Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Halloween Safety Tips for Pet House Owners


These days, Hallowe'en is treated on par with Christmas as a serious vacation for decorating and parties. It isn't uncommon to visualize neighbors go overboard with spooky decoration - be it os lights lining the overhang or pretend tombstones on the field. after you own a pet, Hallowe'en will either be associate rhapsodic or making an attempt time, reckoning on your dog or cat's disposition. If this can be your 1st Hallowe'en with a quadrupedal friend reception, you ought to positively listen of vacation safety tips.


1) use caution with decorations. If you intend to swath your target pretend cobwebs or place up a Hallowe'en tree (they do exist!), be aware of choking hazards. A dog or cat would possibly get tousled in cobwebby decorations or try and style one thing indigestible. If doable, keep the Hallowe'en accents out of reach of paws and claws.


2) Be careful with treats. If you plan to keep a bowl of candy out for trick or treaters, it's probable a curious dog will want to sample what you're offering. Chocolate especially is dangerous for dogs, so you should keep candy out of reach when there's nobody at the door.

3) Keep dogs on leash when going out. The sight of dozens of costumed people on the streets may prove too much for your dog, and you may consider keeping him indoors until the peak trick or treating hour has passed. If he has to go out, though, keep a good leash on him can be useful if your dog is not used to Halloween nights.

4) Keep noise to a minimum. Some people like to augment their Halloween atmosphere with sound effects. My father used to play a haunted house record every year when we were little. While it may be good fun, if you find your pets are irritated by them you may want to opt for silence.

5) Have pet treats ready. If any dogs come to your door with their kids, you might consider having a treat out for them if the owners allow it. If anybody offers your dog treat, definitely make sure it's safe to eat. Many neighborhoods that host Halloween activities will try to include dogs in the celebration.

Lastly, if you have a costume for your dog and he resists wearing it, don't push him. It may feel uncomfortable if he's not used to wearing clothing, and you don't want your pet to be unhappy and have bad behavior encouraged. Watch your pets this Halloween and take cues from how they react, then act accordingly.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Tips on Storing and Keeping Your Pet Food Recent


When you have a pet in your home, it will feel as if you just have another friend. Keeping your pet healthy and happy is commonly a priority for several pet homeowners, and it will begin with buying the proper food and keeping your pet's food recent and attractive for them to relish whereas obtaining all of the nutrients and vitamins they have. Keeping your pet's food recent is feasible by imperishable by many tips to assist you with keeping any form of pet food whether or not it's pet food or pet food recent for all of the pets you have got in your home.

Tips for Keeping Your Pet's Food recent

First, it's necessary to see the expiration date of the pet food you're wanting to shop for to make sure you're not getting previous food that has been sitting on store shelves for months or maybe years.

Create a label after you open your dog or pet food, particularly if you're employing a giant bag of dry food. On the label you produce, make certain to incorporate the date you bought the food and conjointly the date you opened it thus you'll keep track of however long it's been exposed to the air and the way long it takes your pet to generally end the bag off.


There are also pet storage bins available if you prefer to keep the food as airtight as possible when you are storing it in your home or even outside of outdoor pets. Pet food storage bins are often plastic and resealable so you can easily access the food while keeping it fresh for extended periods of time. It is recommended to keep the original bag of food within the actual pet storage bins to keep the food's oils and ingredients from seeping into the plastic of the bins, which can cause the flavor to leave the food while tainting the freshness the food has as well.

Rotating your pet's food over time to give them new sources of protein, vitamins, minerals and even antioxidants will help them to maintain a healthy immune system while also giving them more taste options when it comes to eating each day, helping to boost their happiness.

Comparing Your Shopping Options

When you are shopping for pet food of any kind, you have the option to shop at local pet stores and food supply stores in addition to also shopping right from home with the use of a supermarket that stocks the type of food you need for your pet. Ordering your cat food or dog food online will allow you to do so right from home finding the ideal type of food for any animal you have in your home. It is possible to order large bags of dry pet food in bulk online in addition to also ordering singular canned wet food for your pet as well, depending on what you prefer to feed the pets in your home.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

How Professional Photos Make The Best Mementoes of Our Pets?


They not only bring us comfort, particularly when we live alone, but they also bring us great joy too with their playful manner and adventurous spirit. When we love our pets dearly, we often treat them like extended family members and, as such, we afford them all the same things that our own families have as a matter of course.

Apart from providing them with shelter and food, we usually buy toys and playthings for them too which is where most of our enjoyment comes from. Most pets have small idiosyncrasies that bring us joy and it is possibly this behaviour that we want to capture for posterity.

There are many reasons to get a professional photograph taken of them too. One will be that we want to remember them throughout our lives and, since most of them will have a much shorter life span than us, we can keep their memory alive.

Another reason for photographing our pets is for security too. Some of these pets will be show animals that are very valuable. To keep them reasonably safe, we have photographs of them in case they go missing. This is also necessary for normal household pets too since dogs and cats do wander off from time to time. If we don't have a photo to put on a flyer, how would we advertise for their safe return?

There also landmark occasions in our lives that needs to be commemorated too. Family photos every year with the whole family being posed for the perfect shot would not be complete without the household pets. Indeed, people often take better photos when their pets are there too since they feel that the attention is not on them but on the pet itself. This makes for a very relaxed pose and a memorable photograph in most instances.

When the younger members of the family leave home, they often feel a little homesick and this is the ideal opportunity to send them some good photographs of their pets. Having something that reminds them that everything is just the same at home is often enough to keep them going until their next visit. This kind of memento is a wonderful idea for those who are going off to college and is a good way to keep them in touch with the family and their pets too.

Of course, we all take snaps of our daily lives but getting a photograph done professionally is a cool way to get something that is almost perfect. The photographer will know about the correct lighting, how to avoid red eye and which pose would look good. If the animal looks good running, he can even take a speed shot showing the dog flying over a jump etc. Not many amateurs can manage this one so try the professionals for a great shot that will show the character of the animal to perfection.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Finding the Right Pet Photographer for You?


To them, their pet is like part of the family and as such, it should be treated that way too. To ensure that they are getting just the right photographer for the job, they usually ask a series of questions to see if this particular photographer is the right one for them. It may be a good idea to find out if the photographer has pets of his own or whether he has experience with animals. Some animals have a sixth sense when it comes to people so those who are nervous around dogs, for example, will put out some kind of vibe that the dog can feel very often. That being said, the professional will have some 'tricks' that he can employ to make the pet relax as much as possible.The professional pet photographer should also provide some of the services set out below:

1 The photographer should have his own portfolio showing the kind of work he has produced in the past. From this, the client can ascertain not only if the photographer will be suitable, but also the kinds of poses that will be utilized in his own photo shoot. This also precludes the necessity to ask for references as well.

2 A studio set up if the photograph is not going to be taken in the home or garden. Most photographers will have a place set up ready for any kind of photography, but for pets this is a little different. For example, the exotic pet may need a branch or something similar to sit on so this has to be set up well in advance.

3 A guarantee. If the photos that the photographer has taken do not come out quite as expected, he will normally offer a re-shoot so that the customer can try again. If the pet is particularly unruly, then this is very valuable offer. However, this does not mean endless photo shoots. Rather, it just gives the pet time to settle down and get used to him.

4 Thumbnails or proofs. Before the final printing is done, many photographers will produce contact sheets with all the photos from the session on. From these, the client can pick out the ones that he wants and have them enlarged.

5 A photo 'package'. Some photographers will have package deals and this will consist of a few normal sized prints with one or more enlarged shots all for one price. This is open to discussion, of course, so always work this out before the shoot takes place.

Lastly, the general idea is that both the photographer and the client feel very comfortable with each other. Discuss fully what requirements are expected, from both sides, and agree upon a package up front. If the photographer takes shots with owners and pets together, organize a studio shoot or one in the home whichever will get the best photograph in the end.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

What Are Four Pet Products That Can Help Your Aging Pet?


It is difficult to predict how or when a dog will show signs of aging as there are many factors to take into consideration. A few important factors include the breed of the dog followed by size and genetic makeup. As soon as you see a difference in their behavior or see them having difficulty with activities such walking or climbing stairs, you should consider pet accessories to make them more comfortable.

Arthritis and Joint Pain:

As dogs get older they are susceptible to conditions such as arthritis, hip dysplasia and other joint pain. There are two types of dog beds manufactured specifically for joint pain: a memory foam bed and an orthopedic foam bed. Ortho Bliss, a memory foam bed is one option for dogs whose mobility is impaired due to joint problems. A memory foam dog bed is ideal as it molds to the animal's body heat and weight relieving pressure points and improving circulation. A memory foam bed is not the same as an egg crate bed.

Another type of bed for older dogs is an orthopedic foam bed. Often manufactured with a cushion-like material they, too, can provide relief to a dog's painful joints. The memory foam and orthopedic foam beds should be pre-treated to repel odors, bacteria and insects. Ideally, the pet bed that you choose will feature a pillow zipper out for ease with washing, are eco-friendly and machine washable.

If you have a senior dog that is not experiencing arthritis or joint pain, or have a smaller dog, there is a wide selection of bumper dog beds, bolster beds, or donut dog beds designed with comfort in mind.

Other Accessories for Mobility:

Some dogs have difficulty climbing steps or jumping into a truck or van as their only symptom of aging. Pet ramps or pet steps provide a flat surface angled for ease of ascending to a higher location. A selection of pet ramps or pet steps come in a variety of sizes and lengths that are sturdy enough to hold larger dogs without bending. They can easily be used to help your dog get into a truck or onto furniture without having to maneuver to a higher level. Many pet ramps comes with carrying handles for ease of transporting them from one location to another and most have a safety release available.

Pet strollers:

For those who want the company of their older pet along side of them while jogging, hiking or walking a pet stroller can provide the opportunity to continue with your cardio routine and still have your pet be part of the event. Most pet strollers accommodate one or two pets at the same time, are sturdy, waterproof, safe and fold up for easy storage.

Couch covers

Older pets experience problems with frequent urination, leaky bladders or incontinence. This can especially be a problem if dogs are allowed on the furniture or sneak on the furniture while you are at work. A line of couch covers protect furniture from pet leaks, shedding hair and stains from the oil in their fur.

By visiting Best Pet Kennels, you will find a wide selection of products that will accommodate your older pet. The variety of pet products like their pet beds, strollers, steps, ramps and couch covers will help you in making the changes that he/she is going through more comfortable and headache free.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

How Traveling With Your Pet By Plane?


Decide whether or not you will be traveling by car or by plane. Traveling by car may be a better option for larger pets or ones who are very nervous. Especially if you have a large enough car to transport them. If you have a smaller-sized pet of an even temperament, you can consider plane travel.

Many airlines offer pet travel including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, U.S. Airlines and Virgin America, just to name a few. Their fees vary from $75 per pet to $150 per pet to fly them in the cabin. There are also less expensive options to have them travel in the cargo section, however, I would advise against this, even at the savings of a few dollars. There have been many horror stories of pets dying in cargo travel due to extreme cold or heat. It is better to pay a little more to have them up in the cabin with you where you can keep an eye on them.

Visit the vet prior to travel, this is a must. Most airlines require your pet be up-to-date on their shots and have a vet see them to assure they are okay to travel. Additionally, if you have a flight that is over five hours, it is best to pick one with many stops. The pet must usually be kept enclosed in their kennel and under the seat at all times. It would help them to have breaks so they can use the restroom.

Prior to flying, check the airline website for the exact cost of in-cabin pet travel, this can usually be found on their "FAQs" section. Also, this section should tell you what size kennel is acceptable. Usually a soft kennel that allows the pet to move around is acceptable, but you have to get the exact size. Many pet stores sell airline approved kennels. Also, some airlines only allow up to five or seven pets per plane. You need to make a reservation for your pet, by calling the airline, to ensure they are accepted on the flight. If you wing it, your pet may get denied.

Let your pet eat and use the bathroom several hours before flying. Train them to stay in their kennel for an hour or more a few weeks before their flight. Also, let them get some exercise at home before flying because they may need to be still for a few hours or more.

Your vet may be able to prescribe you some calming medications or you can buy all natural herbal remedies to help your pet with the travel.

Pay your pet fee at the ticket counter before boarding. When going through security, you need to take your pet out of its kennel and place the kennel in the scanner, while you and your pet walk through the body scanner. If you have a cat, ensure your cat is calm before doing so. Some cats have been so afraid, they jumped out of their owner's arms.

Bring a small plastic bag with food and treats. Also, a small, portable tray to put some water for them, as needed. You can buy water on the plane. For your trip, bring your pet's harness, some food, toys and a portable litter box for a cat. Pack the portable litter box or have an idea of a nearby store at your destination so that you can buy one. Once on the plane, keep your pet in their kennel, under the seat in front of you at all times. You can unzip the kennel a little to pet them or give them food or water.

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Benefits of Using Litter Boxes


These are very simply made as all they are plastic boxes that can handle cat waste. The purpose for them is so your feline has a place to go to the bathroom.

You can buy them for any number of reasons as they come ready for one cat to multiple ones. The best way to judge how to buy one is to size your cat up. If they are bigger than normal ones, then you are going to need a bigger pan to handle a cat over ten pounds. If your cat is smaller or just a kitten then all you'll need is a very small unit for them, which will be rather inexpensive.

Here are some other things to consider when purchasing one of these units:

• Multiple cats - For those of you who have multiple cats there are boxes that can accommodate them, but you may want to consider buying a few single boxes because you more than likely don't want to mix wastes together. Pet stores sell them for a few dollars more than they would a solo one.

• Liners - As pet waste can get stuck to the bottom of these pans there are liners that you can purchase to prevent this from happening. The liners are stronger than your usual garbage bag because they have to handle a lot of waste. This will eventually help eliminate odors as the liner can be changed every couple of days.

• Scooper - You're going to need a scooper. This is a small plastic like shovel that scoops up waste. They also come in a variety of sizes to accommodate the different sizes of cat. You can buy these in any variety of colors and sizes at your local pet shop. They are relatively inexpensive and accessible.

• Baking soda - One thing that you may have not known is that you can use baking soda in your litter to make it smell fresh. It is non toxic to your pets and does wonders for smells. All you have to do is throw some on top of the litter and do so every few days to keep it from smelling bad. You can buy baking soda at your local grocery store.

These are just a few things that you can do for your litter boxes at home. You don't have to live with foul odors and litter scattered throughout your home anymore when you learn how to properly gain control over your box. Hopefully this will help all of you pet owners out there. If you're in for a new pan then try one of the traditional ones.