Products

April 9 2024

How a Veterinary Assistant Program Can Boost Your Career Prospects in the Animal Care Industry

melissa Dogs, Health, Nutrition, Pets, Products, Resources, Uncategorized, Veterinary Assistant, Veterinary Assistant Program Animal Career As A Veterinary Assistant, vet assistant, vet assistant jobs, Vet Assistant Jobs near me, Vet near me, veterinarian assistant, Veterinarian Assistant Jobs, Veterinarian near me, veterinary assistant, Veterinary Assistant Jobe Near Me, veterinary assistant jobs

How a Veterinary Assistant Program Can Boost Your Career Prospects in the Animal Care Industry

No Vet Assistant Credentials? No Problem?

If you want to work with animals and are considering a career as a veterinary assistant, you may wonder whether you need any credentials to apply for jobs.

Though it is a medical field, you do not need to have any licensing, certification, or degree to be a veterinary assistant. The only education requirement for becoming a veterinarian assistant is usually a high school diploma.

This is exciting news…until you start applying for jobs, and then it is crickets. No one is willing to give you a chance.

Why?

Because you have no credentials.

Do not let people tell you differently: getting a veterinary assistant certification makes a difference. An attractive vet assistant job candidate either has lots of experience working with animals in some capacity or has a vet assistant certificate proving knowledge of the field. Just showing up with a high school diploma and saying, “I love animals,” does not cut it in a crowded job market.

The Reality of the Vet Assistant Job Market

On the upside, there are plenty of jobs available to qualified applicants, and all signs point to continued growth. According to Forbes, 66% of American homes have pets in 2024. And since 51% of those owners consider their pets part of their family, spending on pets is astronomical. The figure is closing in on $150 billion, with veterinary care claiming a huge chunk.

More pets equal more vets. More veterinarians equal more vet assistant jobs.

Even with more jobs being created, however, there are still lots of animal lovers vying for every single one of them. Prospective employers can choose among qualified job candidates.

Why would they pick someone with no skills, training, or meaningful experience when they could fill the position with a certified veterinary assistant who would require little job training?

Sure, there are some people who get hired with no experience and no job training, and they receive on-the-job training. In reality, though, they are exceptions to the rule. These are competitive jobs. Think how much you love dogs and cats, and puppies and kittens, and want to help take care of them! So do thousands of other animal lovers.

How Do I Improve my Job Prospects?

Getting experience working with animals will help beef up your resume for sure. Depending on where you live, this may be easier for some than others. Rural areas offer opportunities to get experience on farms or ranches or in riding stables. Wildlife rehabilitation centers may also accept volunteer help. Cities may have zoos with volunteer programs (although those are super hard to get into, too). Dog kennels or doggy daycares are also good options.

If you have a challenging time getting your foot in the door somewhere to get experience with animals, or if you have experience and still cannot land a job, enrolling in an online veterinary assistant program could give you the leg up you need.

Animal Behavior College’s online program can be completed in about a year and is more affordable and flexible than attending a brick-and-mortar trade school.

ABC also ensures you get plenty of real-world experience working in a veterinary clinic setting. Once your online work is done, you start on an externship with a mentor at an animal hospital facility near you. Under your mentor’s supervision, you can practice your new skills and get a feel for what it is like working in a veterinary practice.

Once you get certified, you will be able to demonstrate to prospective employers that:

You are serious about a career as a vet assistant.
You have experience in a veterinary facility.
You will have a good grasp of what the job entails and will not need much training.
You have knowledge about sterilizing, prepping exam rooms, lab procedures, animal restraint, and other essential elements of the job.

It’s Time to Get Serious About Your Career

Why waste more time applying for veterinary assistant jobs without any experience or credentials to recommend you? Become the type of job candidate vet practices are looking for! Call ABC at 800-795-3294 to set up an interview today.

Visit us here for more information on our program: https://v2.animalbehaviorcollege.com/veterinary-assistant/

November 20 2018

Senior Dog Products

melissa Products, Resources dog products

Products for Senior Dogs Your dog may be full of vim and vigor, bouncing up and down when you come home from work and rushing to the door to go on a walk every time you pick up your keys. But if he’s between the ages of 5 and 10, he might actually be a senior.

Dogs reach their senior years at different times, depending on their breed and size. Larger dogs have shorter lifespans, so a 5-year-old Great Dane is a senior. A Pomeranian, on the other hand, can live to be 16 or more, and so doesn’t become a senior until around 10.

Whatever your dog’s size and breed, when he enters his senior years, you’ll want to take some steps to make him comfortable. As his body ages, he may need some assistance from some of the products out there designed specifically for older dogs.

Orthopedic beds

It’s not uncommon for senior dogs to have arthritis. As a dog’s joints age, they can become stiff and painful. Orthopedic beds help dogs sleep more comfortably and get up with less difficulty by providing more cushion and support.

The PupLounge Memory Foam Orthopedic Bed, by Treat A Dog, is one example of an orthopedic bed designed specifically to minimize joint pain.

The Big Barker 7”, by Big Barker, is an orthopedic bed made specifically for large dogs. Dog beds made with memory foam are often a good choice for arthritic senior dogs because this material provides the most amount of thickness and firm support.

Support Harnesses

For older dogs that suffer from front or hind end weakness caused by arthritis or other medical conditions, a support harness can be a good choice. Support harnesses for older dogs that need help walking provide front leg support, rear leg support or center body support. If you use one of these harnesses for your dog, you’ll be holding up the weak part of his body with the harness. Without having to hold up his own weight, your dog is better able to walk. The Walkin’ Lift Combo Harness by Walkin’ Pets provides dogs with front or rear support.

Ramps

It can be hard for older dogs to jump up into the car like they used to. Stiff joints and muscle weakness can make it difficult if not impossible for them to leap into the backseat like they once did, or even jump down when the ride is over. Ramps designed specifically for older dogs who can no longer jump and are too big to lift can help older dogs get in and out of vehicles on their own. The Solvit Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp, by PetSafe, is an especially good choice for heavier dogs.

Ramps and stairs for use at home can also be helpful to dogs who can no longer jump onto the bed or couch. PetSafe’s Solvit Wood Bedside ramp makes it easy for dogs to make their way onto the bed without having to jump.

October 23 2018

A Buyer’s Guide to Electronic Cat Toys

melissa Cats, Fun, Products, Resources, Training cat activity, cat toys, electronic cat toys

Electronic cat toys offer cats an opportunity to play on their own or with each other and simultaneously hone their instinctive needs to pounce and hunt. There is a fabulous selection to choose from to keep felines in play mode for spurts of 10 to 15 minutes at a time. They beep, blink and make sounds that mimic birds, mice and other critters. Some even have motion sensors to reactivate themselves when some feline stalks by and sets them in motion all over again. So, stock up on batteries and get shopping!

PetSafe® Pounce™

This automatic cat toy features an electronic mouse that zips around a circular track, zooming forward, reversing, hiding under obstacles, and occasionally twitching back and forth. The unpredictable movements stimulate a cat’s natural instinct to hunt, chase and pounce on prey. The game has four speed settings and turns off automatically after 10 minutes, or manually with an on/off button. Cats can even be taught how to activate it—my Ziggy taught himself. Petsafe.net

Petlinks Mystery Motion

This battery-operated toy has a mouse-tail that peeps out from under a plastic cover. It shoots erratically around in different directions, recreating the idea that there is a critter hiding under the covers. Consequently, this toy replicates a cat’s instinct to patiently watch and observe before jumping into hunt mode. It’s excellent for enticing older cats out of snooze mode. It has four different speeds and is ideal for single cats as well as multi-cat households. Petlinkssystem.com

PetSafe Cheese

This “chunk” of Swiss cheese has holes on both sides that allow peek-a-boo mice to pop out on either side. Cats love the surprise and anticipation! The Cheese has a timer that automatically turns the toy off after 10 to 15 minutes. There is also a play-while-you-are-away mode which allows for sessions to be programmed to keep cats engaged throughout the day. Petsafe.net

PetSafe Laser Tail

This interactive laser toy moves by itself across the floor in random patterns and in all directions. The laser is on the back of the toy so the laser light is always rolling away from the cat, encouraging the chase. Sensors help the toy find its way out of corners or out from under furniture. It automatically shuts off after 10-minutes of play. It works well on all kinds of floor surfaces such as wood, tile and short-tufted carpets. While such toys utilize low-powered lasers such as 5mW 3R class lasers that are certified safe around pets and people, laser beams must never be shone directly at a pet (or a person). Laser toys should always be used under supervision. Petsafe.net

Petlinks Pure Commotion™

This spinning wand toy from Petlinks is a fun, interactive toy that simulates a bird in flight. The feather attachment spins and whips through the air in erratic flight patterns to entice your cat to catch it. The speed can be altered by turning a knob on the base from slow, medium, fast and random. There’s a timer that can be set at 15-minute intervals all the way up to a full two hours of uninterrupted fun. Petlinkssystem.com

Petlinks Stir Crazy™

The Stir Crazy from Petlinks is an electronic cat toy with a furry tail that pushes a ball around an electronic track and is spurred on when cats poke their paws through the sides of the track to attempt to catch it. It offers four different play speeds. The ball can be filled with catnip to add to the fun and frenzy. The on-off button is on the top flat surface of the toy so clever cats can be taught to operate it themselves. Petlinkssystem.com

Roaming Runners™

These tiny little battery-operated toys mimic the movements of real prey encouraging cats to chase them, pounce and leap about. There are a variety of shapes – bird, mouse, caterpillar, a cute ladybug. They are small enough for cats to pick up with their paws and fling around. Once back on the ground, they set off on their own again. Petlinkssystem.com

July 10 2018

Buyers Guide: Pet Treat Cams

melissa Fun, Lifestyle, Pets, Products, Resources cat treat cams, dog treat cams, pet chat devices, pet tech gadgets, pet treat cams, treat dispensers

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.

May 2 2018

6 Must-Have Dog Toys

melissa Fun, Lifestyle, Pets, Products, Resources dog toys, fetch toys, interactive dog oys, new toys for dogs, plush dog toys, tug toys

Whether your pets prefer chewing, chasing, tugging or snuggling, these are sure to keep them entertained.

It’s hard to find a dog who doesn’t like toys. Whether it’s chasing, tugging or chewing, most dogs enjoy interacting with toys designed specifically for them. Pet product companies are always looking for new ways to entertain dogs, and creating fun and innovative toys are at the top of the list. Here are six new dog toys that have recently hit the market and are bound to keep your dog entertained.

Huggle Hounds Naturals

Made of all natural materials, Huggle Hounds Naturals come in a variety of adorable shapes that will entertain both you and your dog. The toys are made from water buffalo leather and cotton rope, and contain a rubber squeaker. Each toy comes in a two-pack paired with a compatible companion. The Duck & Bunny, Moose & Cow and Sock Monkey & Raccoon two-packs will make you laugh, especially when you see your dog carrying them around. hugglehounds.com

Dawg-Nut

If you’ve got a dog who likes to retrieve, the donut-shaped Dawg-Nut might be for him. This tough retrieving toy from Ruff Dawg is USA-made and constructed out of solid rubber. It bounces in crazy ways when it hits the ground, and also floats for dogs who like to water retrieve. It has a springy texture, and is gentle on the teeth and gums. It comes in bright colors to make it easy to locate after your dog is done playing. It is available in two sizes for medium and large dogs. ruffdawg.com

Zooma Chew-A-Ball

So you know how your dog likes to chew on his tug toys? He’s not the only one. The Zooma Chew-A-Ball is designed especially for this kind of treatment. Made from all edible ingredients, the Chew-A-Ball features grooves along the sides so your dog can grip it with his teeth, and a handle meant for you to hold while your dog is tugging. As your dog pulls on the ball, he can also gnaw on it, satisfying both his play and chewing instincts at the same time. zoomachews.com

Orbee-Tuff GuRu Ball

If you have an active dog in need of both mental stimulation and physical play, the Orbee-Tuff GuRu Ball from Planet Dog is for you. This interactive ball features five different openings that you can use to hide your dog’s favorite treats, bully sticks or his regular kibble. Your dog will have to chew, squeeze and work hard to get them to pop out; the treats won’t release until your dog applies just the right about of pressure. The ball’s soft texture messages his gums while he works. Made in the USA, the material is non-toxic. planetdog.com

Tuggo Shake-N-Fetch Bowling Pin

This unique, hard plastic toy is shaped like a bowling pin, and can be filled with water, sand or rocks to make it rattle as you throw it for your dog to retrieve. The noise makes your dog all the more excited about chasing after it and bringing it back to you. It is available in red, pink or yellow, and sizes small, medium and large. tuggodogtoys.com

Mutt Hatter Plush Toy Collection

Watch your dog have endless fun as he uncovers all the hidden squeaks and crinkles inside these whimsical hat-themed toys, which include a Viking Helmet, Sheriff Hat, Leprechaun Hat, Gladiator Helmet and Pirate Hat. Sold as set or individually, these plushies feature hand-made craftsmanship, double layer exteriors and double-stitched edges to ensure extra durability. And, for added enjoyment, the toys have two built-in loops so you can secure each hat with a strap and turn your dog’s favorite toy into an Instagram photo-op. petplay.com

closeup shot of abyssinian cat drinking water from faucet

May 2 2018

Water Fountains for Cats

melissa Health, Lifestyle, Pets, Products, Resources abc cat trainer, abc cat training, cat water, cat water fountain reviews, cat water fountains, cats need water, cats rule fresh water fountain, drinkwell pet fountains, get cats to drink water, getting a cat to drink more water, petmate cat fountain, petmate fountain, pioneer pet swan fountain, thirsty cat fountains, water fountains for cats

Encourage your felines to drink more with recirculating water.

Cat water fountains have been around for many years now and I can tell you from personal experience that if you have a cat, one could save you hundreds (possibly thousands) of dollars on veterinary bills each year. This is because Felis catus, a species that originated in the desert, typically needs some extra encouragement to drink water.

Water helps regulate body temperature, assists the kidneys in ridding the body of waste products and keeps the mouth moist and the gastrointestinal tract running smoothly. However, simply putting out a bowl of water isn’t enough for some cats—many prefer to drink from running water sources.

Since cats tend to only drink when they’re very thirsty, they rarely consume enough water for their urinary tract (i.e., renal system). When cats don’t drink enough water, the effects can be immediate: you’re likely to notice a dulling of the coat; if you gently squeeze the back of their neck, the skin will not quickly revert to its original position; and their urine will be highly concentrated. This can quickly lead to problems with their urinary tract and kidneys, resulting in blockages of the urethra which in some cases could be fatal.

The 1:1 Rule: Your cat should be drinking 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight, every day. Which fountains are the best? Any that encourage your cat to drink more qualify. The deciding factors are what your cat prefers and what your budget allows. Below are just a few of the brands and/or styles that could turn your cat into a water lover.

Drinkwell Pet Fountains

Drinkwell is the first name in pet fountains. Developed by a veterinarian, the company is now owned by Petsafe, which has increased the variety of fountains while offering them at affordable prices. Drinkwell fountains all feature a recirculating pump and carbon filter, which is a good way to remove many impurities in the water and help keep it cleaner for a longer period. Pricing ranges from $20 to $100. The carbon filter will need to be changed at least once a month; however, you can shop around to find less-expensive generic ones that fit. (Images are not to scale) petsafe.net

Thirsty Cat Fountains

These incredible fountains are handmade and are truly a work of art. The ceramic bowl and simple filter system come in two styles: stream fountains or bubble-ups; both types feature a recirculating pump and carbon filter. They are easy to clean and beautiful enough to place in any area of the house. Pricing is on the high side, with bubble-ups ranging from $121 to $190, and streaming fountains from $134 to $280. The carbon filter will need to be changed monthly. To lower costs, I use a generic filter. (Images are not to scale) thirstycatfountains.com

Pioneer Pet Swan Fountain

Does your cat love drinking out of the faucet? The latest fountain from Pioneer Pet provides the same experience. Dishwasher safe and charcoal filtered, the fountain holds up to 80 oz. of water; and it also features a USB connector. Available in premium white plastic and silver stainless steel, it is easy to assemble and clean. The company has other stylish fountains, including the Raindrop, Fung Shui and Big Max; prices range from $27 to $90. (Images are not to scale) pioneerpet.com

Petmate Fresh Flow™ Fountains

These highly functional fountains provide naturally cool, oxygenated water throughout the day for your cat(s). They feature continuous circulating water, a replaceable charcoal filter and a unique, patented no-splash water-slide. Most plug into a standard AC outlet; however, the Fresh Flow Rain Fountain runs on four D batteries, enabling you to place wherever your cat prefers to drink. Fresh Flow fountain prices range from $25 to $50; sizes from 50 oz. to 216 oz. for multi-pet households. (Images are not to scale) petmate.com

Cats Rule Fresh Water Fountains

For those of you who prefer a little whimsy in your daily life, The Watering Hole Automatic Fresh Water Fountain could be what you’re looking for. Available in two styles at $29 each, these functional fountains provide cats with recirculating, filtered water that streams from a frog or a fish’s mouth. The basin is made from BPA free polypropylene; the fish and frog are made of food-safe plastic resin. Each comes with two active carbon filters and holds 38.4 oz. (1.2 quarts). catsrule.com

Water fountains provide the perfect blend of clear, filtered, running water that appeals to cats and adds a relaxing element to the home for you—and your cat(s). Get a pet fountain for your cat – you won’t regret it!

April 4 2018

Travel Gear for Dogs

melissa Lifestyle, Pets, Products, Resources, Safety dog carriers, dog in-vehicle harnesses, dog travel gear, portable dog bowls, traveling with your dog

It’s never been easier to bring your canine(s) along wherever you go thanks to a wide range of products.

With vacation season on the horizon, if you are like many owners, you will be making plans to take your dog(s) with you. And no matter where you will go or what you will do, there is a range of dog travel products that can help make your experiences easier and better. From in-car carriers and harnesses to airline-approved carriers to portable bowls and food containers, there is something for every well-traveled canine and their owners. The following are just a few of the myriad travel products available. (Note: All of the brands below offer a range of travel gear for dogs–and other pets, too.)

Carriers

The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed: Apart from being used as a standard carrier, the circular dome-shaped Sleepypod also functions as a safe car seat (it has been certified crash tested by Center for Pet Safety). And, by unzipping the mesh lookout dome, it converts into a plush bed catering to pets who like to sleep in a curled-up position. The bedding is removable and machine-washable. The exterior is made from high quality luggage-grade, ballistic nylon and is easy to clean. Available in six fashion colors, the carrier comes in two sizes: medium for dogs weighing 15 lb. or less, and mini for tiny dogs who weight 7 lb. or less.

Sherpa Original Deluxe: This top- and side-loader is available in three sizes (8,- 16- and 22-lb. carrying capacity) and offers excellent ventilation on three sides as well as privacy flaps for nervous dogs who easily get stressed and anxious. High quality locking zippers make it easy to open and close, and it has a machine washable lambskin liner placed on top of a waterproof bottom and has a large zippered pocket for paperwork. The small size has the Guaranteed On Board airline approval from 10 national airlines and full reimbursement for the cost of the air ticket if passenger is denied boarding access because of the carrier.

Gen7 Commuter™ Carrier + Car Seat: With a 5-Star Crash Test rating from the Center of Pet Safety, the carrier + car seat’s is designed to provide security and comfort while on the road. The top- and side-loading carrier features, a machine-washable comfort pad, heavy-duty hardware. a padded shoulder strap for carrying ease and a seatbelt latch and shoulder strap to keep it in place during travel. Approved for airline use, too, it is suitable for small dogs up to 20 lb.

In-Vehicle Harnesses

Sleepypod Clickit Terrain: Light and easy to use without sacrificing safety, this in-vehicle harness features shock-absorbing webbing sleeves that work in conjunction with a broad padded vest and Sleepypod’s unique infinity loop design for maximum protection. Its three-point secures a dog’s entire torso in rear passenger seat directly to the seatbelt system without a tether Crash tested to the company’s high-safety standards, the harness also features reflective rear patches and front logo for night visibility. Comfortable to wear as an everyday walking harness, it can also be used with an optional Terrain Pack. Designed for dogs approximately 18 lb. or more, it comes in four bright fashion colors and four sizes: small, medium, large and extra-large.

Kurgo Impact Dog Harness: Made from a single piece of high tensile (4,000 lb.) tubular webbing with all-steel nesting buckles and reinforced bar tacking, this crash-tested harness is purpose-built for car safety. It connects directly with the seatbelt system and has four adjustment points for a perfect fit on dogs of all shapes and sizes. The harness features a broad, padded chest plate for extra protection and comfort, is machine-washable, and comes in four sizes—small, medium, large and extra-large.

PetSafe Deluxe Car Safety Harness: Offering a smooth, safe, comfortable road trip for you and your dog, this totally new design has been crash-tested in a DOT-approved facility and stress-tested to 3,000+ lb. in accordance with leading industry standards. Featuring a fully-padded vest with breathable liner provides superior comfort and safety, the harness integrates with a vehicle’s seatbelt system. It comes in four sizes—small, medium, large and extra-large—and has a convenient connection point for leash walking. For maximum safety, an optional three-point attachment is available.

Travel Accessories

Sleepypod Yummy Travel Bowls: Designed for use on the go or at home, this bowl set is a must have for canine travelers. You can store and transport your dog’s food at the same time with this three-in-one prepack system. 1) spill-resistant water bowl that serves as a base; 2) food bowl slips into the water bowl, making it leak-free; and 3) lid doubles as an extra bowl that seals the entire system, making it entirely spill-proof. Made from baby-safe, FDA food-grade, BPA-free silicone that is microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe. It comes in two sizes, medium and small, and five springtime colors.

Kurgo Kibble Carrier™ and Collaps A Bowl™: The Kibble Carrier, constructed of durable 400d hex-weave material, is perfect for any road trip. Modeled after river dry bags, its top rolls down and clips securely to keep up to 5 lb. of dry food fresh and contained, whether packing for a week or a weekend. The zippered side pocket is perfect for treats or any small extras your dog loves. The bottom of the bag features a convenient opening that fits a Collaps a Bowl. The bowl, which is just under an inch thick when not in use, can hold up to 24 fluid oz., is made of BPA-free food-grade silicone and is dishwasher friendly.

The Ruffwear Haul Bag™: keeps dog gear organized and accessible wherever you go: car camping, road tripping or visiting friends. You can store and easily access food, bowls, leashes, toys and pick-up bags in the wide-opening gate-mouth. Its interior and exterior zippered and mesh pockets keep gear organized, while an I.D. sleeve displays important information. A shoulder strap and side handles provide two carrying options; the bag is hand washable in a mild detergent.

Clickit Terrain Pack: Equip your dog for the day’s adventures with this handy pack. The ergonomically designed backpack integrates seamlessly with the Clickit Terrain safety harness by attaching to its four D-rings. Its two pouches allow for storage of essentials such as food, water and toys. Two removable, reflective Velcro patches can be interchanged with your dog’s own service patches or expressive badges. The water-repellent pack also has adjustable straps to prevent shifting a padded handle for better control or a helping hand over tough terrain.

March 23 2018

National Puppy Day Giveaway

melissa Fun, Games, Products, Resources animal behavior college, animal behavior college contest, animal behavior college giveaway, dog grooming, fresh n clean, fresh n clean giveaway, giveaway contest, grooming, National Puppy Day, pet grooming, petag

Win a Free Shampoo and Conditioner Set

In honor of National Puppy Day, Animal Behavior College has partnered with PetAg to provide three lucky winners a free shampoo and conditioner set from Fresh ‘n Clean. Here’s how you can enter the contest.

In honor of National Puppy Day, Animal Behavior College has partnered with PetAg to provide three lucky winners a free shampoo and conditioner set from Fresh ‘n Clean.

Here’s how to enter the contest:

Go to this link.
Upload your photo and fill out the form.
Share the giveaway with your friends.

It’s super easy! Treat your pup to a high quality bath with Fresh ‘n Clean products.

Official Rules

To be entered in this contest, you must complete the form above and submit your photo. Comments and replies on social media pages/email will not be considered as official entries. Only residents of the United States or Canada qualify for this contest. The contest will end on 3/26/2018. No further entries will be taken. The mailing address submitted will only be used the send the prize. By submitting your photo, you agree that Animal Behavior College and PetAg may re-use these photos for marketing purposes.

February 22 2018

Finding the Right Bed for your Dog

melissa Health, Lifestyle, Pets, Products, Resources dog beds, dog floor pillows, elevated dog beds, heated dog beds, orthopedic dog beds, snuggle dog beds

Help your pet snooze comfortably in the ideal spot.

Do you want to give your dog a space he can call his own? Provide him with a dog bed. Beyond giving your canine friend a soft, comfortable place to sleep and relax, a dog bed provides your pet with a small spot in your house that is completely his territory.

Dog beds come a range of styles, sizes, fabrics, patterns, and colors. Before you match your dog’s bed to your décor, however, consider your pet’s need and preferences. Your pet’s size and sleeping style should influence your ultimate dog bed choice as much as your budget and interior design. Consider these types of beds, along with some of the options in each category.

Orthopedic

One of the best ways to describe an orthopedic dog bed is that it is basically a mattress for your dog. This type of bed works well for older dogs or those who experience joint pain, because if provides cushioning and support in a manner similar to that of your own mattress. The large, rectangular shape of an orthopedic bed works well for dogs who like to sprawl when they sleep. Options in this category include (but are not limited to):

• Casper Dog Mattress: a Memory Foam Dog Bed

• Orvis ComfortFill Couch Dog Bed

• Big Barker Premium Bed for Big Dogs

Majestic Pet Products Suede Bagel Dog Bed

Donut and Bolster

A donut or bolster bed usually is round or oval with a cushioned bottom and a raised side or sides. This style of bed works well for dogs who like to lean against something for security, or prefer to rest their heads on something slightly higher when they sleep. It also works well for dogs who like to curl up when they sleep, as well as for smaller dogs who want to be surrounded by something cozy on all sides. Options in this category include (but are not limited to):

• Majestic Pet Products Suede Bagel Dog Bed

• Bowsers Donut Bed

• Hagen Pet Products DogIt Dreamwell Dog Donut Bed

Pillow or Cushion

Precision Pet Products SnooZZy Gusset Floor Pillow Bed

As its name implies, a pillow or cushion bed is simply a pillow large enough for a dog to sleep on. This type of bed comes in a range of sizes, colors and patterns to accommodate a range of dog breeds and pet owner budgets and décor preferences. Options in this category include (but are not limited to):

• K9 Ballistics Original Tuff Bed

• Precision Pet Products SnooZZy Gusset Floor Pillow

• Petmate Quilted Kennel Mat

Heated

A heated bed is another option for older dogs or those with joint issues. These warm and cozy beds provide gentle heat that helps soothe achiness and provide extra warmth for smaller dogs that become cold easily. These types of beds may also work well for families that live in colder climates, and some are designed specifically to be used outdoors, such as in dog houses for pets that spend time outside each day. Options in this category include (but are not limited to):

• K&H Pet Products MET-listed Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper

• Easyology Pets Thermal Pet Warming Bed

• Oxgord Paws & Pals Self-Warming Pet Bed Cushion

Outdoor

Another type of bed for dogs that spend time outdoors is a cot. These raised beds keep your dog off the hot ground in the summer and above the cold ground in the winter, and also keep your dog’s sleeping area from sitting in puddles that might accumulate after rain. Look for models with waterproof fabric and sturdy frames to help the bed last longer while exposed to outdoor elements. Options in this category include (but are not limited to):

• Best Pet Supplies Elevated Mesh Bed

• Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed

• Brindle Pet Products Hammock Pet Bed

February 5 2018

Dog Strollers: Why and Where to Use Them

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Tips for Using Dog Strollers

If you share your home with small dogs, then using a dog stroller has probably crossed your mind. Basically, a dog stroller is a dog crate on wheels, which makes sense to use if pet owners need to transport their dogs. Dog strollers are available in different sizes, heights and styles, and can be useful in the right situation. Check out these tips for using a dog stroller!

Using a Dog Stroller

Small dogs need a bit more TLC when walking in public, as strangers can easily trip over or step on them. This is when using a dog stroller would be convenient.

When using a dog stroller, ensure your dog is safely secured by using the tie out available inside the carrier compartment. It’s best to attach the tie out to a dog’s harness and zip the top of the stroller closed to prevent your dog from jumping out.

Dogs that are uncomfortable around other dogs, people or new situations might bark at the sight of them. If this is the case for your dog, you can try using a visual barrier, such as a towel, to reduce barking behavior. However, if your dog is still anxious when riding in a stroller, it’s best to hold him instead.

Choosing a Dog Stroller

Most dog strollers are made of soft-sided material with see-through mesh. There are pet strollers that have solid sides as well, which would work as a visual barrier for barking dogs. Tossing a towel over the mesh part will also prevent your dog from peeking out and barking too.

Taller dog strollers, that resemble human baby strollers, seem to work best for most people since pet owners don’t have to bend over excessively. Plus, taller strollers will prevent strangers from bumping into your dog and keep other dogs from walking up to your dog. Whichever stroller you choose, they remain level at all times unlike when you’re transporting your dog in a crate or carrier.

Best Place to Use Dog Strollers

Use a dog stroller anytime a small dog needs to be transported. Visiting the vet’s office is the best place to use this tool because it keeps small dogs safely contained until they’re at the vet exam. When bringing two or more small dogs to a vet’s office, it’s probably best to separate them into two different strollers. If that’s not possible, hold one dog and leave your other dog in the stroller. Dogs should feel relaxed and safe while contained in a stroller. It’s best to keep plenty of distance between your dog and other dogs at all times even when using a pet stroller.