Does Your Dog Need a Coat?

Does Your Dog Need a Coat?

There’s lots of high fashion out there for dogs, but does a dog really need a coat? Not all dogs need a coat, but many benefit from wearing a coat when the weather turns bitter cold. Most of our dogs live in the comfort of a heated home. Most dogs will adjust to gradual, seasonal changes of temperature. But many dogs will welcome help when the weather becomes extremely cold and wet.

It would be the rare occasion that a husky or a malamute would require a coat. Most of the northern breeds are naturally well equipped for a cold winter day. However, many other breeds and individuals will welcome the help of an extra layer of warmth.

So who does need a coat?

•Older and in firmed dogs that struggle with maintaining their body heat. By adding an extra layer you can help your dog preserve his physiological resources for the maintenance of general health and vitality.

•Dogs with hair and not fur are vulnerable to cold – especially windy, wet days. Without thick undercoat or water resistant fur, dogs can get frostbitten from the wind and soaked to the skin from rain and snow.

•Without any fat layers for protection, very thin dogs can certainly benefit from a coat.

•Even a short-haired hunting dog will appreciate a coat on a cold day.

•Small dogs, especially those with short legs, need extra help maintaining their body heat.

•Puppies being house trained in winter are also great candidates. It becomes very de-motivating for a puppy to eliminate outside when they freeze every time they go out. Choose a coat that is very easy to get on and off for those frequent, quick trips outside.

When choosing a coat, look for quality materials, good workmanship, and ease of laundering. Come into the store and try the coats on – fit is everything! A good quality coat can last the lifetime of a dog.

We look forward to seeing you!

Halloween Safety Tips for Pet Owners

Halloween can be lots of fun for human family members, but it can be a very scary and stressful holiday for the family pets. Here are a few suggestions to make the spooky holiday less stressful:

• If children in costumes are weird looking to us, just imagine how strange they appear to our pets. Consider excluding your pets from the festivities. The chaos that can accompany trick-or-treaters can be daunting for a good natured animal, think how upsetting it could be to the shy or sensitive cat or dog.
• If you must take your dog trick-or-treating, go only during daylight hours and only if your dog enjoys squealing, costumed children. Supervise your dog at all times and watch for signs of stress (panting, showing the whites of the eyes, yawning, and avoiding eye contact ).
• A normally good-natured dog or cat may be very frightened of children in costumes. Do not allow any child to tease, harass, trick or startle your animal companions.
• Don’t leave any of your pets outside and unattended during Halloween.
• Chocolate in all forms and candy containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can be dangerous and poisonous to pets. Even the candy wrappers pose a threat. Keep all Halloween goodies well away from your pets.
• Some dogs are very good sports about being dressed up, but others are not so easy-going. Be sensitive to the comfort level of your dog. Be aware of the potential for your dog to overheat in a costume. Never have your dog wear a costume that blocks vision or makes it difficult to walk.

4th of July: Red, White and Pet Blues

Did you know. . .

• Animals' ears are more sensitive than ours.  Humans understand the concept of fireworks, animals may think their world is coming to an end.
  
• There are several safe, natural products that can help calm your pet during fireworks.
  

For the fun of it. . .

• Pet Pantry has a collection of red, white and blue leashes, collars and t-shirts for the patriotic pooch.
  
• If you're invited to your neighbor's house for a 4th of July barbecue, take their dog some red, white and blue dog biscuits as a hostess gift! 
  

Road Trip Tips: Keep Your Dog Safe and Comfy

Did you know ...

• Every year, dogs still die in cars from over heating.  Don't leave your dog shut in the car on a hot  summer day.
  
• Always travel with plenty of cold water in case other water sources are not available.
  
• Stop every 2 hours for exercise and a small meal.  Give the main meal at the end of the day.
  
• Dispose of canned food that can't be refrigerated.
  
• Check pet's ID tag, make sure it's current, legible,and securely attached.
  

Helpful products for summer trips. . .

• Leash and/or wireless, portable "instant fence" for rest stops and campsites.
  
• First-aid kit for people and pets.
  
• A cooling pad for your dog to lie on.
  

Flea-Free Summer

Did you know. . .

• Fleas start showing up in the Northeast in August.  Their numbers begin to diminish with the first frost.
  
• Most dogs or cats pick up fleas from a host.  Unlike ticks, they are usually not prevalent in the environment.
  
• One of the best places for your dog or cat to pick up fleas is the vet.
  
• Most flea treatments are not harmless, but rather, contain toxic pesticides.
  
• There are safer, natural alternatives for controlling fleas.