31.12.20 December 31, 2020 Seasonal

Happy New Year From Lords & Labradors

We just wanted to wish everyone; canine, feline and human, a wonderfully happy New Year. We hope you’ve all had a lovely Christmas holiday and enjoy seeing in the New Year tonight. Celebrations may be smaller in scale than previous years, but we’re going to make it special nonetheless, with a glass of bubbles as the clock strikes 12. Here’s looking forward to a fresh start in 2021! New Year’s Resolutions Will you be making any news year’s resolutions? Perhaps you’ll be aiming to exercise more or be generally healthier. Maybe you want to be more creative or productive. Your pets could help you on your way to achieving some of the goals you set yourself. Here are some ways your pet can join in with your resolutions and make keeping them easier than usual: Get More Exercise - We all want to be healthier, it’s just sometimes easier said than done! But all dog owners have to take their pups out for daily exercise, so why not increase those walks by ten minutes each and make that goal, to exercise more, easily achievable. We actually love dog walking as it’s a chance to blow the cobwebs away, get some fresh air and enjoy the scenery. You could try going somewhere new for your walks to make them a little different and encourage you to go further. There’s nothing like exploring a new area to keep you and your dog interested! Another way to get more exercise is to extend playtime or make it more active. If you usually play indoors, why not take the fun outside? You could play fetch in the garden with a dog tennis ball or frisbee. You could even take the fun to the park or the beach and really stretch your legs. You’ll be surprised how much exercise you’ll get from this as well as your dog! If you’re feeling really adventurous and you have a dog with plenty of stamina, you could try jogging or running with your dog. The Ruffwear Roamer Lead is the ideal walking accessory to help you start your running regime with your dog. This hands-free lead simply wraps around your waste leaving you suitably free to exercise in comfort. The lead has a bungee too so your dog won’t end up pulling you along - it will reduce any impact from speeding up or slowing down too. It’s also a great option for anyone who likes hiking or hill walking. Be More Eco-friendly - At Lords & Labradors we are constantly trying our best to reduce waste and be more sustainable. If you’re aim this year is to be more eco-conscious, you can start with the products that you buy for your pets! We stock a number of eco-friendly products from brands including Beco that will help you to achieve your resolution goals. Beco in particular make a whole range of environmentally friendly pet bowls and toys for dogs and cats. Products made from natural rubber and plant-based fibres are kind to the environment and durable. You could also swap out your pets usual treats for a more sustainable option. Brands such as Antos and Earth Animal make eco-sustainable dog chews that are tasty, and kinder to the environment than many other treats. It is also worth checking out your pet’s grooming kit. Wildwash make a wonderful range of all-natural shampoos and balms with no chemical additives. Equally, brands such as Pet Remedy and Wild Dog Co make ethical, all-natural products that will ensure your dog or cat’s grooming regime is kinder to the environment. Whatever your resolution, we hope you achieve all of your goals as 2021 begins. Wishing you all the best for the year ahead!

By Zac Girdlestone

New Year’s Resolutions

Will you be making any news year’s resolutions? Perhaps you’ll be aiming to exercise more or be generally healthier. Maybe you want to be more creative or productive. Your pets could help you on your way to achieving some of the goals you set yourself. Here are some ways your pet can join in with your resolutions and make keeping them easier than usual:

Get More Exercise - We all want to be healthier, it’s just sometimes easier said than done! But all dog owners have to take their pups out for daily exercise, so why not increase those walks by ten minutes each and make that goal, to exercise more, easily achievable. We actually love dog walking as it’s a chance to blow the cobwebs away, get some fresh air and enjoy the scenery. You could try going somewhere new for your walks to make them a little different and encourage you to go further. There’s nothing like exploring a new area to keep you and your dog interested!

Black labrador with a wellie in a muddy puddle

Another way to get more exercise is to extend playtime or make it more active. If you usually play indoors, why not take the fun outside? You could play fetch in the garden with a dog tennis ball or frisbee. You could even take the fun to the park or the beach and really stretch your legs. You’ll be surprised how much exercise you’ll get from this as well as your dog!

If you’re feeling really adventurous and you have a dog with plenty of stamina, you could try jogging or running with your dog. The Ruffwear Roamer Lead is the ideal walking accessory to help you start your running regime with your dog. This hands-free lead simply wraps around your waste leaving you suitably free to exercise in comfort. The lead has a bungee too so your dog won’t end up pulling you along - it will reduce any impact from speeding up or slowing down too. It’s also a great option for anyone who likes hiking or hill walking.

Golden retriever wearing a collar and lead

Be More Eco-friendly - At Lords & Labradors we are constantly trying our best to reduce waste and be more sustainable. If you’re aim this year is to be more eco-conscious, you can start with the products that you buy for your pets! We stock a number of eco-friendly products from brands including Beco that will help you to achieve your resolution goals. Beco in particular make a whole range of environmentally friendly pet bowls and toys for dogs and cats. Products made from natural rubber and plant-based fibres are kind to the environment and durable.

You could also swap out your pets usual treats for a more sustainable option. Brands such as Antos and Earth Animal make eco-sustainable dog chews that are tasty, and kinder to the environment than many other treats.

It is also worth checking out your pet’s grooming kit. Wildwash make a wonderful range of all-natural shampoos and balms with no chemical additives. Equally, brands such as Pet Remedy and Wild Dog Co make ethical, all-natural products that will ensure your dog or cat’s grooming regime is kinder to the environment.

Whatever your resolution, we hope you achieve all of your goals as 2021 begins. Wishing you all the best for the year ahead!

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The Best Winter Dog Beds

Are you looking for the best Winter bed for your dog? Are you looking for something super cosy and plush; somewhere they can snuggle down when it’s cold and frosty outside? At Lords & Labradors we’ve made it our mission to provide the best pet beds and bedding for all seasons, including a wide selection that are ideal for the coldest months of the year. Whether you’re looking for a cosy tweed dog cushion for a Cockapoo or a plush donut bed for a Miniature Dachshund, we have it covered. Here we present our pick of the best dogs beds for winter - there’s something here to suit every dog and interior style! Top Five Dog Beds for Winter Lords & Labradors Bouclé: The Luxe Collection Cushion At Lords & Labradors we specialise in handmade luxury beds and bedding for pets. One of our favourites for winter is the sumptuous Bouclé cushions which come in 3 beautiful colours: Ivory, Mink and Granite. Our dog cushions are super plump and feature removable, washable covers as well as practical waterproof liners. The Bouclé is so soft, making it ideal for your dog or puppy to snuggle into on a cold wintery day. They will look gorgeous in your home too; the only difficult thing here is deciding which colour to choose! Lords & Labradors Cosy and Calming Puppy Beds This is one for the puppies in the family! Our Cosy & Calming Puppy Beds have been designed with comfort and practicality in mind. The thing we love most is the reversible inner cushion. One side is covered in fabric to match the main body of the bed and the other is furnished in plush fleece - the cuddliest cushion ever and ideal for winter. The beds have been designed to fit in one half of your dogs crate, so they are great for crate training puppies too. Lords & Labradors Hooded Beds If your dog loves to snuggle then our luxury Lords & Labradors Sleepy Burrows are perfect for them! With the hooded option to cuddle up inside or on top of, it's a great anxiety reliever! It can also be a dog cushion, as well as a hooded blanket bed. Tweed Crate Set Why not update your dog’s crate for winter. A crate set is ideal for crate training puppies, but also loved by older dogs too. For winter we’d suggest opting for one of our tweed crate sets. They’re really durable, with thick fabric that is also washable. The thick fabric looks lovely and plush in winter and your dog will enjoy retreating to his den ready for nap time and bedtime. High Wall Our high wall beds are the perfect snuggle partners, the high walls are perfect for resting your head on and the round shape means they're perfect for dogs who like to curl up. The velvet high wall beds are perfect for winter, our velvet is so soft and comes in three gorgeous colours so is sure to look amazing in your home!

By Zac Girdlestone
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05.06.24 June 05, 2024 Owning a Dog

Can You Leave A Dog In A Car?

As a responsible dog owner, understanding the implications of leaving your dog in a car is crucial. This topic raises several questions: Is it illegal to leave your dog in the car?, Can you leave a dog in a car?, and What are the laws regarding dogs left in cars in the UK? This comprehensive guide aims to answer these questions and provide essential information about leaving dogs in cars. Understanding the Dangers Before delving into the legality and guidelines, it's important to understand why leaving your dog in a car can be dangerous. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a car can quickly rise to dangerous levels. Dogs are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke, which can be fatal. A dog's body temperature is higher than a human's, and they cannot cool down as efficiently. Is It Illegal to Leave Your Dog in the Car? In the UK, there isn't a specific law that outright states it's illegal to leave your dog in the car. However, the Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it illegal to mistreat or neglect animals. Under this act, pet owners have a legal duty to ensure the welfare of their pets. Leaving a dog in a car in conditions that could cause suffering or harm falls under neglect and can be prosecuted. Dogs Left in Cars Law UK Under the Animal Welfare Act, if leaving your dog in the car leads to suffering, you could face an unlimited fine and up to six months in prison. The law is clear that causing unnecessary suffering to an animal is a criminal offence. This means that if a passerby or the police deem that your dog is in distress in a car, you could be prosecuted. Safe Temperature to Leave Dog in Car UK While it is generally advised never to leave your dog in a car, if you must do so for a very short period, the temperature outside plays a significant role. Even at temperatures as low as 21°C (70°F), the temperature inside a car can rise to over 40°C (104°F) within an hour, putting your dog at severe risk. On warmer days, this can happen even faster. How Long Can You Leave a Dog in a Car? The safest approach is to never leave your dog in a car alone. However, if you absolutely must, ensure it is for no longer than a few minutes, and always consider the weather. Keep windows slightly open, park in the shade, and provide water, but these measures are not foolproof. Heat can still build up rapidly, leading to potential danger for your dog. Can You Leave a Dog in the Car? Given the risks and potential legal consequences, it is highly discouraged to leave your dog in the car. It's always best to err on the side of caution and avoid it whenever possible. If you are running errands, consider taking your dog with you or leaving them at home in a safe environment. What to Do If You See a Dog Left in a Car If you see a dog left in a car and believe it is in distress, there are steps you can take: Assess the Situation: Check for signs of distress such as panting, drooling, lethargy, or unresponsiveness. Locate the Owner: If possible, try to find the owner. They might be in a nearby store or location. Contact Authorities: If the dog appears to be in immediate danger, call the police or the RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). They have the authority to break into the car to rescue the dog if necessary. Record Details: Note the car's make, model, colour, and registration number. This information will be helpful for authorities. Alternatives to Leaving Your Dog in the Car To avoid the risks and legal issues associated with leaving your dog in the car, consider these alternatives: Take Your Dog with You: If the destination is dog-friendly, bring your pet along. Leave Your Dog at Home: In a safe, comfortable environment with water and proper ventilation. Use Dog Daycare Services: Many areas have dog daycare facilities where your pet can be looked after while you run errands. Ask a Friend or Neighbour: If you have a trusted friend or neighbour, see if they can look after your dog temporarily. Conclusion Is it illegal to leave your dog in the car? The answer lies in the potential for harm and distress caused to the dog. In the UK, the Animal Welfare Act ensures that neglect and causing unnecessary suffering to animals are punishable by law. Given the rapid rise in temperature inside vehicles, it is always best to avoid leaving your dog in a car. By understanding the dangers and legal implications, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your furry friend. Remember, when in doubt, always prioritise your pet's health and safety over convenience. Being a responsible pet owner means making decisions that safeguard your pet's welfare, even if it requires extra effort or planning. If you’re looking to keep your dog cool this summer check out our dog cooling collection, it has everything from cooling mats to paddling pools and swim toys to help keep them cool, calm and collected!

By Megan Willis
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27.05.24 May 27, 2024 Owning a Cat

How to Keep Cats Cool in Summer: Essential Tips for Pet Owners

As the summer heat intensifies, it's crucial to ensure your feline friends stay cool and comfortable. Cats are particularly sensitive to high temperatures, and excessive heat can lead to serious health issues like heatstroke. In this guide, we'll explore practical strategies for keeping cats cool in summer, providing you with essential tips to help your pet beat the heat. Understanding the Risks of Heat for Cats Before diving into how to keep your cat cool in summer, it's important to understand why it's necessary. Cats do not sweat like humans do; they have very few sweat glands meaning they use other tricks to cool themselves down. Grooming themselves is a key way your cat will cool themselves down, as the saliva evaporate and help to cool down. They are also likely to take long naps in a cool spot on a hot day and they may also use panting to cool themselves down. 3 reasons overheating is dangerous for your cat Heatstroke: This is a life-threatening condition that can cause organ failure. Dehydration: High temperatures can quickly lead to dehydration, impacting your cat's overall health. Burns: Hot surfaces like pavements can burn a cat’s sensitive paw pads. Recognising Signs of Overheating Even with these precautions, it’s vital to know the signs of overheating in cats so you can act quickly if necessary. Watch out for: Excessive panting: Unlike dogs, cats don't pant often, so this is a significant red flag. Lethargy: If your cat seems unusually tired or weak, they might be overheated. Drooling: Excessive drooling can be a sign of heat stress. Red or pale gums: These can indicate that your cat is overheating. Vomiting and diarrhoea: These symptoms can accompany heatstroke. If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to act immediately. Move your cat to a cooler area, offer water, and use cool (not cold) water to dampen their fur. Contact your veterinarian for further advice. How to Keep Your Cat Cool in Summer Battersea have put together 7 helpful ways you can help keep your cat safe and cool this summer 1. Use suncream If you have an outdoor cat with light coloured fur they are likely at risk of getting sunburned. If your cat will allow you to try putting some animal friendly suncream on them to help prevent sunburn. We love the BeSunsafe sun protection as it is also insect repelling and is full of natural ingredients. 2. Provide plenty of shade Make sure there are plenty of shady spots in your garden for your cat to lay in to help keep them cool whilst they are outdoors. 3. Provide Plenty of Fresh Water One of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your cat cool in summer is ensuring they have access to fresh, clean water at all times. Consider placing multiple water bowls around your home to encourage your cat to drink more frequently. You might also invest in a cat water fountain, which can be more appealing to cats due to the continuous flow of water. We love the Catit Pixi fountain, it comes in 4 fun colours and provides your cat with a 24/7 stream of water to drink from. 4. Keep inside your house cool Maintaining a cool indoor environment is crucial for keeping cats cool in summer, especially indoor cats. Here are some tips to achieve this: Air Conditioning and Fans: If possible, keep the air conditioning on during hot days. Fans can also help circulate air, but ensure they are safe and out of your cat's reach. Curtains and Blinds: Close curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day to block out direct sunlight. Netting frames: Fit netted frames over your windows in summer so you can keep your home well ventilated without worrying about your cat escaping Cool Spots: Create cool spots for your cat to lounge in. This could be a tiled bathroom floor, a shaded area, or a cool mat designed for pets. 5. Don’t overexcite your cat Keeping your cat calm will help them stay cool on really hot days. For playful cats try putting down a couple of ice cubes for them to play with whilst keeping them hydrated and cool. 6. Check your shed Your cat may choose to hide from the sun in your shed or garage if they have been open so make sure to check for your cat before closing them! 7.Know the signs of heatstroke in cats Heatstroke can be really serious and acting quickly is important in keeping your cat safe. Here’s what you need to watch out for Agitation Stretching out and breathing rapidly Extreme distress Skin hot to the touch Glazed eyes Vomiting and drooling Conclusion Keeping cats cool in summer is a vital part of pet care. By providing plenty of fresh water, creating a cool environment, grooming regularly, and being vigilant for signs of overheating, you can ensure your cat stays safe and comfortable. Incorporate these cooling tips for cats into your summer routine to help your feline friend enjoy the season without the stress of overheating. At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of products designed to keep your pets comfortable and happy. Explore our collection of cooling mats, water fountains, and grooming tools to help keep your cat cool this summer.

By Megan Willis
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13.05.24 May 13, 2024 Health

Do Dogs Get Hayfever?

As the seasons change and pollen fills the air, many of us find ourselves battling the dreaded symptoms of hayfever. But what about our furry companions? Can dogs suffer from hayfever too? In this article, our Pet Experts explore the intriguing question: do dogs get hayfever? Can Dogs Get Hayfever? The short answer is yes, dogs can indeed suffer from hayfever, although it's not as common as it is in humans. Just like people, dogs can be allergic to various environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and even certain foods. Symptoms of Hayfever in Dogs: Identifying hayfever in dogs can be a bit tricky since they can't tell us how they're feeling. However, there are some telltale signs that your furry friend may be suffering from allergies: Itchy skin: One of the most common symptoms of hayfever in dogs is constant scratching or licking of the skin, particularly around the face, paws, and belly. If they have itchy skin it’s worth bathing them in a shampoo designed of sensitive skin, like the PetPlex derma doctor shampoo, especially after any long walks outside in grassy ares to help minimise their symptoms. Watery eyes: If your dog's eyes are red, watery, or swollen, it could be a sign of hayfever. Sneezing and coughing: Just like humans, dogs with hayfever may sneeze or cough frequently, especially after exposure to allergens. Ear infections: Allergies can also contribute to ear infections in dogs, so keep an eye out for excessive ear scratching or head shaking. Runny nose: Nasal discharge or a runny nose is another common symptom of hayfever in dogs. Can Dogs Get Hayfever Tablets? Yes, there are hayfever tablets available for dogs that can help alleviate their symptoms. These tablets typically contain antihistamines, which work by blocking the histamine receptors in your dog's body, reducing the allergic response. However, it's crucial to consult with your vet before giving your dog any medication, as some human antihistamines can be toxic to dogs and it’s crucial to get the right dose for their size. Can Dogs Get Hayfever Eyes? Absolutely! Dogs can experience allergic conjunctivitis, commonly known as hayfever eyes. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and itching around the eyes, as well as excessive tearing or discharge. If you notice these symptoms in your dog, it's essential to consult with your vet to determine the best course of treatment. Conclusion: In conclusion, dogs can indeed suffer from hayfever, experiencing symptoms such as itching, sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny nose. If you suspect that your dog may be suffering from hayfever, it's crucial to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With the right care and management, you can help keep your canine companion comfortable and allergy-free all year round. Here at Lords & Labradors we pride ourselves on our in-house team of Pet Experts, between them they have years of pet owning experience and are on hand to answer queries about our products and their suitability - chat to them here.

By Megan Willis
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