Friday, May 23, 2014

Tips for Keeping Your Pets Cool and Happy on a Hot Day


Tips for Keeping Your Pets Cool and Happy on a Hot Day

Spring is in full swing and summer is just around the corner.  While you enjoy these sunny days with your family (Fido + Whiskers included), try your hand at a few of these creative ideas that not only keep your pet cool, but also entertained.

The Doggie Ice Lick: Keep your canine friends cool this summer by making an ice lick that will peak your dog's interest by freezing chew toys inside a bucket filled with a mix of water and chicken broth. You can make the ice lick by simply adding a mixture of water and one can of chicken broth.  The mix will make it taste better and the salt will help keep Fido hydrated. The chew toys will give him or her another point of interest — especially if you add a carrot or two. 

The Kitty Snug Retreat: This is a place where your cat can retreat for relaxation and to feel safe.  It is easy to make! Simply place a cardboard box on its side and put it somewhere that is quiet and out of the way, such as in a closet, behind a chair, or near a cool spot in the house.  Line it with a terry towel or other cotton, breathable natural fabric that is not too warm.  Stick an ice pack inside a t-shirt and place it into the snug retreat underneath the towel for added cooling effect.  Another good idea is to place towels or sheets over the spots the cat usually likes to sit, to create a cool barrier between their fur and the normally warmer surfaces.  A hot water bottle can be filled with cool or cold water and left out for Whiskers to lie on.

Invest in a Kiddie Pool: I find so much joy in watching my two dogs make a splash in their kiddie pool.  Leave it filled with water so they can take a dip at their leisure.  You can find inexpensive kiddie pools at practically any big-box store, however, if you have a large breed dog, I would recommend a shallow Rubbermaid stock tank like this. Trust me, as I learned the hard way yesterday when my Shepherd puppy figured out how to tug the inexpensive kiddie pool into the house!


DIY Frozen Treats!  Your pup will love you a million times more once he gets his paws on this yummy snack!  This quick and easy recipe is also cat-friendly — you’ll need only 6 items: an ice cube tray, one can of tuna, some water, a mixing bowl, a blender, and a Ziploc bag.

         Start by mashing the tuna in a bowl.  Do not drain the water.  Add about ½ cup of water into the mix.  Blend you mixture, and place it in a Ziploc Bag. Cut a small hole in the bottom of the Ziploc Bag, and squeeze the mixture into the ice cube trays. Freeze and serve!

To make these treats even extra special – try a fabulous ice cube tray like this silicone paw print tray!

What are your warm weather tips? Let us know in the comments below or tweet them to us @fetchpetcare


Tuesday, May 13, 2014

What to Know About Dog Breeders

What to Know About Dog Breeders
Buyer beware: Take this checklist with you if you will be looking to acquire your dog from a breeder.

If you’re looking to bring a new furry addition into the family, you may be considering different options.  At Fetch! Pet Care, we recommend your first stop be to your local pet shelter, where many loveable pets are eagerly awaiting a new home ! If you are looking for a particular breed and are not in a hurry, let the shelter know and they can usually help you find the perfect pet.  Another option is researching one of the many breed-specific rescue organizations to find the right pet for you.  However, if you have your mind set on utilizing a breeder, we’ve put together a list of 8 qualities to help identify a great, reputable breeder.


      1.    A good breeder will offer you references, with names and contact information of clients who can vouch for the breeder’s quality and reputation.

      2.   Does the breeder allow you to take your time?  A good breeder will show you around their home or facility, answer all of your questions and not rush you into making a decision.

     3.  You should never see the breeder’s dogs overcrowded or in unkempt conditions.

     4. The breeder should be able to explain to you in detail the potential genetic and developmental problems inherent to the breed. 

     5.  Good breeders often offer guidance or training for after you take your puppy home. If the breeder does not have any training recommendations or resources, then you may not be dealing with a professional.

      6.   The breeder should specialize in only one breed of dog.  This means that they are experts in a specific breed and know exactly what they are doing and how to educate you on the breed.

      7.   It’s a good sign when breeders ask potential parents a series of questions — they want to be sure you are ready for the responsibility and are familiar with the personality and potential health risks associated with the breed.  Often times, they will want to inspect your home before making an agreement.

       8.    A good breeder should have a solid relationship with a veterinarian.  Most breeders work exclusively with one veterinarian and should be open to sharing their contact information with you.

Tell us about your experience when adopting from a breeder in the comments below, or tweet it to us @fetchpetcare.