Beach Haul - Things For A Day At The Beach With Your Dog
So, FINALLY, it’s getting hotter!
Its about time we got a bit more of a British Summer! But the sun has finally come out, The weather reports say its hotter than Miami, so why would you want to be anywhere else? So to make sure you have THE BEST DAY at the beach, we have made a list of important things to take with you on your trip to make it a hassle free, fun day at the beach.
1. Keep your dog hydrated! Travel bowls are an absolute necessity – We love these Beco pop up travel bowls, they are light, handy and just slot in to your beach bag.
2. Nothing is more embarrassing than when your dog leaves a mess and you have nothing to clear it up with – plus its not uncommon for passers by to watch! (Aghhhhh! Awkward) But don’t fret, we have these super cool Beco poo bag holders which clip on to pretty much anything.
3. If your dog loves the water it might be important to get your dog a float coat, basically, a life jacket for dogs. They are perfect for all dogs but are particularly great for flat faced dogs where it is important to keep their faces above water.
4. Ball on a rope, they are brilliant for the beach! you can throw them extra far and make the beach extra enjoyable for your four-legged friend.
Its about time we got a bit more of a British Summer! But the sun has finally come out, The weather reports say its hotter than Miami, so why would you want to be anywhere else? So to make sure you have THE BEST DAY at the beach, we have made a list of important things to take with you on your trip to make it a hassle free, fun day at the beach.
1. Keep your dog hydrated! Travel bowls are an absolute necessity – We love these Beco pop up travel bowls, they are light, handy and just slot in to your beach bag.
2. Nothing is more embarrassing than when your dog leaves a mess and you have nothing to clear it up with – plus its not uncommon for passers by to watch! (Aghhhhh! Awkward) But don’t fret, we have these super cool Beco poo bag holders which clip on to pretty much anything.
3. If your dog loves the water it might be important to get your dog a float coat, basically, a life jacket for dogs. They are perfect for all dogs but are particularly great for flat faced dogs where it is important to keep their faces above water.
4. Ball on a rope, they are brilliant for the beach! you can throw them extra far and make the beach extra enjoyable for your four-legged friend.
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How to Wash Dog Blankets Without a Washing Machine
We all know how much our furry companions love their cosy blankets. However, keeping these items clean can be a bit challenging, especially if you don't have access to a washing machine. But fear not, for in this guide, we will share expert tips on how to clean your dog's blankets effectively without the use of a washing machine. Say goodbye to stubborn pet odours and dirt!
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before diving into the cleaning process, it's essential to gather all the necessary supplies. Here's what you'll need:
Mild Detergent: Opt for a gentle, pet-safe detergent to avoid any skin irritations.
Bathtub or Large Basin: You'll need a spacious container to soak and rinse the dog blankets and bed cover.
Vacuum: A vacuum is great for helping you to remove any debris from your pet's blanket, we'd recommend using an upholstery attachment if you have one!
Scrub Brush: A soft-bristle brush will help you remove dirt and pet hair effectively.
Towels: Have some clean towels on hand for drying the items after washing.
Sunlight: Natural sunlight acts as a powerful disinfectant and helps eliminate odours.
2. Shake and Vacuum
Start by taking your dog's blankets outdoors, if possible. Shake and brush to remove loose dirt, fur, and debris. Consider using a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to ensure a thorough cleaning.
3. Pre-Treat Stains
Inspect the blankets for any stubborn stains or odorous spots. Apply a small amount of mild detergent directly to these areas and gently scrub with a brush. Allow the detergent to sit for a few minutes to penetrate the stains.
4. Soak in a Bathtub
Fill your bathtub or a large basin with lukewarm water. Add a small amount of pet-safe detergent and agitate the water to create suds. Submerge the blankets ensuring they are fully soaked. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes to loosen dirt and odours.
5. Hand Washing
After soaking, use your hands to gently agitate the blankets in the soapy water. Pay extra attention to stained areas and spots with lingering odours. Continue this process for a few minutes.
6. Rinse Thoroughly
Drain the soapy water and refill the bathtub with clean, lukewarm water. Rinse the blankets thoroughly, ensuring no detergent residue remains. You may need to repeat this step a few times until the water runs clear.
7. Squeeze Excess Water
Carefully squeeze out excess water from the blankets. Avoid wringing them, as this can damage the fabric and distort their shape.
8. Drying in the Sun
Place the wet items outside in direct sunlight to dry. Sunlight is not only a natural disinfectant but also an excellent deodoriser. Allow the blankets to dry completely. This may take several hours, so be patient.
9. Fluff and Fold
Once your dog's blankets are completely dry, fluff them up by shaking and gently patting. Fold them neatly and place them back in your pet's favourite spot.Cleaning your dog's blankets without a washing machine may require a bit of extra effort, but it's entirely doable with the right approach. By following these expert tips and using pet-safe products, you can ensure your furry friend enjoys a fresh and clean resting place. Regular maintenance and cleaning will not only keep your dog happy but also contribute to a healthier living environment for both of you.
Is Wet or Dry Food Better for Dogs? Exploring the Pros and Cons
When it comes to feeding our canine companions, one of the most common questions that pet owners grapple with is whether to choose wet or dry dog food. The debate over wet vs. dry dog food has been ongoing for years, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The decision ultimately depends on various factors, including your dog's age, health, and personal preferences. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the pros and cons of wet and dry dog food to help you make an informed choice for your furry friend.
Wet vs. Dry Dog Food: What's the Difference?
Before we dive into the pros and cons, let's clarify what distinguishes wet and dry dog food:
Wet Dog Food:
Contains higher moisture content (approximately 70-80%)
Typically comes in cans or pouches
Often has a stronger aroma and flavour, which can be enticing to picky eaters
Easier to chew, making it an excellent choice for dogs with dental issues or missing teeth
Prone to spoilage if not refrigerated and consumed promptly
Can be more expensive per serving than dry food
Dry Dog Food:
Contains lower moisture content (around 10%)
Comes in the form of kibble or pellets
Promotes dental health by reducing tartar buildup through chewing
Offers convenience and a longer shelf life
May contain artificial preservatives and fillers
The Pros and Cons Of Wet & Dry Food
Wet Dog Food:
Pros:
Hydration: The high moisture content in wet food can help keep your dog hydrated, especially if they don't drink enough water.
Palatability: Many dogs find wet food more appealing due to its strong aroma and taste, making it suitable for picky eaters.
Digestibility: Wet food is often easier to digest, making it a good choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.
Dental Health: While wet food doesn't promote dental health directly, it can be useful for dogs with dental problems who struggle to chew dry kibble.
Cons:
Cost: Wet dog food can be more expensive per serving than dry food, potentially straining your budget.
Storage: You need to store opened cans or pouches of wet food in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Our Wet Food Recommendations
Here at L&L we stock a wide variety of wet foods for your dog. For a high quality and high meat content wet food our go to is the Carnilove wet foods. They're all made to appeal to your dog's natural wolf instincts with over 85% wild origin meats and they're all grain free so you can be sure they're the best quality for your dog.
Dry Dog Food:
Pros:
Convenience: Dry kibble is convenient to store, measure, and serve, making it a hassle-free option.
Dental Health: Chewing on dry kibble can help reduce tartar buildup and promote better dental health.
Cost-Effective: Dry food is often more budget-friendly than wet food, especially for larger dogs.
Long Shelf Life: It has a longer shelf life, reducing the risk of food waste.
Cons:
Hydration Concerns: Because dry food has lower moisture content, it might not provide enough hydration for some dogs, potentially leading to urinary tract issues.
Palatability: Some dogs may be less enthusiastic about dry kibble's taste and texture.
Our Dry Food Recommendations
We also stock a variety of dry foods, some of the ones with higher meat content and more natural ingredients include Acana, Carnilove and Orijen - these are great for making sure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need.
Choosing the Right Food for Your Dog:
When deciding between wet and dry dog food, consider the following factors:
Age: Puppies and senior dogs may benefit from wet food due to its enhanced digestibility and hydration. Adult dogs can thrive on a balanced dry food diet.
Health Needs: Consult with your veterinarian if your dog has specific health concerns, as they can recommend an appropriate diet.
Budget: Evaluate your budget and choose the food that meets your financial constraints while ensuring your dog's nutritional needs are met.
Preference: Some dogs have strong preferences for one type of food over the other, so consider your dog's taste preferences.
Conclusion:
In the debate of wet vs. dry dog food, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Both options have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your dog's individual needs, your budget, and your personal preferences as a pet owner.
If you're unsure what to feed your dog why not check out our large range of dog foods. We have lots of speciality dog foods for specific breeds, sizes and health concerns so you can tailor your dog's food to give them everything they need nutritionally.
Once you've found the perfect food for your dog why not Subscribe & Save. Our Subscribe & Save service allows you to save up to 15% on your dog's favourite food and have it delivered to your door exactly when you need it so you never run out!
Remember to consult with your vet for tailored dietary recommendations, and always prioritise your dog's health and well-being when making this important decision.
Cats, those enigmatic and captivating companions, are known for their unique behaviours and intriguing preferences. One common question among cat owners is whether these beloved furballs have a favourite toy. As cat enthusiasts, it's natural for us to want to provide the best entertainment for our feline friends. In this article, we delve into the intriguing world of cat play, exploring whether cats have favourite toys and the factors that influence their preferences.
The Feline Fascination with Toys
Cats, as both domesticated and instinct-driven creatures, exhibit a wide range of behaviours that reflect their ancestral hunting instincts. Play, for a cat, serves as a means of honing skills that were once crucial for survival. Additionally, playtime offers exercise, mental stimulation, and a channel for releasing pent-up energy. Cat toys, therefore, play a pivotal role in keeping our feline friends engaged and happy.
Do Cats Have a Favorite Toy?
The question of whether cats have favourite toys has been a topic of curiosity and debate among pet owners and experts alike. While cats don't express preferences in the same way humans do, they can certainly show a preference for certain types of toys based on their individual personalities, play styles, and past experiences.
Factors Influencing Toy Preferences
Texture and Material: Cats have sensitive paws and mouths, so the texture and material of a toy can greatly influence their interest. Some cats may prefer soft, plush toys, while others might be drawn to toys with feathers, strings, or crinkly materials.
Movement and Sound: Cats are natural hunters, and toys that mimic the movements and sounds of prey can be particularly enticing. Toys that dart, bounce, or make rustling noises can capture a cat's attention and keep them engaged.
Size and Shape: Cats may have preferences for certain sizes and shapes of toys. Some cats enjoy smaller toys they can easily bat around, while others may prefer larger toys they can wrestle with.
Interactive vs. Solo Play: Cats vary in their desire for interactive play with their human companions versus independent play. Toys that can be played with independently, such as puzzle feeders or automated toys, can become favourites for some cats, whereas others will love toys that require their owner to play with them as the bonding time has created a positive association for your cat with that particular toy.
Scent: Cats have a keen sense of smell, and toys infused with catnip or other enticing scents can hold their interest.
The Best Types of Cat Toys
When considering the best types of cat toys, it's important to keep in mind the various factors that influence a cat's play preferences. Some popular types of cat toys include:
Interactive Toys: Toys that require the cat to engage with them actively can be rewarding. These can include feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders. We love the Catit Senses range of interactive toys, they provide hours of stimulating fun.
Chase Toys: Toys that move quickly, mimicking the behaviour of prey, often capture a cat's attention. Battery-operated toys that zip around the room can provide hours of entertainment. The Petlibro Pixie Mouse Interactive Cat toy is a great toy for chasing if you have a prey driven cat.
Soft Plush Toys: These toys are comforting for some cats, providing a "cuddle buddy" experience that satisfies their nurturing instincts. We love the KONG Enchanted Characters Unicorn for cats who love to snuggle, it’s the perfect size and it’s a unicorn - what more could your cat wish for?
Catnip Toys: Catnip can induce euphoric reactions in many cats. Toys filled with catnip can become favoured items for playful interactions. The GiGwi range has loads of catnip toys in which our office felines go crazy for.
Why Does My Cat Have a Favourite Toy?
A cat's attachment to a particular toy can be attributed to a combination of their individual preferences, their unique personalities, and positive associations formed with that toy. Cats may associate their favourite toy with play, comfort, or even previous positive interactions with their owners.
In conclusion, while cats may not express preferences in the same way humans do, they can undoubtedly have favourite types of toys. Understanding your cat's play style, observing their reactions to different toys, and providing a variety of options can help ensure their playtime is both stimulating and enjoyable. After all, a happy and entertained cat contributes to a harmonious and joyful household.
So, if you're wondering whether your cat has a favourite toy, the answer lies in their playful behaviours, unique traits, and the careful selection of toys that cater to their individual tastes.
When it comes to engaging our canine companions in physical activities, fetch undoubtedly tops the list. The exhilaration of a well-executed throw and the boundless enthusiasm with which our dogs retrieve the thrown object are unparalleled joys for both pet and owner. To elevate this classic game of fetch, investing in the right dog throwing toys is paramount. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the best dog throwing toys on the market, ensuring your furry friend enjoys hours of playful exercise and stimulation.
The Significance of Dog Throw Toys
Dog throw toys, also known as dog throwing toys or throw and fetch dog toys, serve as a vital component of a dog's mental and physical well-being. These toys facilitate active play that enhances coordination, agility, and endurance in dogs. Additionally, they promote a strong bond between pets and their owners, as the shared activity fosters trust and connection. In the following sections, we delve into a curated selection of the best dog throwing toys, catering to various preferences and needs.
Our Top 5 Dog Throwing Toys
1. Chuckit! Sport Ball Launcher
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The Chuckit! Sport Ball Launcher is a pioneer in the realm of dog throwing toys. Designed for maximum throwing distance, this device allows you to effortlessly propel a range of compatible balls, from tennis balls to rubber balls.
Its ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable grip, reducing strain on your arm during extended play sessions. With its compatibility across different ball types, the Chuckit! Sport Ball Launcher is a versatile option suitable for dogs of all sizes.
2. GiGwi TPR Bone 'Flying Tug'
For pet owners seeking a more gentle and flexible option, the GiGwi TPR Bone 'Flying Tug' is a standout choice. Crafted from durable TPR material, this bone-shaped toy combines the thrill of fetch with an interactive tug-of-war element. The flexible yet sturdy design ensures a comfortable grip for both you and your dog. Its aerodynamic structure guarantees stable flight, making it perfect for outdoor play sessions that involve long throws.
What sets the GiGwi TPR Bone Flying Tug apart is its dual-purpose nature – serving as a flying toy for fetching and a tug toy for interactive playtime. This versatile toy not only engages your dog's body but also stimulates their mind, making it a well-rounded option for hours of play. The GiGwi TPR Bone 'Flying Tug' is a superb choice for pet owners who want to cater to their dog's fetch and tug preferences simultaneously.
3. KONG Squeak Air Tennis Ball with Rope
Embrace the wonders of technology with the KONG Squeak Air Tennis Ball with Rope. This innovative throwing toy adds a delightful twist to the classic game of fetch. The combination of a tennis ball and an attached rope creates an engaging dynamic that encourages interactive play.
The durable tennis ball is designed to emit an enticing squeak, further captivating your dog's attention and enhancing the excitement of the game.
The attached rope allows for easy throwing and provides an interactive element for tugging and shaking. This toy offers both mental and physical stimulation, ensuring your dog stays active and entertained for extended periods. The KONG Squeak Air Tennis Ball with Rope is a fantastic option for pet owners seeking a versatile and engaging throwing toy that adds an extra layer of fun to every fetch session.
4. Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster
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The Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster merges classic fetch with a playful twist. This toy doubles as a launcher and a ball blaster, allowing for exciting solo play. Simply load a tennis ball into the blaster, pull back the mechanism, and release to launch the ball with impressive distance. Its hands-free pickup feature ensures that you can avoid touching slobbery or muddy balls. The Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster is a fantastic option for interactive fun in various outdoor settings.
5. Chuckit! Ultra Ball
The Chuckit! Ultra Ball is a must-have accessory for any dog throwing toy collection. This bouncy and durable ball is designed for long-lasting play, with an enticing texture that encourages dogs to fetch and carry it. Its buoyant nature makes it suitable for water-based play as well, adding versatility to your fetch sessions. The bright colors of the Chuckit! Ultra Ball ensure high visibility, even in tall grass or water.
In conclusion, the world of dog throwing toys offers a plethora of options to suit every dog's personality, play style, and size. By investing in high-quality throw and fetch dog toys, you provide your furry friend with not only physical exercise but also mental stimulation and a strengthened bond with you. Whether you opt for the Chuckit! Sport Ball Launcher, the Nerf Tennis Ball Blaster, or any other option mentioned, the joy and health benefits derived from interactive play are immeasurable. So, seize the opportunity to enhance your fetch game and create cherished memories with your four-legged companion.
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