Category: Learn How to…

Find how to: choose the right dog bowl or what is the carrier size your pet need. What about training your cat to use her carrier and much more.

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.

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.

10/26/2012

Pets and Family Prepare for Emergancy

Whether its Sandy hurricane, storm or other emergency situation you need to prepare a survival kit for the family and your pets. Being prepared means less stress and worry.

Keep FOOD for at least 3 days in waterproof container, for the family and for your pets.

Store WATER for the family and the pets

Put the MEDICINES for both family and pets in a waterproof package and any medical record you’ll need

Always have your pet wear ID tag with your information on it. Prepare second collar, leash and harness. All important papers including vet, vaccinations, adoption and medical. You may also want to have a life jacket ready.

In case of evacuation you’ll need a CARRIER or a CRATE. Make sure it’s big enough for the pet to be able to stand or lay down. You never know how long he’ll have to stay in it.

Have your pet favorite TOY and BLANKET in the crate. This can help him feel less stressed.

Have a FIRST AID KIT for the family and pets with bandages, antibiotic ointment, scissors and other basics.

If you have a cat, don’t forget the LITTER BOX. If not possible you can use newspapers

Keep with you a PICTURE of you and the pets together. It will help you claim and prove ownership in case you separated.

PLANE AHEAD how and where you’ll go if you need to evacuate. Find a local shelter, check if animals allowed If not, try to find a friend or family out of the area that will be able to host your pet. Have a list of all important contacts with phone numbers like public shelters and animal shelters in the area, neighbors, vet, Human Society, animal hospitals etc. Keep it on you with the picture in a waterproof plastic bag. More information http://www.ready.gov

TALK to your vet and look for more information on your state emergency internet page.

02/21/2012

Cats – Choose The Right Pet Carrier – Part 1

Pet carriers, so many pet carriers are on the market, so many shapes, colors, materials and so on. I know i love Pink and i have a 4-legged SHE so I’ll buy a Pink carrier. What’s next?

Ok. So before you buy the Hot Pink pet carrier, here are a few points to consider:

* Is it for a dog or a cat

* Is it for short visits to the vet or for long trips

* Is the carrier is for air-line travel

* What are my pet measurements, and how should i measure him.

* Am i a designer person or i do not care

There are no CAT CARRIERS only PET CARRIERS. You can browse all pet carriers for your cat, just don’t fall in love with the big sizes. If you have a small dog and a cat, you can use the same bag for both. that way you can save some money.

The first difference between dog and cat carriers is the open top option and the entry opening. Cats obviously won’t be satisfied with just peeking out to the world. Good chanced are he’ll jump out to tour the world, with you running after him, calling his name, crying and oops,,,he’s no longer in eyesight. So rule # one – cats need closed carrier.

Have you tried lately putting your cat into his carrier? If you did, then you know how frustrating it can be, not to mention the scratches on your hands. Now imagine a tiny opening, frightened cat and scheduled vet appointment in the next 10 minutes, Hmm..well, rule # two – a wide enough opening is a must. Big enough for your hand to grab kitty and insert her in.

Please, please measure kitty before ordering. Measure height, length (don’t forget to add the head and add few inches for the tail) and width. Rule # three – not all cats created equal, some cats are small and skinny, others big and fat. Be sure to choose a size where kitty feels conformable to lie, turn, and if it’s a long trip – sitting and standing would be greatly appreciated by any cat. Soft cushion is a plus.

With long travels it would be wise to have water and some food inside the carrier, and you’ll have to think about litter too.

Cats are very curious creatures, so when it comes to my cats, i am always looking for a carrier with nice big mesh windows, to let then explore the world while in bag. Rule # four -large window makes cats less stressed and less vocal.

From the big selection of pet carriers you’re sure to find the one that fits your cat and your taste.

Now that you know what type of cat carrier you need, it’s only the beginning of the journey. Next post i’ll give few tips on how to get the cat into the carrier without a struggle… Meow

02/15/2010

Choosing The Right Type of Leash for Your Dog

So which leash should I choose?

Nylon Leashes

Nylon leashes are very durable and washable, and come in a variety of colors. Many owners like to get matching collars and leashes.

Leather Leashes

Leather leashes are very durable and long lasting. Leather softens from the oils in your skin, which is easier on the hands. Leather leashes are also easier to grip.

Retractable Leashes

A unique feature about a retractable leash is the ability to control how little or how much lead the dog is given. The nylon lead is rolled up and housed within a plastic casing that you hold in your hand. A spring-type function allows the lead to automatically lengthen or shorten (retract) as the dog travels. Imagine retractables working somewhat like a fishing pole. You hold the housing of the lead in your hand and use the lead to “reel your dog in” if necessary. A one-button braking system stops the dog from traveling any farther. It also serves as a locking mechanism should you want to keep your dog at a consistent distance.

Retractable leads are great if you:

* Walk your dog

* Have a dog tied outside

* Own a large dog (the braking features are helpful in controlling large dogs)

* Will be traveling with your dog

* Are tired of messy, tangled leads

Cotton Webbed Leashes

Leads also come in a cotton webbing material that is washable, easy on the hands, and economical. They come in a variety of lengths. The 20-foot length, known as a “long line,” is ideal to use when teaching your dog to come when called. This allows your dog the freedom to roam a distance away from you while still maintaining control.

Tie-Outs and Chains

Tie-outs and chains are for dogs that spend time outdoors. Tie-outs are like stakes that are placed in the ground. A chain is attached to the tie-out so that the dog has room to move about, yet is restricted to a certain area. These are handy if you travel, or like to spend time outdoors, such as with camping or for a day at the park.

Check our fashionable pet collars, leashes and harnesses

02/04/2010

Choosing the Right Dog Collar and Dog Harness

There are a couple of items that every dog should have — a collar of some sort and a leash. There’s such an assortment of dog collars and leads (leashes) available it can be rather overwhelming when making a choice. Here are some guidelines to follow when making your selection.

How Heavy Should the Collar and Leash Be?

Generally, the collar and leash you choose is merely a matter of personal preference. The most important thing is to remember is to get a collar that fits properly, and a leash that is neither too heavy nor too light for the dog you have. Every pet should wear a collar with an identification tag that gives your name, address, and phone number.

Getting the Proper Fit

That depends on the size of your dog. A large, strong dog can easily break a collar or leash that is lightweight, so they need a heavier collar and leash. Smaller dogs, on the other hand, don’t need to carry around a heavy, wide collar and leash.

For your dog to be safe and comfortable, the collar must fit correctly. Here’s the rule of thumb (or should we say finger?):

Place two fingers between the dog’s neck and the collar; there should be no more than the width of those two fingers between the neck and collar. Any looser than this and the collar could slip over the dog’s ears. Check the collar occasionally to see if your dog has any redness or hair loss under the collar.

Choosing the Type of Collar For Your Dog

Buckle Collars

Buckle collars are overall the best choice of collar for most dogs in most situations. Puppies should wear only buckle collars or harnesses. Buckle collars come in a variety of colors, are made with various materials, and even come in styles that make a real fashion statement!

Nylon Collars

Nylon collars are good for dogs that are in water a lot. Nylon is very durable and washable, and come in a variety of colors. Many owners like to get matching collars and leashes, and some owners even like to match the color of the collar to the color of their dog’s coat!

Leather Collars

Leather collars wear well and are very long lasting. Collars also soften from the oils in your dog’s skin. Rolled leather collars (round instead of flat) are designed for longhaired dogs and keep the hair from lying flat against the coat.

Training Collars

Training collars such as “choke chains” and “pinch” collars are meant to be used for training purposes ONLY. There is a right and a wrong way of putting these collars on and should only be used during a training session by experienced hands. They are designed to briefly tighten and apply pressure when the trainer is delivering a correction. Never leave a dog unattended with one of these collars on as they may cause injury or strangulation if the collar was to get caught on something. Never use a training collar as your dog’s everyday collar, and never put your dog on a tie-out with a training collar.

A harness is placed around the dog’s chest and ribcage, and therefore eliminates the potential for choking. These are popular for dogs that tend to pull while they are being walked. Parti Poodle Express recommends using a harness type collar for all poodle puppies at least up to the age of 1 year.

View all our selection of Dog Harnesses and fancy collars

04/19/2009

Choosing The Right Dog Bowl

You certainly have a choice when it comes to food and water bowls for your dog.

Quick Tips from www.4-legged.com

Use a stainless steel bowl if your dog is a nibbler.
Stainless steel bowls are the easiest to sanitize.
Ceramic bowls must be sanitized daily. Replace cracked or scratched bowls immediately.
Use heated water bowls during cold weather to avoid freezing.
Make sure to wash bowls with hot soapy water.
Keep a second set of dishes to use while the other is being cleaned.
Use a storage container or can covers to keep food fresh (and keeps critters out).

Bowl Types

Stainless Steel Bowls
Ceramic Bowls
Plastic Bowls
Weighted Bowls
Bowls For Long-Eared Dogs
Heated Bowls
Self-Feeders and Waterers
Cleaning Bowls and Feeders
Food Storage

Stainless Steel Bowls
Stainless steel bowls are durable, long lasting and are great if your dog tends to nibble on her bowl! They are easy to clean and are the easiest to sanitize, which is why they are the choice of many veterinarians.

Ceramic Bowls
Ceramic bowls and crocks are good for dogs that like to move their bowls around. Since ceramic is the heaviest of materials used for feeding bowls, your dog will eat her food without moving across the floor at the same time. These bowls are very durable and long lasting. Because they are very porous, it is critical that they be cleaned and sanitized daily. It is recommended that a cracked ceramic dish be replaced because it is likely to harbor bacteria in the cracks.

Plastic Bowls
Plastic bowls come in a variety of colors and are lightweight, unbreakable, and economical. Plastic bowls are not for dogs that tend to chew on their bowls, as small fragments of plastic could be chewed off and swallowed. You can use human plastic bowls.

Weighted Bowls
If your dog can’t stop tipping over the water bowl, try a weighted bowl, or one that is wider at the bottom. We can’t guarantee that your dog won’t outsmart the bowl, but it just might slow him down and take some of the fun out of tipping it over all the time! Maybe the corner bowls do the job.

Bowls For Long-Eared Dogs
Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, Afghans, Poodles and other long-eared dogs have a unique problem. These dogs have difficulty with their ears falling into their food while they eat. Food bowls that are deeper and have a narrower opening allow the ears to hang to each side of the bowl instead of falling inside the bowl.

Self-Feeders and Waterers
Self feeders and waters are handy for the owner, who is gone for most of the day or even overnight. These types of bowls are best for dogs that are fed “free choice,” meaning that there is always food available for the dog to eat at any time. If your dog enjoys feeding “free choice”, and you don’t want your dog to have to depend on you to replenish the supply of food, then consider using a self feeder. However, if your dog tends to gobble up all his food just because it’s there, then a self feeder is not for your dog since this behavior could lead to obesity.

Cleaning Bowls and Feeders
All dishes should be washed with hot soapy water daily to avoid the growth of bacteria. Having a second set of dishes always comes in handy while the other one is being cleaned. Replace scratched dishes that can harbor bacteria.

Food Storage

When considering bowls for your dog to eat and drink from, don’t forget about a storage container and scoop if your dog eats dry kibble. Keeping the food in a container with a lid extends the life of the food, reduces the breakdown of vitamins, and maintains freshness. It also keeps unwanted critters from getting into the food (this may even include your own dog!). If your dog is a canned food lover, using a can cover will help keep the food fresher if you don’t use the whole can at one feeding.

Check all our designer food bowls

02/01/2008

Tips for selecting dog clothes

· It is essential that the dog clothes fit the dog comfortably to keep them secured in place even in the most rigorous activities.
· The dog clothes must provide protection for your pet against harmful elements like thick bushes and thorns.
· Dog clothes must protect your dog from his sensitivity to harsh weather elements, however this may depend on the weather condition, the type of coat your dog has and the time he spends outside. The short-coated breeds have the greater tendency of developing more sensitivity to rain and cold weather, on the other hand, thick furred breeds are equally vulnerable to water. The dog clothe you choose in this case are ones which are designed to close-in warmth while protecting him from harsh weather. Also, there are dog raincoats designed to keep him dry during rainy days.

The correct way to measure your pooch: In order to find out the right size of clothing that will feet your dog you need to take accurate measurements. Make sure your dog is standing, and use measuring tape as follows:

A Measure pet’s back length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.

B Measure neck circumference
C Measure the broadest part of the chest
Then, check the measurement of the manufacture for each clothe

Remember, dog clothing don’t just look good, but they also have purpose.

01/22/2008

Dog Toys, When, Why, What

Dogs like playing. like we didn’t know that. But do we know why and in what way it helps them.

When puppies play, they learn how to interact with other dogs, and to develop skills. It simulating their mental and physical skills. Just like infant puppy needs games in his early stage of life. When they bored they’ll find other ways to amuse themselves, most of the time in a way we, the owners, don’t really like. like nibbling our shoes or chew the carpet.
different breeds like different games. They all like running and chasing, but some breeds prefer the hide and seek games, while others like chasing and shaking toys.
It is important to give a pooch games that match his size. Not too big, so he can bite it, and not too small so he won’t swallow it. The toys should be well constructed, so they won’t be dismantled in no time, and can become a choking hazard.
Today you can find huge variety of pet toys, so be caution when you buy them.

10/26/2007

Safety Tips for Pets During Times of Disasters.

It can be hurricane season, fire, flood, whatever it is, you should be ready, so you can keep your pet sound and safe.

What you need to prepare for an emergency:
*Keep pet carriers, leashes,harnesses and dog tag in good condition and reachable.
*Place medications and medical records, including proof of current vaccinations, in a waterproof container

*A two week supply of any medication your pet may be taking on a regular basis and familiar food and water

* Pack first aid supplies for pets

* Blanket if it’s cold days

*An information sheet including: medical conditions and treatment schedule if needed, feeding instructions, name and phone number of your vet or a kennel outside your area in case you need it.

*Photos of your pet in case it gets lost.

*Attach your name and information to the back of the dog tag, if you know the phone # where you’ll be, add it too.

*Today there are many friendly pet hotels/motels, make a list and phone #, maybe you’ll need to use it.

*Consider having your pet micro-chipped in case it is lost or you are separated

*Place an emergency decal on your front window or door; if disaster strikes while you are not home, this decal will alert rescuers of the animals inside. Good idea for everyday.

I know you know it all. But we usually postpone things and them we are sorry……..