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This time of the year is perfect for sunset strolls through the park or neighborhood. However, sometimes our furry friends are not up for the task. If your pups are too tiered or too small to keep up with you, just
take out your PetZip I-Cute Buggy dog stroller and bring them along. The I-Cute Buggy dog stroller is light-weight with a cute dot pattern. The stroller features a double 360 degrees turning front wheel which makes
it a great option for quicker pace jogs. Plus, its easy to fold and stores flat once your home!
http://www.furrytravelers.com/m7/60011--i-cute-pet-buggy.html
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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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Senior dogs make wonderful pets. They tend to be less active and don't require a lot of play time or exercise (however most still love a nice outdoor walk). They have outgrown the destructive phase that many young dogs go through but still welcome you home with a happy wag of the tail (and maybe sloppy kiss). Of course, senior dogs are great company.
If you already have one pet, you may consider a second. Our house has had two dogs for almost 20 years. For many of those years, one of them was a senior. For the past 8 years, we have also had a cat. The myth of dogs and cats not getting along isn't always true. I have walked into our living room many times to find the three of them sharing the same chair. So cute!
One concern I hear from people is that they work or travel too much to have a dog. For those with hectic schedules, there are many potty solutions available, from hiring a dog walker, to using “pee-pee” pads or artificial grass for the home.
I personally believe pet owners are happier people. A senior dog is a friend you can play with, take care of, and love. In return, you get faithful companionship and unconditional love.
There are many senior dogs and cats available for adoption. Visit http://www.Petfinder.com or your local animal shelter to find your new family member today.
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We lost our dog Sammy earlier this year. We had to make the difficult decision to put her to sleep. She had been suffering for years from serious back problems related to major surgery she had 10 years earlier. She also had recurring eye problems caused by a paralyzed facial nerve.
We did all we could to make her life happy over the years. This included building homemade ramps for 4 rooms of the house so she could sit and sleep with us, taking her for walks in a stroller so she could get fresh air, putting carpet runners throughout our tiled house so her little paws wouldn't slip out from under her while she walked. We gave her supplements, a radiant heat lamp, acupuncture treatments. She was truly a loved member of our family and we spared no expense or effort to make her happy and comfortable.
At 15 years of age, she was no longer our happy-go-lucky Sammy. She seemed uncomfortable and the only excitement she showed was at mealtime. Other than that, she didn't wag her tail or even want to be in the same room with us. Given her health history, we discussed that we would not put her through another surgery, should that need arise.
When she developed another serious eye problem requiring surgery, we discussed the situation with her doctor. Our wonderful vet assured us that these were all signs she was ready to move on. She was no longer enjoying her life. I heard another vet once say that it is better to end a dogs life too soon than to risk ending it an hour too late.
While this made our decision easier, it did not make the loss easier. For all but the last few months of her life, she was the happiest, friendliest dog we had ever known.
(This blog entry started out to be about a pet product and I'm not sure what got me on the subject of Sammy, but I am going to leave it in case someone out there is needing to make a similar decision about their beloved dog. Talk to your vet. They can help you decide what is best.)
The loss of a pet is tremendous and the sadness sometimes overwhelming, but it does get easier with time. Let yourself be sad, cry, go through the grieving process. They are members of your family and most likely loved as much as your two legged family members.
Finally, don't be afraid to eventually get another pet! I have spoken to so many people whose dog passed away years earlier. When I ask why they haven't gotten a new one, they say because they don't want to ever go through that type of loss again.
I can't imagine being a dog lover and choosing to be alone rather than have a dog bring you love, companionship and joy for so many years. Don't be afraid! It can help you overcome the grief and bring you years of happiness.
Just be careful not to expect your new pet to "replace" the old. Dogs, as people, are all different. One thing that stays the same, is the unconditional love and wet kisses you only get from a dog.
Our little Sammy
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Do you enjoy long relaxing bike rides? I'm sure your pup would enjoy them too! Check out our Snoozer Pet Bicycle Basket! This patented bike basket provides a safe and comfortable place for your pet to enjoy the company of their owner while biking. Plus, a mesh water bottle pocket gives pet owners a perfect place to store some water for long rides! Now you can enjoy your favorite hobby together! http://www.furrytravelers.com/m7/10011--snoozer-sporty-bike-basket.html
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We are all in the habit of using our seatbelt whenever we drive. Most pet owners, however, do not think about using a safety harness for their pet. It is time we do!
According to the American Automobile Association, unrestrained pets cause more than 30,000 accidents annually. That's thousands of fatalities and injuries that could have been avoided with the use of a simple pet restraint, harness or crate.
Bark Buckle-UP founder, Christina Selter, warns that an unrestrained dog can be dangerous to everyone in the vehicle. "In a 30 MPH accident, a 60-pound dog can cause an impact of more than 2,700 pounds, slamming into a car seat, windshield or other passenger."
And let's face it, any one of us would be heart-broken if our dog was injured, or worse, killed in an accident because we were too rushed or lazy to buckle them into a safety harness. (Hint - leave the seat belt attachment in the car at all times so it is easy to snap onto your dog's harness. It will be one less thing to remember as you leave home, too!)
So...let's make a New Year's Resolution to buckle up our pet every time we go for a drive - no matter how short the distance. To make things easy, I am going to review a few of the travel harnesses we carry on our website:
1) Kurgo Tru-Fit Safety Harness: This is probably the easiest harness to put on your dog that I am aware of. Once adjusted for size, you simply slip it over your dog's head and then buckle the strap around its chest. That's it! It comes with a loop that you put your seat belt through and attach to the harness to keep your Furry Traveler in place while you drive. It is made of high-quality automotive seat belt materials and has a broad padded chest plate for extra protection and comfort. Good for dogs over 10 pounds. Price: $22.99 - $28.99.
2) The PetBuckle Seat Belt Harness provides protection in a standard vehicle by using the vehicle's seat belt, LATCH bar system or cargo area to securely restrain a harnessed dog. Just slip the seat belt through the web loop on the harness and buckle up. For dogs over 15 pounds. Crash tested for safety. Price: $49.99.
3) For the more fashion conscious, we offer a variety of comfortably padded safety harnesses in a variety of colors and patterns. Many of these styles snap right into your own car's seat belt buckle - very easy to use.
Whatever your choice may be, just remember that having your dog restrained is one less distraction for you and so much safer for your Furry Traveler!
To view all our safety harnesses, visit www.FurryTravelers.com.
Happy New Year from your friends at Furry Travelers!
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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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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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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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This holiday, treat your pet to a fun holiday themed gift! This season, we happen to have unique holiday themed grunting dog toys! Our special occasion holiday toy comes in Jumbo sizes which are ideal for medium and large-sized breeds. These thick plush toys are fun to toss, carry and shake, plus they make grunting sound when squeezed! Happy Holidays!
Follow this link to learn more: http://www.furrytravelers.com/m7/9502--grunting-christmas-toys.html
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