Monday, October 13, 2008

No Pet Left Behind!

Here's something for you crazy pet lovers:

At the VCLA (Virtual College of Learned Animals), your pet can earn a PetDegree! Browse their site for "Campus Life" events such as a concert by The Monkees and readings that are Co-sponsored by the departments of Engleash and Litterature.

Take a look at the "course catalog." Maybe your pet would like to take Barkeology, Barkitecture or Doo-Doo Economics.

VCLA obviously has some creative management. I found the site quite entertaining!

In VCLA's words, this is why you might want to consider this purchase:
"With a PetDegree diploma from VCLA, you can instantly build a pet’s self-esteem and stroke that furry ego until the cows come home. A VCLA PetDegree diploma is recognized throughout world as the ultimate bark of distinction in virtual animal education. It can open doors, rattle cages, and lead your pet quickly up the social ladder and rapidly down the career path to success."

And of course, the VCLA does not discriminate on the basis of the color or creed, gender or breed, or number of legs.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Send your pet through the mail - his picture, that is...

A picture of your pet can be turned into a customized postage stamp by uploading a digital photograph at www.photostamps.com. Photostamps are available with a variety of borders and in several different postage stamp values.

The process is easy, and what a fun way to show off your pet!

Thursday, October 2, 2008

5 Simple Exercises That You Can Do With Your Dog

by Jennifer Tanner

We all know that as humans we need to exercise to stay healthy, but our pets also need to stay healthy and can be included in your daily exercise routine. One of the most important things to remember when exercising with your dog is to start out slow and build up from there; a little exercise is better then none at all.

1) Walking: Walking is the most common form of exercise for both you and your dog. Try to find a nice park or if you don't live close to one then take a stroll around your neighborhood. This type of exercise is a good way to start your new routine with your dog. Remember to never take the leash off of your dog especially in high traffic areas.

2) Fetch and Chase: If you live in an area where you can not get out as much; you might want to try playing fetch or chase with your dog. This is a great exercise routine that you can even include in with your other exercises. We all know that after awhile exercise gets monotonous this is a great way to break up your routine. Try playing fetch with a ball and then work your way up to playing Frisbee with your dog. Make sure that when you are playing Frisbee not to throw the Frisbee to high so as not to hurt your dog. The other pro with these types of exercises with your dog is that it not only stimulates them physically, but also mentally and keeps their brains active.

3) Cycling: Cycling is probably going to be one of the most difficult exercises for you to do with your dog. You need to make sure that your dog is well behaved and you might want to check into some special leashes that allow you better control of your dog while cycling. The best area to do this in is an area where there is very little traffic so as not to hurt your dog or yourself.

4) Swimming: If you live in an area with a lake or pond this is a wonderful exercise for both you and your dog to enjoy (just make sure there are no alligators in the pond or lake especially if you live in Florida). Also if you have a swimming pool this is a good way to familiarize your dog with water so they will not get hurt if you are not around. There are products on the market that can be setup in a pool to make it easier for your dogs to get in and out of without hurting themselves.

5) Dog agility training: There are many companies that offer agility training equipment or you can easily create your own obstacle course in your backyard. This type of training will help both you and your dog get physically fit because you will run alongside the dog to make sure that he/she stays on the course track.

As with any exercise routine make sure you not only get your doctor's ok, but also your veterinarian's approval. Also talk to your veterinarian to find out what type of exercise is best for the age, breed and physical condition of your best friend.


About the Author
To learn more about your pets health and well being visit: www.schnauzeradvice.com

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Friday, September 5, 2008

Halloween: Pet Safety

Halloween Safety for Your Pet

Author: Brent Goodman

Soon enough the season of costumes and Jack-O'-Lanterns will fill our neighborhoods with an endless parade of trick-or-treaters heading for our doorsteps. This year, be prepared to make the season a safe one for all members of the family. Here are some important veterinarian-recommended tips:

· Halloween season is a time of mischief and pranks, and too often dogs and cats become unwilling participants. Keep your outdoor pets well supervised in the yard or, better yet, keep them indoors and safe from neighborhood hooligans at night.

· If your dog has the personality and temperament to accompany the kids trick-or-treating, there are a variety of costumes available in pet-friendly sizes. Just make sure the costume doesn't interfere with his ability to breathe, see, hear, move, or bark. Always make sure the fit isn't constricting, and keep an eye out for signs your dog may be getting stressed out.

· Like any other night you take your dog for a stroll, make sure he's wearing his collar & nametag/ID. And with so many other people on the street, it's important to keep him on a lead or leash.

· Just as you'd make sure your kids aren't eating unsafe candy, never let your dog get a hold of any bite-size sweets. Candy and wrappers are potential choking hazards, and chocolate is particularly dangerous for dogs - a toxin. Instead, pick up a container of baked cookies for Dogs to share or any other of your pooch's favorite biscuits and treats.

· No other time of year will so many strange kids in even stranger costumes be knocking on your door. This can be especially nerve-wracking for the territorial dog. With the door opening and closing all night, be careful of them darting out. You may even want to put up a temporary gate in the entranceway, or keep your pup in a separate room.

· For especially nervous animals, the haunting screams of kids and endless chiming doorbells can get to be too much for comfort. There are a variety of calming products designed for storm- and travel-shy pets, which are also useful on Halloween.

  • Finally, decorations and Jack-O'-Lanterns are tempting for pets to get their noses into. Needless to say, it's too easy for them to get hurt if left unsupervised, whether it's in a tangle of crepe paper or a singed coat from an open flame. Always keep these Halloween favors out of your pet's reach!




Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/halloween-safety-for-your-pet-548817.html



About the Author:

Brent Goodman holds degrees in English from Ripon College, a Masters of Fine Arts from Purdue University, and has extensive experience in research communications and educational publishing across various fields of study. He is currently the Senior Copywriter at Drs. Foster & Smith Pet Supplies, the nation's leading online and catalog pet supplier.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

National Dog Day August 26

Happy National Dog Day!

National Dog Day gives us a reminder of the value and importance of dogs in our lives. Dogs do a lot for us and deserve an extra pat on the head today.

Some dogs are working dogs that make it possible for people to stay safe and live a more normal life. I send my appreciation and thanks to all the dogs who:

* Lead the blind
* Provide search and rescue services
* Sniff out arson sources
* Watchdogs who provide safety (I think that's almost every dog)
* Find bombs and drugs
* Sense an oncoming seizure of their owner

Of course we also must honor dogs who are simply our pet and:

* Give love and companionship
* Give us someone to care for and forget about our own problems for a few minutes
* Save a life of their owner who may be considering suicide, but the love of their dog keeps them going another day
* Help us stay healthy by insisting on us going for a walk each day
* Provide a sense of security (bark to tell us when someone is coming to the house)
* Are our most faithful friend

On this National Dog Day, consider saving a dog from homelesness and abuse. Visit your local shelter if you think a dog might be a good companion for you, or to make a donation to help dogs who have been rescued and are waiting for a new home.

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Cat Furniture: Not a Nicety, a Necessity

I just received my email newsletter from Drs. Foster and Smith that included an article about why cats really NEED cat furniture. The timing was perfect, as I recently purchased the Cat Cottage and my fuzzy feline loves it!

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Let's Go Bye-Bye!


Walking your dog on a leash is one way to take your dog along wherever you may go, but checkout these alternatives. How fun!

Monday, July 14, 2008

Bring Your Pet On Your Family Vacation

Bring Your Pet On Your Family Vacation by Joseph M. Sabol

Everyone knows that people consider their pets as part of the family. Now it is becoming more common to include pets in vacation plans and many travel destinations are accommodating dogs and cats. Many hotels, resorts and state parks allow dogs, although there are certain restrictions, for example due to health codes, dogs can dine with their families only at outdoor restaurants or cafes. It is obviously important that your dog is socialized and well behaved, and remember, not everyone loves dogs!

Some of the top dog friendly resort towns include,

Carmel/Monterey, California Asheville/Blue Ridge, North Carolina Portland, Maine Key West, Florida Black Hills, South Dakota Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada Charlottesville, Virginia Cape May, New Jersey and Grand Canyon, Arizona.

These are just a few of the vacation destinations that are pet friendly. There are many State Parks and beaches that allow dogs but they are usually required to be leashed. There are over 200 dog friendly coastal beaches. San Diego is home to Dog Beach where dogs can run free without a leash, as long as they can get along with other dogs.

All dog friendly areas require that dogs are well behaved. When asked, most officials described well behaved as pertaining to the dog and the dog owner. For the dog, this means being calm around many people and other dogs, not barking excessively, not jumping on people and following commands of their owner. For the owner, well behaved means controlling your dog, not allowing him to do his "business" in inappropriate places and cleaning up after your dog.

There are several things you need to do to prepare for a road trip with your pet. You need to be sure your pet has been to the vet and has all his shots up to date. You should have a record of his vaccinations and make sure he is protected from Lyme disease, heartworm and fleas. Remember to pack his pet vitamins. He will need a license and an identification tag with all your information, especially a cell phone number since you will be away from home. It is a good idea to carry a first aid kit specifically for pets.

Make sure you have enough dog food and treats for the trip. It may be a good idea to buy bottled water since some dogs can get sick from drinking water they are not used to. Remember to pack a leash and towels for muddy paws. Also, bring favorite toys and bags for cleaning up after your dog. If you will be staying in a hotel, bring a crate for your dog to sleep in or stay in if you have to leave him alone for any reason.

Most people travel with their dogs, but some cat lovers bring their furry friends along on the family trip. Cats tend to be more attached to their territory so if you intend to travel with your cat, its a good idea to start taking them out when they are kittens. Start with brief trips and be sure to have a quality cat carrier. Have cat toys and a collar with an identification tag. Allow your cat some time to explore his new surroundings.

There are many products available to make travel with your pet easier. You can get car seats or seat belt harnesses for your dog. For dogs who love to go boating, there are doggie life vests. You can buy travel bowls and even portable dog potties and litter boxes. You no longer have to feel guilty for leaving your pet in a boarding kennel while you enjoy a great vacation. Now your pet can enjoy the family vacation with the famiy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_M_Sabol

About the Author
Joseph M. Sabol is a world class doberman breeder. For further information go to http://theroadhousedobes.com or visit http://petvitamins4u.com

Friday, June 20, 2008

No More Dog Hair Messing Up Your Car



Does your dog love to ride in the car, but you hate to deal with the dog hair left behind? You'll want to checkout rear seat protectors.

Any quality pet supply store sells rear seat "hammocks" that protect the seat while Fido goes for a ride. No more messy hair to clean up, and his claws won't cause any problems with the seat. Most are very easy to install, and vary in price according to size.

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Buy this Dog Toy & Help Multiple Sclerosis Research

Care-A-Lot Pet Supply is partnering with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to raise money for research.



Care-A-Lot is selling special limited edition orange MS Loofa Dog Toys. The loofa dogs sell for $6.99 each, and 100% of the profits will go to the National MS Society for vital research.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Every Pet Needs a Favorite Toy

Every pet needs a favorite toy, and Lexi's favorite is this big orange gorilla dog toy. It squeaks and is good for cuddling.

Lexi, (black lab pictured) carries it around the house and has no intentions to share it. Sometimes she teasingly tosses it over by the nearly 2-year old toddler she lives with, but quickly tugs it back when Lily tries to grab it.

Lexi sleeps with her gorilla too---uses it like a pillow. The toy is obviously durable since it's over 6 months old and a black lab hasn't destroyed it.

Dog toys help keep your dog mentally healthy and give great opportunities for you to bond with your dog while playing. Shop at your favorite pet supplies store and get your dog's next favorite toy!

Monday, June 16, 2008

Send Your Cat on an Adventure


This awesome cat tower will send your cat on many adventures right in your own home. Even better, it won't cost you a fortune - only $34.99. It's made of a very sturdy cardboard (yes, really--it's sturdy). The tower is 4 feet tall and has 4 floors for your cat to crawl through. Now that's entertainment!

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Win Pet Supplies - Your Pet Will Love You & the Supplies

Would you like free pet supplies? Sign up for Pet Connection email newsletter, and maybe you'll be one of the monthly subscriber winners. Each winner gets approximately $1000 in free pet supplies.

Are you one of those people who never win anything? Here's an insider's tip: if you don't enter a contest, you won't win! The worst thing that could happen is you get their newsletter and learn something about caring for your pet!

My name is entered - pet supplies can be costly and I'm always looking for ways to save.

Friday, June 6, 2008

Top Reasons to Adopt a Shelter Cat

June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month. As follows, American Humane has a great list of reasons to adopt a cat:

People everywhere: Adopt a cat from your local shelter today. Adopting a cat will enrich your world in a million different ways. Here’s how:

* Having a cat reduces your blood pressure and helps prevent heart disease
* Having a cat fights depression and loneliness
* Cats are entertaining to watch and fun to play with
* Cats provide companionship
* Cats will cuddle up with you on a cold evening
* Cats are independent and can be left alone while you’re at work
* A cat’s mere presence will ward off unwanted mice and pests
* Cats are comfortable in small spaces like apartments
* Cats are very clean; they bathe themselves!
* A cat’s purr is instantly calming and relaxing
* Cats are affectionate
* Just 15 minutes a day of playing with you will satisfy a cat
* Cats are easy to house train, especially adult cats, who are probably already house trained
* Cats bring a little bit of the wild into your house
* Indoor cats and spayed/neutered cats live long lives, providing up to 20 years of companionship
* Cats are cheaper to spay/neuter than dogs, especially big dogs
* Taking care of a cat can help teach a child responsibility and humane values
* Lots of cats need good homes; when you adopt one, you’re saving a life!

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Pet Supplies for Your Dog--What is His Favorite?

As my blog states, I love cool pet supplies! My pets get so excited when they get a new toy, treat or bed, and I love to see them so happy and excited! My pets are true family members, and pet supplies are important for them.

To help you out, here's a reading resource titled "Pet Supplies for Your Dog."

My dog's favorite item is his bed...LOVES his bed! During the summer, his favorite toy is whatever we're throwing out into the lake for him to fetch---although I like a disk flyer (soft frisbee) because it's easy to throw far. His favorite treat is probably a large rawhide bone. Sometimes his just totes it around and shows it off to visitors, other times he gobbles it down!

What is your pet's favorite toy, treat or other pet supply?

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Ahhhhh! The Expense of Pet Supplies

There are many ways to save on pet supplies purchases, but how would you like to receive supplies for free?

Check out this website that offers FREE PET SUPPLIES SAMPLES. What better way to try out different treats for your pet.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Pet Supplies Reviewed by Pet Lovers (Like You!)

I found ZooToo.com when searching the web for customer reviews on a few particular pet supplies I am considering.

Their purpose, as their page states...

Pet supplies reviewed by pet lovers.

Learn from other pet lovers experience with pet supplies before you give them to your pet. Pet supplies, food, toys and more reviewed by real users.

Plus, by using zootoo.com (write reviews, post comments, upload videos, etc.), you earn points and help a shelter of your choice win a makeover by associating those points to it.

I even had to review a couple of my favorite pet supplies.

A few reviews from real people can help you make the best decision when purchasing pet supplies.

Friday, May 23, 2008

Unique Dog Beds

Our pets love their beds so much, I can't help but to browse the awesome pet bed selections out there in cyberland. Our cat sometimes chooses our chair over her own cat bed, and always ends up in our bed. But our dog always prefers to lounge on his own furniture.

I have pet beds that look good with our living room furniture, but decided to browse for a new dog bed that would blend better with our bedroom decor. Found some fun stuff!



This dog bed would look great in our room. Love the iron frame and the quality mattress would be really good for my older dog. However, it was out of stock.


My search continued, and I think I found it! Oops, maybe not. That dog bed sells for a mere $409 (large). My husband would not be happy with that purchase.

And the winning dog bed is....................
"Not even Cleopatra enjoyed this level of comfort." Got this one in the color sage. It's not an iron frame but my dog will love it and I think it looks very classy. The dog in the picture is about the size of mine, and the bolster pillow looks comfortable. It's a little pricey ($199.99 for a large), but the quality is worth it. They also had a great article called Dog Bed Selection Guide. Very helpful.

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Pet Supplies: How to Buy Online Pet Supplies & Save!

Pet Supplies: How to Buy Online Pet Supplies & Save!
Author: Brent Goodman

Looking to save money on pet supplies without sacrificing quality? Rather than going to your local pet supplies store, discover the convenience, quality and cost savings of shopping online for pet supplies.

Online pet supplies stores typically can offer higher quality products, yet are able to keep prices lower than brick-and-mortar pet supplies stores. Regular pet supplies stores must recuperate the expenses associated with a storefront building, local and national advertising and sales employees. Of course, in the end, customers pay for those expenses. Internet pet supplies sites don't have those overhead expenses and that means lower prices for you when you purchase pet supplies.

Many of us consider our pets members of our family, and we want to purchase pet supplies that help our collared friends be happy, healthy and safe. Take advantage of the free expert recommendations that online stores offer. Most online pet supplies sites are owned by people who really care about pets, and should offer professional pet care advice. If they don't, you might want to search for a site that puts priority on helping owners nurture their pet's wellness.

Product reviews from people just like you are a popular feature on pet supplies sites. Pet lovers want other pet owners to know which products are good - and which products are not! For example, a customer might indicate that a toy worked well for their dog because the dog is large in size, a heavy chewer and the toy stood the test of toughness. The review not only would be helpful if your dog has similar characteristics, but would also be good if your dog prefers softer chew toys.

Shop anytime! Enjoy online shopping 24/7, whatever time of the day or night is convenient for you. Traditional pet supplies stores simply cannot afford to be open beyond regular store hours plus holidays. In addition, leading online pet supplies websites provide customer support 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. A good online pet supplies site wants you (and your pet) to be happy with your purchases, so take advantage of their customer service advice.

It's easy to compare prices of pet supplies offered by the online stores. Simply type in the exact product into any search engine and you'll quickly have several price comparisons at your fingertips. Be sure to also check the shipping and handling charges. Take some caution if an online store offers free shipping and drastically low prices compared to regular store and online stores. If all their prices are too good to be true, they could be substituting lower quality products that could pose a threat to your pet.

The better online pet supplies stores offer auto-ship pet food delivery programs. Your pet's food can be delivered to your door just when you need it - no more frenzied last minute trip to your local pet supplies store. You customize the delivery schedule and quantity. Product discounts often apply when you register for this type of service.

There are plenty online pet supplies stores to choose from--find one you can trust AND has good prices. Online shopping is the most practical, economical and fun method of shopping for pet supplies, and you'll never need to worry about finding a parking spot!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/pet-supplies-how-to-buy-online-pet-supplies-save-398648.html



About the Author:

Brent Goodman holds degrees in English from Ripon College, a Masters of Fine Arts from Purdue University, and has extensive experience in research communications and educational publishing across various fields of study. He is currently the Senior Copywriter at Drs. Foster & Smith Pet Supplies, the nation's leading online and catalog pet supplier.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Would You Like $300 in Free Pet Supplies?

Drs. Foster & Smith Pet Supply Company is having a monthly photo contest throughout 2008. Every month, there are 10 1st place winners ($300), 10 2nd place winners ($200) and 10 3rd place winners ($100). Enter by going to their pet supply website (no purchase necessary) and send them your great pet pictures. Done!

Check out the April Photo Contest Winners.

Monday, May 19, 2008

Cool Pet Supplies: Everlasting Treat Ball for Dogs

If my dog could speak the human language, he would say, "the Everlasting Treat ball for Dogs is the BEST toy ever." And, I would have to agree with him.

This dog toy has a tastey treat inserted--a treat that must be licked, not chewed. That means it lasts a very long time! It gives the dog something to do, and helps stimulate him and avoid bordem. It comes in different sizes. I have a black lab mix (he's a tad bit smaller than a typical lab) and I got him the large.

The blue part is REALLY durable - not sure what exactly it is. It's sort of like a silicone...pliable plastic...soft yet hard...difficult to explain. My dog is a heavy chewer and he will never ruin it by chewing. I haven't tried it in water yet, but they claim it can be used for water retrieval.

My friend was going to be gone for a day and wanted to get her dog something special since she'd be alone (outside kennel) all day. She was considering a large bone, but upon my suggestion, purchased the Everlasting Treat Ball. Her dog (Lexi) LOVED it too! Lexi now carries it with her all the time. I guess she's worried that the cats in the house will take her beloved toy! Lexi doesn't lick it as much as my dog, but each just love that toy.

I found this toy at Drs. Foster and Smith Pet Supplies. They have many cool things for dogs and any other pet you might own. The other toy I purchased there is the Nuts for Knots Dog Toy. Here again, good for a heavy chewer.

Friday, May 9, 2008

Fish Gone

So I start a pet blog one day, and the next day my betta fish dies. Not good.

"Bob" the betta was a beautiful blue. He waved his fins at me each morning as I fed him. Although many people don't consider fish a pet, Bob was one to me.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Cat, Dog, Fish: Supplies, Care & Fun!

As the title implies, I own a cat, dog and a betta fish, and I'm crazy about my pets! They are truly a member of my family, and I love to spoil them.

It is impossible for me to go to my favorite pet supplies site (Pet Supplies, Dog Supplies, Cat Supplies, Pet Meds & Pet Products) and not end up ordering much more than what I "needed". Have you seen the all the cool pet supplies out there? TOO FUN! I have my favorites and will share them with you. Please leave comments on your favorite pet supplies (or should I say your pet's favorite pet supplies). I love to try out fun new toys, treats and care items. The one thing I cannot afford to buy another is a pet bed. We are a household of 3 dog beds and 2 cat beds. No more! (Well, that's what my husband says anyway).

Pets take a lot of care to keep them really happy and healthy. My dog is getting older (11 years), so now I'm trying to learn about senior care. Kitty is still young (3 years), so playtime is the key there. Then there is the veterinarian bills - ouch! Always looking for ways to save money in that area. I'm not willing to give vaccinations myself, but have found a little prevention goes a long way.

Care for my betta fish is pretty easy and basic. I do have fun with different little decorations for his tank. He's beautiful, and I do enjoy having him around too.

That's who I am, hope you find this new blog interesting. Stop back and be sure to leave comments with your pet ideas that have worked for you!