just run an errands. The temperature, even if the car parked in the shadow, or it’s not so hot outside, will climb in a very short time to a levels that may cause death. It can take only five minutes in 85 degrees outside to climb to around 102 degrees.

In hot environment dogs can not cool themselves, and the result may-be a heatstroke that may lead to death.

3. Bring water. You’ll need it on the road and in your targeted location. Don’t rely on finding running water at the location. You’ll have a good use of the collapsible travel bowl. It takes no place and has no weight, it just perfect to be always stored in the car. Bowls are $11.99

4. Swimming pool or Waterways trip - NOT all dogs know to swim or love the water. For some dogs it takes longer to learn or get used to.

When in nature, condition may be rough, fast moving water or underwater obstacles. Another danger is dogs falling into the water without you noticing it. All of the above will most likely exhaust any dog trying to swim back or fighting the water. The smaller the dog, the less power he’ll have. Dog’s may have about 20 minutes to be fully exhausted and die. Using a floating vest (life jacket) can save his life by keeping him floating and saving his power. The life jacket are comfortable and keeping the dog in a natural swimming position while reducing the and preventing exhaustion. Most have a reflective lines so they can be seen in the water and a handle on back, for easy grab pet to and from the water. Essential when rescue is performed. From $18.50 and up

5. Hiking or Jogging – Use a good harness, with reflecting material to keep from running away or getting lost. When it’s very hot outside, hiking with pets always bring fresh water. The pet Water bottles for $21.99, are easy to use and it eliminates the need for a bowl. Water is also needed to cool the dog by reducing body heat and prevent heatstroke.

05/14/2013

Friendly Collars – Won’t Let The Dogs (and cats) Out

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Most pet owner experienced at least once the fear of loosing their dog, if by escaping from the backyard, or through the space between a fence rails.

Some dog breeds (like our Tong, a Shiba--inu, for example) just have that characteristic embedded in them, and they’ll take any opportunity to go on an adventure outside all alone.

Preventing escapes can be tricky and expansive. New fence or filling the digging areas won’t solve it, as they’ll dig again. We added extra fence on top of the existing gate from the ground up to the middle. Ha, it did not help.

Max, our Maltese, not to be outdone, found a way under the gate door to go and roam the neighborhood too.

Since they love the outdoors, they spend a lot of the time in the backyard, more than we can baby-sit them.

The last time Tong escaped, we got a phone call from the police saying they have our dog. He said that this time he is giving us only a warning, and next time it’s a fine.

Now, we need to find a creative solution to block all options for these two cute but wild 4 legged from running away, once and for all. (We are against the invisible fence, it needs to be a pet friendly solution.)

And so we did. We found out that the Puppy Bumper Collar actually works!! That is why I decided to have it on 4-legged boutique available for all.

This simple solution for indoor and outdoor use, in your backyard, balcony, or wherever you have a gate for safety. Lightweight, easy to wear, cotton cover with polyester fiber fill stuffing collar. Available in 3 sizes and color / print options. It is machine washable and looks great. Worried about rainy days? There is one made with canvas cover for those rainy days. Prices are from $29.99 for regular small and medium large +$2. The rainy bumpers from $29.99 for small and medium, large +$2.

Simple solution for big problem.

Visit our pet boutique 4-legged.com for more great pet ideas and products.

05/08/2013

Safe Car Traveling With Pets

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While traveling, whether it is a short drive around the block, the vet or a cross-country road trip, it is recommended to keep your pets occupied and comfortable. (unless your dog is the driver:)) Now, that the weather is warmer, and summer almost here, most are traveling more. Hence, it’s time to prepare all we need to make our travels safe and enjoyable.

Car Seat – best way to travel with your pet is by using a car seat. designed for your dog, and fits the dog’s size. A car seat is comfortable for the pet, it includes a seat belt to attach it to the car and belt for your pet’s safety. While driving he can not distracts you and in case of emergency stop or an accident, he’ll stay in the chair safe. Materials, colors and size differ. Price range for car seats - between $57.00 up to $209.00. for a car seat that can occupied two small dogs.

Carrier / Soft Crate is second option– should be closed tightly, but yet easy to open and close. It should be roomy enough for the pet stand or lie down. The reason for using crate in the car is to minimize any potential distraction, or pet opening and leaving the carrier. You can also put his favorite toy or blanket, to make him feel good. Starts at $54.99 For our crate collection

Both in one (or more) – If you travel often, an economical and space saving decision would be a carrier or stroller that is a car seats too. Two in one (or more like air line approved and backpack) starts $73.80

See our all in one pet car seat carriers

Safety Harness – allows pet to sit or lay down on the car seat while safely secured to vehicle seat belt. Padded chest for maximum comfort. Some harnesses are good for use in car and for walking too. Available in Red, Black, Brown, Beige Price starts at $22.99 depending on the dog size and manufacturer.

Car Seat Covers – protects your car seats from shed fur and dirt your pet might have picked up along the way. They are easy to install and clean. There are covers for SUV, covers for rear bench, for front seat, hammock. Choice of colors, prints and materials. From $54.99 and up

Car Safety Barriers – if your pet tries to jump over through your bucket seat from the back seat, you may find the car barrier helpful. Barriers made of steel or mesh so the pet can see you and you can see him. Door guard shield for keeping car door from scratches, from $39.00

Ramp – very useful for elderly pets, disabled pets, large pets that cannot be lifted, or too tiny to jump into the car. In addition, it saves the pet owner the backbreaking work of lifting their pets. They are light, foldable and portable for use at home or outside. size when fully open - 42″, 66″ and 71″. From $84.00 on sale. Go to ramps and steps page

Food/Drink and Bowls – when you are on a long trip, always bring a good amount of food treats and drink for the trip. You may bring some extra so you will never fall short. Also, for added convenience you may include the Lookout Travel Rack that allows your pet to have food and water while on the go.

Remember

Collar/Tags – keep them on your pet throughout the whole trip. There is always a chance of your pet running off during the trip.

Never leave your pet in the vehicle unattended. Pets can die from heat exhaustion in a short time in hot weather, even if you park in a shade. If you have an emergency and need to leave the car, take your pet with you.

For all pet’s car travel accessories visit our 4 legged boutique

05/05/2013

Figuring The Right Serving Size for Your Dog

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Manufacturers like to suggest on their food packages an overly broad range of serving sizes. Blindly follow these directions, they could be significantly overfeeding or underfeeding their dog.

What’s in the food ?

Canned Foods – Usually have higher-quality protein, fewer preservatives and fillers. Also, most times they have fewer calories and carbohydrates

Dry Foods – Often are nutritionally balanced. They have more meat by products, but chewing helps knocking tartar off the teeth. It is also tends to be cheaper and easier to store.

Home Prepared Foods – It is important that your dog would receive all the nutritional needs. Since meeting all the nutritional needs every time is almost impossible, you could feed your dog home-prepared foods that vary and balance over time.

What is the serving size?

Each dog has its own energy needs that vary with size, age, and activity level; therefore, it is impossible to predict the exact serving size for your dog.

You should start with the feeding instructions on the food package, and weigh your dog every few weeks. According to weight, adjust the serving size up or down as needed to maintain the ideal weight.

If your dog is energetic and keeps his figure trim, then he is probably eating the right amount.

How often should you feed your dog?

Adult dogs should receive two servings, one in the morning and one in the evening. This will help monitor your dog’s intake, his health, and regulate his routines.

Special needs dog bowls

Fast eaters – If your dog eats too fast, you can slow down his eating hobbits by using this type of bowl . Fast eating may cause dogs to choke and gag on food when their intake isn’t controlled. This bowl designed with obstacle in the middle of the bowl, so it doesn’t allow for a direct route to the food. They must work around the hollow addition and this slows them down.

Long eared dogs – If your dog’s ears are in the food then this bowl designed with a narrower opening and is taller than typical dog bowls. This allows access only for
your pets face, thus keeping those ears out of the food and water.

Tall dogs – for healthier posture large and tall dogs, as well as older pets should eat from taller diners. It is easier especially if they have joint or hip issues.

See our collection of treat jars and dog bowls

05/03/2013

Help, My Kitty Destroying the Furnitures

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Cats are funny, curious and playful. But every cat owner had the “pleasure” of catching his cat scratching his nice and sometimes expensive furniture and carpets. In fact, the main reason for not adopting or surrounding cats back to shelters is just that.

The declawing debate

Declawing, is not allowed anymore in many states and countries. The reason against are that it is cruel and inhuman. That starching and scratching (usually done together) is enjoyable to cats and declawing eliminates this instinct. To my humble opinion it is totally not true. We declawed my 20 years old cat when she was a tiny kitty. She never stopped starching and scratching as if she had her claws. The recovery took only two days. BUT, she could never go out. Declawed cats can not be safe outside, can not climb a tree if they are afraid, and can not fend if needed. Maybe I don’t know all the facts to object this surgery. If we need a law against pet cruelty I would suggest not allowing to cut the vocal cord to dogs who participate in contests, or removing tails and cutting ears because it looks nicer.

Why do cats scratch
Scratching is an instinctive need. It sharpen the nails. It feels good. It loosen the muscles as they starch while scratching.

Stop kitty from scratching

Impossible!!! As i mentioned above, it is natural and normal behavior for cats to scratch. But you can teach her to use alternative objects for her pleasure.

First – cut your cats nails regularly to reduce damage from scratching. Be-careful not to cut to deep, you can read on how to clip cats nails here

Second - Provide your cat an alternative he’ll like and so do you. There is a big variety of cheap or more expansive scratching surfaces, with deferent shapes, materials and colors, depends on your space and budget. You may choose the one that blends with the home décor or a cats tree to combine playing, napping and scratching. Usually they are covered with carpet or sisal that are attractive to cats.

Make her love the new scratcher

If she has a favorite place to scratch, cover it (if possible) with double-sided carpet tape or thick plastic and place the new post near that place in the room where she spends most time. The best way to attract her is to rub catnip on the post. Sometime the catnip come with the scratcher or you cab buy the organic catnip separately and use it on toys and her bed too. Cats just LOVE it.

Each time I saw my cats using my carpet, I would bring them to the pod and gently rub their paws against it. It Worked for me!

Have more suggestions, let me know.

05/01/2013

Fighting Flea and Tick Without Chemicals

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Fleas and ticks are on my top list of “Why they’ve been created” They blood sucking

and disease transmitting, so why? Well, I don’t know.

Treating tick on your dog (or on your body) is not as treating fleas.

Ticks

There are few tick types but the biggest concern is the deer tick that is responsible for transmitting Lyme disease to people. There are few tick types but the biggest concern is the deer tick that is responsible for transmitting Lyme disease to people.

Removing tick

In order to remove a tick you’ll need fine-tipped tweezers so you can remove it without squeezing and letting the bacteria he carries to leave the tick and enter your pet’s bloodstream. Grab it in his head and pull outward with steady hand (do not twist). Kill it with alcohol!! Wash your hands thoroughly to prevent any possible infection.

Preventing ticks

To keep ticks away from your dog starts with keeping him (your pooch) groomed. Long hair or fur makes it hard to observe them. Brush him everyday while checking especially near the eyes, nose or (inside and outside the ears). But remember that they can be found just about anywhere on your dog’s body.

Fleas

The fleas prefer temperatures of 65-80 degrees and humidity levels of 75-85 percent, But in some areas fleas have a perfect temp. all year round. The female lives few weeks, while on a pet with warm blood, she’ll suck blood few times and lay several hundred eggs on the pet. The eggs, some will fall in the surrounding inside the house (everywhere) and outside the house. When the time arrives they’ll be grown fleas ready to suck blood too.

The flea’s bites cause itching. For sensitive and allergic animal, it can be quite severe and leads to hair-loss, inflammation and skin infections. Dogs who are hypersensitive to the flea’s saliva may have itch all over even from a single flea bite.

Prevention

Flea infestation occurs through contact with other animals or contact with fleas in the outside.

The outside – Since they love dense and tall grass keep it grass short and create a barrier between the lawn and the surrounding vegetation.

The inside – Because the life cycle of the flea and the amount of eggs she leaves behind her, cleaning the house is not enough, only preventing is the answer.

Pets – Keep them groomed and bath. Check daily for fleas. Use flea and tick products as a prevention.

Remember – In order to get good results, if you have more than one pet then you’ll need to treat all your pets at the same Time.

Natural flea and tick care

The flea and tick products on the market approved to be harmful to big number of dogs and cats because the chemicals. The natural remedies have proven to be safe and gentle on the body without the harsh side effects of the strong and toxic chemicals. Usually they contain Garlic, Peppermint Oil and Clove extract, Citrus with other beneficial oils for the coat and skin.

The line of the natural products include today shampoos, spray for the kennel and the outside, and itch relief spray from bites. They are great for any pet and especially for sensitive and allergic pets.

04/30/2013

Baseball Dog Fans Has Their Own Gear

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Baseball season is off to a great start. Get your pup in the game. Good for the season and good for everyday. All items are officially licensed by the MLB.

With all the great official licensed by the MLB gear, it’s time to dress up your pup for the coming Baseball season.

The MLB Licensed Dog jerseys Made of a mirco-mesh polyester and velcro closure with button trim and V-neck. From small up to x-large size. $34.95 – $36.95

6yi2k2vp Bandanas for all teams features a sewn in loop to slide over dog collar and. Constructed in micro mesh polyester. Available in 2 size small and large. $13.00

If you looking for a baseball pup cap we have it in the team color or for the lady dog in Pink. (Pink jersey available too for some teams). The caps made with Cotton twill fabric with velcro side closures and an adjustable chin strap. Price for small or large $17.95

Officially Licensed MLB dog tee shirt of all teams. Features: V-neck design featuring the MLB team logo. Made of 100% cotton. Machine washable. From small up to x-large. Price for all size $24.95

0uat88q3 Collars and leashes Adjustable nylon collars officially licensed Major League Baseball. This collar closes with a hard plastic locking clasp for easy access on and off. Available from small up to large.$15.00

Major League Baseball dog leash! The leash is six feet long and 3/4 inch wide and has a metal clip for easy access on and off. $22.00

For the hungry pooch!! Bowls made of stainless steel with a no-tip shape. A non-skid rubber base. Measurements: 7 inches in diameter for the bowl, 10 inches in diameter for the base, 3.5 inches tall. $19.90

After a good game and tasty meal it’s bed time. Let him dream on a rectangle dog bed of his team. The team logo is printed on a fabric cover and the underside of the bed is a super soft long-pile fleece.
Size: 27 in. by 36 in. Price $56.95

Let your doggies barkin’ for their team. And if you don’t see your team, drop me a line and i’ll get it for you Go Team!

04/27/2013

Dealing with Pets shedding Season

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Most of us, pet owners, have to deal with our dogs and cat shedding year round. Bur it gets so much worse when season changes. Sometimes i need to vacuum the house even twice a day with my 3 dogs and two cats. Yes, it’s quite annoying, but i would not change anything. With the love and happiness they bring home, this is only a small fee to pay.

Shedding can not be eliminated totally, but there are few steps to ease the pain (of my arm from cleaning).

This one goes to cats and dogs – grooming. Use a good brush and let them enjoy. Do it as often as you can. If you can do it daily that is great. You should choose the right brush to fit pup’s hair / fur. Cats have their brush too.

Bath your doggie – I know it’s not an easy task convince most pups to bath (i know mine when it’s time, and they hide like it helps them). After bathing brush him and you’ll collect all the loos hair that would be on the floor tomorrow if he did not bath today.

Try changing his diet – Healthy and balanced diet gives the fur shining and healthy look. Always check the ingredient and make sure Protein, meat, minerals are in first line. Low nutrients may cause excessive shedding and vice versa.

Supplements for anti-shedding – vitamins, and essential oils may improve shedding. The best is to ask your vet for recommendation.

Other than that – just vacuum and use the sticky lint roller remover, and do not wear Black….Yea

If you a tip to add here, please do.

03/06/2013

Mother Dog Saving Her Pups From The Fire

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The story behind the pictures

During an early morning response to a house fire, firefighters were amazed…A Mother dog risked her life to save her puppies from the fire surrounding the burning house…The Mother dog, Amanda, raced back and forth between the house, putting her 10 day old puppies in the Safest place she could find – a Fire Truck! …

As an onlooker photographed it with his cell phone after she already had a few in one of the truck’s equipment compartments. She didn’t stop racing back into the smoke and fire until all of her puppies were safely away from the fire.

The firemen on scene could not believe their eyes. Most people have never seen a dog this smart or this brave! Bringing each one out, six trips into the fire and no one could stop her.

All the firemen could do was to try to keep a little water spray on her to keep from singing as she kept making trips running through the open door. You can see some of the singed hair on her back end, forehead and lower legs. After rescuing all of her pups from the blaze, Amanda sat down next to them to nurse, protecting them with her body. Onlookers called an emergency veterinary service, and she and her pups were rushed to the hospital. Aside from one puppy being treated for serious burns, the entire family are alive and well! Thanks to the bravery of Amanda! What a heroic mother! How Great!!

02/11/2013

Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Pets

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February is the month to share our love with those closest to us. Whether you say, “I love you” with words or with a special gift, it’s nevertheless important to express the sentiment. To most pet owners, showing love to our pets just comes naturally, but why not celebrate the famous day of love, Valentine’s Day, with a special gift for your best furry friend? They’ll always appreciate the extra love! Not quite sure what to get? Here are some wonderfully unique gift ideas to get you started.
Sleeveless Couture Dog Tee Red – Keep Calm and Love Me

Remind yourself and your pup to relax and enjoy what matters in life! A play on the trendy “Keep calm and carry on” phrase, your dog won’t be able to help but snuggle up inside, or fend off the cold outside. This red T-shirt fits most sizes, and is made from cotton, allowing your dog to stay warm—but not too warm—in style. The fabric also stretches, so this dog tee won’t be too restrictive, allowing for freedom of movement.
Blue Hearts Sugars Bows

Give your dog or cat a little extra bling this holiday. And because blue isn’t a traditional Valentine’s Day color, your pet will have the benefit of standing out in a crowd. This beautiful, silky blue ribbon with a sparkly heart in the middle will have your pet look sassy in seconds—without looking overdone. It comes with three different clasps, alligator clip, barrette, or French barrette, so you can have the choice of clipping it to their collar, or directly on their fur for long-haired breeds. Never underestimate the value of a cute accessory!

Open Top Pet Carrier Faux Suede Hot Pink w/ Brown Trim

For the pet owner who may have something more practical in mind, this carrier bag is both fun and stylish. In pink faux-suede with brown trim, this posh case comes in small and medium, providing your pet (up to 8 lbs.) with as much space s you want. With padded sides and an opening up front, your buddy can see what’s going on around them, or curl up and nap, without worrying about getting bumped or jostled.
Soft Velvet Pink Cat Bed

Most cats believe they are royalty on a normal day—may as well relent and make that belief a reality with this posh cat bed. Velvety soft, hot pink, and elevated, it’s every feline’s idea of comfort and style. Don’t have a cat, but a small or toy breed dog instead? This neat little bed will certainly do the trick for them, too. And pet owners should not be worried by the fabric because it’s machine washable, and easy to care for. Also, the bottom is made of skid-free materials to help your pet when they decide to hop up for bed.

Woof Caliente Pink Swarovski Crystal Lead Feel like splurging on your beloved pup this holiday? Then here is the gift for you! Covered in Swarovski crystals this beautiful designer lead will give your dog the room it needs to roam in style! Made for mini, small and medium (up to 44 lbs.) dogs, this retractable lead extends up to 10-16 ft. (depending on which lead you purchase). Add some sparkle to your pup’s daily routine with this great gift!
Whether big or small, show your best friend a little extra love with the perfect gift this Valentine’s Day. From accessories to utilities, we’ve got them all—and you can be sure your little furry one will thank you for it!
Angie Picardo is a staff writer for NerdWallet, a website dedicated to helping consumers alleviate debt with the best balance transfer cards.