Blog | Luxury Dog and Cat News | Lords & Labradors

28.02.24 February 28, 2024 FAQs Featured

How Often Should You Replace Your Dog’s Bed?

Did you know dogs spend 12 to 14 hours a day sleeping? That's a lot of time in bed so it's no surprise that their bed might be looking a little worse for wear. Dogs are creatures of comfort so making sure they have a a clean and supportive bed is essential for their overall well-being. In this guide, our Pet Experts explore the signs that indicate it's time to change your dog's bed and share expert tips on how to care for your canine's cherished sleeping spot. How Often Should You Replace Your Dog’s Bed? Determining how often to replace your dog's bed depends on several factors including the quality of the bed, your dog's size and activity level, and any specific health considerations. As a general guideline, it's advisable to replace your dog's bed every 1 to 3 years, or sooner if signs of wear and tear become noticeable. Signs It's Time to Change Your Dog's Bed: Visible Wear and Tear: Over time, your dog's bed may start showing signs of wear and tear, such as flattened cushions, lumps, or torn fabric. If you notice any significant damage, it's a clear indication that it's time to consider a replacement. Lingering Odours: Despite regular cleaning, dog beds can accumulate odours over time, especially if your furry friend enjoys outdoor adventures or has accidents indoors. Lingering smells that persist even after washing could signal the need for a new bed. Loss of Support: Just like humans, dogs require proper support for their joints and muscles, especially as they age or if they have existing health conditions. If your dog's bed no longer provides adequate support or has become too soft, it's time to invest in a new one to ensure their comfort and well-being. It might be worth investing in an orthopaedic dog bed if your dog’s breed is prone to joint issues. Allergies and Skin Irritations: Dogs can develop allergies or skin irritations from prolonged exposure to dust mites, pet dander, or other allergens that accumulate in their beds over time. If you notice your dog scratching more than usual or experiencing skin issues, a new bed with hypoallergenic materials may offer relief. Preference for Alternative Sleeping Spots: Dogs are creatures of habit, and if you notice your furry friend opting for alternative sleeping spots around the house instead of their bed, it could indicate that they're no longer comfortable or satisfied with their current sleeping arrangements. It’s worth looking at how your dog likes to sleep so you can get the best bed shape to suit their sleeping style, our Information Hub has a guide on how to choose the perfect dog bed for your dog. Top Ways to Care for Your Dog's Bed: Regular Washing: Establish a routine for washing your dog's bed to remove dirt, hair, and odour-causing bacteria. Most of our Lords & Labradors dog beds are machine washable, we have a handy guide on how to wash your dog’s bed here. Use a Removable Cover: Opt for dog beds with removable, machine-washable covers for easy cleaning. Having a spare cover on hand allows you to swap them out while one is being laundered, ensuring your pup always has a fresh and clean place to sleep. We also sell bamboo bed covers which are great for popping over your dog’s bed to help keep them clean especially after a muddy dog walk, they will act as an additional layer of defence against moisture and stains, extending the life of the bed! Vacuum and Spot Clean: In between washings, use a handheld vacuum or lint roller to remove hair and debris from the surface of the bed. Spot clean any stains or spills promptly to prevent them from setting into the fabric. Rotate and Fluff: Just like flipping a mattress, periodically rotate your dog's bed to distribute wear evenly and prevent premature sagging. Fluffing the bed's filling helps maintain its loft and support over time. Sun and Air Dry: On sunny days, take advantage of natural sunlight by airing out your dog's bed outdoors. Sunlight helps eliminate odours and kills bacteria, leaving the bed feeling fresh and revitalised. Inspect Regularly: Take time to inspect your dog's bed for any signs of damage, loose seams, or worn-out stuffing. Promptly address any issues to prevent further deterioration and ensure your pup's safety and comfort. By recognising the signs that it's time to change your dog's bed and implementing proper care and maintenance techniques, you can provide your furry friend with a clean, comfortable, and supportive sleeping environment. Remember, a happy and well-rested pup makes for a happier pet parent too! If you’re looking to upgrade your dog’s bed why not check out our collection of luxury dog beds? Bedding is our speciality, we design and craft all of our bedding here in our Lincolnshire workshop so you can be sure your dog will be getting the best sleep possible in one of our luxury dog beds.

By Megan Willis
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29.01.24 January 29, 2024 Health Featured

The Importance Of Correct Nutrition For Dogs And Cats!

Ensuring optimal nutrition for our beloved pets is paramount for their overall health and well-being. As responsible pet owners, it is crucial to understand the significance of providing nutritionally complete and balanced meals to our furry friends. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of dog and cat nutrition, exploring the importance of the right food choices, nutritionally complete homemade recipes, and the best commercial options available. Understanding Dog and Cat Nutrition Your pet's nutrition plays a pivotal role in their vitality and longevity. Just like humans, dogs and cats require a balanced diet that fulfils their specific dietary needs. A well-rounded diet supports their immune system, maintains a healthy weight, and promotes optimal organ function. Pet food ranges from being more processed to being raw and rich in natural ingredients, finding the right fit for your pet is important! Dog Food Nutrition Choosing the right dog food is a key aspect of canine care. With an abundance of options available, it's essential to prioritise nutritionally complete choices. To make an informed decision, consider using a dog food nutrition calculator and comparing different products. Look for the best nutritional dog food that meets your pet's unique requirements, taking into account factors such as breed, size, and age. Our favourite nutritionally rich dog foods are Orijen, Carnilove and Acana, they are all designed with your dogs nutrition in mind. Dog Nutrition Facts and Guide Understanding dog nutrition facts is imperative for providing the best care. Refer to a dog food nutrition guide to navigate through the plethora of choices available in the market. Learn about your dog's daily nutritional requirements and make informed decisions that contribute to their overall health and happiness. Cat Food Nutrition Cats, being obligate carnivores, have unique nutritional requirements. The best cat food for nutrition considers their need for high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Explore dry cat food nutrition labels to ensure your feline friend receives a balanced diet that supports their specific dietary needs. For a cat food which is high in protein and great for fussy felines we love Carnilove, they all have at least 80% wild origin meat content and contain No grains, potatoes, GMO, soy, sugar, preservatives or colourants. Daily Nutritional Requirements for Cats Cats require a carefully balanced diet to thrive. Knowing the daily nutritional requirements for cats is essential for choosing the right cat food. Consult with your vet to understand the specific needs of your cat, such as the importance of taurine and other essential nutrients crucial for their health. In conclusion, the importance of correct nutrition for dogs and cats cannot be overstated. Whether choosing commercial options or crafting homemade recipes, prioritising nutritionally complete meals is key to ensuring your pet's health and happiness. Stay informed about dog and cat nutrition, consult with professionals, and make choices that align with your pet's unique requirements. By providing the best nutritional dog food or cat food, you contribute to a longer, healthier life for your furry companions. Here at Lords & Labradors we have a large range of both cat and dog food so you can pick the best option for you and your pet

By Megan Willis
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02.08.21 August 02, 2021 FAQs Featured

Dog Crate Sets & Crate Aftercare

Crate training is an important part of settling in a new puppy. A crate provides a safe, quiet space for your pup and will help them to get used to their nighttime routine and with toilet training. A dog crate can be made into a cosy den that will be loved by your new four-legged friend for a lifetime. In this article we will explain the best crate set-up for puppies, how to change the set-up as they grow up and also how to look after your crate and crate bedding. How To Make The Perfect Crate Set-Up For A Puppy Crate training your puppy will have lots of advantages, helping them to settle and feel safe in their home as well getting them into a consistent bedtime routine. The perfect crate for a puppy will feel safe, warm and cosy. It’s important that it’s inviting so that they feel compelled to use it. With this in mind we’d suggest the following items: Crate Cover [product]Crates in their basic form can be rather draughty and a little bit unsightly! A crate cover will not only make the crate look stylish, but it will make the crate feel cosy inside. Our crate covers feature roll down doors which can be lowered when it’s time for bed. Puppy will soon learn when they should be sleeping (doors rolled down) and when it’s time to get up (doors rolled up). Our crate covers come in a range of fabrics which have been designed to match your home and they're all machine washable, making them brilliant for puppies! Cosy & Calming Puppy Crate Bed [product] Our cosy and calming beds have been designed with crate training in mind. Each size is made to fill exactly one half of the corresponding crate size. So if you have a small crate for a Chihuahua for example, the small bed will fit in exactly one half of the crate. This then leaves room for a puppy pad in the other half along with a bowl for water. They come in a range of our printed cotton fabrics and feature a reversible cushion pad inside - one side covered in super plush sherpa! Puppy Pads Whilst we don’t want to encourage puppies to pee in the crate, it’s also important to note that they can’t hold themselves for very long at all. Whilst you will be able to take them outside at regular intervals during the day, this may not be the case at night. When you put them to bed, putting a puppy pad in one half of the crate will help to stop any accidents from dirtying their bed or crate tray. Crate Bowls Puppies will need access to water at all times and a crate bowl is a brilliant accessory as it can be fastened to the crate walls. This will ensure it doesn’t get tipped over or knocked like a standard bowl might. The Perfect Crate Set-Up For An Adult Dog As your dog becomes toilet trained and they begin to need the full space of the crate for their bed, you will need to consider swapping out the puppy accessories for their proper adult bed. At Lords & Labradors we specialise in crate bedding that will make your dog’s den look stunning as well as super comfortable inside. Crate Cushion Our crate cushions are designed to fit our crates perfectly. They come in a range of fabulous fabric designs from luxurious tweeds to printed cottons. There really is something to suit every taste and home. Crate Bumper Crate walls aren’t the most comfortable things to snuggle up to, and if your dog likes to curl in the corner of their bed, they will need something other than metal bars! That’s where our fabulous bumpers come in. They sit around the edge of the crate cushion and create a spongey layer of warmth around the walls. Perfect for snuggling up in the corner when nap time calls! Crate Cover Our crate covers are perfect for setting a routine with your dog, when the doors are rolled down it will signal to them it's time to sleep. Our crate covers are fully lined to help keep light out and come in matching fabrics to our bumpers and cushions to you can be sure crate will look stylish! Crate Set Aftercare and How To Clean A Crate With a little love and care your crate set will last a long time. Here we detail how to look after your crate set: The Crate - The crate is made of sturdy metal and is really easy to keep clean. Our crates are easy to wipe clean and the tray is removable so you can get into the corners properly. It’s really important to make sure the crate is completely dry before setting back up and allowing your pet back in, we recommend drying your crate to avoid any rusting. Lords & Labradors Cushion & Bumper Covers - For our bedding from our core collection you will be able to remove the covers on the cushions and bumpers. Turn the cover inside out and machine wash on a 20 degree gentle cycle. Allow the covers to air dry (do not tumble dry). Once dry return the inner cushion to the cover. Essentials Plush Collection Bumpers & Cushions - Our bumpers and cushions from the Essentials Plush Collection don't have removable covers, we recommend spot washing your essentials plush bumpers and cushions. Lords & Labradors Crate Covers - Our crate covers are all machine washable on a 20 degree gentle cycle, apart from our oil cloth crate covers. After washing, we recommend air drying your crate cover over your crate to help keep it in shape and to make sure it doesn't shrink. A cool iron on the reverse of the cotton fabrics is fine if necessary, but often they won’t even need that. Our tweeds and Savanna fabrics are super fast drying and they will come out of the spin almost dry. Just give them an air and they’ll be ready to use again in no time at all! Cushion and bumper inners - The cushion and bumper inners are protected by waterproof interlinings, so won’t need washing. This will preserve the inner fillings. The waterproof liners are wipe clean. If they become soiled, simply wipe down with a mild pet-safe detergent and they’ll be as good as new again. Cosy and Calm Puppy Bed - Our puppy beds are fully machine washable. You can put the whole bed in the machine and wash on a 20° cycle. When removed, simply shake and plump the cushion back into shape and leave to air dry. Follow these simple steps and your crate sets will last and look stunning for years to come!

By Zac Girdlestone
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06.02.23 February 06, 2023 Owning a Dog Featured

How To Travel With A Dog In A Car

We’re getting to that time of year again where we’re travelling more with our pets to the beach, staycations and even trips to a different location for a long walk. No matter how long the journey - even if it’s a trip to the local vets - you should ensure your dog is properly restrained and safe to travel. Here in the UK it’s the law when travelling by car your dog needs to be restrained. In this blog, we breakdown how to travel safely with your pet. What Is The Law With Dogs In Cars? The Highway Code states in their Rules about Animals, when in a vehicle, dogs are to be suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you’re driving or injure you, or themselves, if you should need to stop quickly. If you were in an accident caused by your dog distracting you whilst you were driving, this could be considered as ‘dangerous driving’. It’s also good to check your insurance policy, as car insurance providers may require you to restrain your pet. Is It The Law To Restrain A Dog In A Car? It is the law to restrain your dog when travelling in your car. So as fun as it is for your pooch to sit with their head out of the window, they must be suitably restrained so they cannot distract you and potentially hurt either you or themselves. When it comes to where your dog should be when travelling, although there are no laws against your dog travelling in the footwell of the car, unfortunately they would not be properly restrained and if you did have an accident, you may be prosecuted for ‘dangerous driving’. When choosing where your dog should be properly restrained, no matter what method you choose, your dog should not sit in the front seat - securing them in the boot or back seat behind a front seat is considered a safer option. How To Secure A Dog In The Car There are many safety products you can choose from, which can help with travelling safely in the car. It’s most important you choose a solution that’s suitable and comfortable for your pooch, and it has been installed and executed correctly to ensure the safety of your pet. Here at Lords & Labradors, we’d recommend the following for safe travel. Dog Carriers Our pet carriers come in different sizes and weights which will vary for the suitability for you and your dog. It’s a lighter option to our metal crates and are easily packed away if you’re staying away from home. Carriers are great when travelling by car and when taking your dog from the car into a safe place to let them out and stretch their legs. They keep your pooch safe and settled whilst travelling. Travel Harnesses Our pet-friendly harnesses come in a variety of sizes, suitable to your dogs breed and size. Travel harnesses are easy to fit onto your dog and it’s quick to clip them into place. They’re specially designed to prevent your dog from moving around whilst in the car, all whilst keeping your pet safe and comfortably restrained. Travel Crates Crating your dog keeps them safe & secure - using a crate to transport your pet has the added benefit if they’re already used to being crated at home. If your dog is used to being crated, often when travelling they’ll feel safer and their surroundings will reduce any anxiety your dog may have around travelling. How Long Can A Dog Travel In A Car Being stuck in the car can be hard for your dog! Not only will your dog need regular toilet breaks, they’ll also need to stretch their legs and get some of their energy out. When stopping for your dog to toilet and stretch their legs, you could also give them some food and water to avoid any spillages whilst travelling. Ideally you should try to keep to your dogs routine where possible (even when travelling) - every 2 to 4 hours for about 15 to 30 minutes is a good guide to follow, however you’ll know what is best for your dog and how they travel. If you’re planning a lengthy trip, try to go on few shorter journeys to see how your dog is likely to react.

By Megan Willis
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13.01.23 January 13, 2023 Getting A Puppy Featured

The Top 10 Puppy Essentials

You may be preparing for the all important ‘Gotcha Day’, the day celebrated by all dog parents as the day you brought your pup home. Taking your puppy home for the first time is exciting, especially if you have prepared for their arrival. Puppy shopping can be so much fun, but also overwhelming if you’re a new pet parent, or if you’ve not had a puppy for a few years. There will be some things you do need to buy for necessity and some things that are worth buying for your new pup. Here at Lords & Labradors we’ve put together the 10 puppy essentials you’ll need to get your new puppy settled. Our Top 10 Items To Buy For Your New Puppy 1) What crate to buy? Firstly, if you’ve decided to crate train your puppy, you’ll need a crate that will see you through from puppyhood to adulthood. You’ll need a crate the appropriate size so you can fit a puppy bed at one end and a puppy training pad the other incase they need to toilet when left in their crate. It also gives your pup enough room to stretch, play and sleep if crated during the daytime. Depending on your training methods, you may want to place the crate somewhere the puppy can be near to you, but also not directly in a high traffic area of your home. Remember the crate is your puppy’s den, so discourage any children from climbing inside. 2) Where should my puppy sleep? We recommend a puppy bed that’s easy for your pup to get in and gives them enough support and comfort whilst they sleep. Our Cosy & Calm Puppy Box Beds have been carefully designed with your puppy in mind. The beds are super squishy and soft, and have the most comfortable sides for your pup to snuggle right into. If you have chosen to crate train your pup, our vet bed is really popular, as it’s cosy, comfortable, robust and relatively puppy proof - it’s easily washed and dried too. It can be used with or without our Cosy & Calm puppy box bed. 3) What will my new puppy eat? It’s recommended you initially use the same food that your puppy comes home with, in order to avoid any tummy upset during their first few days with you. Once your puppy has settled, you can gradually introduce a new food to their diet. It’s good to check the food guidelines of the food you choose to feed your pup, as often they’ll give you the correct guidelines on how to introduce the new food to your pup. Make sure you have a clean bowl for water and a clean bowl for food, you can opt for a slanted water bowl if you have a spaniel breed to reduce your dogs ears from getting soaked in their water. 4) Puppy Toilet Training Top of your list should be a reliable pack of puppy training pads, not only are they great for training your young pup, but they are invaluable when travelling (pop in the bottom of their carrier/crate to catch any travel sickness or accidental toilet trips). You can also use them to absorb muddy, wet paws after your pup has had a play in puddles! 5) How to settle my new puppy at night When settling your new puppy at night, our heart beat sheep will be your puppy's new best friend. The heart beat sheep features a beating heart inside that mimics the beat of Mum's heart. They're designed to offer comfort and calm to new puppies who may feel nervous in their new home; they help to stop separation anxiety too. Alongside the heart beat sheep, you could pop in a heat pad under your dogs bed/cushion to keep them warm and to mimic the feeling of having siblings/mum near. Both the heat and the heart beat sheep will provide comfort for your puppy, especially whilst they are settling in and adjusting overnight. 6) How to keep your new puppy entertained Toys will provide something to chew on for your pup, which you’ll find are essential if you want to avoid your puppy chewing on your furniture. Choose a variety of textures, styles and sizes to keep your puppy engaged and interested. You may want to keep a toy box so your pup can choose what they’d like to play with, or keep a few toys in rotation so your puppy doesn’t get bored with them. You can also buy toys you can fill with treats or their food. If you want/need to leave your puppy - remember to build this up slowly, and don’t leave your new puppy for a long period of time - you could try freezing a peanut butter filled KONG (remember to use doggy/puppy friendly peanut butter). Freezing the toy will take them longer to work through and will give some relief to their sore teething gums and teeth. 7) Does my new puppy need a collar? You may want to purchase your dogs collar before they arrive home with you, however it’s advised to purchase the correct size collar for your puppy, which you may have to wait until they’re here to measure them properly. It is a legal requirement to have a tag with your details on incase your puppy gets lost or strays away, but it’s advised not to add your puppy’s name to the tag. 8) How will I get my new puppy home? Collecting your puppy to take them home is really exciting, but it’s best to be prepared. Make sure you have a suitable carrier/crate to store them in safely for the journey. It’s important your dog is restrained as it is the law to keep your puppy properly restrained whilst driving. In your carrier, you may want to pop in a blanket that smells like home and a scent blanket that smells like their mum and litter mates. It’s also good to have some puppy training pads to hand incase of any car sickness or accidental toilet trips. 9) When to start training my new puppy? You can start with bonding and training your puppy almost straight away, get some high quality, puppy training treats (make sure to check the guidelines), and enjoy teaching them new tricks - you’ll be amazed at how quick they learn! 10) When do I start grooming my puppy? It’s recommend that even if your pup won’t require grooming at first, you should regularly brush them to get them used to being groomed and handled. Choose a simple, soft brush and/or comb for the first couple of months. There will be a time you will need to wash your puppy, make sure you’re not using human shampoo as this will upset your puppy's PH levels and may not be compatible with your puppy flea treatment. It’s best to invest in a puppy shampoo that you can use when and if you need to bathe your puppy. We have our own puppy grooming set in our Petplex collection called the 'Puppy Purifier' it has a shampoo and a cologne to help keep your puppy smelling fresh.

By Megan Willis
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25.03.21 March 25, 2021 Getting A Kitten Featured

The First Five Days Of Owning A Kitten

Getting a new kitten or cat is so exciting, but if you’re a first-time pet owner it can also be slightly daunting. There are a few things to consider when introducing the new arrival to their new family. Here we give you some things to think about so you can be fully prepared for your kitten’s first week in their new home. From bringing them home, to getting them used to new surroundings, here are some handy tips and advice for every new cat owner. Make Sure Your House Is Cat Proof This should be done in advance of their arrival ready for day one. Cat proofing the home is about creating a safe environment for inquisitive noses! Any room that your cat will be allowed in needs to be safe for them, which means no wires for them to play with and nothing that they might scratch or damage. Be aware of poisonous houseplants and keep them out of reach; avoid full length curtains in their room as they may try to climb them; and check for any other hazards or small places that they might get stuck. Cat proofing the home entails a lot of common sense - if you think something might pose a hazard then remove it from their living area. If there’s something that might look enticing to a kitten that you don’t want them to ruin, put it in another room. We have a full article about Cat Proofing Your Home which may be worth a read. Bringing Your Kitten Home So, you’ve double and triple checked that your home is safe and you have ticked off everything on your Kitten Shopping List; it’s now time to bring your kitten home! Travel day is all about keeping them safe on the journey, no matter how long or short it might be, and keeping them as calm and settled as possible. Make sure you have a suitable cat carrier that can be fastened safely in the car. We’d suggest popping a blanket inside to make it comfortable. If you have a long journey ahead, think about packing a travel bowl and some water so they can at least have a drink on the way When you get home, it is best that you introduce them to their new environment slowly and calmly. If you have a large family it might be best for them to introduce themselves in stages. Teach children to be calm and gentle. Some kittens will be especially nervous at first and it’s imperative to provide a home that feels safe and inviting. You will also need to show kitten where everything is and by this we mean their food, their litter tray and their bed! Introducing A Kitten To A Litter Tray Your kitten will probably be litter trained by the time you bring them home; cats like to be clean and they’re fast learners. They won’t know where their litter tray is in their new home though, and nerves may effect their toilet behaviour. When you bring them home take them to the litter tray so they know where to find it. If they’re calm, try popping them in and let them feel the litter with their feet. It won’t take them long to know that it’s the place for them to do their business. It might take them a little while to pluck up the courage to use it, but don’t despair if it does. Be patient and keep an eye on them. You can take them back to the litter tray after a little while to remind them if you wish. Introducing A Kitten To A Scratch Post In the same way you introduced them to the litter tray, do the same with the scratch post. You need to start as you mean to go on and that means showing them where they can scratch as opposed to letting them find a spot of their own that they shouldn’t scratch. Take them to the scratch post so they know where it is. You could show them what to do by scratching your own nails against the post, or if they’re calm and relaxed gently put their paws against the post to show them what to do. Don’t force anything; if they run or back away you can always come back to it later. Slowly but surely they’ll get used to it. You could try rubbing or sprinkling catnip into the post to make it more appealing. The scratch post should be placed somewhere near their bed as it’s often the first thing they do when they wake up. Getting Your Kitten In To A Routine You might think a routine is just for dogs, but a set plan of action can help settle kittens too. Feeding should be at set times - usually once in the morning and once in the late afternoon. (You might leave dry food down for them to graze on throughout the day as well). You should also try your best to get them into a nighttime routine. Kittens are naturally active at dawn and dusk but they can soon learn to sleep when you do. Try to get them settled before bed and don’t feel guilty about leaving them in their room with their bed and other things. It might be tempting to let them upstairs with you, but we’d suggest you start as you mean to go on and get them into a routine where they sleep in their own bed. Make Sure They Get Plenty Of Rest Kittens need lots of rest. They can sleep for up 20 hours a day when they’re young and even adult cats can sleep around 16 hours. It might be tempting to spend all your time with them when they first come home, but it’s really important to give them lots of downtime. If they’re sleepy let them rest until they naturally wake. When they’re sleeping their brains are preparing for the waking hours of learning. Ensure You Have Plenty Of Time To Spend With Them In the first few days, whilst they may need lots of sleep, they will also need lots of supervision. It might be worth taking a few days off work to ensure you have the time to stay in the house. Kittens need to get to know you and they also need help to learn right from wrong. You might need to be there to give extra encouragement to use the litter tray or the scratch post for example. They’ll also like the emotional support, to help them settle into their new home. Your kitten will need to get used to being handled and that can only happen if you’re around to do that. For the first day or two, it might be best not to hold them for long periods, but give them time to adjust with occasional strokes throughout the day. After a couple of days when they're used to you being around, you can start to pick them up more and get them used to being handled by you. This is the start of an emotional bond and will help to mould the cat your kitten will grow to be. Letting Your Kitten Outside For The First Time Some cats will remain indoors for their entire lives and this is absolutely fine as long as you start as you mean to go on. Many pedigree breeds are kept as indoor cats and, with the right accessories and cat furniture, will live long healthy lives indoors. But if your cat is going to be an outdoor cat, you will need to take steps to get them used to it. You shouldn’t let your cat outside in the first few days. Wait at least two weeks for them to settle and assess the situation. They should have had all of their vaccinations and they need to be used to their new home. Initially this should be done under supervision until they’re quite happy with the new surroundings. We wouldn’t suggest letting them have free-rein outdoors until they’re comfortable with the garden and they’ve been neutered to stop any unwanted pregnancies. This is usually done between 4 and 6 months old, but we’d suggest speaking to your vet about this to see what age they think is best. You might want your cat to wear a collar if they do venture out. This can be accessorised with an ID tag for security and they often come with a bell to notify birds that they're coming. Don't forget to have your kitten micro-chipped too - whether they go outdoors or not. many breeders have their litters microchipped before you collect them, but if your kitten isn't microchipped then make a plan to get them done. Stay Calm And Enjoy Getting To Know Them Whatever you do, remember to stay calm and enjoy getting to know your new furry family member. Things may not go entirely to plan - if they have an accident outside of the litter tray, don’t scold them, but rather encourage them to use the tray. If they don’t use the scratch post straight away, persevere. It's a learning curve for both of you and there are no definitive answers to some of the questions that may be raised in those first few days. Just remember not to panic and that everything that happens to you is probably happening to lots of other pets owners! If you need any more information, then take a look at our Information Hub where we have a host of articles about pets. You’ll find the answer to all kinds of cat related questions in there.

By Zac Girdlestone

21.03.21 March 21, 2021 Seasonal Featured

What To Get Your Pets For Easter

Easter, the season when the Easter bunny hops by to drop off their chocolate eggs, is almost upon us. In our last article we talked about things you can do to mark the occasion with your pets, such as a long walk or an Easter egg hunt (with pet safe treats of course). But have you thought about Easter gifts for your cats and dogs? We’ve all seen the aisles of eggs stacked up in the supermarket, but our pets can’t eat human chocolate. Which is why we have curated a collection of Easter themed treats and toys especially for the four-legged family members. We have Easter eggs for pets as well as some other goodies that they will love. Here we present our Easter Gift Guide for Pets: Easter Gifts for Dogs Easter Egg For Dogs We have to start with the most classic of all Easter gifts, the Easter egg. These Hatchwells eggs are made of dog friendly carob and are free from cocoa, wheat and gluten. A super tasty pet-safe ‘choccie’ egg wrapped in a shiny wrapper and presented in a box just like an egg for humans. If you’re planning an Easter egg hunt for your pup, this could be the grand prize in the hunt. KONG Cozie Floppy Rabbit If your dog gets plenty of edible treats, how about gifting them something to play with? This KONG Cozie looks just like the Easter bunny and will offer hours of playtime fun. The pale pink plush toy is super cute and has a squeaker inside for added sensory fun. Don’t let the sweet aesthetics fool you though; these KONG toys have an extra layer of material to give them added strength - ideal if you have an avid chewer in the house! Hugo & Hudson Raincoat in Yellow How about a super practical gift with an easter twist. This dog coat from Hugo & Hudson is perfect for April showers and comes in a delightful shade of yellow. It’ll brighten up any rainy-day dog walk. It comes complete with a cute hood, flap pocket on the back and chunky buckle closure A new dog bed in Balmoral Duck Egg tweed Would you like to treat your pup to a bit of luxury? Our balmoral tweed dog beds come in a beautiful Easter-worthy colour option: Duck Egg Tweed. It will look stunning in your home at Springtime and beyond - a gift to last a lifetime. There are a number of options available in our Balmoral tweeds. You could treat them to a squishy box bed, a new cushion or you could go all out and treat them to a new crate set. Whichever you choose, we’re pretty sure your pup will love our cosy beds. Easter Gift Set We have designed our own Easter gift set for dogs that includes a toy and some tasty treats, all wrapped up in a luxury gift box. They will have something to eat and play with over the bank holiday weekend! Easter Gifts for Cats Easter egg for Cats Our cats don’t have to miss out on the tasty Easter treats! This Hatchwells Easter egg has been made with kitties in mind from yoghurt and catnip. It’s free from gluten, wheat and cocoa and suitable for all cats over the age of one. KONG Softies Fuzzy Bunny When cats aren’t eating or sleeping, they’re probably hunting and playing. This KONG Softies Fuzzy Bunny toy is the ideal Easter themed cat toy. Your cat will enjoy playing with this well beyond the bank holiday weekend! We hope our Easter Gift Guide has given you plenty of food for thought. There is something here for every cat, dog and pet-loving human, that we're sure they will adore. If you need any more information about anything listed here, please do get in touch. We're always happy to help!

By Zac Girdlestone

20.03.21 March 20, 2021 FAQs Featured

How To Choose A Dog Harness

Any time you take your dog for a walk, you need to make sure they’re comfortable and that they’re safe from any potential dangers. However, if you’re using unsuitable accessories for walking your dog, you could make it easier for them to come loose from the lead, cause short or long-term damage to their body or reduce the likelihood of being able to pull them away from any dangers you may encounter while you’re out. Depending on the breed and personality of your pooch, a dog harness may be more suitable than simply attaching the lead to their collar. In this blog, we explain the benefits of using a dog harness, look at how effective they are and offer tips on how you can choose the right harness for your dog. What Are Dog Harnesses Used For? A dog harness is an alternative method of controlling your dog during walks that offers different benefits to using a traditional collar and lead. Instead of simply clipping your lead onto your dog’s collar, a harness wraps around their chest and clips to a lead at the top of the harness, often around their back area. If you’re considering using a dog harness but don’t know whether or not it would benefit your dog, you may be interested to learn more about why dog owners use them instead of a lead. On a base level, a dog harness accounts for all of your dog’s weight, spreading the surface area across their body. Unlike a harness, a collar would simply mean having your lead attached to your dog’s neck, potentially causing serious harm if they often pull on the lead. Overall, there are several reasons why a dog owner may choose a harness over a collar. Due to this, we’ve highlighted a few of the most common reasons below. Why Use A Harness For Dogs? Common reasons for using a dog harness include for: Catering to the build of smaller dogs Easier control Making it harder for your dog to come loose and escape Helping the training process Being kinder to your arms and back Preventing pulling Reducing the likelihood of injury to your dog. Do Dog Harnesses Work? Many dog owners have a preference over the items they use for walking their dog, with the primary decision being between a harness or collar. It could be something they decide based on the breed of their dog or simply personal preference. Suitable collars shouldn’t cause your dog any harm if used correctly, however if your dog likes to pull a harness may be a better choice for them as it spreads the pressure out rather than it all being focused on their neck. How To Choose A Harness For A Dog When it comes to choosing a harness for your dog, the option you decide on is likely to be based on the size, breed and personality of your dog. For example, if your dog isn’t a fan of wearing clothing, you may need a dog harness that gives them more freedom. Likewise, if your dog is especially quick, playful and cheeky, it’s crucial that you pick a harness that won’t give them enough leeway to detach themselves and run away. In an attempt to make your decision easier, we’ve highlighted a few helpful considerations below. What Are The Different Types Of Dog Harnesses? To suit the body shape, size and breed of different dogs, there are multiple types of harness to choose from. Dog harness types include: Back-clip - a harness that comes together at the back Day-pack - although sometimes capable of weighing your dog down and causing them discomfort, a day-pack harness has storage on either side for carrying treats and other items your dog may want during a long walk Dual clip - more than one clip that can be disconnected to easily get your dog in and out of the harness Front-clip - a harness that comes together at the front Safety - with extra padding and more material, a safety harness is designed like a jumper with clips on the front and back for attaching a lead Step-in - a harness that doesn’t have any clips and allows your dog to simple step into it What Material Are Dog Harnesses Made From? In some cases, the material of the harness you choose for your dog may be irrelevant. It's good to chose a harness with material that will suit your lifestyle. Here at Lords & Labradors we offer harnesses for all different scenarios, those that you can bundle in the washing machine, and those that have padding for longer hikes and walks. However, if your dog is picky, irritable, has a skin condition or short fur, it could be a deciding factor. Common dog harness materials include: Cotton - comfortable and stretchy Leather - thick and protective Mesh - durable and strong Nylon - water resistant and warm Polyester - often in the lining with heat emboss If your dog is short-haired, has parts of their body where skin is showing or you’re walking your dog during a particularly chilly day, it could be worth considering a dog harness with additional protection from the cold. Some harnesses have more material for covering a larger part of your dog’s body and padding for extra comfort and warmth. Which Dog Harness Is The Safest? As walking your dog with an unsuitable collar or harness could potentially harm your dog, it’s important that you choose a harness that won’t pose any danger to them, both in terms of short and long-term safety. Looking at reviews of the harness you’re considering should give you an indication of how safe it is. Alternatively, you can identify a suitably safe harness by bearing in mind a selection of key features. These include: A comfortable, durable material Adjustable straps An easy process for putting the harness on and taking it off Coverage across your dog for comfort and support Sections of padding The clip for attaching a lead situated in the centre of the back

By Zac Girdlestone

18.03.21 March 18, 2021 Seasonal Featured

What To Do With Your Pets At Easter

It’s almost that time of year; fluffy Easter chicks, cute Easter bunnies and chocolate… lots of chocolate! It’s a lovely time of year to spend with family and friends, and of course your pets. We don’t need any excuse to spend extra time with our pets, or to do fun things with them. So, when Easter comes around, we usually jump at the chance to do just that! There are a number of ways we can include our pets in the Easter holiday, and we thought we'd share our ideas in this week’s article. We haven't just thought about the canines in the family, but there are one or two things we've thought of to include our feline pets as well. We also take the time to highlight a few potential dangers that Easter can pose to our pets, so make sure you read the full article and enjoy this special time of year in safety. Easter Activities for Pets Here’s some fun activities that your furry friends can enjoy this Easter Easter Egg Hunt - Whilst your pet can’t join in on your human Easter egg hunt, there’s no reason they should miss out on all the fun. Try hiding some cat or dog treats in your house or in your back garden, then let your pets sniff them out. This is a great way to stimulate your pet whilst keeping them busy Easter Photoshoot - Everyone loves a fun photoshoot. Dress up your pets in an Easter-themed outfit or accessories, like bunny eases, and take some adorable pictures. Easter-themed Walk - Try taking your dog for a walk and looking for signs of spring, keep an eye open for blooming flowers or baby lambs to help you get in the Easter spirit. This is a fun one to do if you have kids, encourage them to look out for any Easter decorations along the way Picnic in the Garden - If the weather is kind, you could take the fun outdoors and have a picnic in the garden. This could be a lovely treat for the entire family. If the sun comes out, you could even make it into a barbecue. Just remember some delicious snacks for your four-legged friends! Meet Up with Other Canine Pals for a Playdate - How about treating your dog to a playdate with his best dog pals? We’ve been in a nationwide lockdown here in the UK and it might be exciting for you and your dogs to meet up with friends in the park or at the beach for a stroll. This of course relies on lockdown restrictions - we’re on track for outdoor meets with up to 6 other people from March 29th but do keep an eye on the restrictions and guidance when Easter approaches as the rules may change at any time. Easter Safety For Pets Whatever activities and events you plan with your pets, make sure you think about their safety throughout the holiday. There are a number of foods and plants that are common at this time of year, that are toxic to cats and dogs. If you do have these in the house, just ensure that they’re kept safely away from your pets. Here we list some of the key things to keep out of reach of pets at Easter: Chocolate and Sweets - Getting easter eggs and bunnies may be a highlight of Easter for us but they are highly toxic for our pets. The xylitol found in many sweet treats is toxic for cats and dogs, it can be fatal. Keep any sweet treats out of your pets reach and maybe treat them to some pet-friendly Springtime flowers and bulbs - You may receive flowers as a gift at this time of year and your garden may start to bloom with new plants too. Certain springtime plants such as Daffodils, Hyacinths, Bluebells and Azaleas are toxic to pets. It’s best to keep an eye on what types of flowers you keep indoors, and if they are toxic to pets to keep them out of reach of inquisitive noses. You might like to read our past article where we highlight some the Most Poisonous Springtime Plants. Table Scraps - You may be hosting friends and family this Easter, with all the delicious food out it may tempting to share some with your pets, however, a lot of the food we enjoy can be harmful to pets so make sure to keep any food out of your pets way this Easter. Sultanas, currants and other dried fruits - Hot cross buns are a seasonal staple at Easter. Make sure these and any ingredients used to make them are kept out of reach of your pets as they can make them really poorly. It isn’t fully understood, what in these foods is so bad - all we know is that they can cause serious illness in some pets. Easter Decorations - A lot of the small cute Easter decorations, like the fluffy chicks, plastic eggs and Easter grass can look inviting to your pet but they can be dangerous if ingested by your pets. When swallowed, it can create internal blockages which can be fatal. Make sure to keep any decorations out of reach to keep your pets safe Easter Egg Hunts - If you’re thinking of hosting an Easter egg hunt this year, make sure to keep your pets away. The brightly coloured toys and treats will look inviting to your pets so keeping them out the way until the fun is over is for the best. If you keep these hazards in mind, you’ll be able to make sure your pets have a happy and safe Easter. If you’re worried your pet may have eaten something they shouldn’t or they’re showing any signs of illness we recommend you contact your vet for advice.

By Zac Girdlestone

14.03.21 March 14, 2021 Product Spotlight Featured

The Best Dog Harnesses & Walking Accessories

With Spring well under way and UK Lockdown restrictions slowly beginning to relax, we’re looking forward to getting out and about more. Whether it’s a trip to the seaside; a ramble in the countryside; or a stroll around town, we love exploring the great outdoors with our four-legged friends. One of our favourite walking accessories is the dog harness. They offer much more support and comfort than attaching a lead to a collar. They’re brilliant for all breeds, but especially training puppies and flat nosed breeds who may find it difficult to breathe when walking on just a collar and lead. Here we take a look at some of our favourite harnesses and also share some of the best matching accessories to complete the look. Our Favourite Dog Harnesses and their Matching Accessories Ruffwear Dog Harnesses These are our favourite harnesses for lead training and so much more. The Hi & Light is ideal for puppies as well as tiny and small breeds such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles. It comes in XXS sizes and is an ideal fit for smaller bodies. It is made of a hardy material that will stand up to wear and tear, whilst looking great in a series of stylish colours. The Front Range is a brilliant choice for dogs as a second harness once they have grown out of their first puppy harness. The Ruffwear products are made to last, with premium fabrics and fastenings. They are great for outdoorsy dogs as they're robust enough to withstand lengthy adventures, but also offer the comfort and support that training puppies need. Don’t forget to choose the matching collar and lead to complete the set. And remember to clip a poo bag holder to your lead too so you can clean up any mess. The cream Pocket poo bag holder by Beco will keep the set sleek and sophisticated! Halti Dog Harness These harnesses are made for adventures in the great outdoors. If you have a strong dog, then this will be ideal as there are two lead clips for maximum control. They come in a variety of non-offensive colours too, which will compliment any fur colour! Don’t forget the treats - keep your training treats on hand for outdoor rewards. Fuzzyard Harnesses Are you and your dog all about café culture, and a potter around town? These cute dog harnesses by Fuzzyard are fun and stylish and perfect for city dogs who don’t need the extreme durability of a Ruffwear harness. Plus, how adorable is the cupcake print? Perfect for fashionista pups everywhere! Add the coordinating cupcake lead and collar to complete the ensemble. Your pup will look good enough to eat and be Instagram-ready in no time at all! Tweed Dog Harnesses Tweed harnesses are another great option for small-medium dogs, and one that is ideal for those who don’t like the look of an ordinary harness. Tweed dog harnesses have a stylish flair and looks more like a tailored waistcoat than a normal walking accessory. We hope you like our top picks. We've thought about every type of dog and the kinds of walks you might take. Whichever set you choose, we're sure you're pup will look dashing. They all offer a practical way to keep on-lead dog walks safe for your dog, whilst looking good too. If you need any further information about any of the products listed, please do get in touch. We'll help as much as we can!

By Zac Girdlestone

11.03.21 March 11, 2021 Product Spotlight Featured

Brand Spotlight: Hugo & Hudson

Spring is in the air and the potential for milder weather brings with it plenty of opportunities for longer dog walks. Here in Britain, we’re beginning to see the early signs of the easing of lockdown restrictions, which means we may find ourselves outside for longer periods of time. We love Springtime dog walks. Whether it’s a good run on the beach or a ramble through the countryside, the colours that emerge and the sun in the sky is a welcome relief from the bleak winter. With this in mind, we thought we’d highlight one of our favourite walking accessory brands. Hugo & Hudson have become well renowned for their premium quality dog collars, leads and harnesses that sit alongside a collection of other coordinating accessories. Here we take a closer look at the brand and explore some of our favourite pieces from the range. Your Springtime dog walks will take a style leap when your dog is outfitted in H&H! The History of Hugo & Hudson H&H was founded by dog owner Katie and her Labradoodle-breeder friend Francesca. The name came from their own pet’s, Francesca’s Australian Labradoodle Hudson, and Katie’s pet Hugo. They were finding it hard to find a good selection of walking dog products that fused both style and practicality, so thought they’d design their own. At H&H you will find luxury dog accessories that stand up to daily use. Everything is designed in the UK and they rigorously test all of their products before they are launched. Stitching is designed for strength; buckles are stress tested and everything is designed to provide supreme comfort. Here we take a look at some of our favourite pieces from the H&H range. Hugo & Hudson Dog Collars, Leads and Accessories One of the core parts of the H&H range is their dog walking accessories. Their collars, leads and harnesses come in a fabulous array of fabrics and colours to suit all tastes. Whether it's a tweed harness or a patterned one, your dog walks will be all the more stylish with these H&H accessories! H&H Herringbone Walking Sets - We adore the shades of the Herringbone walking sets. Available in pale pink or pale blue, each piece is trimmed in grey for a contemporary look. The collar has an adorable bone charm and there is plenty of room on the D-ring for an ID tag. The Harness is ideal for dog walks, when comfort is a must. The harness hugs the body nicely and the girth can be adjusted for a perfect fit. The matching lead completes the look and offers you a good comfortable grip with its breathable mesh-lined handle. Your pup will look super-cute in their herringbone walking set. H&H Tweed Walking Sets - Do you have a love for the countryside? Adore all things tweed? Then look no further than the Caramel and Dark Green tweed accessories. The Caramel tweed is a gorgeous design; a tan herringbone base with windowpane overcheck and trimmed in a coordinating tan binding. The Dark Green is a classic forest shade with bold red and blue over-check, trimmed in navy. Both available in collars, leads and harnesses. Countryside chic never looked so good! H&H Stars Walking Sets - Those looking for something more striking and fun will love the Star print collars, leads and harnesses. Available in either red or navy, the fabric features an all-over star pattern on a plain background. Each piece is accented with silver toned buckles and D-rings as well as adjustable straps on the harness. Hugo & Hudson Dog Coats We may see lots more sunshine during Spring but that doesn't mean it's always warm, especially here in Britain. Hugo & Hudson have all weathers covered with their range of dog coats. From rainy day raincoats to cold weather puffer jackets there is something here to suit every dog. H&H Reversible Puffer jacket - Springtime in Britain isn’t always mild and on those colder days a heavier dog coat might be needed. This puffer jacket is a Hugo & Hudson signature design and great for cold days. It comes in four striking colours and will keep your dog warm in style on their walks. It’s water-repellent, has a hole in the back so you can thread your lead through to the harness and it’s reversible so has two looks in one. What more could you want in a dog coat?! H&H Tweed Jacket - One for the countryside lovers, these tweed dog coats are adorable. They come in three gorgeous colours and feature contrasting corduroy collars, an adjustable belly strap and an appliqué logo badge. They coordinate perfectly with the tweed harnesses and walking accessories. We hope you like our picks of the Hugo & Hudson collection. Aesthetically, there’s something to suit every taste and each piece is practical and will stand-up to your dog’s daily walks. If you need any more information about any of the products listed do get in touch. We’re always to help!

By Zac Girdlestone

07.03.21 March 07, 2021 Owning a Cat Featured

The Best Cat Scratch Posts

Scratching is something that every cat loves to do. There are a number of reasons that your cat scratches, the main one being to keep their claws in tip top condition. They also scratch to mark their territory as a sign to other cats, and can scratch when anxious too. If you don’t want your furniture or carpets to be ruined, then a scratch post is a must-have for every cat owner. You can then encourage them to scratch this and divert their attention away from your soft furnishings. Scratch accessories come in all shapes and sizes from small cardboard scratchers to large scratch posts and trees. Here we take a look at our favourite scratch posts from our Cat Emporium. Our Favourite Cardboard Scratchers Cats like to scratch in different ways; some like to scratch vertically; some like to scratch horizontally and others like a mixture of both. If your cat likes to scratch horizontal surfaces (hopefully they haven’t taken to scratching your carpets just yet!), we have a brilliant range of cardboard scratchers. These can be easily moved around the home so that your cat can keep their claws sharp without ruining your flooring. Catit Lounge Cardboard Scratcher - This is a really good budget scratcher for cats. The whole surface is made of corrugated cardboard, which is enticing for felines and the shape is designed for cats to ‘lounge’ on when relaxing. The large size makes it ideal for all ages and breeds, and it will last a long time before it needs replacing. Catit Pirates Barrel Scratcher - This is a super fun choice! Part of the Pirates collection by Catit. It offers both scratching and lounging capabilities all in one novel design. We also love the fact that it comes in two sizes, so you can choose the small for a little kitten and the large for adults. The larger size measures 16.53” in diameter making it great for breeds such as Ragdolls and Maine Coons. Catit Senses 2.0 Oval Scratcher - This is part of the brilliant interactive Senses range by Catit. The scratcher itself is an oval shape and a great size for any age and breed of feline. What we love most is that it can be incorporated into a playground circuit along with some of the other Catit Senses products. Add a Play Circuit, a Food Tree and perhaps the Wellness Centre and your cat will have a whale of a time hunting, chasing and lounging. Our Favourite Cat Scratch Posts & Trees If your cat is a vertical scratcher as most are, then a scratch post or tower is an essential accessory for your home. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you will find something to suit the space you have available and the breed of your cat. There are small scratch posts for kittens and large towers with multiple posts and platforms for larger breeds and indoor cats. It’s important to consider your specific cat when choosing a scratch post. If you have a cat who goes outdoors and doesn’t scratch that much in the house, then maybe a compact single post scratcher will be sufficient. If on the other hand you have an indoor cat who needs to sate all of their scratching needs in the house, then you will need to consider something much larger, with places for them to climb and lounge incorporated into the structure. Here we list a range of options for every kind of cat: Vesper Play centre Cat Scratcher - This a great miniature climbing frame for kittens by Vesper. Vesper makes premium quality cat furniture that looks stylish whilst offering practical solutions for scratching felines. Your kitten will enjoy climbing over this A-frame structure and can scratch and play too. It can be moved around and set in different positions to make playtime different for your cat. It features a scratch pad and a small scratch post as well as a memory foam pad for lounging and a catnip toy that they can ‘hunt’ and bat around too! It’s the perfect first scratch post for kittens. Rosewood Tarragon Cat Scratch Post - The Tarragon scratcher is a three-post design. Each post varies in length and has an attached catnip toy for added playtime fun. If your cat needs encouragement to scratch in the correct places, then these toys are just the thing to entice them. It will make a great first scratch post for kittens as it isn’t too big. The varying sizes will also give your cat chance to stretch and scratch as they grow into adults. Larger breeds may find this isn’t large enough once they are fully grown though. Ragdolls and Maine Coons for example may like something much larger, but this is an excellent choice for kittens, smaller cats and outdoor cats who don’t tend to scratch indoors that much anyway. Rosewood Catwalk Collection Zurich Cat Scratch Post - The Zurich has all of the same things that we love about the Tarragon, but in an exciting round shape with an added platform on top. Your little kitten will enjoy scratching and climbing over this mini frame and the dangly catnip toys will keep them coming back for more playtime fun. A brilliant scratch post for kittens and small cats Rosewood Catwalk Collection Cinnamon Scratch Post - Do you love the look of the Zurich scratch post, but have large adult cats? Then take a look at the Cinnamon scratcher. This has the same three post structure but on a much larger scale. It has a multi layered design too, which will appeal to your cat’s climbing instincts. It’s a great choice for those with an adult cat or multi-cat households. Trixie Galeno Scratching Post - This is more than just a scratch post. This design has a cosy hideout at the base with a post that stretches up to two platforms that sit at different heights. It will sate of your kitty’s scratching desires whilst also allowing them to hide away for a snooze when they want, or climb the tower to survey their domain! The hideaway and platforms are covered in a lovely soft plush faux fur too which will appeal to your kitty’s love of soft fabrics. A great option for one or two cats. Trixie Ava XXL Cat Tower - The first thing to notice about this scratcher is the striking design. It has a contemporary, geometric style with cube-like structures bookmarking a wide scratch post. The bottom cube is a cosy hideaway that will provide your cat with a secluded spot for napping and sleeping. The top structure is an open top cat bed. Both are fully lined with plush faux fur and have the addition of reversible cushions. The scratch post is wrapped in jute as is the top bed giving plenty of scratching options. This a brilliant option for large breed cats including Ragdolls and Norwegian Forest Cats. They’ll love the generously sized lounging areas! Vesper Box Large Cat Cube - Vesper is a brand that fuses style and practicality in a seamless way. They consider everything that a cat likes and work these practical attributes into well-designed, aesthetically pleasing pieces of contemporary furniture for the home. The Large Box Cube is a miniature climbing frame with lounging places, a scratch post and dangly toys all in one sleek structure. It’s ideal for kittens and will last well into adulthood. It’s large enough for multiple cats too who will enjoy chasing and playing with each other around the frame. It has removable pads - some for scratching and some for laying on that can be washed or replaced as needed. That’s one of the best things about this scratcher; Vesper makes spare parts, so if your cat wears the scratch post or pads out, you can purchase replacements to make it look as good again. Rosewood Charcoal Felt Double Cat Tower - If you’re looking for something sleek that will fit in to a modern home then this scratch tower might be just the style you’re looking for. Where the other posts have been crafted from cream fabrics and wooden accents this post is all grey. A stylish colour palette that will work seamlessly into any modern home. It features three scratch posts together with a tunnel, a round hideout and a top platform. It’s ideal for cats who love to climb and large enough for multi-cat households with two or three felines. Trixie Humberto XXL Tall Scratching Tower - Are you looking for the ultimate scratch post? If you need an indoor playground with multiple places for your cats to scratch, play and lounge then this XXL scratch tower from Trixie may be just what you’ve been looking for. Standing at over 5 feet tall, this tower has 8 scratch posts, a large hideout in the middle, a platform on top and three hammocks; plus, a rope toy for added fun. It is ideal for any cat, but especially large breeds who will love the generously proportioned hammocks, and indoor cats who will get plenty of exercise climbing and playing around the frame. It is finished in a neutral colour palette of grey and cream so will look good in any home too. We hope you like our pick of the best cat scratch posts and trees. Which you choose will come down to the needs of your specific cat. If you’re looking for a small post for a kitten you might choose the Tarragon. If you want a moderate sized post for an adult cat who mainly goes outside, then the Galeno might be suitable. If you need a large tower for multiple indoor cats, then we’d probably suggest the Humberto. Whichever you choose, we think your cat will love it. If you need any more information regarding any of the products listed here, please do get in touch. We’re always happy to help!

By Zac Girdlestone

04.03.21 March 04, 2021 Owning a Cat Featured

Top Tips For Bringing Your New Kitten Home

Getting a new pet is really exciting but can also be a little nerve wracking. It may have been a while since you introduced a new pet to your home, or you may be a first-time kitten owner. Whatever the case, don’t panic! We’re here to help. From preparing their living space in your house to encouraging them to explore around the home, there are some key things to consider. Here we highlight some of our top tips for new kitten owners, to help you prepare to bring them home. Prepare the Kitten’s Room and ensure it is Cat proof Before you bring them home you need to make sure you have everything you need for them and that their room is set up how you want it. The last thing you need on the day you collect them home is to be fumbling around trying to prepare their bed or other accessories. Have the room ready a couple of days in advance and you’ll feel much more settled about introducing them to the family. Brands such as Catit are dedicated to making good quality cat products for every area pf your cats life. Think about the comfort and safety of your little kitten. They may be nervous at first so providing them with a safe and quiet space is really important. Ensure you have cat proofed the room and there are no escape routes. Our Cat Proofing Your Home blog post may be of interest if you’d like some further advice around kitten safety. Don’t forget to give them some fun cat toys to keep them occupied too. These won’t just provide them with lots of excitement but will also help their brain development and learning. Give Kitten Places to Hide Cats quite like hiding in general, but little kittens may be especially nervous and thankful for some ‘secret’ spots that they can hide themselves in. Make sure these hiding places are still accessible for you though, as you will still need to socialise with them. Try to use a room where kitten can’t get trapped and use things like cardboard boxes as their hideaway! Some good quality scratch posts have hiding spaces which would make the ideal addition to your kitten room. Prepare the Litter Tray and Feeding Areas Your kitten will need somewhere to toilet so you will need a litter tray set up in the kitten’s room. This should be situated away from the kitten’s bed and their feeding area. Your kitten won’t want to sleep or eat where they toilet so take a bit of time to work out the perfect layout of the room. The feeding area should include at least two bowls or saucers for dry food and water - possibly three if you’d like a separate dish for wet food. Ensure kitten has access to fresh water and dry food throughout the day and supplement with a serving of wet food once or twice a day. When you first bring them home and introduce them to their living space, it’s important to show them around so that they can easily find their food and their litter tray. Provide a Scratch Post We briefly mentioned scratch posts when talking about a place to hide, but they have much more importance than being a hidey place. Cats have many unique senses, one of which is to scratch. Scratching keeps their claws in tip top condition and allows them to stretch their muscles, keeping their athletic bodies healthy. If you don’t provide your kitten with a scratch post or pad, they will find elsewhere to sate their scratching desires. Provide a good quality scratch post and encourage them to use that rather than your soft furnishings! Calming Feliway Cats are known for their inquisitive nature, but some can be quite nervous especially when introduced to a new environment. We would highly recommend a calming product such as Ceva’s Feliway plugin diffusers to help keep your feline calm and relaxed. Feliway products are designed to mimic your cat’s facial pheromones (the things they leave behind when they rub against objects). The products have been developed over many years and help to make your cat feel reassured and relaxed in unknown environments. Pop a plugin diffuser in their room a few days before you collect them to help them relax when they come home. Don’t Forget to Travel Safely Before your kitten reaches their new home, they will have some kind of journey to get there. It might be just a short trip across town, or you may be travelling hours to pick up your new arrival, but however long the journey you need to make sure you travel safely. Ensure you have a suitable cat carrier for the car and think about what other accessories you may need. We’d suggest a blanket to keep them cosy inside and perhaps a travel bowl for water if it’s a long journey. Have your travel bag ready for the big day so you don’t panic before you collect them. Socialise with Them This may seem obvious. Why would we need to encourage you to play and socialise with your cute little kitten?! We only mention it because the time spent with your kitten at this stage isn’t just fun for you both, but a really important way to help them settle and feel at home. Do be mindful at first that you don’t over stimulate them. Just being around them with short periods of gentle play is enough. Get them used to normal household noises like talking on the telephone, the radio and the TV. The first couple of weeks will be all about transitioning them into your routine and getting them used to normal daily life in their new family. Exploring their New Home It will soon be time for your new feline to explore beyond their kitten room and into the rest of the house. You will know when your kitten seems relaxed and settled enough to begin exploring. When you decide the time is right, make sure their forays into the rest of the house are done with supervision and in stages. You shouldn’t just set them free, but rather show them only small parts of the house at a time, maybe a room or two. Make sure the rooms or hallways are kitten-safe, putting your cat proofing skills to work. They will soon get used to the house (or parts of the house that they’re allowed) and will start to learn all about their family home. Hopefully with the help of our advice, your kitten will move to your home and settle in quickly and efficiently without too many problems. Try not to stress, make your preparations, and all will be fine. Kittens are resilient little things and they'll soon be enjoying your company and exploring their new home! If you have any other questions about bringing your kitten home or you're not sure what things you might need, do give us a call. We're always happy to help. Also, take a look at our Information Hub where you will find all kinds of helpful pet articles. We try to update the Hub regularly, so keep checking back to see what is new.

By Zac Girdlestone

28.02.21 February 28, 2021 Product Spotlight Featured

The Best Training Treats For Dogs

Our mini series about dog treats continues this week with training treats. Not only are they a great way to reward your dog for good behaviour, but they are an essential training aid for teaching your puppy things like crate training. Your dog never stops learning and training treats will come in handy when they’re older to help teach new tricks and also instil good manners that they’ve already learned. We never leave the house without a few dog training treats stored in our pockets for use on dog walks and when travelling. Here we highlight our favourite treats from the collection: Our Top Dog Training Treats The Innocent Hound Puppy Training Treats - We’ll start with a good option for puppies as you’ll be doing all sorts of training if you have a new four-legged friend. These ones by The Innocent Hound are suitable for puppies from 8 weeks old so are great if you’ve only just brought your new puppy home. They’re made from 80% freeze dried lamb and are grain free and hypoallergenic. The ideal training treats for little pups with sensitive tummies. Forthglade Training Treats - These treats are made of natural, grain-free, ingredients and are the perfect size for training. Made of super tasty ingredients with a cheese and fruit flavour that your pup will love. They’re cut into a heart shape too so they’re super cute! Cooper & Co Venison Sausage Bites Training treats - What could be tastier than treats made from 100% venison? These ones by Cooper & Co are low in fat and come in a resealable bag to keep them fresh. The perfect size to use as training treats. Pet Munchies Dog Training Treats in Chicken - These premium dog treats by Pet Munchies are made from all natural, human grade, ingredients. They are free from any artificial additives and preservatives and contain no gluten or wheat. Laughing Dog Grain Free Fish & Tricks Training Treats - Laughing Dog have been careful to create a treat that is healthy and full of goodness. These heart-shaped dog treats are baked in Britain and contain no grain, dairy or soya. Great for training or for a little snack in-between meals. Lily’s Kitchen Organic Training Treats - These tasty treats by Lily’s Kitchen are not only traditionally baked from natural ingredients but are certified organic too. Low in fat, they are suitable for adult and senior dogs from 4 months old. Billy + Margot Honey & Banana Training Treats - Billy + Margot are known for their premium quality dog treats and foods. This recipe is lovingly handmade in Britain with an apple & Strawberry flavour and is full of minerals and vitamins to promote a shiny coat. Natures Deli Duck Training Bites - These delicious dog treats are made from 85% duck breast with absolutely no artificial colours or preservatives. They are slowly roasted in the meat’s own juices to give as much flavour as possible. They’re also high in protein. What more could you ask for in a training treat?! True Instincts Lamb Meat Bites - True Instinct make scrumptious treats from 100% meat. These ones are made from premium lamb and are freeze dried to keep in all the goodness. The contain no artificial colours or preservatives and are gluten and grain free. Delicious nourishing treats that your dog will love. We hope you like our selection of treats. Whatever kind of training you’re doing, whether it’s lead training or teaching sit, these treats are all sure to give a tasty reward for your pup’s efforts. If you have any questions about the treats listed, do get in touch. We’ll always try to help as much as we can with your queries.

By Zac Girdlestone

21.02.21 February 21, 2021 Product Spotlight Featured

The Best Celebration Dog Treats

At Lords & Labradors we have products for every area of a pet’s life and that includes the special occasions that you want to celebrate. Whether it’s your pup’s first birthday (or their tenth!); a public holiday such as Easter or Christmas; or any other special day, we have lots of things to help throw a party and make it memorable. Our range of celebration accessories for dogs includes some extra special dog treats that will allow you to create a super tasty, dog-friendly feast. From iced muffins and popcorn to more elaborate personalised cakes, we have a brilliant selection that will soon have your pup drooling! Our Top 10 Celebration & Birthday Treats For Dogs The Barking Bakery Cheesy Pupcorn - Are you planning a date night on the sofa with your pup? Then this popcorn for dogs by The Barking Bakery is the ideal snack. It would even make a great addition to the centre of a table of doggie treats for a birthday party or other celebration. The bag is a great size for one or two dogs to share. Catering for a group of dogs? You might wish to try the bucket of Pupcorn here. It’s so good they’ll all want some! Lords & Labradors Toy & Treat Selection Box - We all know how much dogs love treats and toys, so we've created the perfect hamper for your pooches celebration! Our Toys & Treats selection box feature tasty treats and engaging toys they'll love, whatever the occasion! Please Note: Contents may vary from the image. Woof & Brew Pawsecco Freeze Pops - These are a great treat for a warm Summers day. If your pup has a Summer birthday, then pop some of these in the freezer ready. The box contains 6 luxurious ready-to-freeze push-pops made with Elderflower, Linden Blossom and Ginseng. They’re even suitable for cats if your feline fancies a taste! The Barking Bakery Iced Woofin - These doggy muffins are simply adorable. Individually packaged ‘woofins’ in tasty flavours, that will give your dog a tasty treat on any special occasion. They feature crunchy bone biscuits on top for added flavour and come in packaging to keep them fresh until you want to serve them. The Barking Bakery Iced Woofins Trio - Hosting a puppy party and need multiple cakes to serve a number of dogs? How about a triple pack of Woofins? All the same flavoursome goodness of the individual Woofins, but with more to go around! They taste so good that your dog won’t want to share! Barking Bakery Vanilla & Carob Cookie - On first inspection these may just look like any cookie, but they’re actually really tasty cookies for your pet! They’re perfect for anyone wanting to treat their pup to something more special than a regular dog biscuit. Woof & Brew Posh Pooch White ‘Wine’ - What party or celebratory tea would be complete without a glass of wine? Well Woof & Brew have you covered with this delightful pet friendly wine. Now your dogs don’t need to miss out on the toast and can have a glass of their very own. It also comes in a rosé option and there’s also a beer if wine isn’t their thing! The Barking Bakery Pawty Carob Cake - Are you looking for a dog-friendly cake? We have just the thing, brought to you by The Barking Bakery. These cakes for dogs are 6” in diameter making them ideal for a doggy party where multiple canines are invited. The cakes come in two colours and feature yummy yoghurt toppings with crunchy biscuits for decoration. Also available in a delicious Vanilla flavour. BonBon Pooch ‘Chocolate’ Carob Slab - Are you hosting some of your dog’s canine friends? If so and you want to give them a special tea, then this Choccie slab from BonBon Pooch will be a cute addition to the table. It’s made from doggie-friendly carob (because of course they can’t eat human chocolate) and is decorated with delicious tropically themed sweets. Your pup and their canine guests will soon devour this! What’s more the slab has a shelf life of 12 months, so you can buy it in preparation for a party later in the year. Molly’s Patisserie Peanut Butter & Banana Cake - Are you looking for a special doggy cake made from fresh ingredients? These single tier cakes by Molly’s Patisserie are simply stunning. They are baked fresh to order and sent directly from the baker’s kitchen - what could be more special than that?! Just remember that we need at least two weeks’ notice to prepare this so be sure to order well in advance to avoid disappointment - the bakery gets very busy! Molly’s Patisserie Dream Cake - Are you looking for something even more grand? Perhaps you have a whole group of hungry canines to feed at the party? This cake is made in the same bakery as the previous one but features a two-tier design, making it suitable for even more dogs. It is made from fresh pet-friendly ingredients with delectable carob icing and a dash of honey. Just like the smaller cakes, please allow a full two weeks for delivery as these are baked to order. This really is the ultimate dog birthday cake! We hope you like our list of the best celebratory dog treats. We're sure, with a few of these treats, that your next dog birthday party or afternoon tea will be the most delightful ever. You'll be giving the Mad Hatter a run for his money! If you're not sure what to get your pup for their birthday why not try one of our Happy Birthday Boxes? They have a couple of new toys and a cake in for your dog to enjoy, they come in a gift box so are pawfect for their big day!

By Zac Girdlestone

Cosy & Calming Puppy Crate Bed With Removable Covers In Moss Orkney Tweed by Lords & Labradors

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Dog Crate with Cosy & Calming Puppy Crate Bed in Moss Orkney Tweed by Lords & Labradors

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Dog Cushion in Opal Minerals by Lords & Labradors

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IMAC Frida Top Entry Litter Box Blue

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Dog Crate with Crate Cover in Emerald Minerals by Lords & Labradors

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Dog Crate with Cushion & Bumper in Rose Quartz Minerals by Lords & Labradors

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