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!

Max is Fit to be "Tied": Custom Ties

For Max's 3rd birthday, his pal, TJ, sent a rad gift... ties! TJ's mom owns a company called TJM Designs, which makes an assortment of amazing dog clothes. She made these beautiful ties just for Max!

Max, checking out his new ties!

She made him a tie with cats on it...

Max, at work

And one in a batik or tye-dye design...

Sporting the tye-dye

And one with an artistic design!!!

Chillin' at home

Be sure to check out TJM Designs and surprise your friend with a custom tie!

We certainly give these ties 2 paws up!

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!

Pet-Friendly Airline Guide

With the holiday season quickly approaching, I thought it would be helpful to have a list of airlines that allow pets on board. I have used United, Continental and Delta without difficulty. If you have a well behaved dog, the flight attendants are usually lax and let your little pal sit on your lap.

Airline	Cargo or Cabin	Cost	Phone Number
Air Canada	Cargo Only	$90 each way	888-247-2262
Alaska Air	Both	$75 each way	800-252-7522
American/American Eagle	Both	$80 each way (cabin); $100 each way (cargo)	800-433-7300
American West	Cabin Only	$80 each way	800-428-4322
Continental	Both	$95 each way (cabin); $119 each way (cargo)	800-575-3335
Delta	Both	$50 each way (cabin); $110 each way (cargo)	800-221-1212
Jet Blue	Cabin only	$50 each way	800-538-2583
Frontier	Cargo only	$100 each way	800-432-1359
Horizon Airlines	Both	$75 each way	800-252-7522
Northwest Airlines	Both	$80 each way	800-225-2525
US Airways	Cabin only	$80 each way	800-428-4322
United Airlines	Both	$85 each way	800-UNITED-1

Max is getting ready for the flight!

Special Rules
Airlines allowing pet travel generally accept most small domesticated pets. Other pets may be accepted with approval. Pets that may travel in the climate-controlled baggage and cargo compartments include: cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, household birds, non-poisonous reptiles, pot bellied pigs, rabbits, and tropical fish. Dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks old and must have been fully weaned for at least five days prior to travel.

Specific Breed Concerns
Due to health risks, brachycephalic (shortnose) dogs/cats are only accepted for travel at owner's risk and excess valuation is not available. The following is a list of the affected breeds:

• Dogs: American Pit Bull, American Staffordshire, Boston Terrier, Brussels Griffin, Bull Mastiff, Bull Terrier, Chow Chow, Dutch Pug, English Bulldog, English Toy Spaniel, French Bulldog, Japanese Boxer, Japanese Spaniel, Pekinese Pug, Shih Tzu, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Terrier, Bulldog, Pug, Boxer.

• Cats: Burmese, Exotic, Himalayan, Persian.

Don't forget to bring along a health certificate for your pooch dated within 30 days of travel!

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!