Tips For Protecting Your Pet In The Chilly Weather

Don't drop the ball when the temperature drops. Use these easy tips to keep your pet warm and safe during the chilly winter months.

Don't forget to provide adequate shelter and snacks
Remember that Pets need adequate shelter from wind and rain when the temperatures drop. Older, chronically ill or debilitated Pets may have more difficulty during cold weather. While the best course of action is to leave your Pet inside during cold weather, if you must leave your Pet outdoors, increase his or her food intake. When Pets are exposed to cold weather, they require extra calories to stay warm.

Freezing temps call for a slumber party - Bring in the doggies!
Pets are safer indoors in freezing weather. Dogs need outside exercise but only for limited periods – be attentive to body temperature and limit time outdoors, especially to prevent frostbite on ears and feet. If you suspect frostbite, seek veterinary attention.

An icy water bowl is no fun for anyone
Cold temperatures can freeze drinking water left outdoors. Your Pet can also damage his or her paws trying to break through icy surfaces. In freezing temperatures, you need to check the water frequently or purchase a heater for your Pet's water bowl.

Antifreeze, the attractive nuisance
Regular antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is attractive to Pets because it has a sweet taste. Even in very small quantities, the ingestion of antifreeze can be fatal. Licking antifreeze off the floor of the garage is enough to be dangerous. Check your car for coolant leaks and clean up spilled antifreeze immediately. Optimally, use antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol, which won't hurt Pets, wildlife or family members.

Check for chilly kitties before starting your engine
Cats may climb onto vehicle engines seeking warmth during cold weather. Severe, sometimes fatal injuries can result from being struck by a moving fan belt. Be sure to knock on or check under the hood before starting your vehicle and honk the horn to startle any Pets who may have sought shelter underneath your vehicle.

Pet-friendly de-icing is a must
The salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice may irritate the pads of your Pet's feet. Wipe the feet with a damp towel every time when coming in from outdoors – even if you don't see salt on the walkways. Many pet stores sells a pet-friendly de-icing product that is safe for use around Pets or young children.

Indoor Pets may need some extra monitoring too
Some Pets, such as reptiles or tropical fish may be temperature-sensitive to cold air. Pay attention to room temperatures to ensure that these Pets don't get chilled. Also, bundle up your babies if they are cold. Remember, hot air rises so your pup may get chilly. Put a sweater on him, or give him an extra blankie for those cold nights!

Max wears a sweater and scarf to keep him cozy on chilly days!

Summer Safety Tips for Your Pet

As summer quickly approaches, there are a few tips to keep in mind to keep your pet healthy and happy.

Never leave your pet in the car. Though you may only be running a quick errand, it only takes a few minutes for your pet to overheat. Even if it feels cool outside and your windows are down, the sun can raise the temperature inside your car to over 120 F in a matter of minutes. I know it is difficult for those of you who, like me, like to take your baby everywhere with you. However, your pet will be much happier and safer at home in a temperature controlled environment.

Maxy says, "Are you leaving me in here?!?" No way, Maxy!

Provide ample water. Water should always be accessible to your pet. Even if you only put out food once or twice a day, be sure to always have water available. We always have at least two water bowls available for Max just in case. And if you plan to go on a car trip or other outdoor activity, don't depend on alternative water sources. Be sure to take your own water and bowl. Pets are often more comfortable drinking out of their own dish and will be more likely to stay hydrated.

Be careful when cutting. Before you get your dog that "high and tight" summer haircut, talk to your vet or groomer to determine if your pet is likely to get a sunburn. Some pets, particularly those with light skin and hair, are prone to sunburns. Sunburns effect pets in the same way they do humans: pain, peeling, itching and even the increased likelihood of skin cancer. If you decide to go with the short cut, as we do with Max, you may want to layer him in a light-weight shirt when going out in the sun.

To avoid sunburn, Maxy opted for a tee while sightseeing

Don't let your pet overdo it. Though exercise is important to all pets, make sure your pet doesn't overexert himself. This could lead to your pet being overheated, and thus a heatstroke. So long as your pet is a healthy weight, this shouldn't be much of a problem. But if your pet begins to pant uncontrollably, then it is time to rest. If your pet does have a heatstroke, place cool, wet towels on hairless parts of the body, such as the belly, and call your vet immediately.

Max is taking a break... he doesn't want to overdo it!

Does anyone else have a summer safety tip? If so, please add it to our list!

Happy summer, everyone!

Cetacea Step-In Harness Review

This step-in dog harness, found at some Petco stores and at Cetacea's online store, is one of the most amazing dog products I have ever come across. I learned about Cetacea and their plethora of dog supplies when I answered an ad for a dog model. After Max modeled we were given the products to try.

The Cetacea step-in harness is so easy to use. Your dog just steps in it and then it fastens on the back. It is a real time saver because you don't have to hassle with trying to stick their head through and then fumble with the fastening device. It is so quick and easy that Max knows to just step right in, and then step out the door.

Not only is it easy to use, but it is made in a way that is comfy for your little guy. All of the seams face out, and not against the dog. Imagine how uncomfortable that would be to have the thick seams constantly rubbing against you. It is easy to adjust sizes, then locks into position.

Additionally, it has a double safety feature. Not only does it fasten, but it has two brass D-rings that connect over the fastening latch in the event that it would ever come unfastened. It is beautifully crafted and you can definitely tell that a lot of thought went into this construction of this harness in order to meet the highest safety and comfort standards.

This harness is a steal at only $12.99. Max wears an XS, but as you will see at the website, they range from ferret and teacup sizes, all the way to Labrador sizes. They have 18 colors in stock and generally ship the same day. Check them out online. You won't be disappointed!

Max gives this harness 2 PAWS UP!

Halloween Tips & Ideas for your Pup

Costumes:

Be sure to only dress your pup in a costume that he is comfortable wearing. Don't force him to wear that hat he keeps taking off; it is more of a strangling hazard than a fashion statement.

If you want to cut costs this Halloween, try making a costume out of a shirt he already has.

• Sew black felt circles on a red shirt to make a lady bug, or
  
• Sew or draw black stripes on a yellow shirt to make a bumble bee... and don't forget the stinger ;)
• Draw black rings around a white shirt to make your guy a jail bird
  
• Try making a cape or bandanna from a yard of fabric from your local fabric store. It can easily be tied around the neck or sewn on his collar. Then try penciling on your own logo on the cape... Superdog!

Last year I bought a pair of kids jeans at Goodwill, then cut a 8" portion of the calf area and took out the seam. Then I make holes for the arms and wrote on the denim vest. Add a spike collar that we already owned, and Max was a punk rocker!


Safety:

Be extra careful when answering your door for trick-or-treaters. Don't let your little guy get scared by the ghosts and goblins and run out the door. Always use a leash on Halloween, even if your pup is fully trained. All the spooks may spook him.

Keep all decorations that could of danger to your pet out of his reach. Display lit Jack-o-Lanterns on a table or ledge, and keep all candy out of reach... especially chocolate.

If you think your pet has eaten something harmful, contact a veterinarian immediately. Or call the toll-free Animal Poison Control Center hot-line at (888) 426-4435. It's available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.