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The holiday's are almost here! And for a lot of people that means traveling. If you plan on flying with your pet this year, here's a list of 5 most pet-friendly airlines of 2009. You're pet will thank you!
Continental
The airline's PetSafe program has a 24-hour Live Animal Help Desk that tracks your pet from origin to destination. It's more expensive than other airlines, but your pet will travel in climate-controlled vehicles for connections and you'll earn extra miles. The airline also allows small pets to be carried in the cabin on most domestic flights for $125 each way.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue launched JetPaws last summer, providing passengerspet carrier bag tag, two TrueBlue points each way, a welcome e-mail and pet-travel guide, all for no additional cost. But like almost every other airline, they have raised their in-cabin pet charge. One-way fees range from $75-$100.
Airtran
Airtran is currently the least expensive airline to fly with your small pet: just $69 each way. They only allow small pets that can travel the cabin, so if you have a larger breed that needs to be checked-in, this airline isn't for you.
American Airlines
The airline has assisted transporting animals from popular zoos in cargo. Although they allow a limited number of pets in the cabin, they ask passengers traveling with pets to make special notes for their animals flying in cargo and promise to abide by all requests.
United Airlines
They accept small cats, dogs and birds in the cabin; rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs as checked baggage and other animals including parrots, cockatiels and ferrets in United Cargo. Shipping by cargo is for items, like some pets, that you can't check as baggage.
For more information about these airlines and their pet policies, click on the airline name above.
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I am getting ready to go to Orlando for the International Auto Show so thought this week I would review another product I don't travel without: The E.B.D. Carry All Bag (E.B.D. stands for Everything But the Dog).
This great bag has so many pockets you probably won't use them all, but it is nice to know you can if you need them (great for medications, waste bags, water bottles, cell phone, etc).
This bag also includes collapsable food and water bowls, 56" x 48" indoor/outdoor fleece blanket with nylon backing and a freezable gel pack Dimensions 12"h x 15"w x 5"d.
The E.B.D. Carryall Bag is available in Brown with fun printed interiors in Blue, Green and Pink.
Since my older dog Sammy is on many medications and both dogs have their own treats, food, toys, bones, this bag really helps keep me organized!
For more details, click here.
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The Bow Wow Bag is a great product to hang on your favorite leash. Available in 3 sizes, there is room for your pick-up bags, keys, cell phone and in the Medium and Larger bags you can even include a dog toy. Not only that, but if carrying your dog's "packages" isn't for you, you can put it in your Bow Wow Bag until you find a trash can.
The Bow Wow Bag is a great way to keep things handy, whether on a daily walk, at the park or traveling.
More info
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Pet Travel Bags
Stay organized for your travels with these pet travel bags and organizers. Travel bags with handy pockets to easily find your pet's bowls, food, brushes, etc. Includes seat organizers and cargo organizers.
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Last week Furry Travelers exhibited at the largest pet trade show in the US - Global Pet Expo. We decided we would take Cookie and Katie with us. This would be Katie's first event and we were a little concerned how she would do. She's a bit more timid than our other dogs have been. Cookie was there though, the professional Furry Traveler and we hoped she would be a good influence on the younger pup.
Travel sickness: For years I have heard from customers with dogs that have motion sickness and as a result get sick when they travel. I have done my best to direct them to a solution, but until I experienced it first hand, didn't know how difficult that could be.
Our newest dog, Katie, has terrible motion sickness. It is so bad that she will vomit just going a few blocks! And when we do find a way to settle her stomach so she doesn't get sick, she drools so excessively from anxiety that we fear she will get dehydrated on a long trip. We were traveling about 3 hours so we figured this would be a good test. We finally found the right combination for her: Dramamine the night before and first thing in the morning, combined with Rescue Remedy to calm her anxiety.
Our Pet Zip Dog Stroller was another needed product for the trip. While we were setting up our booth, this kept them out of harms way and during the show, they spent most of their time in it, enjoying watching all the activity around them. During slower times, we took them out to stretch, get tummy rubs from our booth neighbors and treats from some of the other exhibitors. They even helped us get more traffic into the booth. Who can resist these cute faces?
On this trip I also tested a new product that we have carried for a few months now - Doggy Baggage.
What a great bag! I was able to keep all the girls stuff in one convenient place and stay organized, too. 6 outside pockets to keep important items handy (medication, brushes, water bottle, leash) and the bag itself is large enough to hold food, dishes, To Go Bowl, toys - everything else you need for a great trip.
And of course we had our To Go Bowl! This allowed the dogs to drink whenever they wanted while in the car and we just put it in our Doggy Baggage when we went into the hotel or trade show to then be used on the floor. Of course we stored the girls favorite treats in the removable cup, too!
The trip was a great success!
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Traveling with Your Pet During the Holidays
It is hard to believe that it is already the holiday season. Many of us with pets wouldn't think of spending the holidays without them. If your Furry Traveler is like mine, you are probably planning a road trip. The following tips and information will help your trip be a successful one.
Careful planning can make your trip go more smoothly, whatever your mode of transportation. If you are not staying with family or friends, more and more hotels now allow pets. Be sure to make your reservations well in advance as they can fill up quickly.
HOTELS:
5-Star hotels such as Trump Hotels, Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton often include extra luxuries for your dog, including special bedding and spa treatments.
If 5-Stars don't fit in your budget, you will still want a nice, clean room. There are many hotel chains to choose from, most offer Rewards Memberships so you can accumulate points and get a free night once in a while. My personal favorite is LaQuinta, www.LQ.com. Many are brand new hotels or newly remodeled with large rooms and all have free internet and even breakfast! There are no extra pet fees (unless there are damages, of course). Their website allows you to check for hotels along your driving route, which helps you decide what city to stop in if your trip takes you longer than one day to reach your final destination.
Many of the Intercontinental Hotels (www.ihg.com) also allow pets but you may have to pay a pet fee.
WEATHER:
Here is something to think about if you are changing climates. On a recent trip up north, we found it pretty chilly and my Florida dog ended up needing to wear a coat – good thing I was there selling dog products! If your dog has sensitive paws and is not used to the cold, boots might be appreciated. Just because they have fur coats, doesn't mean they will always be warm enough.
TRAVELING BY CAR:
Buckling up is an important safety precaution for pets. Many states and provinces now require that pets be restrained while in a moving vehicle and restraints have several advantages. They help protect pets in case of a collision and they keep pets from running loose and distracting the driver. They also keep pets from escaping the car through an open window or door.
Cats and smaller dogs are often most comfortable in pet carriers and crates. Carriers give many animals a sense of security and familiar surroundings and can be secured to the car seat with a seat belt or a specially designed carrier restraint (like a child's seat).
There are also pet restraints available that can be used without carriers, including harnesses, seat belt attachments, specially designed pet car seats, as well as vehicle barriers, and restraint systems.
Absolutely do not leave your pet in the car unattended. Even with windows cracked, and even on a seemingly nice day, temperatures in a car can quickly escalate and kill your pet. If you will have to leave the pet, the pet shouldn't have come along for that trip.
Keep your pet hydrated. On a trip, it's tempting to skimp on the food and water to avoid pit stops. While you do want to cut back a little, just for your pet's comfort while on the go, be sure your pet gets enough to drink and eat. The To Go Bowl allows your pet to drink while traveling and the removable cup can store dog treats for your rest breaks. If you are driving with a pet, plan for plenty of stops to walk you pet, and give the pet food and water.
Your dog should always wear a collar with an ID tag that includes your cell phone number so you can easily be contacted if needed. Allowing your pet to have his own travel bag will help you keep things organized. Some things to remember in the bag are an extra leash, medications, Hairbrush, food, bowls.
There are so many other great travel products available now than there were just a few years ago. You will be amazed how much easier traveling is when you use some of them. Websites such as www.FurryTravelers.com specialize in pet travel products and are a great one-stop shopping place for your pet travel supplies.
Pet Travel Statistics from Bark Buckle UP:
In an accident, an unrestrained animal is dangerous to the human passengers as well. Even in an accident of only 30 mph, a 15-pound child can cause an impact of more than 675 pounds. A 60-pound dog can cause an impact of 2,700 pounds, slamming into a car seat, a windshield, or another passenger. Even if the animal survives, it can impede the progress of rescue workers for whom every moment is precious.
Unrestrained pets can also distract the driver, and cause an accident. Even pets that are normally well behaved could be frightened by something unusual and dive for the driver's feet or lap. Following a car accident, an unrestrained pet could escape and be hit by another vehicle or cause another collision. A frightened dog may attack strangers who are trying to help.
Bark Buckle UP utilized the Travel Safety Evaluation Booklet used by police agencies nationwide and concluded that 98% of pets do not travel properly restrained, which means that only 2% of pets travel safe in vehicles. Bark Buckle UP, the pet safety national awareness program, works with Police and Fire Chiefs nationwide to communicate to the public the necessities of, "Why Buckle" for your pets safety, passengers, driver and our first responders.
Be one of the 2% that buckles up your pet!
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After a long winter, it is finally time for warmer weather and getting outdoors with your Furry Traveler! Here is our list of this year's top 10 pet supply items for spring:
1) Dog Safety Harnesses
Whether used to keep hyper dogs from interfering with the driver, risking the safety of the vehicle's passengers, or to secure a dog for its own protection, dog harnesses are perfect for transporting pets on the road. We offer several harnesses with differing sizes, fit, and durability, so you can select the right harness for your furry friend.
2) Snoozer Sporty Bike Basket
The Snoozer Sporty is a doggy bike carrier with durable microfiber, removable inner padding, and a comfortable chin rest for a pooch to enjoy a relaxing bike ride as much as its owner. With two side pockets for water bottles and a removable rain cover, this item is perfect for a spring cruise in the park, be it rain or shine.
3) Kurgo Winga™
The Kurgo Winga is an ingenious outdoor toy that allows owners to engage with their pet during playtime. With a durable rubber disc that can be launched up to 200 feet in the air, this is the perfect item for energetic pups to play with alongside their owners at the park on a sunny afternoon.
4) Car Seat Covers
With more time for muddy adventures and trips to the closest lake, river, or beach, a seat cover or cargo cover is a must! These items are invaluable for springtime activities by providing car seats with protection from muddy paws, dog hair, and unfavorable odors.
5) Raincoat for spring showers
Doggy raincoats are a must-have item to prepare one's pooch for heavy spring showers. Some dogs may love splashing in puddles, but this rain gear will keep pets from getting completely soaked on walks throughout the spring. Plus, this accessory is just too adorable not to own and provides any owner with a great prop for a priceless doggy photo shoot.
6) Dog Water Bottle
The Handi-Drink is a compact, portable water bottle for pets on-the-go that has a patented rubber flow-control valve in the cap to prevent leaks, spills, and backwash contamination. It is available in three different sizes and includes a dispenser tray, belt clip and carrying strap for convenient transportation.
7) Doggy Backpack
The Day Tripper Backpack is a travel pack for pets to wear that features two zippered pouches that can be used to store dog supplies and toys in. Structured to adjust for balance load and padded for extra comfort, this rugged travel pack is perfect for hikes, camping, and other fun outdoor activities.
8) Dog strollers
Furry Travelers knows that pet owners on-the-go are often left missing out for their pets or troubled by having to leave their dogs home alone for public events, festivals, and gatherings. We have dog strollers to fit every type of dog and activity so owners can now bring their furry friends along without the worry. This picture is from a trade show we brought Cookie and Katie to. It came in very handy!
9) Dog Carrier-Backpack
The SHERPA Back Pack is the perfect hybrid of a backpack and a dog carrier, used to transport pets from place-to-place, be it around town or the globe. It can be used as a handbag or shoulder bag, and fits comfortably under airline cabin seats.
10) Hands-Free Leash
Finally, a solution for active pet owners who enjoy taking their dog along for a run or brisk walk but hate having their hands in a bind. The Patento Pet Hands Free Leash wraps securely around the wrist, allowing owners to free up both hands so that they can jog with a more natural posture.
TO GO BOWL
Of course, we must also mention our own To Go Bowl! Remember to take it along while out and about with your pooch and you won't need to share your drink or make a special stop at the drive through for water.
Have a Happy Spring!
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I came across an aritcle recently (from Cars.com) that listed the pet friendliest cars on the market and thought I would share the information. A few of these brands will soon no longer be manufactured, but can be a useful if you are looking for a pre-owned car.
As a pet owner, we want to keep our pets as safe and comfortable as we are. Volvo was found to do the best job of offering products for pet owners, however many automakers offer features and options that are pet-friendly, even though not all of them were specifically designed for pets.
Volvo:
Nets that span the space between the ceiling and the backrests of the front or rear seats to keep pets in their own area.
A collection of metal dividers for wagons and SUV's.
A Vertical grate that divides the cargo area into halves, separating a dog from cargo or another dog.
Saab:
The 9-3 SportCombi and 9-5 SportCombi (wagon) include a cargo space divider, cargo mat, cargo apron and cargo guard in the back; the 9-5 SportCombi also has a trunk tray.
Saturn:
The Vue has a cargo management system.
Volkswagen:
The Jetta and Passat wagons offer cargo partitions, while driver accessories include a VW Beetle squeaky toy, air freshener and squishy pillow. Other VW gear includes heavy-duty floor mats and cargo liners.
Nissan:
A Pet Guard Divider accessory that helps keep pets secure while in a vehicle's cargo area.
Other features that can make traveling with pets easier, and a few cars that have them, include:
Fold-up backseat cushions, which allow a larger area on the floor for pets to lie down. (Honda Ridgeline, Dodge Dakota)
Fold-flat second row seats, which open up the cargo area for more pet space. (Most wagions/SUV's/Minivans.
Fold-flat front passenger seat, which opens up the cargo area for even more pet space. (Toyota Tacoma, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Dodge Caliber, Toyota Sienna, Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Edge, Nissan Xterra, Pontiac Torrent
Hard-coated and scratch-resistant load floor/folding seatbacks, making for easy cleanup. (Jeep Compass, Dodge Caliber, Toyota FJ Cruiser, Chevrolet HHR, Toyota Yaris hatchback, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Honda Element, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Honda CR-V)
Washable/stain-resistant upholstery. (Dodge Caliber, Toyota FJ Cruiser, Jeep Compass, Jeep Wrangler ('07), Honda Element, Chrysler Aspen, Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler Sebring ('07), Dodge Nitro, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Durango, Dodge Ram 1500 Mega Cab, Jeep Patriot)
(Sources: Cars.com)
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With summertime fast-approaching, most of us are busy trying to plan our vacation before all of the beachside resorts and condos book up for the season! Unfortunately, finding accommodations that allow pets can be a headache, and finding a vacation with activities for you and your furry friend to enjoy together is even harder to come by. To simplify your trip planning this year, we have searched far and wide to bring you the best pet-friendly vacations for you and your cuddly creature to go on this summer!
For the Vineyard/ Winery Vacation-Goer: Frenchie Winery, Raymond Vineyards in Napa Valley, CA
Finally- you don't have to choose between your Cabernet and your canine! Frenchie Winery located in Napa Valley, California, comes fully-equipped with ornate canine portraits, wine barrel dog beds, and an expansive outdoor play area. One of the very first dog-friendly wine-tasting rooms to open, this vacation destination is dedicated to dapper dogs and their sophisticated owners. You and your pooch will certainly have a hard time finding anything to “wine” about at this Napa Valley vineyard.
For the Event Enthusiast: The Dog Bowl festival at the Cotton Bowl stadium, Dallas, TX
For one day the historic Cotton Bowl stadium in Dallas, Texas, is transformed into a dog park complete with splash pools, a pet/owner look-alike contest, and all sorts of doggie activities aimed to maximize fun for pets and owners alike. Free and open to the public, owners can let their pets off the leash to run around freely and enjoy all the many fun pet-lover entertainment provided at the Dog Bowl, including giveaways, exhibits, and fabulous pooch portraits.
For the Laid-back, Outdoorsy Type: The Paw House Inn, West Rutland, VT
The Paw House Inn encompasses a historic retreat of dog-friendly hiking trails, swimming spots, farmers markets, and an outdoor theater, along with numerous adventures for you and your pet. During the spring and summer, the Paw House Park and doggie agility course provide your pet with the perfect place to run around outside in the fresh mountain air.
For a Relaxing Spa Vacation: Ritz-Carlton of Bachelor Gulch, Beaver Creek, CO
The Ritz-Carlton at Bachelor Gulch offers relaxation and rejuvenation for you and your pet with its animal-catered hikes, paw-approved massages, and tranquil surroundings. Pets even receive their own plush bed complete with a liver treat turn-down service.
For the Ritzy/Pampered Vacation-Goer: Hotel Monaco in Portland, OR
Pets are treated as glamorously as their humans at the Hotel Monaco located in downtown Portland. The hotel does not have pet size or weight restrictions, and it offers exceptional pet amenities such as a personal pet welcoming (complete with a personalized sign and treats); food & water bowls and a dog bed delivered to your room; and spring water, treats, and eco-friendly cleanup bags, all available free of charge. Owners can indulge during dog-friendly wine hours, while their pets sip on a special microbrew made for canines. Furthermore, the hotel offers pet- sitting, grooming, and walking services, as well as sessions with pet psychic Bridget Pilloud of Pets Are Talking.
For the Active/Sporty Vacation-Goer (warning: must love water sports): Loews Coronado Bay Resort in San Diego, CA
The host of its annual Loews Surf Dog Competition, Loews Coronado Bay Resort offers some of the most unique pet amenities for its visitors travelling with their furry friend. Every dog and cat receives a welcome package with a name tag, food/water bowl, and special treats upon arrival, and applicable rooms are supplied with a pet bed, litter box, and a gourmet room service pet menu, developed by the hotel's in-house chefs alongside a licensed veterinarian. Loews Coronado Bay Resort also provides dog-walking routes, a pet-sitting and walking service, and a list of local pet-friendly restaurants for owners to dine at during their stay.
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For those cats and dogs who like to take a quick snooze on their way to the vet, the multiple award winning Sleepypod is the safest and the most comfortable environment to be in. This Pod is created so that you are able to transport it wherever you like, and builds a positive association for your pet due to your ability to bring it anywhere. When traveling, your pets will feel at home no matter where they go! The Sleepypod is easy to adjust in your car, just wrap your car's seatbelt around the outer shell and through the top handle to secure your Sleepypod like a car seat! With the Sleep Pod, there's no more need for pets to be anxious and restless during drives!
http://www.furrytravelers.com/m7/3066--sleepypod-mini-and-standard.html
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