Cats, similar to dogs, are physically active domesticated animals and letting them roam around inside your house without supervision could cause damage and scratches to your beddings and furniture. If you want to prevent that from happening, the use of cat barriers such as cat doors, enclosure or playpen is very helpful to keep your feline friend in a safe and contained area. Such pet containment systems are also a great way to keep your cat away from aggressive dogs and other dangerous stray animals in the neighborhood.
Here are a few types of cat barriers and the many good benefits they can bring to you and your beloved cat:
Cat Doors
Cat barrier, in the form of a cat door, will allow your kitty to enter and exit the house in a safe manner. As you all know, cats are naturally territorial and they immensely enjoy playing inside and outside the house. If you have a small cat door installed specifically for her, it can make the life of your cat easier and convenient. Hence, there’s no more need to exert effort to open the main door at all times to let her out or in.
Cat Flaps
This unique feline door design will let your cat to enter and exit a house on their own without needing you to open the main door from time to time, while providing protection against wind, rain and other harsh elements.
Cat Enclosures
For outdoor use, cat enclosures are very functional to contain your cat in the backyard or the park. More than being a cage, this spacious cat containment system can serve as an outdoor feline barrier where your furry friend can play, run, exercise and rest safely while enjoying the beauty of the outside world.
Cat Playpens
For indoor use, on the other hand, cat playpens and kitten playpens are a great solution. This type of cat barrier provides a comfortable space for your feline pet to stretch out, move around and play inside the house, while preventing her to get in touch with fragile objects such as furniture and other precious decorations. Cat playpen is also ideal to use if you leave your cat home alone.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Sunday, July 12, 2009
How to Solve Your Dog's Excessive Barking
If you are a dog owner, chances are you might be aware how frustrating it is to control your dog’s behavior. Some dogs get too aggressive to the point that they become disturbing and irritating to your family and your neighborhood, while others bark excessively for some weird reasons. Many dog owners find themselves clueless and unsure as to what must be done to solve this behavior.
Here are a few tips to help you solve your bestfriend’s nuisance barking:
The primary thing you need to check is if you’re giving your k9 all the things and necessities he needs. Barking is a natural behavior among dogs and they usually bark to communicate something with you. If their needs are not being met, the barking might be a cry or signal that he longs for your care and assistance. Always ensure that you give them the right amount of food and water everyday. You also have to clean after your dog.
Dogs could be barking because of irritation. Flea or tick infestations and skin allergies can cause your dog to make excessive noise. Taking your dog to a veterinarian can help you determine whether or not he is healthy and free from any canine diseases.
If your beloved pet barks a great deal, you might observe that they are either bored or energetic. Don’t let your dog be confined inside your house, instead, take him outside where he can play and interact with other dogs as often as you can. You can also train him using tools such as dog training crates and dog exercise pens. A dog that is properly trained to socialize with people and other animals will not bark excessively. Training your dog is a great way to improve his physical and mental stimulation. Dogs naturally enjoy the outdoor and like to experience new things. The barking problem may be solved when the dog is taken on regular walks.
By and large, dogs bark for they beg for a little attention. So don’t be rude. Never yell, hit or scold your dog when they are barking. These kinds of reaction can aggravate your k9’s anxiety. If your dog barks because he is stressed or lonely then your yelling is just going to confuse and hurt him.
Along with these behavior modification methods, you may also try using some gadgets that are designed to address the barking. You can buy bark control collar and other training collar equipment that will quickly train your canine to stop his nuisance barking.
Here are a few tips to help you solve your bestfriend’s nuisance barking:
The primary thing you need to check is if you’re giving your k9 all the things and necessities he needs. Barking is a natural behavior among dogs and they usually bark to communicate something with you. If their needs are not being met, the barking might be a cry or signal that he longs for your care and assistance. Always ensure that you give them the right amount of food and water everyday. You also have to clean after your dog.
Dogs could be barking because of irritation. Flea or tick infestations and skin allergies can cause your dog to make excessive noise. Taking your dog to a veterinarian can help you determine whether or not he is healthy and free from any canine diseases.
If your beloved pet barks a great deal, you might observe that they are either bored or energetic. Don’t let your dog be confined inside your house, instead, take him outside where he can play and interact with other dogs as often as you can. You can also train him using tools such as dog training crates and dog exercise pens. A dog that is properly trained to socialize with people and other animals will not bark excessively. Training your dog is a great way to improve his physical and mental stimulation. Dogs naturally enjoy the outdoor and like to experience new things. The barking problem may be solved when the dog is taken on regular walks.
By and large, dogs bark for they beg for a little attention. So don’t be rude. Never yell, hit or scold your dog when they are barking. These kinds of reaction can aggravate your k9’s anxiety. If your dog barks because he is stressed or lonely then your yelling is just going to confuse and hurt him.
Along with these behavior modification methods, you may also try using some gadgets that are designed to address the barking. You can buy bark control collar and other training collar equipment that will quickly train your canine to stop his nuisance barking.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Dog Leash Training
Dogs walk faster than humans can. Naturally, if you put them on a leash, they'll start pulling to get to whatever they're looking at faster. A dog, having what is called an opposition reflex, would lean on a pressure it feels on its neck and chest. Understanding this makes it clear that if you want to have a leisurely walk with your dog on a leash, you must begin dog leash training while your pet is still a few weeks-old puppy.
Begin by allowing your dog time to get used to the collar around his neck. When you put it on for the first time, your puppy will scratch, roll around or try to get it off. Make sure you fasten the collar securely and don't remove it when the dog is trying to. When he finally calmed down and shows signs of being comfortable with it, you can remove the collar for a short while. This teaches the dog two important things: first, that the collar won't come off when he wants it so he'd best get used to it and second, the collar is not a permanent attachment. Check the collar regularly to make sure it isn't too tight. Your dog grows in size and you need to adjust the collar regularly.
When the dog is ready, attach a leash to the collar and allow the dog time to adjust to the leash. Allot a few minutes every day to for leash training with your puppy and have some treats handy. Your goal is to be able to walk around with your dog on a leash without him pulling at the other end. This means you should be able to stand still with your dog and walk around at your pace, not his.
To get started, fasten the collar securely around your pup's neck and attach the leash. Hold the other end securely. Try and have the dog stand still beside you. When he starts to wander too far and pulls on the leash, call the dog back to your side and reward him with a treat when he does. When he finally is able to stand still beside you for the time you wish to, you can begin walking him around. When he wanders too far to the point of pulling on the leash, call him back to your side. Pull on the leash if needed. When the dog returns to a comfortable distance - walks beside you without pulling on the leash, reward him with a treat.
Do these training exercises with a reward system for several days or weeks or until your dog learns to consistently respect the leash. When your dog is finally able to stand still beside you or walk around your house or backyard with a loose leash, reward your dog with a lot of praise, hugs or pats and some treats. He is ready to be taken out for a walk.
Remember that to condition your dog to respect the leash, focus on allowing your dog to progress forward when the leash is loose. If you allow your pet to proceed forward when the leash is tight, you're teaching him to pull.
Begin by allowing your dog time to get used to the collar around his neck. When you put it on for the first time, your puppy will scratch, roll around or try to get it off. Make sure you fasten the collar securely and don't remove it when the dog is trying to. When he finally calmed down and shows signs of being comfortable with it, you can remove the collar for a short while. This teaches the dog two important things: first, that the collar won't come off when he wants it so he'd best get used to it and second, the collar is not a permanent attachment. Check the collar regularly to make sure it isn't too tight. Your dog grows in size and you need to adjust the collar regularly.
When the dog is ready, attach a leash to the collar and allow the dog time to adjust to the leash. Allot a few minutes every day to for leash training with your puppy and have some treats handy. Your goal is to be able to walk around with your dog on a leash without him pulling at the other end. This means you should be able to stand still with your dog and walk around at your pace, not his.
To get started, fasten the collar securely around your pup's neck and attach the leash. Hold the other end securely. Try and have the dog stand still beside you. When he starts to wander too far and pulls on the leash, call the dog back to your side and reward him with a treat when he does. When he finally is able to stand still beside you for the time you wish to, you can begin walking him around. When he wanders too far to the point of pulling on the leash, call him back to your side. Pull on the leash if needed. When the dog returns to a comfortable distance - walks beside you without pulling on the leash, reward him with a treat.
Do these training exercises with a reward system for several days or weeks or until your dog learns to consistently respect the leash. When your dog is finally able to stand still beside you or walk around your house or backyard with a loose leash, reward your dog with a lot of praise, hugs or pats and some treats. He is ready to be taken out for a walk.
Remember that to condition your dog to respect the leash, focus on allowing your dog to progress forward when the leash is loose. If you allow your pet to proceed forward when the leash is tight, you're teaching him to pull.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Pet Safety for Traveling in the Car
1. Preparation: Don't wait for the last minute! When you put it all together at the last minute that creates more anxiety and tension for your dog as well as you! When you are prepared your dog will have a more normal experience. If you planning to make hotel reservations there many pet-friendly hotels to choose from.
2. Car Safety: Items to consider having depending on your pet's size and ability to ride in the car staying safe for both them, passengers and you: Pet Carriers, Car Barriers, Car Seats, Car Seat Belts. If you need to order any item on line, make sure you do it in plenty of time. If you are planning on going to a local pet store, again do it in plenty of time...for if they don't have it and your pressing the clock, the anxiety is already high and you haven't even left for your trip!
3. Take a long walk before driving off! A recently exercised dog will be in a more relaxed state during any long trip.
4. If your pet needs extra calming, instead of drugs from your pet's vet, you may want to consider Lavender Scent. Any health food store has that and will not make him/her disoriented or feel uncertain during the trip.
5. Make sure your dog has access to water – enough to keep hydrated but not full. Bottled water is perfect. If you need feeders there are many to choose from that are effective and very low cost.
6. Don't forget to bring your dog's food, favorite toy and blanket to keep them happy and balanced.
7. Make sure your dog has clear and effective identification. Be sure that the identification has your contact information while you are still away from home.
8. Put together a doggy first aid kit for the trip. If you are not sure what that may include it's best to call your vet for he or she knows your dog!
9. Always use a leash and stay with your pet at all times. Dogs are very curious and in new places may try to run off and explore. If you have trouble walking your dog any time you may want to consider mastering how to control your dog. If you need help in this area of controlling your dog in public feel free to email TravelinPaws and we can give you additional information.
10. Never ever leave your dog or any other pet or child in a hot car even if you roll the windows down. A car in the sun can reach temperatures of near 200 degrees causing heat stroke and even death to pets & humans left in them.
11. Never leave your dog alone and unattended in his or her carrier. Unfortunately kidnapping of your dog is a very real possibility. You may want to consider a GPS system to ensure your pet's safety.
12. Ensure your dog has the chance to potty every few hours. We have noticed when the owner is calm and relaxed throughout the trip (and that includes the preparation!) the dog will also maintain a calmness. It is common in unfamiliar places like this your dog's regular potty schedule will be interrupted and you don't want any embarrassing issues. If traveling to a theme park check with employees about places setup for your dog to potty in. Most will have areas around the park for you to use.
13. Take a break every hour. This will allow them to not only relieve themselves but keep the circulation on all vital organs. Plus, they will learn by smell that they are going to a different environment. It is important for a dog to experience the different temperatures, smells, and feelings that come with a new environment. This will help make them feel that they are part of the process of moving to a new area. Once the sun goes down, you can go eight hours non-stop!
14. Once you arrive at your hotel, or family/friends home, take your dog for a walk! If you are not sure where to go, ask the pet friendly hotel.
If you are driving to the beach:
1. Know the local laws. Not all beaches allow dogs! If they do, make sure you know if you have to keep them on a leash at all times or not.
2. Sunscreen: it's not just for people. Pups need protection too! Talk with your veterinarian about protective goggles and canine sunblock.
3. Protect your dog from fleas. Sand fleas are abundant!
4. Get a Condition Check on the weather and ocean tides, undercurrents and Sea lice, jellyfish. All of these factors can pose just as much of a threat to dogs as they do to humans. Before you let your dog roam, verify with a lifeguard that the environment is safe.
5. Never let your dog drink the ocean Salt /bay / or lake water! Keep your dog hydrated with fresh water. Salt water can make them sick. Please watch for signs of dehydration. You may be use to being out in the sun and water, but your dog may not. Watch for signs. Sand and heat can make a normal exercise routine more strenuous. Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, call your dog back to rest in a shady spot.
6. Watch them at all times, for you don't want them to eat things that wash ashore, like dead fish, fishing lines, plant life.
7. Be prepard to pick up after your dog! Keep the water and beach area clean for others. Respect goes both ways and it is noticed.
8. When you and your dog are done for the day give him/her a bath with fresh water. Find out if the beach has an area to do exactly that before going back to the car or hotel. If not, find out from the hotel where the best place is. The chemicals and sea water can be harmful to your dogs coat and general well being.
These pet safety tips will help you and your best friend in having a safer, happy and balanced trip. Just remember to stay calm and positive with your dog and everyone will benefit. Stay safe and have an awesome trip!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Choosing The Right House For Your Dog
Every dog needs his own little space where he can play and sleep. It can be in the form of dog houses, dog kennels, dog pens or small animal cages . Nowadays, you can find various options for a dog's shelter depending on your preference or budget. But before purchasing any product, there are several factors you need to take into consideration to ensure that what you're buying really suits your k9.
The first consideration is the size of your dog and how much space he needs. If you have a small backyard, it is important that you plan what is best for the area and how you can utilize the space. Putting up a small dog house inside this structure would be a practical move.
There are tons of sizes, designs and shapes of dog houses that you can buy today. Commonly, a canine house is made of either plastic or wood materials. Some prefer the plastic type because it lasts longer and is easier to clean. Others choose wood dog house because it can be customized and painted in various colors. But whichever type you choose, remember that there must be an adequate room for water and food inside the doghouse so that your canine will not be walking in and out of it.
There should also be sufficient space for him where he can sleep, walk around and exercise. A big dog house is always better. Ideally, it should be huge enough so that your k9 can lie down comfortably.
You also need to be particular about the insulation. If you reside in an area with severe temperatures, better opt for an insulated dog house to protect him against intense heat or cold. Having a house with removable roof is also beneficial to give you better access to the dog house, allowing you to clean it easily and quickly. It is also recommended that you raise the floor in setting up the shelter in order to prevent water from entering it during the rainy season and isolate it from the cold ground during winter.
Lastly, you must ensure that the dog house is made from sturdy materials that can withstand even the toughest weather conditions. It should be designed in such a way that your canine will be protected from the heat, cold, rain and other harsh elements. If your pet enjoys spending time in the outdoor, then a doghouse is just the perfect option!
The first consideration is the size of your dog and how much space he needs. If you have a small backyard, it is important that you plan what is best for the area and how you can utilize the space. Putting up a small dog house inside this structure would be a practical move.
There are tons of sizes, designs and shapes of dog houses that you can buy today. Commonly, a canine house is made of either plastic or wood materials. Some prefer the plastic type because it lasts longer and is easier to clean. Others choose wood dog house because it can be customized and painted in various colors. But whichever type you choose, remember that there must be an adequate room for water and food inside the doghouse so that your canine will not be walking in and out of it.
There should also be sufficient space for him where he can sleep, walk around and exercise. A big dog house is always better. Ideally, it should be huge enough so that your k9 can lie down comfortably.
You also need to be particular about the insulation. If you reside in an area with severe temperatures, better opt for an insulated dog house to protect him against intense heat or cold. Having a house with removable roof is also beneficial to give you better access to the dog house, allowing you to clean it easily and quickly. It is also recommended that you raise the floor in setting up the shelter in order to prevent water from entering it during the rainy season and isolate it from the cold ground during winter.
Lastly, you must ensure that the dog house is made from sturdy materials that can withstand even the toughest weather conditions. It should be designed in such a way that your canine will be protected from the heat, cold, rain and other harsh elements. If your pet enjoys spending time in the outdoor, then a doghouse is just the perfect option!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Benefits of Dog Exercise Pens
Dog training is an essential part of making your k9 stay fit and healthy. If you're a dog owner, you may find it difficult sometimes to control your dog to stay within a specific boundary when you're training him or playing with him in the park or the backyard.
A dog pen, often called as an exercise pen, is a great solution to contain your dog while allowing him to roam around and exercise. It is a type of dog containment system which consists of fences usually made of gauge wire forming a safe space for your dog both in indoor and outdoor environment.
Here are some of the benefits of dog exercise pens:
1. Your dog will feel secured in a territory which he can call his own while giving him as much freedom as possible.
2. For both beginners and experienced dog trainers, the use of dog pens is a very cost-effective way to provide your dog with a safe and spacious enclosure where he can exercise regularly.
3. These pet containment systems are so portable and easy to set-up. You can move a dog pen from one place to another with ease.
4. Studies show that dog pens provide good effects to the psychological disposition of your dog. When he is a around a dogpen, he will not feel isolated. As a result, his behavioral problems such as nuisance barking will eventually be minimized if not totally solved.
5. Another benefit of dog playpens is that they can create an environment conducive to transforming an aggressive dog into your most behaved best friend. With the use of dog pens, you can make a familiar space for your k9 when you are too busy or not around to monitor him.
6. Dog pens are versatile and can be used for other purposes. Some dog owners utilize dog exercise pens along with a dog crate. A dog pen is not only for dog, it can also be used to contain rabbits and other small animals.
A dog pen, often called as an exercise pen, is a great solution to contain your dog while allowing him to roam around and exercise. It is a type of dog containment system which consists of fences usually made of gauge wire forming a safe space for your dog both in indoor and outdoor environment.
Here are some of the benefits of dog exercise pens:
1. Your dog will feel secured in a territory which he can call his own while giving him as much freedom as possible.
2. For both beginners and experienced dog trainers, the use of dog pens is a very cost-effective way to provide your dog with a safe and spacious enclosure where he can exercise regularly.
3. These pet containment systems are so portable and easy to set-up. You can move a dog pen from one place to another with ease.
4. Studies show that dog pens provide good effects to the psychological disposition of your dog. When he is a around a dogpen, he will not feel isolated. As a result, his behavioral problems such as nuisance barking will eventually be minimized if not totally solved.
5. Another benefit of dog playpens is that they can create an environment conducive to transforming an aggressive dog into your most behaved best friend. With the use of dog pens, you can make a familiar space for your k9 when you are too busy or not around to monitor him.
6. Dog pens are versatile and can be used for other purposes. Some dog owners utilize dog exercise pens along with a dog crate. A dog pen is not only for dog, it can also be used to contain rabbits and other small animals.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Benefits of Pet Beds
Why is it essential to give your four-legged bestfriend a place of his own? The answer is quite simple – all dogs, regardless of size, breed or age, need a soft and comfortable bed to sleep on.
Pet beds are not luxury items but essential accessories to provide your dogs with warmth, support and security. Here are some of the important benefits that come from quality pet beds:
• Acting as protection from changes in weather, pet beds can provide your furry friends with a soft, comfortable and supportive place where they can curl up and relax. Many types of pet beds nowadays come with state-of-the-art cooling and heating components that give pets a respite from joint and bone tiredness. Heated pet beds, in particular, help in relaxing tight dog muscles and rebuilding flexibility. The insulation that a heated dog bed provides is so much better than a dog coat.
• By providing your dog with his own little bed, you will avoid possible accidents. Having a pet bed at home can reduce the chances of household furniture hazards such as jumping off the couch or smashing expensive fixtures.
• Senior dogs and pets with disabilities can get a lot of benefits from sleeping on pet beds. Orthopedic pet beds provide dogs with utmost support and comfort to maintain healthy joints and bones and minimize the dog's chance of developing canine arthritis and hip or elbow dysplasia. A dog bed with quality foam contours to a dog’s body, alleviating painful pressure points that cut off good circulation.
• Besides the comfort and security that your pet can get from sleeping on a bed, it can also aid in allergy and clean-up solutions. Pet beds give you a specific area where the shedding of hair strands and dander are controlled.
• Pet beds are not only comfy for your pooch, but more notably can keep him from getting too cold. Old and arthritic dogs suffer from pain and soreness when it is cold. One effective way to relieve their pain is too keep them warm. This is where pet beds become very beneficial.
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