Category: Dogs

Dog information, advice, dog related articles, dog tips and much more

05/14/2013

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

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

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

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

05/01/2013

Fighting Flea and Tick Without Chemicals

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

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

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

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

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.

01/29/2013

Preventative Pet Care: Tips for a Healthier, Happier Pet

You want what is best for your pet, and just like any other family member, you want them to live happily and in good health for as long as they can. However, the same sweet little pooch that is content to just sit in your lap might have serious health issues that he or she can’t tell you about. Also, injuries and accidents happen at the worst possible times and emergency vet bills can be expensive. Taking a few simple precautions can save you big money in the long run.

Besides plenty of exercise, socialization, vaccinations and regular vet checkups, there are many different ways with which to extend your dog’s life. Many dog breeds are more prone to specific health issues like hip dysplasia, glaucoma, breathing disorder, bone cancer and digestive disorders. Ask your vet about what illnesses your dog may be susceptible to. and check the natural supplements for dogs

Listed below are other ways to help your dog stay healthy and age with ease and grace:

Grooming

Keep your dog’s nails clipped and their hair brushed. Even inside dogs can develop joint pains and develop matts associated with poor grooming. You don’t have to take them to the groomer and run up a big bill either. Just regularly brush your pet and buy a cheap pair of nail clippers to do the job. Many vets provide grooming services, as well.

Teeth

Canine dental health is directly related to their overall health. Gum and tooth disease is highly preventable. According to Darlene Arden, author of The Angell Memorial Animal Hospital Book of Wellness and Preventive Care for Dogs (McGraw-Hill), “Rotting teeth and gums are breeding grounds for harmful bacteria, which end up in the bloodstream and can shorten a pet’s life by damaging the heart, liver and kidneys.” Cheap plaque removing treats and dog toothbrushes are available at www.4-legged.com

Heartworm Prevention

Pets.webmd.com states: “A [heartworm] prevention program should be started at 6 to 8 weeks of age in endemic areas, or as soon thereafter as climate conditions dictate. In the Deep South, where mosquitoes are a year-round problem, dogs should be kept on preventive drugs all year long.” Medications like Heartgard can be purchased at major retailers, and the Heartgard even markets prevention medications against fleas and ticks, Or check the natural and healthier way with shampoo and spray to prevent flea and ticks

Neuter/Spay

Have your pet spayed or neutered as early as possible, preferably before they reach sexual maturity—younger dogs heal faster. This will prevent a multitude of health and behavior problems in the future, including many types of cancer. Your dog will not gain weight—that is a myth. Neutering prevents behavioral issues like escaping, becoming aggressive, and spraying when males smell a female in heat. Spayed females are more likely to have an even temperament.

Another important outcome will be reducing the dogs (and cats) population, meaning, less unwanted shelters animal killings

Food

Feed your dog foods that fit the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standarts. A balanced diet consists of good proteins, veggies and fruits and whole grains. Try and avoid foods that contain large amounts of corn and by-products. A healthy dog on higher quality food will ultimately avoid illnesses across the spectrum.

Pet Insurance

Pet insurance companies help you prepare for the emergencies. They usually involve a monthly fee, a little paperwork, and require a pet to be healthy for a year and have no preexisting conditions. It’s important to get your dog on pet insurance while they are young.

Following these guidelines will help prevent major catastrophes with your dog, will help to extend their lives, and will prepare them (and your wallet) for old age. So hold your Chihuahua (or Husky that thinks she’s a lapdog) a little longer knowing that with your help, they’ll be with you for a long time.

01/24/2013

New Puppy Coming Home – Be Prepared

It is exciting having a new baby pup. It’s so much more exciting if he was adopted from a shelter, knowing you gave a good home to this sweet dog.

The list for puppy supply is quite long, but there are few items you can prepare in advance, some of the need and the good to have puppy products

Food – Make sure you have proper food for your dog on its first day. It’s good idea to find what food he is used to, and if you like to replace it, do it gradually. That way good chance he’ll accept it easily without side effects like diarrhea.

Dog Bowls – Two bowls for food and for water. Remember that there are special bowl for long eared dog incase your doggie is one of them. They designed in a way that the ears stay clean and out of the bowl. Personalization is one of the options people like. Raised bowls, country style or contemporary. Country Style Single Pet Diners

Crate – You have two options: the steel or the soft collapsible crate which can be used also as carrier.

For sleeping and for training. Steel or soft folding crate. The steel crates are cold and you can add a crate cover and a pad to make him comfortable. The soft crates can also be use for over night traveling or for car travel. Always buy the size that fits your dog, big enough for lying and standing, and for food or water bowl to be placed in.

Collapsible Soft Pet Crate Carrier Treats – Are the best tool for training. At the beginning give few in order for him to go or stay in his crate. But, make sure not to give to many treats, as they are high in calories. Choose small size for tiny puppies.

Collar Leash and Tag – Always! have a collar on your dog with a TAG NAME and your phone number. I never heard of a dog that did not decided more then once to go for a trip in the neighborhood by himself. Even if he has a chip keep the name tag on. Only small percent of dogs find their way to a vet or rescue center where they have the chip reader.

Choke Free Dog Harnesses Harness – With tiny, small dogs and dogs with wide neck, walking with harness is the best way. You can find today Choke Free and safe harnesses. The good with that type of harnesses is that they protects the trachea by only pulling on the body and not on the neck.

r90nzoml Carrier – For vet visits. Again, make sure you choose the correct size. If you plane to air travel with him, look for one that most air line approve. You’ll find on each airline’s website measurements and other specifications for on board pets. The selection of pet carriers is very big and diverse, for any pet parent to find the best choice for him.

Dental Kit and Teething, Grooming and Shampoo - You can find toys and freeze bones for teething. Start with puppy teeth brushing as early as possible. Get him used by “brushing” with your fingers and after a while move to a toothbrush with especially formulated for dogs toothpaste. You’ll be saving lot of money and he’ll be healthier by keeping his moth clean. The puppy shampoos are more gentle on the skin. You can check the puppy supply we have to offer.

Diapers – Many “Green” diapers and pads are on the market. A new product is the designer washable diaper Overall-Harness. Comes in sizes from 3x-small up to medium, for him and for her.

Remember , It’s all new for you and for him and he needs to adjust to his new home and family. Some pets suffer from separation anxiety and destructive chewing. Be patient, calm him by giving comforting toy or blanket to sleep through the night. It will also help him feel warm and safe, especially in winter time.
In no time you’ll have a wonderful, happy, loving furry best friend.

If I forgot anything, you are welcome to add a comment.