Best of Breed Blog

Pet Trusts: Peace of Mind for You and Years of Happiness for Your Pet

2011-05-06T12:27:00.000-07:00

What would your pet do without you? George Warshaw loves his rescued dog Bruiser so much that he not only created a pet trust for him, but also devoted part of his law practice towards helping other pet parents ensure their pets are protected throughout their life.

Attorney Warshaw recently spoke to a group of devoted dog and cat owners in Boston about the many benefits of establishing a pet trust for their furry family members. Most pet owners assume they will outlive their pet, but what if you become ill or die unexpectedly? An unspoken expectation or informal verbal agreement between you and a friend or relative that they will take care of your furry family member simply isn’t sufficient when it comes to ensuring your pet gets proper care during its lifetime.

Pet Trusts Aren’t Just for Wealthy or Single Pet Parents

Most people think of pet trusts as only for the Leona Helmsley’s of the world. Yet, companion animal trusts are for any pet owner who wants to set aside some funds and instructions that are legally enforceable to ensure his or her pet enjoys a stable, happy life until its death. According to attorney Warshaw, “Pet trusts give you legal authority to provide a substitute parent for your pet”.

Pet trusts also aren’t just for single pet owners. If a couple is tragically killed in a car accident, it ensures that someone they deem capable of caring for their beloved pet has legally documented instructions for the pet’s care throughout the remainder of its life.

A Trust Trumps a Will in Providing for Pets

Unlike a will, a pet trust can provide for your pet’s well being immediately upon your death, as well as when you become seriously ill or incapacitated. Wills must go through probate to take effect and this lengthy administrative process delays proper care for your pet. This is not the case with a pet trust, which also takes immediate effect in non life-ending circumstances, such as if you are in a coma for an indefinite period of time as the result of an accident or stroke and are unable to care for your pet.

The Benefits are in the Details

The beauty of a trust is that you can stipulate any details about your pet’s care that are important to you. From the type of food and treats it should be fed to whether it should be boarded at a kennel or cared for at home by a pet sitter when its appointed guardian is away, there is no limit to the level of detail you can incorporate into the trust. If you want your pet euthanized and cremated when it dies and its ashes spread in a favorite spot previously shared by you and your pet, you can specify that as well.

Budgeting for Your Pet’s Lifetime Care

The initial steps in creating a pet trust require that you determine a guardian or caregiver for your pet as well as a separate trustee to manage the funds you set aside for the pet’s lifetime care. One of the most challenging steps in creating a trust is determining how much money to set aside to fund the trust and provide for your pet in a manner to which it has become accustomed. For Leona Helmsley and her Maltese dog Trouble, that amounted to millions of dollars to maintain her dog's lifestyle, but for you that may be less than $10,000.

There are creative ways to fund a trust that don’t require you to come up with a lump sum of cash today. A small life insurance policy is one easy way to fund a pet trust. Keep in mind that life insurance will only take effect upon your death and it will not fund the trust if you become incapacitated.

Pet Care Expense Budgeting Tools

The ASPCA's financial breakdown of pet care costs for a variety of companion animals during their first year of life is a handy tool to use in projecting the annual expenses for a pet. The American Pet Products Association’s 2011-2012 National Pet Owner’s Survey also provides some helpful annual expense data for dog and cat owners. Either of these resources can be used as a baseline to help determine the cost of your pet’s care over its breed’s average lifespan.

An additional reserve should be included for non-routine medical expenses, which may be required as your pet ages to treat common diseases such as cancer or kidney disease. Upon the death of your pet, you can specify how you would like any remaining funds in the trust handled, such as leaving them to a charity or to the guardian as a “thank you” bonus.

Final Tips to Protect Your Pet

Pet Alert Card: Keep some type of pet alert card in your wallet at all times that notifies authorities that you have a pet at home and include the contact information of your pet’s emergency caregivers.
Document Important Data: Document critical information about your pet such as their medical history, service providers, photos and microchip information. Give a copy of it to their designated guardian and trustee.
Notify Your Vet: Just as you would inform your physician about your health care proxy, it is a good idea to notify your veterinarian that you have established a trust for your pet's long term care.
Prevent Trust Disputes: Consider stipulating in the trust that anyone who contests the pet trust will be disinherited from your estate. Not everyone will understand your desire to fund a trust for your pet’s long-term care and as a result, you want to protect any possibility of the trust getting contested.

Pets are considered family to most pet owners. In almost every state there is now a legal means of ensuring your furry family member is protected and properly cared for throughout its life. Take advantage of pet trust legislation to help ensure the lifelong happiness of your little fur baby.

Osama Bin Laden’s Death: A Time for Pets to Show Their Patriotism

2011-05-02T11:59:00.000-07:00

Celebrate America's historic defeat of Osama bin Laden by dressing your pet in stars and stripes this week to honor our brave troops and remember the victims of 9/11.

Patriotic fever has swept the nation since the announcement that Osama bin Laden was killed yesterday. As Americans express their joy over the defeat of al Qaeda’s long-time leader, pet parents can participate in the wave of jubilation sweeping the nation by donning their dogs and cats in patriotic colors.

Red, white and blue pet accessories range from bandanas, leashes, and ID tags to hair bows, bowties and flag-draped hats. The accessory itself doesn’t matter as much as the act of doing it.

This is a time for all Americans to band together and remember the victims of 9/11 while showing appreciation to the troops for capturing the most hated man in America. Dress your pets in stars and strips this week and rejoice in our great nation's historic victory.

10 Tips to Reduce Your Pet's Carbon Footprint

2011-04-22T10:50:00.000-07:00

Is your dog or cat green? It may sound like a silly question, but as more than 1 billion people in 185 countries celebrate Earth Day it's an ideal time to consider how our pets impact our beautiful planet earth.

As responsible pet parents, we can make simple changes in our pet's lives to help save our planet, while also improving the lives of our pets. In honor of Earth Day, consider these ten simple tips to help you reduce your cat or dog's carbon footprint.

Chemical-free flea and tick solutions: The chemicals in some flea products are very toxic. Consider switching to chemical-free solutions Find ideas for chemical-free solutions and check the level of toxic chemicals in your current flea products on the NRDC's Green Paws directory.
Biodegradable waste disposal: Also known as poop bags, some of these bags are safe to flush down the toilet too.
Clay-free kitty-litter: Made from wheat or corn, clay-free kitty litter is a healthier option. Cats are often resistant to change, so make the switch gradually, adding a little of the eco-friendly product at a time to the cat's existing litter.
Eco-friendly cleaning supplies: Chemical-free floor cleaners and laundry detergents are especially important for people with pets.
Paraben-free pet shampoos: Switch to all-natural shampoo free of fragrance and parabens. Ask your groomer to do the same.
Toxic-free pet toys and pet bowls: Read the labels and choose only organic items made from toxic-free materials for playtime and mealtime. Also try to avoid products made in China since the levels of lead in some products are an issue of concern.
USDA organic pet food and treats. Look for the "USDA organic" label on pet foods. This means they have met the same high standards as any organic human food. The "natural" label on pet foods is deceiving and does not mean they are minimally processed or of high quality, nor does it mean that the vitamins and minerals are natural. Try fruits and veggies as treats or bake some homemade goodies. Higher quality food will help reduce how much your pet poops!
Organic lawn care: Stop using toxic chemcial lawn fertilizers and switch to an organic lawn care program. It will cost more, but will prevent the potential for cancer and organ damage caused by lawn chemicals.
Plant a tree: This is an ideal way to memorialize a departed pet for years to come while enhancing the earth at the same time.
Spay and neuter: Help reduce pet overpopulation by ensuring your pet is spayed or neutered.

These simple changes will not only help save our planet, but they will also help extend your pet's lifespan. Dogs and cats lick their paws and chew or lick their toys often. When you don't buy all-natural, organic products, the chemicals in your floor cleaning supplies, lawn treatments, pet shampoos, flea treatments and pet toys can cause long term health problems for your pet.

For more ideas on environmentally friendly pet products, please visit Breed Trust's online store and click on the "Eco-friendly" link in the categories on the left side of the screen.

Looking for Love? Consider Adopting a Greyhound Dog

2011-04-18T15:11:00.000-07:00

Love is in bloom this spring. If you are looking for a soulmate, you're in luck as long as you don't mind the four-legged, tail-wagging variety. National Adopt-a-Greyhound month is the perfect time to fall in love with a sweet and loving retired greyhound in need of a forever home.

Watch this adorable video about a single, retired athlete seeking a long term relationship and get inspired to find your perfect match by adopting a greyhound this April.

There are more retired greyhounds up for adoption than ever before thanks to the passage of legislation in recent years banning greyhound racing in some states. These dogs once housed at racetracks are now displaced and in need of good homes.

Despite their former lives as racing dogs, the greyhound is not a high energy breed that requires considerable exercise or athletic owners. In fact, they are simply big couch potatoes that are adaptable to almost any living environment, including apartment life.

While it may take some time for an adopted greyhound to adjust to life outside of the racetrack kennel, once settled in a loving home environment they are a wonderful and welcome addition to any home.
If all these reasons aren't enough for you to consider adopting a sweet-faced greyhound, then these top ten reasons from The Greyhound Project might convince you:

**Top Ten Reasons to Adopt a Greyhound**
10.	They truly know the meaning of retirement.
9.	People will stare at your dog instead of at you.
8.	They can curl up to the size of a ball if they need to.
7.	They can expand to the size of the whole bed if they want to.
6.	They don't bark, keeping your neighborhood safe for burglars.
5.	You can play their ribs like an air guitar.
4.	They are the only dogs that know how to really smile.
3.	You can dress them up as a reindeer for Christmas.
2.	They are never confused with poodles.
1.	A Greyhound in flight is the most amazing sight you'll ever hope to see in your own back yard.

If you are interested in adopting a greyhound, the Greyhound Project's website has a detailed listing of greyhound adoption agencies across the country and internationally. You can also search Breed Trust's nationwide database of shelter dogs available for adoption by entering your zip code and selecting greyhound as the breed.

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2011-04-18T15:08:00.000-07:00

The most popular cat breeds of 2010 include a stunning beauty, a gentle giant, something exotic, a little ragdoll and even a hairless breed.

While Labrador Retrievers lead the pack when it comes to the popularity of dog breeds, the Persian reigns in the cat world, according to the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA).

Each year, the CFA tabulates the registrations of all cat breeds registered with their organization to determine the most popular cat breed in the nation and in 2010, the Persian earned the top spot. The ranking was no surprise; the stunning Persian has held the number one position for decades.

The second most popular breed is the gentle giant of cat breeds, the Maine Coon. Adaptable to almost any living environment, this shaggy-haired breed is known not only as a wonderful family cat that gets along well with children and other pets, but also for its superior mouse-catching abilities.

One surprising change in CFA’s popularity rankings of cat breeds include the hairless Sphynx, which jumped to the number five position. The breed making the greatest stride in popularity over the years is the Ragdoll. Aptly named because this affectionate breed resembles the doll when it relaxes in the lap of its beloved humans, the ragdoll now ranks as the fourth most popular cat breed.

We’ve listed the top 10 cat breeds below. For a full list of all 41 breeds ranked in order of their popularity, visit the CFA.

**Cat Fanciers' Association 2010 Cat Breed Popularity Rankings**
1		Persian
2		Maine coon
3		Exotic
4		Ragdoll
5		Sphynx
6		Siamese
7		Abyssinian
8		American shorthair
9		Cornish rex
10		Birman

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Pet Treats: Buyer Beware of these Sweet Snacks of Love

2011-04-18T14:52:00.000-07:00

Treats are a tail-wagging delight for dogs and cats, but the sugar in some pet treats warrants caution. Avoid the sugary pet snacks listed here and try our recommended treats to help keep your pet happy, healthy and fit for years to come.

What is it about pet treats that can make even the most unruly pet obey us in exchange for a tiny piece of something that tastes so good they can barely contain themselves? It’s an ingredient that is found in some of the most popular cat and dog treats. It’s addictive, causes weight gain and could ultimately shorten the lifespan of your pet and it's commonly known as sugar.

Kibble Crack

Just like humans, dogs and cats can develop a sweet tooth and crave sugary snacks, which are essentially junk food for pets. The sugar in some pet treats can create almost addictive-like cravings that have earned them the name, ‘kibble crack’.

Read the ingredients label on your pet’s favorite treats. If any of the following are listed as one of the first five ingredients on the label, your pet’s treats are doing them more far more harm than good:
Corn syrup
Sugar
Fructose
Sucrose
Dextrose
Maltodextrin

Sugar-laden treats are one of the primary culprits behind the pet obesity epidemic and over time can lead to excessive weight gain. An overweight pet can suffer from arthritis, diabetes and high blood pressure, any of which can shorten their life and impact your wallet due to more frequent visits to the vet.

Calories Count Too

Besides high sugar content, another concern with pet treats is the calorie count per serving. Often not disclosed on the packaging, most of us are unaware of how many calories we’re adding to our pets diet by giving them treats. According to Marion Nestle, author of Feed your Pet Right, if the treat package does not list calories, you should assume 3-4 calories per gram, (i.e. a treat that is 3 grams/serving would be 9-12 calories per serving).

Treats should account for no more than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie requirements to maintain their ideal weight. Some rawhide chews and larger Greenies Dental Chews can contain 100 calories or more, which may far exceed the recommended 10% rule, depending on your dog's size and calorie requirements.

A New Marketing Gimmick

Treats are big business for the pet industry and the newest marketing gimmick is treats that promote healthy benefits, such as healthier hips and joints. There is no government oversight or scientific basis for these claims. When Consumer Lab tested joint health supplements for dogs and cats they found that a popular treat, Dogswell Happy Hips Chicken Breast with Glucosamine and Chondroitin, contained only 6% of its claimed glucosamine and only 15.9% of its claimed chondroitin; amounts too insignificant to provide any claimed benefit.

Healthy Options

With 88% of dog owners and 68% of cat owners giving their pets treats according to the American Pet Products Association, we’re not suggesting pet parents cut out this much-loved ritual. We do suggest the following seven tips to ensure your act of love promotes a healthy pet:

Read the Ingredients Label: Pet treats with sugar, corn syrup, fructose, sucrose or dextrose in the first five ingredients should be avoided. A very common filler in pet foods, maltodextrin, is another name to look for on the label. It has a high glucose level, so it should be avoided if it is a primary ingredient.
Opt for Natural Sweeteners: Choose treats with applesauce, molasses or honey as a sweetening ingredient if you wish to indulge your pet in a sweet treat.
Try Vegetable Dog Chews: Opt for all-natural vegetable-based dog chews made from sweet potatoes over animal-based rawhide chews. Some rawhide is high in calories and may be treated with chemicals and bleach.
Consider Home-cooked or Naturally Moistened Cat Treats: Try giving your cat a small piece of cut up chicken or fish as a treat. If you prefer to buy packaged treats look for those moistened with vegetable glycerin rather than chemical humectants such as propylene glycol.
Try Fresh Fruit and Veggie Dog Treats: Opt for low-calorie vegetables or fruit as a treat for your dog instead of packaged treats. Baby carrots, cut-up apples and green beans are good choices.
Don't Rely on Treats with Health Claims: Discuss supplement options with your veterinarian for your pet’s ailments rather than relying on treats that claim to provide adequate nutrients to maintain a healthy heart or joints.
Use VOHC-Approved Dental Chews: Establish a routine of practicing good dental hygiene on your pet and use treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council to clean your pet’s teeth.

There are many good options available for pet treats and we’ve listed some of our favorites below. They are low in sugar or calories, all natural and generally easy to find in grocery and big box stores if you don’t have a neighborhood pet boutique or pet supply store nearby.

Recommended Dog Treats:

Carnivore Crunch or Carnivore Kisses by Stella & Chewy's
Charlie Bear Dog Treats by Charlie Bear Dog Products
Jerky Naturals and other treats for dogs by Zukes
Liv-a-Littles Protein Treats for dogs by Halopets
Newman’s Own Premium Dog Treats by Newman's Own Organics
Original Buddy Biscuits or Muttos by Cloud Star
Sam's Yams Veggie Rawhide Sweet Potato Dog Chews by Front Porch Pets

Recommended Cat Treats:

Natural Purrz by Zukes
Liv-a-Littles Protein Treats for cats by Halopet s
Wellness Pure Delights for cats by WellPet LLC

The Pet Obesity Prevention Association’s Top Treats to Avoid

Sugary Dog Treats	Sugar Ingredients
Beneful Snackin’ Slice	Sugar fourth ingredient
Canine CarryOuts Chew-lotta	Dextrose first ingredient
Canine Carryouts Dog Treats	Corn syrup second ingredient
Cesar Softies Dog Treats	Sugar third ingredient
Exclusively Dog Vanilla Flavor Sandwich Creme Dog Cookies	Sugars first two ingredients
Milk-Bone Chewy Chicken Drumsticks	Sugar third ingredient
Milk Bone Essentials Plus Oral Care	Sugar third ingredient
Pedigree Jumbone	Sugar third ingredient
Pedigree Jumbone Mini Snack Food for Small Dogs	Sugars 2 of 3 first ingredients
Pedigree Marrobone	Sugar third ingredient
Pup-Peroni Lean Beef Recipe	Sugar third ingredient
Purina Busy Chewnola	Maltodextrin second ingredient
Science Diet Simple Essentials Treats Training Adult Treats with Real Beef	Sugar third ingredient
Snausages SnawSomes! Beef and Chicken Flavor	Sugars 3 of first 4 ingredients
Three Dog Bakery Lick ‘n Crunch	Dextrose third ingredient

Sugary Cat Treats	Sugar Ingredients
Petrodex Dental Treats for Cats	Dextrose second ingredient
Meow Mix Moist Cat Treats	Corn syrup fourth ingredient
Pit’r Pat Fresh Breath Mint Flavored Cat Treats	Maltodextrin first ingredient

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Patrick the Miracle Pit Bull: A Lesson in Humanity for All of Us

2011-04-18T13:41:00.000-07:00

The emaciated dog now known as Patrick was found in a trash bag after he was tossed 19 stories down a trash chute in a New Jersey apartment complex. This miracle dog not only survived this unspeakable act of cruelty by his owner, but also has some lessons to teach us while on his road to recovery.

As Napoleon Bonaparte once said, “Here Gentlemen, a dog teaches us a lesson in humanity.” Patrick was a victim of cruel and despicable human behavior. Yet, this speechless creature’s sweet and gentle disposition displayed throughout his recovery as well as the trust he has shown towards mankind should make us pause and rethink how we treat some companion animals.

Warning: The images in this video of Patrick shortly after he was rescued are difficult to watch and may not be suited for young children.

The lessons we can learn from Patrick the miracle dog's abuse and survival:

Animal abuse legislation across the nation needs our attention.

The woman who allegedly starved and threw this dog out with the trash faces a mere 18 months in jail or a $3,000 fine. Watch the Humane Society’s heart-wrenching video above showing Patrick’s condition after he was found and then decide if his owner's punishment is just for such extreme cruelty on an innocent living being. Patrick survived to send us the message that it’s time to improve animal abuse legislation nationwide to ensure that the punishment fits the crime and to discourage such outrageous behavior by our fellow man.
Dogs should not be judged or stereotyped based on their breed.

Many insurance companies and municipalities often classify the pit bull, rottweiler, doberman pinscher and several other dog breeds as dangerous and ban or restrict them in some way. Any dog breed can turn vicious under certain circumstances. Rather than some inherent genetic predisposition in the breed, the reason dogs behave badly is because their owners have been irresponsible about properly training them or they are among the Michael Vicks of the world and purposely raise their dogs to attack.

Targeting certain breeds by requiring muzzles or banning them all together in a building, park or city is unfair. Patrick the pit bull has been nothing but loving, gentle and trusting since he was rescued and shows us that we are misjudging his breed as "dangerous". The unfortunate misbehavior by a few dogs within a breed should not cause us to make a blanket judgment about the entire breed.

This miracle dog was named Patrick because he was found the day before St. Patrick’s Day. One could say he is not so different from the saint for whom he is named. Saint Patrick was a slave who later became a priest, forgiving his abusers and teaching his fellow man about love, compassion and eternal life. We now have a modern day Saint Patrick with four paws and a tail that is wagging again, but will we listen and reflect on the lessons he is teaching us?

If you wish to follow Patrick the miracle dog’s road to recovery or donate to help support his ongoing care, it is best to do so directly with the NJ Humane Society that is directly involved in his recovery and future adoption. Unfortunately, scammers are seeking to profit from Patrick’s newfound celebrity and some organizations that claim to financially help with the dog's recovery are not doing so. The New Jersey Associated Humane Societies' Res-Q Fund is the best way to donate to help Patrick and other abused animals in the New Jersey area.

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Pet Treats: Buyer Beware of These Sweet Snacks of Love

2011-03-29T09:44:00.000-07:00

Treats are a tail-wagging delight for dogs and cats, but the sugar in some pet treats warrants caution. Avoid the sugary pet snacks listed here and try our recommended treats to help keep your pet happy, healthy and fit for years to come.

What is it about pet treats that can make even the most unruly pet obey us in exchange for a tiny piece of something that tastes so good they can barely contain themselves? It’s an ingredient that is found in some of the most popular cat and dog treats. It’s addictive, causes weight gain and could ultimately shorten the lifespan of your pet and it's commonly known as sugar.

Kibble Crack

Just like humans, dogs and cats can develop a sweet tooth and crave sugary snacks, which are essentially junk food for pets. The sugar in some pet treats can create almost addictive-like cravings that have earned them the name, ‘kibble crack’.
Read the ingredients label on your pet’s favorite treats. If any of the following are listed as one of the first five ingredients on the label, your pet’s treats are doing them more far more harm than good:
Corn syrup

Sugar

Fructose

Sucrose

Dextrose

Maltodextrin

Sugar-laden treats are one of the primary culprits behind the pet obesity epidemic and over time can lead to excessive weight gain. An overweight pet can suffer from arthritis, diabetes and high blood pressure, any of which can shorten their life and impact your wallet due to more frequent visits to the vet.

Calories Count Too

Besides high sugar content, another concern with pet treats is the calorie count per serving. Often not disclosed on the packaging, most of us are unaware of how many calories we’re adding to our pets diet by giving them treats. According to Marion Nestle, author of Feed your Pet Right, if the treat package does not list calories, you should assume 3-4 calories per gram, (i.e. a treat that is 3 grams/serving would be 9-12 calories per serving).

Treats should account for no more than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie requirements to maintain their ideal weight. Some rawhide chews and larger Greenies Dental Chews can contain 100 calories or more, which may far exceed the recommended 10% rule, depending on your dog's size and calorie requirements.

A New Marketing Gimmick

Treats are big business for the pet industry and the newest marketing gimmick is treats that promote healthy benefits, such as healthier hips and joints. There is no government oversight or scientific basis for these claims. When Consumer Lab tested joint health supplements for dogs and cats they found that a popular treat, Dogswell Happy Hips Chicken Breast with Glucosamine and Chondroitin, contained only 6% of its claimed glucosamine and only 15.9% of its claimed chondroitin; amounts too insignificant to provide any claimed benefit.

Healthy Options

With 88% of dog owners and 68% of cat owners giving their pets treats according to the American Pet Products Association, we’re not suggesting pet parents cut out this much-loved ritual. We do suggest the following seven tips to ensure your act of love promotes a healthy pet:

Read the Ingredients Label: Pet treats with sugar, corn syrup, fructose, sucrose or dextrose in the first five ingredients should be avoided. A very common filler in pet foods, maltodextrin, is another name to look for on the label. It has a high glucose level, so it should be avoided if it is a primary ingredient.
Opt for Natural Sweeteners: Choose treats with applesauce, molasses or honey as a sweetening ingredient if you wish to indulge your pet in a sweet treat.
Try Vegetable Dog Chews: Opt for all-natural vegetable-based dog chews made from sweet potatoes over animal-based rawhide chews. Some rawhide is high in calories and may be treated with chemicals and bleach.
Consider Home-cooked or Naturally Moistened Cat Treats: Try giving your cat a small piece of cut up chicken or fish as a treat. If you prefer to buy packaged treats look for those moistened with vegetable glycerin rather than chemical humectants such as propylene glycol.
Try Fresh Fruit and Veggie Dog Treats: Opt for low-calorie vegetables or fruit as a treat for your dog instead of packaged treats. Baby carrots, cut-up apples and green beans are good choices.
Don't Rely on Treats with Health Claims: Discuss supplement options with your veterinarian for your pet’s ailments rather than relying on treats that claim to provide adequate nutrients to maintain a healthy heart or joints.
Use VOHC-Approved Dental Chews: Establish a routine of practicing good dental hygiene on your pet and use treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council to clean your pet’s teeth.

Carnivore Crunch or Carnivore Kisses by Stella & Chewy's
Charlie Bear Dog Treats by Charlie Bear Dog Products
Jerky Naturals and other treats for dogs by Zukes
Liv-a-Littles Protein Treats for dogs by Halopets
Newman’s Own Premium Dog Treats by Newman's Own Organics
Original Buddy Biscuits or Muttos by Cloud Star
Sam's Yams Veggie Rawhide Sweet Potato Dog Chews by Front Porch Pets

Recommended Cat Treats:

Natural Purrz by Zukes
Liv-a-Littles Protein Treats for cats by Halopet s
Wellness Pure Delights for cats by WellPet LLC

The Pet Obesity Prevention Association’s Top Treats to Avoid

Sugary Dog Treats	Sugar Ingredients
Beneful Snackin’ Slice	Sugar fourth ingredient
Canine CarryOuts Chew-lotta	Dextrose first ingredient
Canine Carryouts Dog Treats	Corn syrup second ingredient
Cesar Softies Dog Treats	Sugar third ingredient
Exclusively Dog Vanilla Flavor Sandwich Creme Dog Cookies	Sugars first two ingredients
Milk-Bone Chewy Chicken Drumsticks	Sugar third ingredient
Milk Bone Essentials Plus Oral Care	Sugar third ingredient
Pedigree Jumbone	Sugar third ingredient
Pedigree Jumbone Mini Snack Food for Small Dogs	Sugars 2 of 3 first ingredients
Pedigree Marrobone	Sugar third ingredient
Pup-Peroni Lean Beef Recipe	Sugar third ingredient
Purina Busy Chewnola	Maltodextrin second ingredient
Science Diet Simple Essentials Treats Training Adult Treats with Real Beef	Sugar third ingredient
Snausages SnawSomes! Beef and Chicken Flavor	Sugars 3 of first 4 ingredients
Three Dog Bakery Lick ‘n Crunch	Dextrose third ingredient

Sugary Cat Treats	Sugar Ingredients
Petrodex Dental Treats for Cats	Dextrose second ingredient
Meow Mix Moist Cat Treats	Corn syrup fourth ingredient
Pit’r Pat Fresh Breath Mint Flavored Cat Treats	Maltodextrin first ingredient

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Recipe for Optimal Living: Love a Pet!

2011-02-25T10:17:00.000-08:00

Pets can have an enormous impact on how we feel and how we live. They can improve our emotional and mental well-being, reduce anxiety levels, fight depression, and even enhance our physical health. Read more...

A Dog Contest Worth Yapping About

2011-02-25T10:13:00.000-08:00

Your dog could be the next four-footed supermodel thanks to EO, the all-natural, personal care product company. They've just launched the EO Dog Model Contest, which runs until March 11, 2011, to help them find the new face of their recently launched pet care product line. Read more...

FDA Warns Dog and Ferret Owners about Sugar Substitute | Breed Trust

2011-02-25T10:10:00.000-08:00

The FDA is so concerned about the toxic danger to dogs and ferrets from a common sugar substitute used by humans that it issued a warning this week to consumers. If you find xylitol listed as an ingredient on any product label in your home, keep that product well out of reach of your pet dog or ferret. While it is safe for human consumption, it is very toxic to these animals. Read more...

Dream Job Available for Cat Lovers!

2011-02-25T10:08:00.000-08:00

Love cats? Love to travel? Looking for a fun job that pays $50,000? Then look no further...Purina Cat Chow may be the answer to your dreams!

Purina Cat Chow has kicked off a nationwide search to find the first-ever Purina Cat Chow Correspondent. If you enjoy cat talk and can't get enough of cute kitties then this could be the perfect opportunity for you to start a new career in 2011. Best of all, no formal expertise or training is required for the $50,000 position! Read more...

Uncommon Dog Breeds Lead the Pack at Westminster

2011-02-25T10:04:00.000-08:00

If you looked to the Las Vegas oddsmakers or dog breed popularity rankings to predict this year's winners at Westminster, you were barking up the wrong tree.

This year all bets were off when it came to predicting the finalists in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show The rare breeds on the roster of seven finalists took most people by surprise and left many wondering how a tall and lanky deerhound or a collie with a beard could come out ahead of an adorable little beagle, handsome lab, or endearing golden.Read more...

Mark Zuckerberg 'Likes' Dogs with Dreadlocks

2011-02-25T10:01:00.000-08:00

Facebook’s CEO may soon be shopping for dog treats and squeaky toys to bring home to some four-footed sweethearts. According to recent reports inTMZ and OK Magazine, Zuckerberg’s sister Arielle announced in her blog that her brother has decided to get some new best friends; a Puli and a Komondor. Read more...

The Silent Killer of Pets: Poor Dental Hygiene

2011-02-11T14:05:00.000-08:00

Would you go days, weeks or even years without brushing your teeth? The thought of a plaque-filled, bacteria-laden mouth and the stench of bad breath that would result makes most people squirm in disgust at the sheer thought of it. Yet, that is exactly what is happening in your pet’s mouth at this very moment if you’re not cleaning their teeth on a regular basis.

The Link Between Poor Oral Hygiene and Heart Disease

The long-term impact to a lackadaisical attitude about your pet’s oral hygiene could ultimately compromise their overall health. According to a study by Professor Larry Glickman of Purdue University, there is a link between the severity of gum disease in dogs and their risk for some types of heart disease, including cardiomyopathy and endocarditis. In some cases, the increased incidence of heart disease was 6 times higher in dogs with severe gum disease than in those without it.

While Dr. Glickman’s study didn’t address the oral hygiene of cats and its potential link to heart disease, the number of felines with dental disease is cause for concern as well. According to an American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) study reported by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), 70 percent of all cats and nearly 80 percent of all dogs have dental disease by age three.

By adopting a routine of brushing your pet’s teeth when they are young, you can help reduce these alarming statistics and ultimately improve your pet’s long-term health.

About Dental Disease

Similar to periodontal disease in humans, gum disease in dogs and cats is the result of untreated plaque and tartar build-up. The bacteria in the plaque and tartar causes inflammation and infection, which can travel into the bloodstream and lead to more serious health problems.

Pet owners often don’t do anything about their pet’s oral hygiene until the tartar build-up gets severe enough that it requires professional cleaning by a veterinarian. This will likely require that the veterinarian anesthetize your pet, which has its own inherent risks not to mention an impact on the pet owner’s wallet.

Recommended Dental Products

While the best home remedy for good dental hygiene is brushing your pet's teeth, you may also want to consider giving your pet specially made treats and foods designed to keep their teeth and gums clean and healthy. There are also new dental care water additives on the market that you can add to your pet’s water bowl to help fight plaque and bad breath.

Don’t rely on claims made on the packaging for pet dental care products; these are just marketing tools used to sell more products and often have no scientific basis. Your best bet is to use these VOHC approved products , which have met strict protocols established by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.

A Word of Warning About Toothpaste

Never use human toothpaste or baking soda to clean your pet’s teeth. Pets can’t spit out toothpaste like humans and according to the AAHA, the foaming agents in human toothpaste can cause stomach upset in pets.

Human toothpaste can be toxic to your pet if it contains Xylitol, a human sweetener, which the ASPCA lists as one of the most dangerous poisons for pets. Pet toothpastes are not only designed specifically so pets can safely swallow all the ingredients, but they are also flavored in appealing pet-friendly varieties such as beef and chicken.

How to Brush Your Dog or Cat's Teeth

If you're not sure how to brush your pet's teeth, these videos can help.

Cornell Feline Health Center Video

The Cornell Feline Health Center offers this helpful instructional video for cat owners who wish to learn how to properly brush their cat’s teeth.

American Veterinary Medical Association Video

This video from the American Veterinary Medical Association offers helpful information about how to make dental hygiene fun for you and your pet. It also provides a demonstration on the proper way to brush your pet’s teeth.

Resolve to Start Brushing This Week

February is National Pet Dental Health Month and it’s also American Heart Month. It’s the perfect time to resolve to make your pet’s oral hygiene and ultimately their cardiovascular health a priority.

Watch the how-to videos provided here and resolve to start brushing your pet’s teeth this week. By adopting this new habit for your pet, you will not only help them enjoy a fresh, clean set of pearly whites, but you’ll also improve your beloved furball’s overall health and happiness.

Do you have questions about dental hygiene in pets or can you offer tips to help other pet owners make brushing teeth a fun or stress-free activity? Please post your comments below.

Purrr-fect Cat Lover Gifts for Valentine's Day

2011-02-09T12:12:00.000-08:00

If you want to see your valentine purr with pleasure on February 14th, we've got some gift ideas to help you surprise and delight even the most finicky cat lover in your life. From gifts that fund programs to help abused animals to a movie night of cuddling, we're ready to let the cat out of the bag and announce some gift ideas that will help make this Valentine's Day your best one yet.

Share your Love for the ASPCA: Send Flowers that Give Back

Flowers are the cat’s meow of all Valentine's Day gifts. This year you can give flowers that not only express your love for that special someone in your life, but also show your love for animals and the ASPCA. Purchase your flowers through Teleflora and they’ll donate 20% of the purchase price to the ASPCA. Browse Teleflora/ASPCA Valentine's Day Bouquets

Cool Cat: Porcelain Figurine

Artist Kim Lawrence has created an exquisite Gentle Companion figurine of a person embracing a cat. Emotive and romantic, this tasteful contemporary porcelain gift is a lovely addition to any home. 6.75" H. $35.88 from Amazon.

Groovin' Kitty: Ipod or MP3 Speaker

This adorable, posable plush cat has built-in speakers that plays music from your iPod/MP3 player or most any other music source; and it dances! Squeeze the left paw to use the pet in speaker-mode only. Automatic shut-off. Includes audio connection cable plus 4.5V DC power jack (adapter is not included). Uses 3 AA batteries (not included). 12" high. Kitten Dancing MP3 Ipod Speaker, $49.95 from Potpourri Group

Some Meow-velous Bling: Cat-Themed Jewelry

Jewelry is often at the top of gift requests on Valentine’s Day and these adorable cat-themed items won’t disappoint the special cat lover in your life.

Collectible Ceramic Sweetheart Kitty Pin: This cute, heart-covered ceramic cat pin brightens up any wardrobe. $19.98 from Nature's Jewelry.

Edward Gorey Sterling Silver Dangling Cat Pendant, This whimsical kitty sterling silver necklace was adapted from illustrator Edward Gorey''s cover illustration for his book series, Amphigorey. The artist''s signature appears on the back. $49.95 from Potpourri Gifts.

Love My Pet Earrings: Artist Mark Poulin captures the sweet, unconditional love of cats in these delightfully simple earrings. Handcrafted of sterling silver and enamel, they are the perfect way to express your love. $48.00 from Uncommon Goods.

Purrr-fect Pet Parents: Cat Mom and Cat Dad Apparel

This adorable women’s hoodie by Embroidery4U tells the world what your cat already knows, you’re the “Purrr-fect Cat Mom”. Embroidered cat curled up with a smile on its face as it dreams of its pet parent makes this a lovely gift for any cat mom. Available in XS-XL, from Zazzle, $49.25.
It’s not just women that are crazy cat ladies; "real men love cats too" and want to tell the world about it in these stylish t-shirt by Rekoe’s Room. Available in various colors, sizes S-3XL, Cafepress, $25 t-shirt or $38 zip hoodie.

Unleash your Thoughts: Cat’s Meow Journal

Let the fun and funky cats adorning this journal cover will inspire the recipient to fill its pages with wise and witty words. Embossed with gloss highlights. 160 lined pages, 5 wide x 7 high, bookbound, elastic band place holder. $8.99 from Amazon.

Cuddle Corner: Movie Night

Enjoy movie night with the one you love watching some of the best movies featuring fabulous felines. Amazon $5.99-$18.49.

Some of our top movie picks featuring cats include:

Oldies but Goodies: That Darn Cat and Harry and Tonto

Friendly Rivalry: The Adventures of Milo and Otis and Cats vs. Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore

Do you like this gift list?

Winter Storm Dangers for Pets

2011-02-03T17:39:00.000-08:00

Pets are not immune to the potential dangers that can cause injury both during and immediately after winter snow storms. Storm-related injuries sustained by a puppy and kitten treated at MSPCA-Angell in Boston should make pet owners pause and take notice about precautionary measures they can take to help ensure their pet's safety during inclement weather.

Fortunately, both animals treated by the MSPCA are now stable as they recover from their serious injuries. The puppy was a beagle that required amputation of its tail and a pin placed in its leg after it was hit by a snow plow. The kitten encountered severe burns to its paw pads as a result of the corrosive chemicals in ice melt products used by property owners and public works departments to prevent slips and falls on ice.
There are some simple steps you can take to prevent these injuries from occurring in your pets:

Always use pet-safe, salt-free ice melter on your property. The chemicals in ice melts that are not designed with pets in mind can cause severe burns to a pet’s paw pads.
Use paw protection products on your pet’s paws when they are outdoors. Even if you use pet-safe ice melt, your neighbor or your public works department likely does not do the same. See our article with reviews of paw protection products for pets for more information on bootie and paw ointment options.
Don’t let your pet outdoors off-leash. Even if you have an "outdoor" cat or your dog is well-trained to come when called there are too many risks that could compromise their life during a storm. If a driver sees your pet running into the street and there is snow or ice on the pavement, even the most well-intentioned, animal-loving driver can’t fully control their car when they slam on the brakes quickly to prevent themselves from hitting your pet.
Always wash your pet’s paws after they come in from outdoors. Chances are they will lick their paws clean if you don’t do it for them. If the road salt chemicals on their paws is ingested it could be toxic.
Bundle up your pet before taking it outdoors. Some people think putting coats on dogs and cats is going overboard, but pets are prone to hypothermia and frostbite, particularly senior pets and breeds that are short-haired or hairless. When the temperature dips and the winds are howling, dress your pet appropriately to protect it from these winter dangers.
Older pets need extra care during the cold weather, as noted by the experts from The Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University in their new book, 'Good Old Dog: Expert Advice for Keeping your Aging Dog Happy, Healthy and Comfortable'. Shorter walks, extra-warm bedding and even pet-heating pads can help alleviate the joint stiffness pets often experience when the temparature drops outside.

What steps have you taken to keep your pet safe during and after the storms this winter?

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for Dog Lovers

2011-02-03T17:23:00.000-08:00

Love is in the air this month and our list of irresistible dog-themed gifts for Valentine’s Day is certain to surprise and delight your pooch-loving friends, family or significant other. With ideas ranging from wine bottles personalized with your favorite photo to sleepwear that will bring out the animal in you and Valentine's Day cards that help shelter animals, these gifts are sure to make February 14th a special day for any dog lover in your life.

Pic of the Litter: Custom Photo Book

Nothing is more touching than receiving a personalized gift and these custom photo books are guaranteed to win over the heart of someone special. Download My Publisher's free software, upload your digital photos for the book and submit your order - it's as easy as 1, 2, 3. Starting at $9.99 for a paperback pocketbook or $29.80 for a classic hardcover book. MyPublisher PhotoBooks - Get Started Today with a Free $20 Gift Card!

Wag and Whine: Personalized Bottle of Wine

Your Photo + Wine = Romance...Add to the romance on Valentine's Day with a bottle of wine that has your best friend's photo on the label with your personalized caption! Available in Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Red Reserve, starting at $18.00 per bottle. Real Dogs and Cats Wine with Custom Photo Labels

Bow Wow Bliss: Handcrafted Doggie Wine Stoppers

These adorable pooches top off your gift of wine perfectly. Handcrafted of recyclable materials. Set of one black and one white is $19.95. Dog Stoppers Set of 2

Doggone Special: Paw Prints Heart Locket

Valentine's Day wouldn't be complete without a little bling and this locket keeps a faithful friend close at heart. Antique silverplated locket contains your photo and reads "Dogs leave paw prints on our hearts", for just $24.98. Dog Paw Prints Heart Picture Holder Pendant 24in

Animal Attraction: Puppy Love Sleepwear

Puppy Love Boxer Puppy Love Lounge Pant Puppy Love PJ Set

Curl up with the one you love in Puppy Love sleepwear printed with hearts and dogs. Available in boxers for $24.95, lounge pants for $39.95, or as a classic PJ set for $69.95.

Fur-ever Friends: Love Me Love My Dog Hoodie

This unisex hoodie's subtle humor rings true for any pet lover. Give them the gift that tells the world how they really feel! $54.95 Love Me Love My Dog Hoodie

Paw Perfect: All You Need is Love T-Shirt

A creative way to express love for animals of all kinds, this unisex tee is the purr-fect way to show your love. $19.95 All You Need Tee

Send a Valentine's Day Card that Gives Back!

If you plan to send Valentine's cards for the holiday, consider sending an adorable SHELTER SWEETHEARTS eCard from the Mass Society for the Prevention of Animals (MSPCA). For as little as $15, choose from one of seven designs and your card will not only feature one of their shelter animals with a clever caption, but the proceeds will help fund care for the many shelter animals in their adoption centers. Shelter Sweethearts from the MSPCA.
Do you like this gift list?

AKC Says Top Dog is the Labrador Retriever

2011-01-28T08:19:00.000-08:00

Chocolate and Yellow Labrador Retrievers

The most popular dog in America is the Labrador Retriever, according to statistics announced today by the American Kennel Club.

The Beagle nudged out the ever-popular Golden Retriever for 4th place in the organization’s annual list of the most popular dogs in the U.S. While another shakeup in their top 10 breeds resulted in the Bulldog pulling rank ahead of the Boxer for 6th place.

A few of the breeds enjoying the greatest rise in popularity over the past decade include the French Bulldog jumping 50 spots from 71st place to 21st place, the Havanese rising to 31st place from 86th and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel up 31 spots to 23rd place.

The AKC determines its popularity rankings annually based on their nationwide registration statistics for each AKC-recognized dog breed. They added three new breeds to their registry in 2010, including the Leonberger, Cane Corso and the Icelandic Sheepdog.

Did your dog make their top 10 list? Check the rankings below to find out.

AKC's 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2010


1. Labrador Retriever
2. German Shepherd
3. Yorkshire Terrier
4. Beagle
5. Golden Retriever
6. Bulldog
7. Boxer
8. Dachshund
9. Poodle
10. Shih Tzu

For more information on these dog breeds as well as many others not on this list, visit Breed Trust's dog breed pages.

Designer Dogs or Glorified Mutts: Puppy Love at What Price?

2011-01-25T17:43:00.000-08:00

Designer dogs have enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years much to the dismay of purebred dog breeders. AKC recognized breeds such as the Shih Tzu and Pekingese are steeped in rich history and pedigree. Yet, the designer or hybrid versions of these breeds such as the Lhasapoo or Pekepoo can often fetch a price tag as high or higher than their purebred counterparts even though they lack the champion bloodlines often found in purebreds.

Despite the fact that the cross-bred Cockerpoo was in existence for many years, it wasn’t until the Labradoodle was conceived that the “designer” dog label with a price tag to match was cleverly attached to a cross-bred dog. A cross between two purebreds, the first designer dogs often included a poodle in the mix and were labeled with names ending in “oodle” or “poo”.

In recent years, so many cross breeds have evolved that it’s hard to keep pace with all the names; Jackaranians, Buggs, and French Weenies just to name a few. Whether you are among those who adore these four-legged fur-balls or side with opponents who consider them no more than glorified mutts, there is no denying their popularity. Designer dog breeds now outnumber AKC recognized purebreds more than 2:1.

Unlike the fashion industry, in the wide world of dogdom the term “designer” and its association with high price and quality is the subject of much debate. While these pups can fetch upwards of $2,500 or more in some instances, slapping the “designer” moniker on a cross-breed doesn't necessarily justify its high price. Then again, it’s hard to put any price on puppy love.

A Sampling of Some Popular Designer Dogs


Golden Retriever + Poodle = Goldendoodle
Labrador Retriever + Poodle = Labradoodle
Schnauzer + Poodle = Schnoodle
Cocker Spaniel + Poodle = Cockerpoo
Yorkshire Terrier + Poodle = Yorkiepoo
Pug + Beagle = Puggle

Cat Summoned to Jury Duty

2011-01-20T13:41:00.000-08:00

It looks like Boston resident Sal Esposito will soon be raising his right paw as he takes the oath to serve as a juror in a Boston courthouse this March. Sal has been summoned to jury duty and the jury commissioner has refused a request to disqualify him from his obligation, despite the fact that Sal is a feline.

This may sound like something out of a Garfield the Cat comic strip, but it’s playing out in real life in Boston. Upon receipt of Sal’s jury duty notice his pet parent, Anna Esposito, requested that her cat be disqualified for jury duty. Surprisingly, the request was denied. Apparently, the fact that Sal doesn’t speak English, spends his days enjoying long cat naps and prefers a mouse that enjoys eating cheese over a mouse that points and clicks isn’t sufficient evidence for the justice system in Boston to relieve him of his duty to serve.

We constantly read how people are treating their pets more and more like humans, but this story takes it to the extreme. It's possible Sal will be deciding the guilt or innocence of some unlucky cat burglar. Perhaps since the law requires a trial by one’s peers, Sal’s call to jury duty is an early indication that some fearless feline is about to go on trial for dognapping. If that’s the case, then the defense may view Sal as the purrr-fect juror.

Our Furry Psychotherapists: Our Pets

2011-01-06T09:22:00.000-08:00

It seems our pets are all ears when we need a shoulder to lean on or someone to listen to us, often playing dual roles as both family pet and personal psychotherapist. Whether we've had a bad day, lost our job or are in a bad relationship, our pets will faithfully listen to our troubles, convey their empathy with a supportive look of understanding and nurture us emotionally just as any human therapist would do and for far less money.

I would argue that our pets make us healthier, happier beings just by being there for us and I suspect that most pet owners would agree. Yet, an article in the New York Times presents evidence to refute that claim based on research by the well-regarded Pew Research Center, esteemed universities and international research centers. According to various studies by these institutions, pets not only don’t contribute to improving our long-term health and happiness, but also may have an adverse impact on our physical and emotional well being in some cases.

Clearly, none of these researchers have pets themselves or they would know from personal experience that their study results must be flawed. Is it possible to have stress because you own a pet? Of course it is. If you’ve been jobless for the past year and are struggling financially, the expenses associated with owning a pet will only add to your stress.

It’s also possible that your pet could adversely impact your physical well-being. If you’re allergic to cats, but you have one anyway, or if you accidentally trip over your little yorkie and end up with a sprained ankle then you'll have your pet to thank for these physical issues. Yet, the long-term emotional perks of having a pet far outweigh any short-term setbacks such as these.

There really is no need for these researchers to spend a lot of time and money studying the true impact of animals on their humans, instead they need only ask any pet owner or better yet, adopt pets for themselves. They’ll quickly receive their answer. After all, how can receiving unconditional love, a constant, adoring companion and your very own personal fan club of furry fun day in and day out do anything other than bring pure, unadulterated joy to your life? There truly is no better prescription for health and happiness than a pet.

How has your pet impacted your health and well being? Do you think there is any merit to the findings of these researchers who say pets don't improve our health or may even negatively impact it?

Pet Insurance: Is It Worth the Cost?

2010-12-29T14:39:00.000-08:00

Pet Insurance: Is It Worth the Cost?

Reviews: Paw Protection Products for your Pet this Winter | Breed Trust

2010-12-29T08:46:00.000-08:00

Breed Trust CEO (canine executive officer), Cody,
wearing paw protection after the Boston Blizzard of 2010

As Boston and the rest of the Northeast digs out from the blizzard that blanketed the area this holiday weekend, many pet parents are looking for the best way to protect their dog’s paws from corrosive salt and sand used on city streets and sidewalks after the storm.

In Boston and other major metropolitan areas, the salt can be particularly potent and harsh on a dog’s sensitive paw pads. As a result, we’ve tested numerous products to protect a dog’s paws from the pain and damage that the chemicals in road salt can cause, and these are a few of our favorite paw protectors:

PAWZ NATURAL RUBBER DOG BOOTS: An ingenious invention that makes one wonder, “Why didn’t I think of that”! These little reusable, disposable rubber booties resemble balloons. They are thin and lightweight enough that they don’t feel awkward or heavy on your dog causing them to walk funny. Offers protection against harmful road salt chemicals in the winter as well as protection against lawn chemicals and pesticides in spring and summer. Correct fit is key; be sure they fit loosely around your dogs paw. If they are too snug, they will be uncomfortable and make walking difficult.
PROS: Easy to put on and take off. Reusable, just rinse and dry after each use. Rubber is indestructible.
CONS: These are thin and not insulated so they will not keep a small or elderly dog's paws warm. An option for insulation is to buy little socks and get a larger size of the Pawz to fit over the stockings.

MUTTLUKS FLEECE-LINED BOOTS: For those seeking not only paw protection from the salt, but also insulation to keep a pet’s paws from warm, we’ve found fleece-lined Muttluks to be a good choice for a bootie. They are well insulated on the inside and the exterior is weather resistant material with water and salt resistant leather soles. The hook and loop closure keeps them snugly fastened on the dog. Like most booties, it will take time for the dog to get accustomed to walking in them. Dogs will often walk backwards or not walk at all initially because the booties feel so awkward on them. It is best to gradually start using them for short periods of time indoors before they’re required outdoors in inclement weather.
PROS: Well-insulated, well-made and don’t fall off. Reflective straps for safety at night.
CONS: Large bootie feels awkward on the dog initially and may take practice walking in them.

MUSHERS SECRET: In protected areas where only sand is used rather than salt, Musher’s Secret is a good option. It is a Vaseline-like substance made of natural waxes that is rubbed on the dog’s paws to protect them from snowballing between their toes, and cracking and burning of their pads in both severe cold and extreme heat, when the temperature of the asphalt can irritate a dog’s paw pads. It is non-toxic if a dog licks it off their paws. Originally designed to protect sled-dogs from tiny snowball build-up in the crevices of their paws.
PROS: Easy to apply and good for dogs that refuse to wear booties or other protective materials.
CONS: This is not as protective as wearable material from the harmful effects of salt chemicals on a dog’s paws and therefor may not help in highly salted areas.

Sometimes it is not only the dog’s paws that need protection, but also the pet parent that needs help traversing the icy and slippery sidewalks and roadways just after a storm. If your dog pulls while on leash or gets overly excited after a fresh snowstorm, we’ve found this human footgear to be especially effective in preventing slips and falls:

YAKTRAX PRO TRACTION CLEATS FOR SNOW AND ICE: This is our recommended option for pet parents rather than for dogs. These compact, spikeless cleats made of steel coils and heavy duty rubber easily fit over the soles of your boots or shoes and give you traction on snow and ice without damaging interior flooring so you can put them on before going out. The coils provide superior traction on snow and ice to prevent slips and falls making them an ideal option for a pet parent’s safety on icy walkways. The "Pro" design allows for hiking and running and is designed for more activing than the "Walker" style. Available in XS-XL.

What do you use to protect your pet’s paws from damage caused by the harmful chemicals used to salt public walkways and roadways? Share your tips and tricks with our readers. Please comment below.

Read more Breed Trust Reviews or Breed Trust Blog articles.

Breed Trust is an affiliate partner with Amazon and other third party affiliate companies that represent the merchandise suggested in this article.

The $20,000 Pet - Smart Money

2010-12-22T11:54:00.000-08:00

How far will you go to care for a sick pet? The $20,000 Pet in Smart Money