7. Shopping puppy accessories
Food
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FOOD IN SINGAP0RE
"Doc, what is the best food for my puppy?" I am often asked this question. I say there are many good food for the puppy in Singapore. Below are tips to help you choose the better food for your puppy.
1. Premium puppy food has has quality ingredients but cost more. Puppy food Over more than 20 premium dog foods from different countries are available for sale at the over 200 pet shops. Puppies eat less and produce well formed stools when fed a premium puppy food.
2. There are 2 main categories of puppy food. One category produces dry food for the puppy, adult and senior stages. The other is for all-life stage. Both are sold in Singapore.
3. Some brands have the "Formulated to meet the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profile for Puppies" stamp. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) publishes feed and ingredient regulations. Choose diets that conform to minimal AAFCO standards but it is not a legal requirement to have AAFCO standards to sell puppy food in Singapore. Read the product labels as there are a large variety of puppy diets from various countries.
4. Some veterinarians have their own recommended puppy food for sale.
5. Complete and balanced food. Such food manufacturers claim that no further vitamin and mineral supplementation is needed.
6. Puppies need a higher protein level than adult dogs.
7. Some manufacturers have types to meet the needs of different breed sizes of puppies and dogs and different taste preferences.
8. Organic, natural, all-meat, most-meat and less grain dog food are sold in Singapore. It is beyond the scope of this book to discuss about them.
Puppies need the best food you can afford as they are growing. Check the labels and compare the products.
PUPPY TREATS IN SINGAPORE
Treats are useful for bonding with your puppy and useful for training. There are so many types, styles, sizes, and brands available in Singapore.
Features to Consider
# Quality of ingredients
# Calories
# Consistency of ingredients
# Size (size of treat relative to size of your dog)
# Veterinarian-approved
# AAFCO approval (see more below)
# Palatability, Flavor, and Appeal to dog
# Safety
# Cost
Desirable Features
The ideal treat is one made of good quality ingredients, moderate to low in calories, consistent in ingredients (thus unlikely to cause stomach upset from bag to bag), very appealing to your dog and safe.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) publishes feed regulations and ingredient definitions. If the pet food (or treat) follows the guidelines set forth by AAFCO, the label will include a statement that says "Formulated to meet the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profile for Puppies/Adults/Senior.”) Some companies create treats to be in compliance with the AAFCO standards.
It is also important to ensure you are buying the proper size relative to the size of your dog. Treats that are too large or too small can cause esophageal obstructions in some dogs.
It is also ideal if they don’t cost you a fortune!
Ideal Choice
# Choose a treat formulated specifically for your dogs size. If you are going to feed treats, choose complete and balanced treat with AAFCO approval. Hill’s® Science Diet® makes great quality treats formulated to meet AAFCO approval that are relatively low in calories, consistent and made of high quality ingredients.
Tips
# Good nutrition may be the most important factor affecting your dog’s health. This is especially true in growing puppies. Feed the best quality food you can afford. Do NOT supplement treats for a good quality core dog food diet.
# There is nothing in a treat that is nutritionally required for your dog if he or she is on a good quality dog food. They are just that, a “treat” or a “snack”, not dissimilar to potato chips or a Snickers bar for us. We might like it, but we don’t necessarily “need” it.
# Consider low-calorie treats for dogs with weight control problems. Another alternative is to break up treats into small pieces to make them last longer, thus giving less (and less calories). Always read the labels for caloric content.
# It is not a requirement to meet AAFCO standards in order to sell pet food, so buyers beware. Check the labels and compare products.
# If your pet suffers from food allergies, for example to beef, chicken or egg. Watch for those ingredients on any treat you buy for your pet. There are hypoallergenic treats available from food manufacturers.
# If your pet is on a special prescription diet, ask your vet which treat is best for your dog. In this case, the best treat might be a homemade. You can usually purchase the canned version of the prescription food and use it to bake treats.
# Treats that control plaque and tartar in dogs is a great option. Consider that the treat may help control some tartar and plaque but the most effective method for providing good dental care is daily brushing.
# Make sure that you select the right sized treat for the size and weight of your dog. Also, watch how he chews and eats it. Some treats have been associated with causing problems such as esophageal foreign bodies. Make sure your pet does not “gulp” the treat or eat it in big prices. For more information on possible complications, read “Are Greenies Safe”?
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"I have read with interest your excellent article on over-vaccination. I appreciate your help in helping to educate pet owners."
- Dr. Bob R. DVM
"I just wanted to say this is the best pet health info site I have been able to find."
- Dawn P."I just wanted to let you know how helpful your website was for information when my dog Buddy was diagnosed with Congestive Heartfailure. Your website was able to give me access 24 hours a day to information whenever I needed it.
Rosie T.
You are in Dog Library
Selecting the Right Bowls for Your Dog
By: PetPlace Veterinarians
Section: Food Bowls
If you're looking for a bowl for your precious pooch, you're in luck! Dog bowls are available in many colors and styles. Finding the bowl that's right for your pet should be easy if you stop to consider a few factors before you shop.
Desirable Features
# Easy to clean
# Dishwasher safe
# Tip or spill proof
# Durable
# Safe
Ideal Choice
# Heavy stainless steel bowls with a rubber bottom and tapered sides are great choices. This bowl has some weight and a rubber bottom to avoid your pet being able to push it all over the floor or ground. The tapered sides encourage tip resistance. Stainless steel is both durable and easy to wash, dishwasher safe, and can not be chewed or broken.
Shopping Tips
# Avoid light-weight plastic that can be chewed and moved. Avoid lightweight glass and pottery that can be broken.
# Elevated feeders may be more “comfortable” for your pet as he ages. They are also are easier to sweep around and clean under which is especially usefully for messy eaters.
# Narrow and deep feeders are ideal if you have a long-eared dog. This design allows your dog to drink without getting his ears in the water.
# Automatic feeders offer controlled portions in a frequency that you choose. Most are battery operated. These are generally not recommended for puppies.
# Bowl holders are good to prevent bowls from skidding or sliding around the floor.
More Tips
# The best place to feed a dog is in the kitchen where you are likely to be near your pet. The kitchen also has flooring that is often easy to clean and you are also close to the water for easy refilling of his bowl.
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Selecting the Right Chew Toys for Your Dog
By: PetPlace Veterinarians
Section: Chew Toys
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs and you need safe chew toys to direct this behavior to appropriate items (and not your shoes or furniture!) Here are some tips to help you choose the safest and best chew toys.
Desirable Features
# Size – large enough that your dog can’t “swallow”
# Safe
# Durable
# Easy to clean/wash
Ideal Choice
# Super durable rubber toys such as Nylabone® and Kong® brands are safe, durable and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can be loaded with treats, which can keep a curious puppy or dog busy for hours.
Shopping Tips
# Don’t buy toys with strings, buttons, small parts or loose fabric. Stuffed toys and rope toys are not recommended because dogs can chew through them ingesting the fabric or chew off parts like the eyes causing a life threatening intestinal obstruction or a choking hazard.
# Bones are not recommended for dogs or puppies. They do not break down easily which means your dog may have to pass them through his stool causing serious impaction and constipation.
# Don’t buy too many toys at first but have enough to distract your puppy from chewing on your furniture, shoes and other items.
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TESTIMONIALS
"I have read with interest your excellent article on over-vaccination. I appreciate your help in helping to educate pet owners."
- Dr. Bob R. DVM
"I just wanted to say this is the best pet health info site I have been able to find."
- Dawn P."I just wanted to let you know how helpful your website was for information when my dog Buddy was diagnosed with Congestive Heartfailure. Your website was able to give me access 24 hours a day to information whenever I needed it.
Rosie T.
You are in Dog Library
Selecting the Right Crate for Your Dog
By: PetPlace Veterinarians
Section: Crates
As the well-known behaviorist Nick Dodman says, “A crate for life should be the dog owner’s maxim.” A crate should be one of your first pet purchases. There are several styles, materials and sizes to choose from. To help you shop, consider these factors.
Features to Consider in a Crate
# Materials
# Size
# Durability
# Ability to clean
# Chew proof
# Safe
Ideal Choice
# A sturdy wire frame crate is easy to clean, durable and offers good ventilation and visibility.
Shopping Tips
# Designs that fold may be useful for travel situations.
# If you have a puppy, choose a size that will accommodate his as an adult and allow enough room for him to stand, lie down, or sit in any position in the crate without restriction. Since puppies grow, consider a design that can be sectioned off to allow for expansion.
# Scrutinize the design. When selecting a wire frame crate, consider the size of the wire; be sure your dog’s paws won’t fall through the grid. Also, check for any sharp edges. Check the front door to see if it is spring loaded, these doors can snap shut on a paw or tail.
# Plastic crates are easy to clean, durable but offer less ventilation than a wire frame crate. Most are airline approved for travel.
# The bottom of the crate can be solid or raised. Raised floors keep your dog elevated over a solid pan that will catch any food, water, or waste that would otherwise accumulate in your dog’s living space.
More Tips
# Your home is your castle, sanctuary and safe place to retreat. You can offer your dog this same comfort by selecting the proper crate and demonstrating to your pet that it is his private space. Acclimate puppies early by offering food or treats in the crate, or by throwing favorite toys into the back of the crate for them to retrieve. Make the crate an everyday object, not something he sees only twice a year.
# Consider it as part of his overall training. NEVER use the crate as punishment. Your dog should regard his crate as his haven. If you use the crate to isolate or punish your pet, he will come to associate his crate with unpleasant circumstances and feelings.
# Crate training is important, as there are a variety of situations in which kenneling your pet may become socially, medically, or even legally necessary.
# Even if your pet lives primarily indoors, don’t underestimate the usefulness of a crate. Your pet will travel safer in the car if he is confined.
# When you put your dog in a crate, remove his collar so there is no chance of it getting hocked or stuck thus trapping or choking your dog.
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TESTIMONIALS
"I have read with interest your excellent article on over-vaccination. I appreciate your help in helping to educate pet owners."
- Dr. Bob R. DVM
"I just wanted to say this is the best pet health info site I have been able to find."
- Dawn P."I just wanted to let you know how helpful your website was for information when my dog Buddy was diagnosed with Congestive Heartfailure. Your website was able to give me access 24 hours a day to information whenever I needed it.
Rosie T.
You are in Dog Library
Selecting the Right Basic Leash for Your Dog
By: PetPlace Veterinarians
Section: Leash
If you're looking for a leash, you're in luck! There are many styles, materials, colors and lengths to choose from. Finding the right one can be difficult unless you know what to look for. Here are some tips to help!
Desirable Features
# Durable materials
# Length that allows good control
# Safety
Ideal Choice
# The best basic leash is a sturdy, six-foot leather, nylon or chain leash with a good quality metal clip. The clip should securely fasten to a metal ring on the collar. It is a practical and versatile choice for everyday use and allows you to maintain good control of your dog.
Shopping Tips
# Leashes are made of chain, nylon, or leather. Different trainers prefer different materials. All of these materials are fine as long as you periodically check to ensure there is no evidence of wear or fraying.
- Rope leads are vulnerable to chewing and fraying.
- Some trainers recommend nylon because of its elasticity, and supposed comfort for the dog, however nylon can sometimes chafe or cut into the skin.
- Many professional trainers recommend leather over nylon because leather softens and becomes more flexible with age, is easy to grip; yet it remains strong. However, some believe that dogs may be less likely to chew nylon, as opposed to leather.
# Retractable leashes allow a pet to walk farther from his or her owner while still under some control. But there are dangers to this. A dog that is not under control can attack a person, cat, another dog, be attacked, or run into the path of a car before the owner can “reel” him in. If you have a puppy, it is important to keep him close to you during the initial days to bond, train and protect him.
# Consider reflective materials if you expect to walk your dog at night. This will keep you and your dog visible in traffic.
Section: Beds
If you're looking for a bed for your dog, you have lots of great choices! Dog beds are available in many colors, sizes, shapes, and materials. Here are some tips to help you buy the best bed for your dog!
Desirable Features
# Provides comfort
# Conserves body heat
# Protects bony prominences
# Easy to clean/washable
# Durable
# Waterproof and resists moisture
Ideal Choice
# A slightly elevated bed style with soft polyfill conserves heat and the slightly elevated style protects your pet from floor drafts. This bed combines softness and comfort with durability. Choose a style with a machine washable cover that can easily be thrown in the washing machine when dirty or soiled.
Shopping Tips
# When choosing a bed, consider your dog’s size and choose one that will fit him as an adult.
# Consider a bed that fits in his crate to make his “home” more comfortable.
# When testing the bed filling, it should be springy, not compacted, after repeated use.
# Choose sturdy materials that can’t be ripped or consumed by your pet.
# Donut or nesting contour shaped beds fit around your pet to let him nestle in the center.
# Some beds have an inner wrap that keeps moisture from getting into and ruining core filling.
Section: Flea & Tick Meds
The best way to choose the correct flea and tick prevention products for your pet is to get the advice of your veterinarian. Your pet’s risk of disease based on your pets lifestyle and region in which you live and your pets’ overall health will influence your veterinarian’s product selection.
The very best and safest products on the market are prescription products that are only available from your veterinarian or by prescription from your veterinarian. Below we will discuss some features to consider in the different products as well as some ideal features.
Features to Consider
# DVM approved or recommended
# Size/dosage
# Effect (do you want more than one effect e.g. fleas/ticks/heartworms)
# Presentation: liquid, shampoo, dip, collars, spot-on, tablets, oral solutions
# Safety
# Efficacy
# Ingredients
# Cost
# Guarantee
# Waterproof
# Frequency of administration
Desirable Features
The ideal product is easy to give or apply, safe, effective, and available at a reasonable cost. The product should be the proper size/dosage for your pet. It should cover the problem you are trying to prevent. You may choose a product that does more than one thing e.g. one that prevents both fleas and heartworms. You may also want to consider what type of product is easiest to give e.g. is a pill or topical easier for your dog? Indicate your preference to your veterinarian and they will help you select the best, safest, and most effective product in the presentation style you prefer. It should also come with a guarantee providing the product is given based on veterinarian or manufacturer recommendations. Monthly dosing is the common frequency of most products.
Ideal Choice
Choose a product specifically recommended for your dog. Make sure the product is the correct size for the weight of your dog. Some of the top products on the market include:
Flea Control
# Program® - Prevents flea infestation by preventing development of the flea eggs. Available in monthly pill and liquid forms for cats and in tablet formulation for dogs. It is often used with Capstar® that kills adult fleas when there is an active infestation.
# Capstar® - Kills adult fleas – starts killing adult fleas within 30 minutes). Pill formulation. It is often used with Program® to help prevent fleas and prevent eggs from hatching.
# Advantage® (Prevents and kills fleas. Liquid formulation that is applied topically on monthly basis)
Treats
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FOOD IN SINGAP0RE
"Doc, what is the best food for my puppy?" I am often asked this question. I say there are many good food for the puppy in Singapore. Below are tips to help you choose the better food for your puppy.
1. Premium puppy food has has quality ingredients but cost more. Puppy food Over more than 20 premium dog foods from different countries are available for sale at the over 200 pet shops. Puppies eat less and produce well formed stools when fed a premium puppy food.
2. There are 2 main categories of puppy food. One category produces dry food for the puppy, adult and senior stages. The other is for all-life stage. Both are sold in Singapore.
3. Some brands have the "Formulated to meet the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profile for Puppies" stamp. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) publishes feed and ingredient regulations. Choose diets that conform to minimal AAFCO standards but it is not a legal requirement to have AAFCO standards to sell puppy food in Singapore. Read the product labels as there are a large variety of puppy diets from various countries.
4. Some veterinarians have their own recommended puppy food for sale.
5. Complete and balanced food. Such food manufacturers claim that no further vitamin and mineral supplementation is needed.
6. Puppies need a higher protein level than adult dogs.
7. Some manufacturers have types to meet the needs of different breed sizes of puppies and dogs and different taste preferences.
8. Organic, natural, all-meat, most-meat and less grain dog food are sold in Singapore. It is beyond the scope of this book to discuss about them.
Puppies need the best food you can afford as they are growing. Check the labels and compare the products.
PUPPY TREATS IN SINGAPORE
Treats are useful for bonding with your puppy and useful for training. There are so many types, styles, sizes, and brands available in Singapore.
Features to Consider
# Quality of ingredients
# Calories
# Consistency of ingredients
# Size (size of treat relative to size of your dog)
# Veterinarian-approved
# AAFCO approval (see more below)
# Palatability, Flavor, and Appeal to dog
# Safety
# Cost
Desirable Features
The ideal treat is one made of good quality ingredients, moderate to low in calories, consistent in ingredients (thus unlikely to cause stomach upset from bag to bag), very appealing to your dog and safe.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) publishes feed regulations and ingredient definitions. If the pet food (or treat) follows the guidelines set forth by AAFCO, the label will include a statement that says "Formulated to meet the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profile for Puppies/Adults/Senior.”) Some companies create treats to be in compliance with the AAFCO standards.
It is also important to ensure you are buying the proper size relative to the size of your dog. Treats that are too large or too small can cause esophageal obstructions in some dogs.
It is also ideal if they don’t cost you a fortune!
Ideal Choice
# Choose a treat formulated specifically for your dogs size. If you are going to feed treats, choose complete and balanced treat with AAFCO approval. Hill’s® Science Diet® makes great quality treats formulated to meet AAFCO approval that are relatively low in calories, consistent and made of high quality ingredients.
Tips
# Good nutrition may be the most important factor affecting your dog’s health. This is especially true in growing puppies. Feed the best quality food you can afford. Do NOT supplement treats for a good quality core dog food diet.
# There is nothing in a treat that is nutritionally required for your dog if he or she is on a good quality dog food. They are just that, a “treat” or a “snack”, not dissimilar to potato chips or a Snickers bar for us. We might like it, but we don’t necessarily “need” it.
# Consider low-calorie treats for dogs with weight control problems. Another alternative is to break up treats into small pieces to make them last longer, thus giving less (and less calories). Always read the labels for caloric content.
# It is not a requirement to meet AAFCO standards in order to sell pet food, so buyers beware. Check the labels and compare products.
# If your pet suffers from food allergies, for example to beef, chicken or egg. Watch for those ingredients on any treat you buy for your pet. There are hypoallergenic treats available from food manufacturers.
# If your pet is on a special prescription diet, ask your vet which treat is best for your dog. In this case, the best treat might be a homemade. You can usually purchase the canned version of the prescription food and use it to bake treats.
# Treats that control plaque and tartar in dogs is a great option. Consider that the treat may help control some tartar and plaque but the most effective method for providing good dental care is daily brushing.
# Make sure that you select the right sized treat for the size and weight of your dog. Also, watch how he chews and eats it. Some treats have been associated with causing problems such as esophageal foreign bodies. Make sure your pet does not “gulp” the treat or eat it in big prices. For more information on possible complications, read “Are Greenies Safe”?
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TESTIMONIALS
"I have read with interest your excellent article on over-vaccination. I appreciate your help in helping to educate pet owners."
- Dr. Bob R. DVM
"I just wanted to say this is the best pet health info site I have been able to find."
- Dawn P."I just wanted to let you know how helpful your website was for information when my dog Buddy was diagnosed with Congestive Heartfailure. Your website was able to give me access 24 hours a day to information whenever I needed it.
Rosie T.
You are in Dog Library
Selecting the Right Bowls for Your Dog
By: PetPlace Veterinarians
Section: Food Bowls
If you're looking for a bowl for your precious pooch, you're in luck! Dog bowls are available in many colors and styles. Finding the bowl that's right for your pet should be easy if you stop to consider a few factors before you shop.
Desirable Features
# Easy to clean
# Dishwasher safe
# Tip or spill proof
# Durable
# Safe
Ideal Choice
# Heavy stainless steel bowls with a rubber bottom and tapered sides are great choices. This bowl has some weight and a rubber bottom to avoid your pet being able to push it all over the floor or ground. The tapered sides encourage tip resistance. Stainless steel is both durable and easy to wash, dishwasher safe, and can not be chewed or broken.
Shopping Tips
# Avoid light-weight plastic that can be chewed and moved. Avoid lightweight glass and pottery that can be broken.
# Elevated feeders may be more “comfortable” for your pet as he ages. They are also are easier to sweep around and clean under which is especially usefully for messy eaters.
# Narrow and deep feeders are ideal if you have a long-eared dog. This design allows your dog to drink without getting his ears in the water.
# Automatic feeders offer controlled portions in a frequency that you choose. Most are battery operated. These are generally not recommended for puppies.
# Bowl holders are good to prevent bowls from skidding or sliding around the floor.
More Tips
# The best place to feed a dog is in the kitchen where you are likely to be near your pet. The kitchen also has flooring that is often easy to clean and you are also close to the water for easy refilling of his bowl.
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Selecting the Right Chew Toys for Your Dog
By: PetPlace Veterinarians
Section: Chew Toys
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs and you need safe chew toys to direct this behavior to appropriate items (and not your shoes or furniture!) Here are some tips to help you choose the safest and best chew toys.
Desirable Features
# Size – large enough that your dog can’t “swallow”
# Safe
# Durable
# Easy to clean/wash
Ideal Choice
# Super durable rubber toys such as Nylabone® and Kong® brands are safe, durable and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can be loaded with treats, which can keep a curious puppy or dog busy for hours.
Shopping Tips
# Don’t buy toys with strings, buttons, small parts or loose fabric. Stuffed toys and rope toys are not recommended because dogs can chew through them ingesting the fabric or chew off parts like the eyes causing a life threatening intestinal obstruction or a choking hazard.
# Bones are not recommended for dogs or puppies. They do not break down easily which means your dog may have to pass them through his stool causing serious impaction and constipation.
# Don’t buy too many toys at first but have enough to distract your puppy from chewing on your furniture, shoes and other items.
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TESTIMONIALS
"I have read with interest your excellent article on over-vaccination. I appreciate your help in helping to educate pet owners."
- Dr. Bob R. DVM
"I just wanted to say this is the best pet health info site I have been able to find."
- Dawn P."I just wanted to let you know how helpful your website was for information when my dog Buddy was diagnosed with Congestive Heartfailure. Your website was able to give me access 24 hours a day to information whenever I needed it.
Rosie T.
You are in Dog Library
Selecting the Right Crate for Your Dog
By: PetPlace Veterinarians
Section: Crates
As the well-known behaviorist Nick Dodman says, “A crate for life should be the dog owner’s maxim.” A crate should be one of your first pet purchases. There are several styles, materials and sizes to choose from. To help you shop, consider these factors.
Features to Consider in a Crate
# Materials
# Size
# Durability
# Ability to clean
# Chew proof
# Safe
Ideal Choice
# A sturdy wire frame crate is easy to clean, durable and offers good ventilation and visibility.
Shopping Tips
# Designs that fold may be useful for travel situations.
# If you have a puppy, choose a size that will accommodate his as an adult and allow enough room for him to stand, lie down, or sit in any position in the crate without restriction. Since puppies grow, consider a design that can be sectioned off to allow for expansion.
# Scrutinize the design. When selecting a wire frame crate, consider the size of the wire; be sure your dog’s paws won’t fall through the grid. Also, check for any sharp edges. Check the front door to see if it is spring loaded, these doors can snap shut on a paw or tail.
# Plastic crates are easy to clean, durable but offer less ventilation than a wire frame crate. Most are airline approved for travel.
# The bottom of the crate can be solid or raised. Raised floors keep your dog elevated over a solid pan that will catch any food, water, or waste that would otherwise accumulate in your dog’s living space.
More Tips
# Your home is your castle, sanctuary and safe place to retreat. You can offer your dog this same comfort by selecting the proper crate and demonstrating to your pet that it is his private space. Acclimate puppies early by offering food or treats in the crate, or by throwing favorite toys into the back of the crate for them to retrieve. Make the crate an everyday object, not something he sees only twice a year.
# Consider it as part of his overall training. NEVER use the crate as punishment. Your dog should regard his crate as his haven. If you use the crate to isolate or punish your pet, he will come to associate his crate with unpleasant circumstances and feelings.
# Crate training is important, as there are a variety of situations in which kenneling your pet may become socially, medically, or even legally necessary.
# Even if your pet lives primarily indoors, don’t underestimate the usefulness of a crate. Your pet will travel safer in the car if he is confined.
# When you put your dog in a crate, remove his collar so there is no chance of it getting hocked or stuck thus trapping or choking your dog.
Like this site?
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You are in Dog Library
Selecting the Right Basic Leash for Your Dog
By: PetPlace Veterinarians
Section: Leash
If you're looking for a leash, you're in luck! There are many styles, materials, colors and lengths to choose from. Finding the right one can be difficult unless you know what to look for. Here are some tips to help!
Desirable Features
# Durable materials
# Length that allows good control
# Safety
Ideal Choice
# The best basic leash is a sturdy, six-foot leather, nylon or chain leash with a good quality metal clip. The clip should securely fasten to a metal ring on the collar. It is a practical and versatile choice for everyday use and allows you to maintain good control of your dog.
Shopping Tips
# Leashes are made of chain, nylon, or leather. Different trainers prefer different materials. All of these materials are fine as long as you periodically check to ensure there is no evidence of wear or fraying.
- Rope leads are vulnerable to chewing and fraying.
- Some trainers recommend nylon because of its elasticity, and supposed comfort for the dog, however nylon can sometimes chafe or cut into the skin.
- Many professional trainers recommend leather over nylon because leather softens and becomes more flexible with age, is easy to grip; yet it remains strong. However, some believe that dogs may be less likely to chew nylon, as opposed to leather.
# Retractable leashes allow a pet to walk farther from his or her owner while still under some control. But there are dangers to this. A dog that is not under control can attack a person, cat, another dog, be attacked, or run into the path of a car before the owner can “reel” him in. If you have a puppy, it is important to keep him close to you during the initial days to bond, train and protect him.
# Consider reflective materials if you expect to walk your dog at night. This will keep you and your dog visible in traffic.
Section: Beds
If you're looking for a bed for your dog, you have lots of great choices! Dog beds are available in many colors, sizes, shapes, and materials. Here are some tips to help you buy the best bed for your dog!
Desirable Features
# Provides comfort
# Conserves body heat
# Protects bony prominences
# Easy to clean/washable
# Durable
# Waterproof and resists moisture
Ideal Choice
# A slightly elevated bed style with soft polyfill conserves heat and the slightly elevated style protects your pet from floor drafts. This bed combines softness and comfort with durability. Choose a style with a machine washable cover that can easily be thrown in the washing machine when dirty or soiled.
Shopping Tips
# When choosing a bed, consider your dog’s size and choose one that will fit him as an adult.
# Consider a bed that fits in his crate to make his “home” more comfortable.
# When testing the bed filling, it should be springy, not compacted, after repeated use.
# Choose sturdy materials that can’t be ripped or consumed by your pet.
# Donut or nesting contour shaped beds fit around your pet to let him nestle in the center.
# Some beds have an inner wrap that keeps moisture from getting into and ruining core filling.
Section: Flea & Tick Meds
The best way to choose the correct flea and tick prevention products for your pet is to get the advice of your veterinarian. Your pet’s risk of disease based on your pets lifestyle and region in which you live and your pets’ overall health will influence your veterinarian’s product selection.
The very best and safest products on the market are prescription products that are only available from your veterinarian or by prescription from your veterinarian. Below we will discuss some features to consider in the different products as well as some ideal features.
Features to Consider
# DVM approved or recommended
# Size/dosage
# Effect (do you want more than one effect e.g. fleas/ticks/heartworms)
# Presentation: liquid, shampoo, dip, collars, spot-on, tablets, oral solutions
# Safety
# Efficacy
# Ingredients
# Cost
# Guarantee
# Waterproof
# Frequency of administration
Desirable Features
The ideal product is easy to give or apply, safe, effective, and available at a reasonable cost. The product should be the proper size/dosage for your pet. It should cover the problem you are trying to prevent. You may choose a product that does more than one thing e.g. one that prevents both fleas and heartworms. You may also want to consider what type of product is easiest to give e.g. is a pill or topical easier for your dog? Indicate your preference to your veterinarian and they will help you select the best, safest, and most effective product in the presentation style you prefer. It should also come with a guarantee providing the product is given based on veterinarian or manufacturer recommendations. Monthly dosing is the common frequency of most products.
Ideal Choice
Choose a product specifically recommended for your dog. Make sure the product is the correct size for the weight of your dog. Some of the top products on the market include:
Flea Control
# Program® - Prevents flea infestation by preventing development of the flea eggs. Available in monthly pill and liquid forms for cats and in tablet formulation for dogs. It is often used with Capstar® that kills adult fleas when there is an active infestation.
# Capstar® - Kills adult fleas – starts killing adult fleas within 30 minutes). Pill formulation. It is often used with Program® to help prevent fleas and prevent eggs from hatching.
# Advantage® (Prevents and kills fleas. Liquid formulation that is applied topically on monthly basis)
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