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Buyers Guide: Pet Treat Cams

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Five fun ways to stay connected with your pets when you’re away from home.

Pet tech gadgets are growing in popularity because they enable owners to stay connected to their pets 24/7 from literally anywhere in the world via smartphone and tablet apps. And, understandably, the one tech gadget that is most popular with pets themselves are treat dispensing machines which pop out treats and keep both cats and dogs actively engaged when they are home alone. If you want to spoil your pet and ease your guilt about leaving them home alone all day, here are five indispensable remote treat dispensers.

 

PetChatz HD

Billed as a complete sensory experience for pets, this wall-mounted device features a two-way videophone, HD video camera, sound and motion detector, treat dispenser and aromatherapy scent release; it can also stream DogTV for your pet’s entertainment. The optional PawCall is a paw-shaped button that you can train you pet to tap whenever she wants to “talk” to you. You can also use it to schedule set interaction times throughout the day; the blinking button lets your pet know it’s time to play. PetChatz HD retails for $349.99; the optional PawCall is $90.99.

 

Petcube Bites

This camera and a treat dispenser combo enables you to see, talk, play and reward your pets from practically anywhere (as long as your phone or tablet has an internet connection). The unit’s treat dispenser holds up to 2 pounds of treats—about 100 tasty edibles. It also has the capacity to fling out treats at different distances; up to 6-feet away. With the device’s interactive HD video capabilities, you can reach out to your pet at any time and post both photographs and video to your favorite social media channels. Petcube Bites also works with Amazon’s personal assistant Alexa and when you are running low on treats, you can reorder through Amazon’s Dash Replenishment Service (DRS).The unit retails for $229.

 

Pawbo+

The Pawbo+ features HD video and a wide-angle camera, and two-way audio so you can talk to and hear your pets while you reward them from the built-in treat dispenser. The unit also features multiple ringtones to help you train your pets to respond. A built-in laser, operated via the app, will entice your pets to play and can be set to initiate games automatically. In addition, the unit can remotely control an optional interactive cat teaser toy. The manufacturer promises more games to come. The HD unit retails for $199.99; with the optional teaser toy, $229.00.

 

Petzi Treat Cam

This Wi-Fi connected treat dispenser is ideal for any brand of small treats. However, hard treats launch better out of the treat slot than softer varieties. Petzi’s audio feature enables you to call your pet over for tasty treats; its wide-angled camera with night vision allows you to watch and snap some fun pictures as he leaps for the treats. Note: Having recently been acquired by Wagz, the Petzi treat cam is currently being integrated with its new owner’s product lineup and will be available from its website on August 31, 2018 for $169.99.

 

Furbo

This clever gadget is able to detect when your pet is facing it and take selfies—video or pictures—with its built-in, wide-angle HD camera. It also features two-way audio with noise and echo suppression for better sound quality. The Furbo can also send you “barking alerts” to give you a heads up that something might be bothering your dog at home. The unit’s main feature is, of course, its ability to provide treats to your pet remotely. It holds more than 100 of your pet’s favorite small-size rounded treats, and retails for $199.

prepare-first-cat

Preparing for Your First Cat

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What you need to do before your new feline comes home.

When shopping for your new cat, make sure to pick up a good scratcher, such as a one that has multiple scratching surfaces, one or more platforms and an attached toy or two.
©deejaymd/Adobe Stock

The inevitable is finally happening; you are about to become a cat owner for the first time. When you bring that kitty into your home, you will join more than 47 million other cat owners in the U.S.[1]

Cats are known for being easy keepers. They don’t require anywhere near the amount of work as a dog. However, even though cats are pretty low maintenance, you will still need to prepare before you bring home a new feline member of the family.

Here are some ways you can get ready to share your living space with a cat:

Cat Supplies

After choosing a good veterinarian, you should make an appointment for your new cat to ensure she is in good health.
©Photographee.eu/Adobe Stock

You will need to purchase supplies before your new feline comes to live with you. Your shopping list should include cat food and treats, food and water bowls, collar and ID tag, litterbox, litter and litter scooper, scratching post (cardboard and/or a carpeted cat tree), bed, carrier, nail clippers, brush and a variety of toys. Deciding the details of all these items can be a lot of fun whether you shop online or at a local pet supply store. Different styles and colors are available for just about every cat product you can buy.

Find a Vet

You’ll also need a veterinarian to tend to your cat’s medical needs, and it’s a good idea to find one before your new family member arrives. You should make an appointment to have a vet see your cat right away for a check up. That first appointment will help you establish a relationship with a veterinarian and create a baseline health check for your cat. The vet will also set up a vaccine protocol for your cat and recommend a suitable flea control plan, as well as offer nutritional advice.

Cat-Proof Your Home

Exposed and/or dangling cords, cables and wires will need to be covered or blocked off before you bring your new cat home.
©bst2012/Adobe Stock

Until you know more about your new cat’s behaviors, it’s a good idea to cat-proof your home to make sure both your cat and your home are protected. Hide cables, wires and electrical cords until you are sure your cat is not a chewer. Be sure to block off any areas or nooks where your cat might try to hide if she becomes scared when you bring her home (under the couch or bed are favorites). Put away household products that could be toxic to your cat, such as cleaners, solvents and other liquids. Be sure to remove any rodent or insect bait you might have put out in the past.

Set Up a Room

It’s a good idea to start your cat out confined to one room until she gets used to being in your home. This is especially important if you have other pets who have access to the rest of the house. You want to give your cat time to get used to the sounds and smells of the other animals, and vice versa. Place your cat’s bed, litterbox, toys, scratching post and food and water bowls in the room, and let her stay there for at least a week as she acclimates to her new home.

[1] 2017-2018 APPA National Pet Owners Survey

Find a Dog Sitter Tips

Find a Dog Sitter Tips

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How to Find a Fabulous Dog Sitter

Having moved to a new state recently, I’m trying to find a dog sitter and it’s stressful. We’re planning a trip to Hawaii, which means I’ll be far away if something should happen. So, I started the process and finally found the best dog sitter–we love her!

Of course, I’ll share these tips with you. Follow these steps to narrow down choices and help you find the perfect trusted dog sitter who your dogs will love too.

Ask Dog Professionals

Ask your veterinarian, dog trainer and fellow pet lovers for recommendations and, then go one step further, ask how their visits went while away. Don’t stop with just one referral. Keep asking until you have several leads. If a specific dog sitter is really good, you’ll notice his or her name popping up often.

Refrain from finding a dog sitter online–either independent or through larger companies. I’ve been burned. My dogs were fine–it didn’t get that far thankfully–but I noticed miscommunication, lack of follow-up and complete lack of professionalism in the beginning.

As a pet professional, I’ve heard horror stories of multiple dog sitters visiting during a single day and mixing up prescription dog food resulting in very sick dogs. Could this happen with anyone? Maybe, but the chances are less likely if pet professionals recommend a pet sitter instead of selectively gambling an unknown person online.

Run a Background Search Online

Now turn on your computer and search each individual’s full name online. I recommend Google, as it really narrows down searches to specific criteria. Many years ago, someone recommended me a specific pet sitter and, after a simple Google search, I noticed three major complaints stating she never showed up for any visits over a four-day period.

If it’s just one complaint, maybe it was just a disgruntled person. Four complaints though? Something is terribly wrong. When digging in, I noticed this person changed the name of her dog sitting company, which is another red flag. When I informed the person who recommended the baby sitter, she set up a hidden camera and was shocked. The “dog sitter” walked up to my friend’s front porch and sat in a rocking chair, chatting on her cellphone for an hour and never went inside to take care of the dogs. Yes, true story!

Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) for any complaints. Do your research until you uncover any and everything.

Screen By Phone

Once you’ve narrowed down your referred list even further, give each person a call. Tell the potential dog sitter who referred you to him or her, and explain a bit about yourself and your dogs. Now, ask the person to tell you about his or her background, experience and services offered.

As you’re chatting, listen closely to this person’s voice. Does he or she sound happy, patient, trustworthy and kind? Happy folks sound like they’re smiling while talking and easily elaborate answers to all your questions. Stay away from someone giving short, curt answers. That’s never a good sign.

Meet in Person

Once you’ve shortened your list further, schedule an in-person interview preferably with your dogs present. Meeting a potential dog sitter face-to-face does not guarantee acceptance. It’s so important to watch him or her interact with your dogs before signing any paperwork or exchanging keys. If needed, take a day or two and think it over. Take your time–your dogs and home are depending on your decision.

In-person interviews usually narrow down my list quickly because having a 120-pound Rottweiler slobbering all over you and a Miniature Bull Terrier looking up your skirt can be intimidating to say the least.:)  Some dog sitters state their hesitance immediately and others fumble around, trying to remove slobber from their shirts and shoo Stella away. As you guessed it, the fumblers are immediately eliminated.

Watch how this person reacts when your dog jumps up into his or her lap or gets licked on the face. The person should have gentle hands, meaning he or she is not pushing, pulling or yelling. Instead he or she should ask your dog to sit instead of jump or lick, and reward with petting and treats. If someone is scared of your dog, he or she is not the right person.

Schedule a Trial Vacation

Once you’ve selected a dog sitter, set up a mini vacation and see how things go. This could be the perfect spouse getaway you both need. Stay overnight at a high-end hotel or visit family over the weekend. If all goes well, then you’ve found your perfect dog sitter. If not, at least you were close by, and you now know how to find the right one!

Good luck and trust your gut!

Soap Bubble Girl

Bubbles for Dogs: A Great Summer Game

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Dog Bubbles to Save Your Summer

Who doesn’t love bubbles? I mean they’re fun to watch form through the bubble wand, peaceful to watch float through the air and so enjoyable to pop. Oh, and dogs love to play with bubbles too. If you and your dog have never played with flavored dog bubbles before, you’re missing out!

Choosing Bubbles for Dogs

When choosing dog bubbles, select bubble formulas specially made for pets. Most commonly found bubbles are made for children and they contain toxic ingredients that can be harmful to your dog, especially since dogs pop bubbles with their mouths. Most dog bubbles are scented with bacon or peanut butter, which entices most dogs to chase, play, bounce and pop all visible bubbles. And yes, dog bubbles are highly scented, so expect to smell like bacon afterwards. 🙂

IncrediBubbles by Pet Qwerks

By far, IncrediBubbles are our favorite non-toxic bubbles for dogs! These flavored bubbles will stay intact longer than other bubble brands, so bubbles will land on the ground (stick on the side of furniture or even land on your dog) and not pop. They work perfectly for dogs that love to pounce on and pop bubbles instead of chasing them. One drawback about this brand of bubbles is that the solution is thicker than most other brands, so it can get a tad messy. However, it’s an easy cleanup with a wet rag. You’ll probably need to wipe or brush your dog’s face afterwards too. The mess is worth the fun though!

Bubble Machines for Dogs

If your dog is addicted to bubbles, then a bubble machine for dogs just might keep up with your bubble-obsessed dog’s demand. There are several bubble machines to choose from; some can be placed on the ground and others are handheld. One thing all bubble machines have in common is that they’ll produce a lot of bubbles quickly, so expect to refill the reservoir often. Now, if your bubble-loving pooch hovers over the bubble machine placed on the ground—hey, it happens—place the bubble machine on a sturdy stool or counter, so bubbles can float away from the machine to keep the game going. If your dog still hovers, then a handheld bubble machine is probably best.

DIY Homemade Dog Bubbles

There are many non-toxic homemade dog bubble recipes floating around online, but I haven’t had the best luck with them. When blowing homemade bubbles, I’d notice the majority of bubbles would burst as I blew through the wand or shortly afterwards. Now, I’m not a pro in the kitchen, so it could very well be an “operator issue.” Making homemade flavored bubbles for dogs can be a fun project for children; just make sure the recipe states it’s non-toxic for dogs.

Playing Bubble Games

Grab your chosen pet-friendly bubbles and your dog, and start playing bubble games on a non-skid surface. If this is your dog’s first time playing the bubble game, bend down and slowly blow a few bubbles away from your dog, so the bubbles are at your dog’s chest level. For very small dogs, have a seat on the ground and blow a few bubbles at first. Refrain from showering your dog with bubbles. This can creep out most dogs, so move slowly in the beginning.

The first time your dog sees bubbles, a couple of things can happen. Either your dog will be a bit confused and walk away or your dog will immediately pounce on them. If your dog hesitates, encourage him to play with the bubbles. Holding a bubble in your hand for your dog to investigate could help too. Just remember, it’s a game and not all dogs are excited about bubbles bursting in their faces. If your dog dislikes the game, no worries, let him scamper inside or into another room while you blow bubbles for your own enjoyment.

Bubble games are a wonderful way for children to play with dogs. There’s no physical contact, and dogs learn children make good things happen. If your dog stands too close to a child (or you) blowing bubbles, then only blow bubbles when your dog moves back from you. Trust me, your dog will quickly learn that standing a certain distance from you makes bubbles happen.

This is a great indoor or outdoor game for dogs, and very entertaining for both pet owner and dog!

Your Guide to Dog-Friendly Landscaping

Your Guide to Dog-Friendly Landscaping

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Creating Dog-Friendly Landscapes: Preparation

Sharing your backyard with dogs doesn’t mean living with grass and dirt forever. You can join in on the spring planting frenzy by creating gorgeous dog-friendly landscapes. In this series, we’ll teach you how to prepare the landscape area with dogs in mind, choose dog-friendly plants and keep your plants safe from dog paws.

Designing the Landscape

Depending on your needs, take plenty of time to design your ideal backyard. Take into account the amount of sun exposure it will receive, which will determine which plants work best in certain areas. Most dog-friendly backyards have large grassy areas with plants, shrubs and trees located along fence lines. Carefully placing plants in low traffic areas is key to keeping plants safe from dogs.

Even better, raised gardens or flowerbeds provides needed height to ensure young puppies and dogs can’t reach your plants. Take a moment to draw out your ideal design on paper, and then outline planted areas with spray paint or sand in your yard. This will provide you a great visual before digging up the area.

Doggie Digging Pit

Dog-friendly landscapes should provide ample fun for your dog too. If your dog enjoys digging, choose an area to create a digging pit for your dog. Provide a small wading pool of sand with buried treats; this will keep most dogs busy for a while.

To ensure this area is attractive, place a short attractive fence or plants to hide the wading pool, or simply dig a hole large enough for the wading pool to sit flush with the soil. Place your dog’s digging pit in a shaded area to keep sand cool during warm months. To prevent cats from using your dog’s digging pit as a toilet, consider adding a plastic cover over it.

RELATED: Building an At-Home Dog Agility Course

Preparing the Area

Preparing the area is the physically difficult part of landscaping as it requires plenty of heavy lifting and labor. Once planted locations are selected, it’s time to prepare the area before planting.

Raised Beds

If you plan to grow plants or produce in raised beds, this is the time to build beds and place them in desired areas. Most raised beds are made of cedar, which prevents rot and chemical exposure. To prevent weeds, place several layers of old newspaper or cardboard on the ground before adding soil into raised beds. There are many benefits of raised flowering beds, including the prevention of certain insects from crawling into them and dogs from trampling over or digging up tender plants.

Soil, Compose, or Sand

Many dog owners choose to plant directly into the ground. Depending on your soil, you may need to add compose or sand. Bring in a sample of soil to your local plant nursery and consult the experts there for best results. When available, consider purchasing organic products.

Mulch

For dog-friendly landscapes, there are several choices when choosing mulch. Stay away from cocoa bean mulch because it contains the toxin theobromine, which is found in chocolate and is poisonous to dogs when ingested. Mulch, which has red or brown dye, can permanently discolor a dog’s fur and paw pads.

Gravel or small rocks are attractive, however, dogs have been known to chew and ingest rocks, causing obstructions. Organic cedar mulch is an excellent choice. It’s free of chemicals and it will repel insects; plus, it smells nice. Before applying mulch, add several layers of cardboard and newspaper to prevent weeds from consuming your planted area.

Once all the hard work is complete, it’s time to choose and add plants!

Help! My Dog Hates Riding In The Car

Help! My Dog Hates Riding in the Car

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Why Dogs Hate Riding in Cars & What to Do About It

Many dogs hate riding in cars for numerous reasons. Some dogs will bark, howl, lunge at the window, drool and even throw up. These dogs are clearly uncomfortable, so they learn to hate riding in cars. Before addressing car riding woes, it’s important to understand exactly what is causing your dog’s discomfort first.

Motion Sickness

Nausea is the worst, especially when you’re unable to get away from the cause. Motion sickness is extremely common in dogs. It’s best handled with over-the-counter medication, such as Dramamine and Bonine. For correct dosage, depending on your dog’s age and weight, partner with your veterinarian. Additionally, keep your car’s temperature on the cool side and ensure an AC vent is near your dog. Once motion sickness is prevented, it’s time to take short car rides with lots of treats, so your dog looks forward to riding in a car.

Restlessness

This is a common behavior when dogs are uncomfortable, nauseous or unfamiliar with riding in cars. It’s safest for dogs to ride inside plastic crates or secured with a crash-tested harness. Make sure your dog is comfortable first. Ensure your dog has plenty of space to lie down, stand up and turn around inside your car.

Place a soft bed or thick blankets in your dog’s crate or car seat, and provide plenty of cool water. Play soft music, such as Through A Dog’s Ear, to keep your dog relaxed. If your dog has motion sickness, address it immediately. Take short car rides, while your dog licks away at a super yummy food stuffed toy, and soon your dog will love car rides.

Scared

If your dog is scared to ride in a car, it’s vital to teach your dog that car rides are fun. Not all dogs enjoy car rides since it’s not natural for dogs to ride in cars. Start slow and reward your dog for jumping into the car first. Once loaded inside his crate, give your dog a food stuffed toy to lick, close car doors and turn on the engine while you’re sitting in the driver’s seat.

In the beginning stages, don’t drive anywhere—just let your dog learn that cars make peanut butter stuffed toys appear. After a few minutes, turn the car off and unload your dog. Practice several times a week. Once your dog will happily relax and lick at his toys, then it’s time to take a spin around the block. Continue to add a bit more distance and time while driving, and always bring food stuffed toys along for the ride. This teaches your dog that good things happen during car rides.

Dislikes Seeing Dogs or People

By far, this is the toughest car ride challenge. When dogs are afraid of other dogs and people, they will bark and lunge when these scary things become visible. Teach your dog to ride inside of a crate, and cover the crate with large towels or sheets to block your dog’s view. Additionally, play soft music to drown out dogs barking or people talking while driving. If visual barriers and soft music don’t work, it’s time to reach out for professional help.

When to Get Help

Motion sickness and restlessness due to unfamiliarity with car rides can be easily addressed with medication and dog training. Scared dogs or dogs that dislike people, that panic when riding in cars, may need additional help from a professional dog trainer and veterinary behaviorist.

When in doubt, seek help sooner rather than later.

Cat-Biting-FI

How to Stop Your Cat from Biting

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The key is to not use your hands or feet as toys.

 “There is something about the presence of a cat that seems to take the bite out of being alone.”

—Louis J. Camuti, author of “All My Patients Are under the Bed: Memoirs of a Cat Doctor”

But what if your favorite feline is a biter? It can be quite shocking when you’re relaxed, stroking your cat and he suddenly bites your hand.

Read more about our unique Cat Training course.

About Cat Bites

IF a cat becomes overstimulated during play, grooming or petting, she might bite in an attempt to get you to stop.
©photosaint/Adobe Stock

Cat bites are dangerous by design. Anatomically, their canine teeth are sharp little fangs, designed to kill and shred small prey. Biologically, they can be just as hazardous. Cat saliva contains myriad bacteria, some of which are problematic for humans such as Bartonella henselae (the causative agent of cat scratch disease) and Pastuerella, which can cause skin and lymph node infections.

This is why a cat bite should be taken seriously. A trip to the doctor and a round of antibiotics can solve most issue; however, if the bite is a deep puncture, further action might be required. It’s also why you should be very motivated to stop your cat from the habit of biting.

Identify the Reason

As I’ve said in previous articles, cats don’t do things without a reason. Every action they take has intent. Fortunately, it can be fairly easy to identify the motive behind a bite.

  • Pain: Felines typically hide pain for as long as possible. As a result, they can become easily aggravated and bite when touched. A checkup from your veterinarian is always in order if your cat begins biting when she didn’t before.
  • Fear: If your cat is frightened, she might respond with a bite if you try to handle her. This is why you should never reach out to a scared animal.
  • Play: In most cases, owners have taught their cats that biting is a part of play. Playing too rough or too long with your cat can encourage her to bite, especially if you use your hands or feet as “toys.” This is why it’s so important to teach your cat appropriate play.

Games We Play

To preemptively prevent biting before it becomes a habit, you should never use your fingers or other body parts as toys.
©zsv3207/Adobe Stock

I learned the hard way that the worst game you can teach your cat is “bed mice,” where you move your hand or foot under a sheet, which your cat then tries to catch and kill. Sadly, it’s also an incredibly fun game for both people and cats. Why is this a bad game? Because you’ve now taught your cat that things under sheets must be destroyed. This bodes ill for toes (and other body parts) that might move in the night or morning, when crepuscular cats are most alert. Never teach your cat a game that involves your body becoming a target; this includes waggling your fingers or toes at kittens.

In order to teach your cat not to bite, you will need to provide her with alternative ways to express her hunting instincts. You will also need to make sure you do not overstimulate your cat to the point where she has to bite in order to get you to stop. Learn to read your cat’s body language so that you can tell when she’s had enough petting, brushing or cuddling. Laid-back ears, dilated pupils and/or a twitching tail are all signs that your cat is becoming overstimulated.

Redirection

Using a wand toy to play with your cat is one the best and safest ways to help expend her energy and satisfy her hunting instinct.
©detry26/Adobe Stock

Working with cat is similar to being a magician: redirection is your best tool. In the cat world, redirection involves providing plenty of things for your cat to play with besides your hands or feet: puzzle toys, stuffed mice, catnip toys, balls, interactive toys (such as a track ball) paper bags, boxes, etc.

In addition to having plenty of solo toys to play with, your cat should also have daily playtimes with you; a minimum of two 15 minute sessions every day.  A rousing game of chasing the wand toy or pouncing on cat bubbles will enable your cat to expend excess energy so she can eat and sleep properly, and not engage in destructive behavior.

Some cats engage in stalking activity, such as hiding under a bed or behind a door and attacking when someone walks by. For cats, this is a perfectly natural way to hunt and play. For humans, it’s not nearly as fun of a game. If you know your cat is behind a door or under a bed, use a wand toy or roll a ball to lure her into attack. It’s just as much fun for the cat and not nearly as destructive for you.

Don’t Act Like Prey

Finally, if you don’t want to be prey, you can’t act like prey. Never run from your cat; this almost always results in a chase. Don’t use your hands to redirect your cat if, for example, she is “bullying” another pet. Distract her with a wand toy or sudden, intriguing noise, such crinkling paper or the jingle of a stuffed toy.

While redirecting a cat can take time, it’s well worth the effort. Cats are quick learners and with proper motivation, you will a harmonious home and bite-free extremities.

Canine-Blood-Donors-FI

Could Your Dog Be a Blood Donor?

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Just like humans, canines sometimes need life-saving blood transfusions.

Did you know that dogs have different blood types? Canine blood types are determined by elements in the blood known as dog erythrocyte antigens (DEA). While scientists have discovered at least a dozen different types of blood based on DEAs, vets consider DEA 4 to be the universal type. When a dog needs a transfusion, vets turn to donor dogs who have this universal type to provide life-saving blood.

In some cases, canine donors “work” at veterinary schools and animal blood banks. In addition, some veterinary hospitals have donor dogs “on staff” who can donate blood when needed; however, other hospitals rely on voluntary donors. These dogs live with their owners and are “on-call” as needed by local veterinarians.

A worldwide need: This brave dog is donating blood at an AdelaideVet Animal Hospital in South Australia.

How does a dog become a blood donor? An ideal canine blood donor weighs at least 50 lb. and is between 1- and 7-years old. A breed with a short face—such as a bulldog or pug—does not make a good candidate, nor does a dog with a longhaired coat (however, long hair doesn’t rule out a candidate). An ideal blood donor dog has a laid-back, friendly and calm personality, and is not stressed out by visits to the veterinary office. Most importantly, the dog is in exceptionally good health, meeting these criteria:

  • Free of Lyme disease and other blood-borne illnesses
  • Up-to-date on all vaccinations
  • Currently taking heartworm preventatives

Additional requirements for canine blood donors vary from state to state. For more information on how your dog can become a blood donor, talk to your veterinarian or local veterinary school. These organizations can also provide more information:

If your dog meets the blood donating requirements, your veterinarian will contact if you if they need a donation. Some clinics might request that your dog does not eat before the donation; however, you should continue to provide her access to fresh water. At the vet’s office, the staff will make your dog extra comfortable and perhaps shave a small area on her front leg or neck to prepare a donation site. They will also clean it thoroughly.

The equipment used to draw blood from canines is often the same as that for humans. When your dog is lying down quietly or resting comfortably on her side, a veterinary technician will gently insert the needle in the dog’s vein. Some dogs don’t seem to feel this, but in some cases, the tech will apply a topical anesthetic to the site prior to inserting the needle.

The donation process takes about 10 minutes. The tech will monitor your dog during the process to ensure she is comfortable and the blood is flowing well. When enough blood has been collected, the tech will remove the needle and apply a light bandage to the site.

Most dogs love the next step: treats. Just as with human blood donations, canine donors receive a small meal and access to plenty of water. Your dog will be observed for a certain amount of time (usually 30 minutes or so) and then is free to return home.

Once home, your responsibility is to let your dog relax and tell her how proud you are.

Pet-Vacuums-FI

Best Vacuums for Pet Hair

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Five of the best appliances for sucking up excess fur.

If you have a dog or cat, one or more pieces of your furniture will be rather furry.
©Africa Studio/Adobe Sotck

Being a pet owner doesn’t have too many downsides, but if you had to pick one, dealing with loose hair might be it.  You can practice good dog grooming and brush your pet’s coat frequently, but the shedding never stops.  Trying to get pet hair off surfaces around the house is a big chore for those who live with dogs and cats who shed—and most do.

The good news is that a number of vacuum cleaner manufacturers have recognized the needs of pet owners who live with shedders, and have developed vacuums designed specifically for picking up pet hair. These vacuums are made to suck pet hair out of carpets and even out of upholstery, and often come with attachments to make the job easier.

Here’s a look at five popular vacuum cleaners in a variety of price ranges, all marketed for people who live with pets.

Miele Dynamic U1 Cat & Dog Upright Vacuum

The 22-lb. Miele Dynamic U1 is an upright vacuum that comes with an electrobrush, which is designed to follow the floor’s contours, automatically adjusting for different carpet depths and surface types. Equipped with an AirClean filter with a charcoal cassette to neutralize odors, the vacuum uses disposable bags and has a 40-ft. manual-wind cord. Accessories include a power brush, upholstery tool, dusting brush and a crevice tool. A brush on/off switch, suction control and a telescopic wand help with cleanup. This vacuum sells online for approximately $600.

 

 

Dyson Ball Animal 2

Dyson claims this upright vacuum has the strongest suction of any vacuum on the market. Engineered for homes with pets, the vacuum weighs around 17 lb., has a 35-ft. cord, and is designed for use on different floor types. It also collects allergens using a HEPA filter. The hose and wand stretch 15 feet to clean stairs and corners. This bagless model sells directly from Dyson at around $400.

 

 

 

Shark Rotator NV752 Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright Vacuum

Shark’s upright vacuum is designed for picking up pet hair; it features a detachable canister, LED lights on the handle and nozzle, and a HEPA filter to help control allergens. It also has a hard floor attachment and a 30-ft. cord. The vacuum weighs around 15 lb., is bagless, and has a washable filter. Shark sells the TruePet vacuum online for around $330.

 

 

Eureka AS One™ Pet AS2130A

Designed to be lightweight—it weighs only 8 lb.—this upright vacuum by Eureka comes with a scuff-protect furniture guard that also protects baseboards; a 30-ft. cord; and an 8-ft. hose and an extension wand. The vacuum’s Pet Pal Cleaning Tools, which consist of a PET Power Paw, a crevice tool and a PET dusting brush, are meant to help remove pet hair from stairs, carpeting and upholstery. Eureka sells this vacuum for around $110.

 

Hoover WindTunnel Pet Rewind UH70210

Weighing 19 lb., this upright from vacuum cleaner giant Hoover has a manual pile-height adjustment to remove pet hair from carpeting. The 27-ft. cord retracts automatically, and the vacuum folds for storage. The HEPA filtration on this bagless model helps with allergens. It can also be used on bare floors and upholstery. The WindTunnel sells online for about $100.

Vacationing-with-Dog-FI

Vacationing with Your Dog

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7 tips for worry-free travels

When packing for your and your dog’s vacation, remember to bring along a few of his favorite toys and lots of treats.
©Monika Wisniewska/Adobe Stock

June heralds the start of the summer vacation season and travel gurus are predicting that more dogs will go with their owners than in previous years. If your dog knows what to expect when he hears any variation of “leash, car, suitcase, carrier, airplane, vacation and/or travel,” here are a few tips to ensure he is ready for and has a great holiday, too.

First, your dog will need to be up-to-date on his vaccinations. You will need to show proof that he has been vaccinated before flying or entering another state or country. You should also have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), also known as a health certificate. Most airlines, some train lines and many U.S. states require a CVI along with proof of vaccinations for traveling pets. Some hotels also require them as will any doggie daycare you use while on your travels. Always check with a state or country’s regulations regarding pet travel before you finalize your plans.

Ensuring your dog is on his best behavior when you are out and about is essential. He should be well-trained in proper manners, especially when encountering new people or other pets. Unfortunately, slip ups can happen. If your dog bites another dog or a person, he could end up quarantined for 10 days until authorities can confirm that he is in good health and not rabid. Such an event would certain but a damper on a vacation and is not worth the gamble.

If you’re traveling to somewhere hot, bring a long a set or two of dog booties, such as Pawz , to protect your pet’s paw pads.

One way you can help your dog adapt to his new and changing surroundings is to bring along his favorite blanket or bedding. Such familiarity will help him settle comfortably wherever you go. The same can be said for taking along his favorite treats and toys. If one of his playthings is something cuddly and plush, also consider giving it a gentle wash before the trip.

Talk about washing, your dog will be better received on your travels if he’s well-groomed and clean. If you are in charge of his beauty routine, be sure to cut the hair between his toes as well so that no detritus gets caught in his paws. It’s a really good idea to travel with doggie wipes to ensure his feet are clean at all times. If you are staying with family or friends, they will certainly appreciate your attempts to keep dirt and grime out of their home. A bottle of waterless shampoo is great for quick clean-ups.

Summertime travel can mean unbearably hot sidewalks, pavement, asphalt and beach sand can. Disposable booties, such as Pawz, will certainly help protect your dog’s paws if you are outside in the heat. Your dog might also need some protection from the sun, especially if he has white fur or light skin. There many canine-specific sunscreens on the market. Dog googles, such as Doogles, will protect your dog’s eyes and make him look super cool.

If you’re out and about in the bright sun, a pair of Doggles will help protect your dog’s eyes.

Don’t forget to keep your dog well hydrated when traveling and going places. Always bring water along when you are out with your dog; there are myriad dog-hydration travel products, including collapsible bowls, water bottles and sealable/spill proof dishes.

Many locations and places in the U.S. and around the world put out the welcome mat for dogs. The AAA has a directory listing more than 14,000 pet friendly accommodation options. You could also check out the “Ruff Guide to the United States” by BringFido.com, which lists 365 of the best places to stay and play with your dog in all 50 states, and“The Dog Lover’s Guide to Travel: Best Destinations, Hotels, Events, and Advice to Please Your Pet-and You” from National Geographic, which covers the U.S. and Canada. Happy travels!

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