Whether your pooch is tagging along or having their own staycation, we’re here to help you with a few tips to make the holiday season less stressful.
]]>Pack the essentials
Packing and preparation go hand in hand. Going through multiple scenarios and deciding what you would need to manage them is a great start. Remember to pack their food, treats, bowls, toys, medication, and everything else your pup may require.
Check out our nifty Rubber On-the-go Collapsible Bowl to take with you everywhere you guys go and our luxurious all-in-one car seat/dog bed/carrier that allows your pooch to travel in the style and comfort they deserve.
Plan an itinerary
Although getting to your destination is half the battle, keeping your dog entertained and stimulated while you’re seeing the sights can be a challenge. A quick google search will help you find establishments that allow and even cater for pets. Leaving your pet in a new location by themselves is a less-than-ideal situation so planning your activities in advance can help the whole family feel safe while having fun.
Consider their safety
Dogs can be escape artists and going through your holiday accommodation and checking for possible exit points will go a long way in keeping your dog safe. Check for open windows and doors or holes in fences.
Taking them to the beach or out on hikes will require a good leash at first, as well as having your eyes behind your head when they roam free; but we’re sure you’ve already developed that skill by now.
Plan for an emergency
Although we don’t like to think about it, accidents do happen. Having a pet emergency in an unknown location can be a scary situation, but preparation can help you out when it matters most.
Finding a reputable vet in your area and keeping any paperwork required handy can be a literal lifesaver. If you are worried about your pet before going on holiday, consult with your vet who is in the best position to monitor your pet’s health and ensure they are holiday ready.
Dog-friendly South African Holiday Spots
Now that you’re set with all the puppy planning, all that’s left to do is choose where to go. We’ve highlighted a few of our recommended pup-friendly spots for your consideration.
While the parents are away the pup will play
Going away without your dog is never fun and we all try to avoid it, however, sometimes it is a reality. Finding someone to watch over your fur baby can be stressful and knowing what to look for and how to prepare will help ease the separation anxiety for all of you.
Whether you’re hiring a pet sitter or have a friend or family member to take care of your dog, a few precautions can help keep your mind at ease while you’re out relaxing and exploring.
Phone a friend
Having someone that your dog knows to look after them, will go a long way into easing their separation anxiety if they have the correct experience. That said, be considerate when a friend that loves your pooch may volunteer but they have no experience in dealing with dogs, you may want to steer clear.
Leave it to the professionals
Dog sitters have become a common service across the country. These professional puppy watchers offer you the peace of mind of having a professional looking over your furry bundle of joy.
Just like any other service, it’s up to the customer to make an informed decision. Here are a few things to look out for:
Have they got previous pet-sitting experience?
Many dog breeds require various care routines and having a pet sitter that’s been around the block with your specific dog’s breed, sure does help. Although we’d all like to help a student who’s taking on a pet setting as a holiday job, these might not always work out.
Do they connect with your pet?
Pet setters are not only there to feed and water your pet, but they’re also there to fill the gap left by your absence. When pet setters can connect with your dog, a meaningful and playful relationship can flourish.
Are they trustworthy?
Trusting your dog’s life in another person’s hands is no small act. Always check references and interview a person beforehand.
Lastly, make sure your home environment has all the creature comforts your dog can have while you’re away. A must-have is a dedicated ‘safe-space’ and lucky for you, we recently covered crate training here. ◖°ᴥ°◗
So, whether your best friend is coming along or staying home, make sure they are safe and happy. We have great tips on managing separation anxiety if they are staying and great advice to keep them cool if they are coming along on a hot summer holiday. Enjoy!
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We all know the feeling of being overwhelmed and needing some alone time. This need for a safe space is not just limited to people though. Your dog can benefit massively from having space to call its own and can also help alleviate or eliminate certain issues. This safe space for your dog in their crate.
What is crate training and why should you be using it?
]]>What is crate training and why should you be using it?
Crate training is the process of teaching a pet to accept a dog crate or cage as a familiar and safe location. This safe location can serve as a beacon and offers your pet a place to have some me time. Many dogs instinctively seek small spaces to create protective shelters for themselves and crating is the perfect option for such cases. From puppy to senior any dog and owner can benefit from bringing crate training into their daily routine. A few common benefits of crate training are:
Crates are an excellent tool for house training. Dogs have a bond with their bed and will avoid mixing the bedroom and bathroom when possible. Therefore, an appropriately sized crate is handy to assist you in teaching your dog bladder and bowel control.
The home environment can get crazy sometimes and dogs can often suffer the most. Between festive fireworks and parties, dogs’ senses can easily be overstimulated resulting in anxiety and fear. Giving your pooch a place to calm down and feel safe in these times, helps ease them into a safe and calm state where they can relax and wait for the chaos to blow over.
It is no surprise to anyone that dogs like to be included in the family environment and activities. Although we all love spending time snuggling with our pup, having alone time helps your dog become more independent and saves you from future separation anxiety and behavioural problems.
A set schedule between crate and family or us time helps bring balance to your relationship.
Separation anxiety is often the reason why relationships between dogs and humans are strained. If your dog exhibits any of these anxiety-related behaviours, you might greatly benefit from crate training
Psst. If separation anxiety caught your attention, check out our helpful blog dedicated to this topic here.
How To Crate Train Your Dog
From size to materials, choosing a crate that will be cosy and not confined for your dog is the first step in a successfully trained pup. Make sure to check the safety features and potential hazards when shopping.
With the purpose of a crate being comfortable, having a soft and plush bed is a great place to start. Toys and other creature comforts also promote repeat use and will have your puppy napping in their crate in no time. We might be biased, but the Petite French and Co. car and travel bed system makes a great crate bed, and it’s easy to carry with you. :P
Same as with all training treats and rewards help dogs remember and associate an activity with a reward. Giving your dog a treat while they are in their crate will help create a positive association with their crate.
Adding the crate to your play routine helps strengthen this association too. It could be as simple as throwing a ball in the crate when you’re playing fetch or hiding treats in their bed, making a crate a fun and comforting place.
Long stretches of crate time can cause your puppy to feel uncomfortable, especially when it comes to bathroom time. Giving enough time to do their business, play and spend time with you helps promote the balance we pet owners crave.
So, now that you’ve discovered just how ‘crate’ it can be to give your doggo a dedicated space of their own, we hope your training goes swell! And remember to tag us on your dog training success pics! ◖°ᴥ°◗ We love a good milestone.
]]>Before your bundle of joy arrives at their forever home: how to puppy proof your house
Puppy proofing is your first step in ensuring a safe environment for your doggo and protecting your possessions against the one puppy army that is on its way. Puppies LOVE to chew, therefore hiding items out of paws’ reach will be your best option.
We’ve collected a few items that seem to attract puppies’ interest & chompers:
Now it’s far from doom and gloom, and proper preparation can save you from throwing away bite-ridden charging cables.
Simple solutions include deterrent sprays and limiting the pup’s access to some rooms, as well as a stern but not harsh “NO!” to stop them when caught in the act. These tricks can alleviate the issues and start your journey to owning the good boy or girl you’ve been yearning for. Remember to reward good behaviour like a small treat when they chew on their actual toy.
With your new family member comes a few new additions to your shopping list, especially in the early days. Here’s what to purchase before you get a puppy:
Your new family member arrived, now what? What to expect in the first week of owning a puppy:
Patients, love, and care are on top of the list, but cuddles can only get you so far. The first few days can be the most exciting and tiring at the same time. Being prepared will leave you more time for taking pics for your pup’s TikTok account and less time picking up unpleasant items.
Keep the looky-loos at bay for now
As much as you want to say yes to your best friend’s puppy shower, keep the number of fresh faces and excitement at a calm level. In the first few weeks of your puppy’s arrival, getting them acquainted with their sounds and familiar with the family is more important than having friends over for the first meeting. We know it will be hard to keep them away but sharing photos and video calls will have to do for now.
Creating and introducing your puppy to their own space
Creating a secure and cosy space will help ease them into the home and serve as their safe space when things get a bit much in the first few weeks. A crate is a worthwhile investment or create a dedicated corner in a room where they are comfortable to sleep in. Filling their space with toys, blankets, and anything cosy will help them use and enjoy their new little puppy paradise.
Puppy puddles
While unpleasant smells and ruined socks are inevitable, we have a few tips to keep this to a minimum and to get potty training over and done with.
Keeping one eye open and focused on your pup will help keep unplanned potty accidents to a minimum.
Frequent bathroom trips will help you figure out their routine and will get them acclimated to their new loo.
Rewarding good potty behaviour with treats and cuddles will help them understand the rules of the house and will help save your carpet in the long run. Here are a few tips for potty training to save on your IG.
Sleep is for the weak!
The first few nights will be tough, but you can make it easier on the both of you with a few basics… and coffee.
The first few nights will be active for sure. Having them at arm's reach will help comfort them and keep them feeling safe in the middle of the night.
Establishing a bathroom routine before bedtime will help them sleep tight and keeps the potty urges at bay throughout the night.
Once they’ve taken to their day bed and have grown to love it, take it with you in the bedroom, this will help them catch a few extra Zzzs and will help you get some rest for the next day with your buddy.
Playtime is best time
Your puppy loves to play, like really, really likes to play but it’s important to keep playtime both pleasurable and productive.
Here are a few classic games that have kept dogs occupied for ages:
Create a circle with family members or friends (sit in a circle) around your pup and take time calling their name. Once they come to you reward them, this will help them not only burn off energy but will also help them learn their name and understand what “come here” means.
Hiding behind the counter or curtains and calling their name helps them learn your voice and rewards them for responding to their name.
Playing keep away and tug of war helps burn off energy and helps establish the “leave” command in a fun and playful way.
Now for the serious stuff
Keeping your puppy safe and healthy is the top priority. The first vet visit is sure to be an eventful one and should be done as soon as possible. Having your pet vaccinated, dewormed and flea-proofed will help keep them smiling for years to come.
Regular visits will keep you informed and will help spot potential issues early and to help you gain the knowledge you need to be the best puppy parent you can be.
At the end of the day, you can only prepare so much. Bringing a new member into the family is a different experience for everyone, as long as you do it with love and care. In time, you will be rewarded with a dog that loves you and your home as much as you love them.
Good luck! And remember to tag us on your new puppy pics, please! ◖°ᴥ°◗ We can’t get to see them!
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We all feel the need to take one last look at our furry companion as we leave the door, but what is going on inside their minds when the door shuts? In today’s blog, we’re helping you understand why your pooch might be howling for you, how it’s not your fault, and how you can correct and ease the situation.
What is separation anxiety in dogs?
Separation anxiety can manifest itself in many ways in your dog. From creating a war path in your home to constant barking in the backyard. And to your neighbour’s dismay, separation anxiety affects you, your dog and their environment.
Although we’d all love to spend every waking moment with our pups, life unfortunately doesn’t always allow this. Your K9 companions might not understand why their owner must abandon them every day from 8-5, and they show their confusion in many ways. Their acting out could include the following:
If any of these seem familiar, don’t despair. We’re here to help you and your pooch deal with the ups and downs of daily life.
What causes separation anxiety in dogs?
When starting to deal with separation anxiety, it is important to determine the root cause of the condition. Once the cause has been identified you are better prepared to treat separation anxiety.
Common causes of separation anxiety include:
Changes in owner schedule and routine
Change in ownership
Age-related anxiety
How to manage separation anxiety in dogs
Dealing with separation anxiety is an issue that is felt by both dog and owner, and understanding you’re not to blame is the first step in managing the condition. Many resources are available to help owners understand and treat the condition. It is important to never give up and to keep finding ways to create balance in your household.
Remember, we’re always here to help you understand what’s going on inside your dog’s mind… and most importantly, tell your dog we say HI! ◖°ᴥ°◗
]]>As the saying goes, ‘we don’t deserve dogs!’ These loving furballs are so loyal to us that they often tolerate human behaviours which upset or disturb them.
Of course, you would never want to do anything to make your dog unhappy, but unfortunately, they cant always communicate how they are feeling, so often times we are unaware that our precious pets are stressed or upset.
Here are some examples of behaviours to avoid if you want to keep that tail wagging:
Shouting or yelling
Raising your voice at your dog is not an effective way to communicate with them. Dogs are very sensitive creatures, and they are likely to become confused or anxious when being yelled at. Avoid raising your voice, and always speak with kindness and patience. When it comes to training dogs, It’s much better to reinforce positive behaviour than to yell at ‘bad’ behaviour.
Tight embraces
As a dog lover, it may be irresistible to run up and cuddle any pooch you see, but many dogs can find hugs and embraces overwhelming or even threatening, especially from strangers. Look out for body language cues, if a dog’s ears are flared, or they are displaying stiff posture or bared teeth, they are probably feeling uncomfortable. It’s especially important to teach children not to hug and embrace strange dogs, as this can result in injury.
Being touched on the face
Most dogs tolerate face touching, but they may actually find it intimidating and uncomfortable, especially from strangers. When meeting a furry friend for the first time, it’s best to start petting them on their back, neck and chest.
Eye contact from strangers
The bond between a dog and their human is so special, you can probably make eye contact with your bestie and almost know what they are thinking, like an unspoken language! This bond only comes after a dog has developed a rapport and trust with you, so make sure to ease up on the eye contact when meeting new dogs - some may find it threatening.
Being dressed up in costumes
We know, it can be so cute and funny to dress your pooch up for Christmas or Halloween, but this is likely to be overwhelming and frightening for your dog. The reactions humans give to a dog in a costume can be confusing to them, and whilst some dogs tolerate costumes, most loathe wearing them. If your dog needs protection from the elements, it’s better to get them used to jackets or sweaters from a young age.
Strong scents or fragrances
You already know that your dog has an incredible sense of smell - their nose is up to 100,000 times more sensitive than yours! They explore and experience the world around them through their nostrils, so strong odours can really throw them off. Sprays, fragrances and even cleaning products can irritate and overwhelm your dog, so make sure to use these at a safe distance from them, and never spray anything directly onto their fur.
Being left alone
The love dogs give us is truly unconditional, and once your pup has bonded to you, it's likely that they will hate being separated from you.
Unfortunately, it’s unlikely that you are able to be by your bestie’s side at all times of the day, so it's important to give as much love and affection to them whenever you are together.
Establishing a set routine can help your dog get used to being apart from you, and if you need to leave them alone for long periods of time, it's best to find a trusted daycare or pet sitter. ◖°ᴥ°◗
]]>Everybody loves the sunshine, right? Whilst the silly season brings lots of fun and opportunities for outdoor adventures with your beloved pup, the hot weather can be very harsh on dogs. Heatstroke and dehydration are common and can be life-threatening to dogs, so it’s important to plan ahead to ensure you keep your pet happy and healthy.
It's important to be aware of the signs of heatstroke in dogs. These include:
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Shaking
Collapse
Weakness
Confusion
Bright red gums
Foaming at the mouth
Excessive panting
If you see these signs, call a vet immediately, and keep your dog in a cool and shaded area. provide them with water and pour room temperature water over their fur. It's important to never use ice or freezing cold water as this can cause shock.
Here are our top tips on keeping your dog cool and safe this summer:
1. Keep your dog in cool and shaded areas
Try to avoid playing with your dog in the direct sun on hot summer days. Ensure your garden and home has plenty of shaded areas for them to relax. Creating a ‘cool room’ is a great way to help your pup keep it chill: close the curtains in a tiled room and put on a fan, your furry friend will thank you!
2. Encourage regular hydration
Dehydration can happen quickly, so it's important to encourage your dog to drink regularly. Provide multiple bowls of water around your home and garden, and let your pooch drink both during and after walks or activities.
3. ALWAYS bring water with you
It is essential that you are always prepared with water for your dog on walks or journeys. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! To help ensure your pooch can hydrate any time, anywhere, we have created the Travel Bowl Remember to plan ahead and bring an extra bottle of water for your dog any time you leave the house.
4. Never leave your dog in a car
This can be extremely dangerous for dogs. Even a car parked in the shade with the windows open can become a distressing and even fatal environment for a dog. Make sure you plan ahead so you don't leave your dog alone in a car or any other enclosed space. If you see a dog in a car, please call for help immediately.
5. Try a garden dipping pool
This can be a fun and engaging way to help your dog relax and cool down on a hot summer day. Fill a small drum or paddling pool with cold water and allow your dog to dip their paws or splash around with some toys.
6. Plan your walks
During the summer months, it’s best to take your pooch out on their favourite activity in the cooler mornings or evenings. Choose a route with lots of shade, and take extra care to avoid the midday sun. As always, hydration before and after is key.
7. Damp Towels to lie on
In extreme heat, a damp towel laid on the floor can be great to provide your dog with some cooling relief, especially if you don't have tiled floors.
8. Frozen food treats
Next time you cool down with an ice cream or lolly, why not treat your pooch to a frozen treat too? Freeze some meat or some of their regular food into blocks and let them chew away - just avoid big chunks of ice as these can cause choking.
9. Keep up with grooming
Summer is an important time to make sure your dog's fur is free of matting and knots, as these can trap heat.
10. Protect paws from hot surfaces
Dog’s foot pads can burn easily and are sensitive to heat. Try to avoid walking over very hot surfaces such as sand or tarmac. If you can't handle the heat barefoot, chances are your dog can't either! ◖°ᴥ°◗
]]>It’s one of the most wonderful things a human can do, welcoming a new puppy into your life. All of a sudden everything seems brighter, and this furry little bundle of joy has somehow become the centre of your universe.
Starting a grooming routine early on is one of the best ways you can care for your new best friend. This will allow your puppy to get used to being handled (by you, and veterinarians/professional groomers in the future), and with the help of some treats and positive reinforcement, your puppy will soon learn that grooming can be fun!
This process will strengthen the bond between you, and will also give you an opportunity to check for any health issues, such as parasites, sores and infections.
It’s always a good idea to ask your vet for advice on grooming, as different breeds will have specific needs.
Puppy grooming tips:
Handling and introducing tools
Puppies don't usually need much grooming, but getting your pooch used to the process will help to avoid any distress and make the grooming experience much more pleasant for both you and your pup.
Try lightly holding their paws for a couple of minutes, touching their ears gently, and even holding a soft bristle brush to their skin, or nail clippers to their paws. Reward them afterwards with a treat, and they will associate these actions and tools with a happy time!
Brushing
Use a soft bristle brush very gently and slowly. Use this time to check for ticks or fleas, or any cuts or infections. New puppies can be susceptible to dermal mites or belly sores, so ask your veterinarian for advice if you find these.
Hold your puppy firmly but gently, so they don't fall or slip, and remember to give treats to remind them that brushing is fun.
Bathing
It’s important to get certain breeds used to bathing from an early age. Start with lukewarm water, in a quiet and calm environment. If your pup shows any signs or panic or distress, starting with one paw at a time, or even just a wet cloth is perfectly fine. Remember, treats are your friend during this process!
Make sure not to leave your dog wet and cold, use towels to dry their fur afterwards, or even get them used to a blow dryer on a gentle setting.
Nail trimming
Keeping your puppy’s nails trimmed is essential to their wellbeing - long nails can break and cause pain or infection. Remember to take it very slow with the clippers and don’t trim too short! Be patient with your pup, use treats, and be very gentle and loving so that they don't become scared.
Grooming gives you a chance to shower your puppy with all the love and care it deserves, and will teach them to trust you as you develop a fun and engaging relationship. Many dogs see grooming as a scary or painful experience, but it shouldn't be. With a little love and care, you can teach your puppy that grooming is good! ◖°ᴥ°◗
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