Santa Monica: A Dog-Friendly Get-Away

Author: ruthmacpete

Santa Monica: A Dog-Friendly Get-Away

July 12, 2021July 14, 2021
by ruthmacpete

As a crazy dog mom, I am always looking for things to do and places to explore with my four-legged furry friend. Unfortunately, as any dog parent knows, planning a pet-friendly vacation can be difficult. These challenges have motivated Jett and I to make it our mission to help others by sharing some amazing dog-friendly vacation ideas. Our first stop: Santa Monica, California.

History

Santa Monica is a popular beachfront city in Los Angeles county. Its most famous attractions are the Santa Monica Pier, which includes a small amusement park, and the Third Street Promenade, an open-air pedestrian-only mall with shopping, restaurants, and live music. Visitors will find a lively beach scene with a city feel.

Our Dog-Friendly Accommodations:

Jett and I stayed at the dog-friendly Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel. Let me start by saying the hotel is located in one of the best spots in Santa Monica. Beachfront and next to the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, it is also within walking distance to all the shops at the 3^rd Street Promenade. The views of the beach and pier are stunning and you can even catch a sunset over the Pacific. As a special treat, the hotel offers pool side movies to entertains kids and adults alike. We found the rooms to be modern and tastefully decorated. Jett was impressed by the staff’s warm welcome and loved the bag of dog treats. The hotel charges a one-time fee of $100 per stay for up to two pets of any size. The fee includes amenities such as beds, bowls, treats, and they even offer a gourmet room service menu for cats and dogs.

Things to Do:

Dog Parks:

Jett and I love visiting new dog parks. It’s gives him a chance to mingle with the locals. Fortunately, there are several dog parks within walking distance of the Loews hotel. We stopped by Pacific Street Park to give Jett a chance to run around and meet some new furry friends. The park was fully fenced and well maintained with trash cans, poop bags, and even a dog water fountain. It was conveniently located next to a veterinary hospital just in case you have any troubles or problems. Jett had a blast and met a few friendly terrier mixes, a Samoyed, a vizsla, and a spaniel.

Biking

Jett and I love to bike and the Loews was perfect! The Loews hotel is not only located perfectly for biking along the beach, but also offers free bike rentals. Of course, we gladly took advantage of this amenity, grabbed a bike and headed out to the beach bike path. The Marvin Braude bike trail is a 22-mile paved bike trail runs along the coast from Torrance County Beach to Will Rogers State Beach. We biked north for about 3 miles north until the bike path ended at Will Rogers Beach. Apparently, you can continue onto Malibu but would need to ride a short stretch along Pacific Coast Highway. We headed back and biked another 4 miles south. There are cafes and shops along the way so you can stop for water or lunch. The trail wasn’t too crowded since pedestrians and joggers had their own lane.

Beach

Unfortunately, Santa Monica beach is not dog-friendly. Although dogs are not allowed on the beach, leashed dogs are allowed on the Santa Monica Pier and along the surrounding boardwalks. Leashed dogs are also allowed on the Venice Beach Boardwalk. In addition to biking along the beach, we walked along the pedestrian path south to Venice Beach for some primo people watching.

Shopping

There are several places to shop in Santa Monica. The best known is the Third Street Promenade. Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-mall with stores, restaurants, and live music. Nearby Santa Monica Place is another open-air shopping mall featuring Nordstrom. Finally, for a more unique shopping experience, Montana Avenue has more than 100 high-end boutiques along its 10-block stretch.

Restaurants:

I have to start by saying Santa Monica has no shortage of amazing restaurants, and many have dog-friendly outdoor seating. We dined at Orto, an Italian restaurant with a beautiful outdoor patio full of heaters to keep you warm and toasty. The waiters and staff were incredibly sweet to Jett, brought him water immediately, and fussed over how cute he was. This is a must for all dog parents, right? We joined friends and had the Burrata and prosciutto, calamari, Chilean Sea Bass and cavatelli with black truffles. All the food was yummy and Jett approved of the table treats he was allowed to sample.

Best Time to Go

Any time is a good time to visit Santa Monica. Located in coastal Southern California, the weather is always temperate. Since we went in May, we experienced “May Gray,” which is what the locals call the heavy marine layer. We weren’t bothered we get “May Gray” in San Diego. If you don’t like overcast days, you should also avoid “June Gloom.” If you like warm weather, go in late summer, which is usually the warmest time of year for coastal Southern California

Impression

Jett gives this vacation his 4 “paw” rating! Lots of great activities for humans and furry companions to enjoy.

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Warm Weather Pet Safety Tips

June 13, 2021June 30, 2021
by ruthmacpete

As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, most of us are spending more time outdoors. To make sure everyone has a fun and safe summer, here are five tips to help keep your pets safe this summer.

Keep your pets cool

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy beautiful parks, beaches, and hiking trails with your pet. However, summer heat can be dangerous for your pet. Unlike people, dogs and cats don’t perspire like we do. To cool off, dogs and cats mostly dispel heat by panting and they perspire only minimally through their pads. Unfortunately, this method is less efficient than sweating and your pets can quickly overheat on a warm day and develop heat exhaustion, commonly known as heat stroke. Don’t risk your pet’s health, limit exercise and outdoor activities to early mornings and evenings when it’s not as hot and humid. Also, make sure your pet always has access to shade and water. Cooling products can also help keep your pets cool and comfortable this summer. Cooling vests, like Canada Pooch’s Chill Seeker Cooling Vest, work by dissipating heat through evaporation. For these vests to work, they need to be wet, so remember to keep them from drying out. Lastly, be extra careful with brachycephalic, or flat-nosed breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Boxers, as they are even more heat-intolerant than other dogs. These dogs are best left in a cool house when it’s hot outside.

2. Keep your pets hydrated

Providing lots of water for your pet is essential during the dog days of summer. Besides having access to lots of fresh water at home, remember to bring water for yourself and your dog when going on an outdoor excursion, especially if the weather is hot, or the trail is strenuous. And don’t forget to bring a portable bowl for your dog unless you don’t mind sharing your bottle!

3. Know the signs of heat exhaustion

What are the common signs your pet may be suffering from heat exhaustion?

Excessive panting
Trouble keeping up
Bright red tongue and gums
Dry gums that feel sticky to the touch
Vomiting
Bloody diarrhea
Dark urine
Unsteadiness or wobbly
Collapse
Seizures

Heat exhaustion can quickly damage vital internal organs. If you suspect that your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion, try to cool them down gradually by wetting them with cool water and immediately take them to your veterinarian for additional treatment. Without prompt treatment, heat exhaustion can be fatal.

4. Protect your pet’s feet from hot surfaces

When you are wearing shoes, it’s easy to forget how hot asphalt gets on a hot summer day. Pet parents need to look out for their pets since their pets are unable to speak up for themselves. Running on asphalt, concrete, or sand can be a problem for your dog as these hot surfaces can burn your dog’s pads. Asphalt absorbs heat well and can be 40-60 degrees hotter than the ambient temperature. That means that the ground can be 125 degrees when the temperature is 75 degrees! One way to avoid burning your pet’s pads is to exercise your pet in the morning or evening when the temperature is cooler and walking your pet on grass and dirt. You can also protect your pet with dog booties.

5. Never leave your pet in a parked car

Most people know they should not leave their pets unattended in a parked car when the weather is hot. What many do not realize is how quickly a park car becomes dangerously hot. Even if the temperature is only 85 degrees and you leave your car windows down, your car can heat up to 102 degrees within 10 minutes. To be safe, never leave your pet in a parked car for ANY length of time when the weather is warm. Why risk your faithful companion’s life? It’s better and safer to leave them at home if you are going somewhere that doesn’t allow pets.

Summer is great time of year to spend quality time with your pets outdoors. To keep your pets safe during these hot summer months, remember to follow these simple steps. Protect your pet from heat exhaustion by giving them access to plenty of shade and water. Become familiar with the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion. Protect your pet’s pads from hot surfaces. And most importantly, never leave your pet in a parked car or tied outside in the direct sun. Don’t forget that pets are more vulnerable to heat exhaustion than we are. Hopefully these safety tips will help keep your pets safe so both of you can have a wonderful and fun summer.

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Traveling with Your Pets

May 24, 2021July 2, 2021
by ruthmacpete

For many people, it wouldn’t be summer without a family road trip. Since most Americans consider their pets to be members of the family, that means bringing your pet along. Unless you want your vacation to resemble a National Lampoon’s movie, there are a few additional considerations you should follow when traveling with your pet.

For starters, do your homework and make sure your destination is pet-friendly. For example, if you were planning to bring the family pooch with the rest of the family to Yosemite to enjoy the great outdoors, you would be disappointed to learn that dogs are not allowed on the hiking trails, even on leash. Although the National Parks were established to make the great outdoors accessible, they were also set up to protect these lands. Unfortunately, even well-behaved dogs can disturb these delicate ecosystems. The main point is do your homework and find-out ahead of time. If you’re okay with staying in the campground with your dog, then it may not be an issue for you. If you really want to take your dog on a hiking trail, you may have to choose another destination, like a National Forest. Check ahead of time to avoid last minute surprises that can put a damper on your trip.

Another consideration is lodging. Fortunately, the Internet is a great resource for finding pet-friendly lodging. There are numerous websites and even apps for your smart phone to help you find pet-friendly hotels. Just call to confirm their policies and to get the details. For example, some hotels may have a size limit or a restriction on the number of pets. Some hotels even cater to pets and offer special pet-friendly services to make your pet feel right at home.

Don’t forget to check with your veterinarian to make sure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on all of their immunizations and parasite preventatives before you go. If you are traveling out of state or by plane you will also need to ask your veterinarian to give your pet a health certificate. While there, I recommend getting a copy of your pet’s vaccination record to bring along with you. Your veterinarian can also prescribe medications if you have a pet that gets anxious or stressed when traveling.

If this is your pet’s first big trip, you should get them used to traveling well ahead of your planned trip. If you’re traveling by car, this means taking them on frequent car trips to get them used to being in a car. I also recommend making the experience as positive as possible by giving lots of praise and treats. The same principles apply if you’re planning to travel by air. Get your pet used to their travel crate and give them lots of rewards. If your pet becomes very anxious despite these measures, speak with your veterinarian about using a sedative.

Finally, as seasoned travelers know, make a checklist of what you will need for the trip. Since your pet can’t really eat at a food stop or restaurant, bring enough of their food for the entire trip. Don’t forget to pack food and water bowls, their bed, and favorite toys. Bring a health certificate or their vaccine record and any medications they are taking. Don’t forget to bring their collar with I.D. tags and a leash. I also recommend getting a microchip (if your pet doesn’t already have one) for your pet since collars and tags are not foolproof. Finally, it goes without saying, never leave your pet in an unattended car since they can overheat and die within minutes.

Traveling with your pet may require some additional planning, but with a little foresight, it can give you and your family some priceless memories.

Be sure to check back regularly for some fun pet-friendly vacation ideas.

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What You Need To Know Before Hiking With Your…

May 16, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Hiking is a great activity for people and pets. Besides the beautiful scenery and fresh air, you get a healthy dose of exercise. Before you set out on a hike with your pet, here are a few things you should know.

Know the rules

First make sure the trail allows dogs. Some allow dogs but only if they are on a leash, others do not allow dogs at all. Most trails post signs at the trailhead to inform you if pets are permitted. Know the rules before you hit the trail. No one likes to arrive at the trailhead with a very excited pooch only to find out that no pets are allowed. Although it may be tempting to break the rules, do so at your own risk. Most parks have rangers who are not afraid to issue citations. It may not seem like a big deal but a ticket can a lot of money.

Know your pet’s ability

Be sure your dog is in good shape and can complete the hike. Otherwise, you may find yourself carrying them back. Some dogs, especially brachycephalic breeds and small dogs, do not have much stamina and cannot physically handle strenuous hikes. Others are just sedentary and don’t enjoy hiking. Years ago, I used to hike with my Doberman and Scottish terrier. My Dobie could hike for miles and miles and would never tire. My Scottie, on the other hand, loved hiking on level ground or downhill but would refuse to hike uphill. After having to carry my twenty-five pound Scottie uphill a few times, I learned my lesson and bought a dog backpack carrier. She loved it and I loved it because it was easier than carrying her in my arms. These days I have two great hikers but I still carry a backpack for my little man Jett, that way when he’s tired he can take a break. The main point is make sure you know your pet’s limits and don’t exceed them.

Stay hydrated

Be sure to bring plenty of water for yourself and your pets. Just like you, your pet will need to drink a lot of water while hiking in order to stay hydrated. The heat and exercise can lead to dehydration quickly if you and your pet are not drinking enough. Never assume you will find water on a trail. You never know when a stream or creek is going to be run dry. Also, drinking water from a stream is a good way to get intestinal parasites like giardia. Make sure you bring enough water for you and your pet and don’t forget to bring a collapsible bowl for your pet since it’s not easy for them to drink from a water bottle.

Hiking dangers

When hiking, always stay on the designated trails to avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging native plants. In addition to obeying the rules and helping protect the environment, staying on the trail can actually save your dog’s life. Poisonous snakes are found in every state except Alaska, Hawaii, and Maine. Although you may not realize it, you and your pet may not be the only ones enjoying the hiking trails on a warm summer day. By keeping your pet leashed and on the trails, you can pull your dog away from danger and you are keeping them out of a snake’s favorite hiding place, like brush and piles of rubble. For more info about poisonous snakes and what to do if your pet is bitten, read my previous blog on poisonous snakes. While not as dangerous as a venomous snake, plants with thorns and cacti are a common outdoor hazard for your pet. Keeping your pet leashed and on the trail can protect them from becoming a cactus pincushion. Keeping them on a leash will also keep them out of harms way by keeping them away from cliffs, waterfalls, and rivers. After you finish your hike, check your dog’s fur and in between their toes for thorns, cactus stickers, foxtails, and burrs, and look for ticks, especially if you live in an area endemic for Lyme disease.

In line with the Boy Scout motto, being prepared can make all the difference in the world between an enjoyable outdoor excursion and wilderness misadventure. Before you set out on a hike, know the trail rules and bring plenty of water for yourself and your pet. Remember to keep your pet on a leash and on the trail. Afterwards, check their fur and feet closely after hikes. Hiking is a great activity that people and pets can enjoy together. Hopefully these tips will help you and your pet stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors.

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5 Ama-SEA-ing Animal Experiences

May 13, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Living in Southern California, the ocean already plays a prominent role in my family’s activities, whether it’s boogie boarding, paddle boarding, kayaking, or just going to the beach. But what other activities can an animal-loving family do that combines their love of water with their love of animals? Here are some of my favorite aquatic activities that include unique animal encounters. These amazing animal experiences for perfect adults and kids alike.

Swim with Manatees

Manatee encounters allow you to swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural environment. Tours take you by boat to manatee hotspots and then let you snorkel and swim around them. Although you are allowed to touch them with one hand, you are not allowed to hold them or ride them. Of course, being curious creatures, don’t be surprised if a manatee decides to touch you! I did the manatee encounter as a vet student years ago and it remains one of my all-time favorite memories. If you are in Florida and want to find out more, go to: www.crystalriverdivers.com

Dolphin Encounters

Have you ever wanted to meet a dolphin? Dolphin Quest gives people the opportunity to learn about dolphins up close and personal. Founded in 1984 by veterinarians Dr. Jay Sweeney and Dr. Rae Stone, Dolphin Quest was created to educate people about these amazing animals in order to inspire dedication to marine conservation. They accomplish these goals with unique interactive educational programs. Dolphin Quest also makes significant contributions to dolphin research and marine medicine. Every year, biologists, veterinary students, and veterinarians from around the world visit their centers to learn more about these incredible marine mammals and to conduct scientific studies designed to improve their health. To find out more about Dolphin Quest Oahu go to: www.dolphinquest.com

Watch Turtles Hatch

Have you ever seen a baby sea turtle hatch and make its way to the ocean? Imagine seeing a thousand little turtle hatchlings crawling towards the water’s edge and then swimming away. Public hatchling releases are a great way for kids to witness this incredible natural spectacle. Padre Island National Seashore incubation facility on Padre Island protects and cares for all the turtle eggs found on the island and all along the Texas coast. Several times a year they invite the public to witness the release of their hatchlings. These events are free of charge and attract thousands of visitors each year. To find out about seeing a turtle hatching, go to: https://www.nps.gov/pais/learn/nature/hatchlingreleases.htm

Help with Sea Turtle Rescue

Ever wonder where to take a sick or injured sea turtle? The Turtle Hospital is a non-profit rehabilitation center in the in the Florida Keys that cares for sick or injured turtles. They rescue, rehabilitate and have successfully released over 1,500 turtles since its founding in 1986. Besides rescuing sea turtles, Turtle Hospital has worked with the University of Florida and University of Georgia College of Vet Medicine to study the causes of fibropapilloma, a deadly viral tumor affecting sea turtles across the globe. In addition to research, they have worked tirelessly to educate people about turtle conservation and have advocated legislation to make our beaches and water cleaner. If you would like to see them care for a turtle, they give tours and are always in need of volunteers.

Swim with Leopard Sharks

Although the idea of swimming with sharks may seem like a bad idea, swimming with La Jolla’s leopard sharks is a memorable animal encounter worth experiencing. Every summer, thousands of leopard sharks migrate to the warmer shallow waters off La Jolla Shores to mate. Leopard sharks are easy to “spot” with their dark brown spots against silvery grey background that resemble a leopard print. During the peak, around August and September, you can just wade out and see sharks swimming around you. Just remember to be respectful and keep your distance as leopard sharks are shy and wary of people.

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Dog Clothes: To Wear or Not to Wear

March 15, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

As a veterinarian, I often get asked whether it is okay to put clothes on your dog. The answer is yes. Dressing your dog can not only be fun, but also serve a purpose.

When dressing you dog, make sure you use clothes made specifically for pets. Pet clothes are designed to fit pets and come off easily. I recommend not leaving your dressed pet alone. Some animals may decide to take their clothes off themselves and could become entangled in the clothing. Others may decide that the best way to ensure they don’t have to wear it again is to eat it. Devouring clothes is not only an expensive habit, but also one that can lead to an intestinal obstruction.

My dog loves to be dressed up but not all dogs do. Some dogs need a little time to get used to wearing clothes. Other dogs never get used to clothes. They are nudists preferring to go au natural. If your dog is struggling to take off their clothes, clothing may just not be a good option for them.

Dog clothes can also serve a purpose besides making them look fashionable. Just like us, pets can be susceptible to the cold. Some breeds, like Italian greyhounds and others with short coats, get cold very easily. These animals often benefit from wearing dog clothes when it is cool outside. Other breeds may be less sensitive to the cold, but still need protection from the elements when it is very cold outside.

So how cold is too cold? If you think it’s cold outside, there is a good chance your pet does too. A dog jacket or sweater can keep them warm when they go outside for walks or playtime. My dog Jett loves wearing his Canada Pooch True North Parka whenever he is out in the snow. Not only is he warm and toasty, but he also looks super fashionable. But it is not just cold weather, some dogs also hate rain too. Raincoats can make a walk in the rain less unpleasant for your pooch. Dog booties are also useful. They can protect your dog’s feet from puddles, snow, rough terrain and the hot ground or sand.

Lastly dressing your pet up makes other people smile. Let’s face it, who doesn’t smile when they see an adorable dog in a cute outfit. From fancy to casual, practical to fashionable, keep your pet cozy this winter while turning heads on your next outing.

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Valentine’s Day Gifts for Your Furry Loved Ones

February 10, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Our pets give so much yet ask for so little in return. Show them how much we love and appreciate them this Valentine’s Day with one of these great gift ideas.

Treats
Chocolate is the number one Valentine’s Day gift, which isn’t surprising since everyone loves getting sweets for Valentine’s Day. Unfortunately for dogs, chocolate is toxic to them. So, what can you give them? Instead of a box of chocolates, give them a box of treats, chews, or cat nip for your feline loved ones. All dogs and cats love treats. And if you’re feeling really creative, you can make a Valentine’s Day treat box for your pet by filling a heart-shaped box with some their favorite treats!

Toys
What better way to show your pet that you love them than by giving them something fun? P.L.A.Y.’s dog toys are fun, innovative, and eco-friendly. P.L.A.Y. makes a variety of toys: whimsical soft plush toys, durable ZoomieRex toys, stimulating enrichment toys, outdoor toys and rope toys. Remember, a busy dog is a happy dog.

Fashion
Everyone wants to look good on Valentine’s Day. Why not give your pet an adorable outfit that not only looks fabulous, but also keeps them warm on a chilly February outing? Bring the haute couture of the catwalk to your next dog walk. From fancy to casual, practical to fashionable, keep your pet cozy this winter while turning heads on your next outing.

Relaxation
Pets know the value of relaxation. Whenever your pet has any down time, you’re likely to find them taking a nap. That’s why your pet will enjoy a comfy, new pet bed for Valentine’s Day. Consider getting a stylish dog bed, that’s not only adorable, but also super comfy so your dog or cat will love it! P.L.A.Y. has a variety of stylish, cozy, and comfortable eco-friendly beds made from 100% post-consumer certified-safe recycled plastic bottles.

Doggy (or kitty) spa
Give your pet the gift of beauty. You love the spa so why shouldn’t your dog enjoy a little pampering too? VetDerm Solutions Pet Shampoo was created by a veterinarian and dermatologist and is made with human-grade ingredients, like shea butter, aloe, oatmeal, and green tea to hydrate and moisturize your pet’s skin and coat. Of course, it is paraben-free, sulfate-free, tear-free and cruelty-free to provide your pet with the ultimate bathing experience.

Good Health
Lastly, give your pet the ultimate gift of love: good health. Don’t wait until your pets get sick before taking them to the veterinarian. Your pets should have regular checkups, at least annually, and every 6 months for pets older than 7 years. These examinations allow your veterinarian to ensure your pet is protected against preventable diseases and helps your pet stay ahead of potential health problems. In the long run, regular checkups not only save you money, but also, ensure that your pet will live a long and healthy life. And what’s more important than the gift of good health?

When you are thinking about what to get for your loved ones this Valentine’s Day, don’t forget about your four-legged friends. Show them how much you value and appreciate their unconditional love and companionship.

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Keeping Your Pets Safe This Valentine’s Day

February 2, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Valentine’s Day is almost here! That means lots of chocolate, candy and flowers. Unfortunately, that also means lots of sick pets! Every year around this holiday, thousands of pets are hospitalized when they eat something they shouldn’t have eaten. To help keep pets safe this Valentine’s Day, I wanted to share some common Valentine’s Day gifts that can be dangerous or even deadly to our pets and tell you what to do if your pet gets into something.

Chocolate

People aren’t the only ones who find chocolate irresistible. With their amazing sense of smell, dogs and cats always seem to find chocolate goodies. Unfortunately, chocolate can be toxic to pets, as most people know. Chocolate contains theobromine, a relative of caffeine, and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and even death in pets. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous because they contain the highest concentration of theobromine but even milk chocolate can be deadly if enough is consumed.

Candy

It’s not just chocolate that we have to watch out for. Candy with xylitol is also very dangerous to pets. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener, is often found in sugar-free gums, mints, and candies. Small amounts can cause a rapid and life-threatening drop in blood sugar, and ingestion of large amounts can cause acute liver failure and death. If your pet manages to get ahold of any candy or gum containing xylitol, immediately call your veterinarian for help or take your pet to a veterinary emergency clinic.

Flowers

Flowers are one of the most common Valentine’s Day gifts, but you have to be careful if you have cats. Certain plants can be dangerous or even deadly to curious cats. Lilies in particular are highly toxic to cats causing kidney failure and death. Every part of a lily is toxic: the leaves, stems, flowers. If you have cats, keep lilies out of your house and check your bouquet to make sure it does not have these toxic flowers.

In order to keep your pets safe this Valentine’s Day, remember to keep all chocolate and candies safely out of reach of your four-legged friends and check any bouquets for toxic flowers like lilies. If your pet gets into any of these items, take your pet to the vet right away. Do not wait for symptoms to develop. If your veterinarian isn’t open, immediately take them to an emergency clinic. If you aren’t sure if what they ate is toxic, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center. When you are thinking about your loved ones this Valentine’s Day, don’t forget about your four-legged friends. Our furry friends give us unconditional love and companionship year-round. Show how much you love them by keeping them safe this Valentine’s Day.

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Big Dog Must Haves

January 31, 2021June 24, 2021
by ruthmacpete

I recently became the pet parent of a Doberman puppy. I had forgotten what it was like to have a large puppy. Unlike Jett, who weighs in at 10 pounds, Marley, my 6 month old, 60 pound pup makes a big splash wherever he goes. As big dog pet owners know, everything is amplified with a big dog. Here’s a list of must haves for big dog owners.

The Right Collar

While little dogs can get away without proper training, obedience training is essential for big dogs. Marley’s been doing well with his leash training. For the most part, he knows to walk alongside you. However, he’s still a puppy and he’s very excitable. When Marley sees a squirrel, you better brace yourself. Big dogs are incredibly strong and you need a collar and leash strong enough to control them. Collars and leashes are only as strong as their weakest component. There are many materials to choose from and each has its pros and cons. I prefer leather collars with a metal buckle. Leather also looks great and lasts a long time. Leather tends to be better for dogs with sensitive skin but requires more care. If your dog loves being in the water, consider a collar made of Bio Thane which is a waterproof material. The collar should be the correct size, tight enough for 2 fingers to fit underneath.

Durable Toys

Big dogs need toys tough enough to handle their powerful jaws. Even though he was only 11 weeks old when we got him, Jett’s toys were no match for Marley. As Marley has grown and gotten stronger, he has needed toys made for big dogs. Choose toys made of rubber or specifically designed for big dogs. Big dogs also tend to be more active than small dogs. Marley loves to play fetch long after Jett has decided to call it a day. I like using the ball launchers so I don’t tire out my arm.

Long Lasting Chews

As mentioned earlier, big dogs love to chew. Unfortunately, unless you provide them with appropriate chew toys, they are likely to chew (and destroy) your home. Giving your dog a chew toy or treat redirects their destructive tendencies and helps them relieve stress. When choosing a chew toy or treat, be wary of hard treats that can break a tooth, like bones and hooves. While antlers have become popular, they too can chip a tooth or even splinter and also cause intestinal obstructions or perforations. Likewise, you want to choose a treat that lasts longer than a few seconds. Himalayan Dog Chews are a popular, relatively new alternative to rawhide chews. Made from yak or cow milk, they are a long lasting, easily digestible hard smoked cheese chew. Marley loves Himalayan Dog Chews and they keep him content for hours.

Comfy Beds

Marley might be growing up to be a big dog, but he still loves to cuddle like the big pup that he still is. Big dogs need a bed that can provide the support and cushioning they need. I like beds with washable covers and memory foam to cushion and support your big dog.

Odor Control

Marley, like must big dogs, is very active. He goes to dog parks, dog beaches and on hikes regularly. Exercise is very important for dogs. It keeps them in good shape physically, stimulates their mind, and helps them burn off energy that might otherwise be directed towards unwanted behaviors. But all that activity can cause your big dog to get very dirty. Like people, pets need regular baths to stay clean and stink-free. But it is important that you utilize a shampoo that doesn’t strip your pet’s nature oils. VetDerm Solutions Super Hydrating & Conditioning Pet Shampoo combines human-grade ingredients, antioxidants, and moisturizers in a fragrance-free formulation that is designed to gently clean and hydrated a dog’s coat. It combines ingredients such as green tea, aloe, shea butter and oatmeal to naturally moisturize dry, flaky, itchy skin.

Preparing for a new dog is always a big deal, but when your pup is a big dog, it’s an even bigger deal. Choosing the right products for your big dog is essential and the best way to ensure their dog is safe, happy, comfortable and that your house doesn’t get destroyed in the process.

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Winter Weather Pet Safety Tips

December 28, 2020June 30, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Stay indoors

Just like us, your pet can be susceptible to the cold. That means your pet should be indoors as much as possible, and if they need to go outside, make sure they stay warm. If you think it’s cold outside, there is a good chance your pet does too. Give your dog a doggie jacket or sweater, and boots to help keep them warm when they go outside for walks or playtime. Be careful about the amount of time they spend outside depending on how cold it gets. Leaving your pet in a car on a cold winter day for long periods of time can be dangerous. When in doubt leave your pet at home.

2. Wipe their paws

As every pet parent knows, your pet’s paws pick up all kinds of stuff. Unfortunately, that can include dangerous chemicals. During winter, it’s common to find salt, de-icing chemicals, and antifreeze on the ground. Be sure to wipe your pet’s paws immediately after they come inside to prevent them from licking any dangerous chemicals.

3. Use safe chemicals

Keep antifreeze, which contains ethylene glycol, out of reach of pets. Ethylene glycol has a sweet aroma and taste that can attract animals. Unfortunately, it can lead to kidney failure and can be fatal if ingested. Ideally use pet-friendly antifreeze. Pet-friendly anti-freeze is made from propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol. This less toxic alternative is available online and at many automotive stores.

4. Check under the hood

Most people have heard of rodents getting caught in car engines, but did you know that cats occasionally get stuck under hoods too? This happens because outdoor cats hide under cars in order to stay warm on cold nights. Sometimes they will climb under the hood to seek shelter. Unfortunately, this is not a safe place for cats. When unsuspecting car owners turn on their ignition, the moving belts can injure, maim, or kill the cat. To help prevent cats and other animals in your neighborhood from getting under your hood, consider the following tips. Whenever possible, park your car in your garage. Honk your horn or tap on the hood before starting your car to scare away any cats. Likewise, slam your car door and make noise to give the cat a chance to get away. The goal is to make noise so any sleeping animals have a chance to scurry off.

5. Be prepared for emergencies with proper ID and disaster kits

A big winter storms can sometimes lead to a power outage. While we can’t predict emergencies, we can be prepared. The first thing you need to do is to make sure all of your pets have proper identification. Make sure your pet has a collar and ID tag with your phone number. Having a collar and ID tag improves the odds that your lost pet will be reunited with you. Unfortunately, collars and tags are not fool proof. Your pet should also have a microchip so that even if they lose their collar, the microchip will identify your pet. Finally, be sure to have a disaster kit for yourself and your pets. The disaster kit should be easily accessible and should include a supply of food, water, treats, toys and a first aid kit. For more information on making a disaster kit, read my blog on how to prepare for emergencies.

Follow these tips to help keep your pet safe and warm during this winter.