Lords & Labradors Information Hub

The home of handy tips and advice dedicated to pet owners

  • How Often Should You Replace Your Dog’s Bed?
    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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  • The Importance Of Correct Nutrition For Dogs And Cats!
    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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  • Dog Crate Sets & Crate Aftercare
    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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  • How To Travel With A Dog In A Car
    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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  • The Top 10 Puppy Essentials
    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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Which Dog Matches Your Star Sign?
28.02.20 February 28, 2020 Owning a Dog Featured

Which Dog Matches Your Star Sign?

If you’ve made the decision to get a dog but don’t know what breed to get, you’re not alone. After all, there are so many to choose from and narrowing it down to just one can be quite difficult. You have to take many things into consideration, from what size dog is best for your home, whether you want a puppy or adult, how much exercise the dog requires and whether to get a pedigree or crossbreed.  Not only that, but getting a dog is going to take up a lot of your time and you need to ensure that your new furry-friend will be an ideal match for you and your lifestyle. Remember, when you get a dog, you’re making a big commitment - one that will hopefully last for many years. Naturally, you’ll want to form the best relationship possible with your four-legged companion.  Each dog is unique and different, so it’s important to remember that they will all have their own personality. While you may find one type of dog particularly cuter than another, it doesn’t necessarily mean that that breed’s temperament is a good match for you. This is why it’s important to ensure that you have done enough research into the breed of dog you’re considering before committing.  People and dogs have certain characteristics that align to help make for the perfect match. We have created a fun interactive that looks at the traits of each star sign and the role they may play in helping you find a pooch that would make the ideal companion. Find your zodiac below to reveal which type of doggo is perfect for you. Let us know if you agree with your dog match using the hashtag #YourDogDestiny and don’t forget to tag us on social.   

By Johanna Buitelaar-Warden

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Top Dog Friendly Events - Fitness & Activity Events for Dogs
25.02.20 February 25, 2020 Travel Featured

Top Dog Friendly Events - Fitness & Activity Events for Dogs

Spring is just around the corner and we’ve already started to add events to our Spring/Summer calendar. If you’re anything like us, you’ll love a good day out for all the family, including your canine family members. There are a whole array of dog friendly events going on throughout the year - some festivals, some activity based, some exhibitions. Here we take a look at some of the outdoorsy, activity based events in particular; events perfect for fitness and outdoor loving dogs. So if your dog loves a physical challenge, best put one of these in the diary. And don’t worry, not all of these are for the fittest dogs and people, there are some more relaxed dog walking events too!   The Great British Dog Walk - Various Places around the UK throughout the Year An event for all the family, The Great British Dog Walk is the perfect way to get out and about in a picturesque part of the country whilst raising money for charity. There will be a dog walk to suit everyone with walks planned throughout the year, some with dog agility courses, shows and games. Head to the Great British Dog Walk website to find your nearest walk and sign up.   Wag-a-Tail Trail - 5th April, Sheffield This is an organised guided walk around a beautiful wooded part of Yorkshire. You will be guided by Eastern Moors and Longshaw rangers around some hidden gem locations. Every dog that takes part will get their very own goody bag to take home! Go to the Eventbrite website here for more information and to book tickets.   Muddy Dog Challenge - Various dates and Locations If you and your dog like a physical challenge, then why not try the Muddy Dog Challenge?! You can choose either a 2.5km or 5km obstacle run and you can choose to run either with or without your dog. It’s for a great charity too; you’ll be raising money for Battersea who provide care for thousands of dogs and cats every year. You can find out more information and book your place here at the Muddy Dog website.   Muddy Dog Trek - Various Dates and Locations Another Battersea event, the trek involves a 10km or 20km walk through the South Downs or Cotswolds. The Muddy Dog Trek is for those who like an extra long walk in the rambling British countryside. It won’t be suitable for all dogs, but is the perfect event for those who like an adventure. You’ll get a t-shirt and bandana for your efforts as well as a glass of bubbles and medal and rosette at the finish line. Take a look at the Battersea website here for more information and to book your place.   Maverick Dog Friendly Races - Various Dates and Locations Maverick run a number of different challenge style events including one especially for dogs. This is perfect for those who love to get active in the great outdoors. There are a number of dog friendly races taking place around the country on various dates, so check out the website here to find out more information. So which might you decide to take part in? Don’t forget, like humans, dog’s will need to work their stamina up to the more intensive challenges. Steadily increase the length of your walks on a regular basis and you’ll be ready for that 10km in no time! If you’re not sure whether a certain event is right for you and your dog, you could always have a little chat with your vet to get their advice.

By Megan Willis

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Pet Dental Awareness Month
18.02.20 February 18, 2020 Health Featured

Pet Dental Awareness Month

February is Pet Dental Awareness Month. Dental disease in cats and dogs is more common than one might think. Oral problems aren’t just a cosmetic issue, but if left untreated can cause serious health problems. With a little care and regular check-ups you should be able to keep on top of any issues that may arise. Here we look at ways to spot signs of decay and how to prevent any problems occurring:   How To Spot Signs Of Tooth Decay In Dogs And Cats The main way to tell if your cat or dog have dental issues is their breath. Bad breath is a sign that something isn’t quite right. In this case, book them in for a check-up to be on the safe side. Other signs include bleeding gums, discoloured teeth and pawing at the mouth.   How To Brush Your Dog’s Teeth It’s really important to check and care for your pet’s teeth as best you can. If you have a willing pet, regular brushing is the best way to prevent tooth decay and other oral problems. It’s a good idea to start young as they’re much more likely to be accepting of the routine than an older dog. Make sure your dog is relaxed and calm. Start slow, try touching your dog’s mouth and exposing the teeth first to see how they react. You might need to do just this for a few times before going in with the toothbrush. Let your dog lick some toothpaste from your finger, so they get used to the texture and flavour. Once they seem happy, you can use a soft toothbrush to carefully brush their teeth. Don’t forget to go all the way to the gemlike and to massage gently. Brushing in small circles is ideal moving slowly around the mouth. Focus on the outside of the teeth. You can try to get the inside, but if your dog clenches their teeth, don’t worry too much. Your dog’s rough tongue will help clean this area. Talk to your dog through the process, keeping them as calm and relaxed as possible. Give them a good pat afterwards and maybe their favourite treat!     Other Ways To Prevent Tooth Decay If you have pet who is unwilling to have their teeth brushed, there other ways to help prevent problems. Dental toys, dental chews and  dry food. Whilst these aren’t as effective as regular brushing, there are a range of products to help keep teeth and gums healthy. Look for chew toys, treats and foods that are specifically designed for oral care.   Regular Vet Check-Ups Your vet should check over your pets teeth as part of their regular check-up, but if you have any specific concerns ask if they can do a thorough check-up.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Persian Kitten
11.02.20 February 11, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Persian Kitten

We are all familiar with the distinct looks of the Persian breed; their large round eyes and dense long fur being the two main features. Generally a quiet breed, they are extremely popular pets and suit an indoor lifestyle. They tend to be very close to their owners, the epitome of a lap cat, and also tend to be friendly towards strangers. This agreeable personality and cute good looks mean they are the 3rd and 5th most popular cat breeds in the USA and UK respectively. Here we take a closer look at the Persian and consider all the things you’ll need if you’re thinking of making a Persian your next pet!   The History of the Persian Breed There's no doubt about it, Persians are one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds. It is not fully clear when Persians first appeared, but the first documented ancestor of this long-haired cat was in Italy in 1620. Recent research has found that present day Persians are in fact descended from cats bred in Western Europe rather than their Near Eastern cousins. Today there are two main types of Persian: the traditional or Doll-face and the Peke-face and ultra type. The Doll-Face is essentially the most traditional of the breed, without the extreme features of the more recently developed, flat-faced peke-face and ultra types. In general the former are more popular amongst pet owners and the latter more favoured by those who show their cats.   What Should I Get for My Persian Kitten? So you’ve decided to get a Persian? Congratulations are in order! If you're not sure what to buy for them though, we're here to help. Like most cats, the essentials are pretty much the same, but there is one really important factor when it comes to Persians: Grooming! They needs lots of grooming!  Take a look at our shopping list here where we make our recommendations for this beautiful breed: Large Size Litter Tray - A large sized hooded cat litter tray is ideal to give them the room and privacy to toilet in comfort. It’s highly likely they will be indoor pets, so giving them a space to toilet in peace is a must.  Velvet Cat Bed - Persians tend to live very steady lifestyles and will be happy mainly lying around and snoozing. A cat bed that is soft and plump will ensure they have somewhere to sleep and nap when they please. Our Luxury velvet cushions are perfect as they have the good looks your Persian deserves as well as the cosy comfort!  Prescribed Diet - When planning your Persian cat’s diet you should take into consideration their typically less active lifestyle and their plush coat. Feeding a good quality food that is low in fat is often the best option and if you can find a food that promotes a healthy coat even better! If you’re unsure of where to start, it’s always a good idea to chat to your breeder and your vet. Of course cat’s are all individuals, so things like flavour may come down to your cat’s personal taste too. Food and Water Bowl - You will need at least two bowls; one for water and one for food, a third if you're going to feed both wet and dry food. There are a number of gorgeous bowls in our shop. Which you choose will come down to personal preference. Scratch Tree - As we’ve mentioned before, Persian’s tend to lead a less active lifestyle than many other breeds. With this in mind, offering as much opportunity to exercise and scratch indoors is a must. A tall scratch post with platform is advisable so they have somewhere to sate their scratching needs as well as lounge. Grooming Kit - Getting the right grooming kit for Persian cats is a must. The catit longhair grooming kit is ideal as it has all the tools necessary to keep your cat’s coat in tip top condition. Persians have a fine topcoat with a very dense undercoat and ensuring you take care of the hair from root to tip is imperative. There are many guides on how to groom cats and the Catit kit itself comes with some great information. It might be worth taking your cat to a professional groomer once a month too,  just to keep on top of it properly. A daily brush at least, is essential. Cat Shampoo - You may find brushing isn’t quite enough and choose to bathe your cat as well. It shouldn’t need to be done more than once a month (unless you plan to show your cat) and if you begin bathing whilst they are a kitten they should soon get used to the routine. Animology make a great quality cat shampoo called ‘Feline Great’. This shampoo is 100% pet safe and will promote a healthy coat. Don’t forget to dry them off well so they don’t get cold.  Cat Toys -  Provide your cat with a variety of cat toys so they don’t get bored. Persian cats generally lead very happy lives indoors, but this doesn’t mean they don’t ever get bored. Provide them with an environment that will stimulate their minds. As well as a scratch post give them a couple of teaser toys and some catnip mice to bat about. They may not be as playful or energetic as some other breeds, but they will definitely appreciate some fun activities around their home. If you have any questions about our article, please do get in touch. We love to hear from you and will be happy to help in any way we can. And on another note, don't forget to send us your pictures. We love to see pictures of your four legged friends!  

By Zac Girdlestone

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How To Crate Train A Dog
10.02.20 February 10, 2020 Owning a Dog Featured

How To Crate Train A Dog

The idea of crate training your bundle of joy can seem daunting at first, but it’s not as tedious as you may think. All you need is patience and perseverance. Crates can be used in numerous ways for different purposes, such as teaching dogs and puppies bladder control and encouraging obedience. When training your dog, you want them to see the crate not as a punishment, but as their den, bed and safe place.      There are several different crate training processes. It can take weeks or even months to train your pet properly, with factors such as age, temperament and former experiences all affecting how quickly they are able to progress. Adult dogs and puppies can be trained in the same way, although generally, puppies tend to pick things up faster.  Disobedient dogs can ruin your furniture, chew your shoes and rummage through your bins, causing you a lot of stress and costing you money as a result. Crate training is designed to counteract this kind of behaviour. In this blog, you’ll find out exactly what crate training is, how to do it and why it’s so important.   What Is Crate Training? Crate training describes the process of teaching a dog to relax in a crate. It takes time for dogs to feel comfortable in an unusual environment, so several training methods can be practised to speed the process along.  If a dog is forced into a crate without proper training, they will feel trapped and associate it with fear instead of security. That’s why crate training relies on positive reinforcement, such as using dog treats and toys to strengthen the notion of the crate being a pleasant space.  This particular kind of training should be implemented in small steps. This is where patience comes in. Your dog may be reluctant at first, so it’s all about repetition and positivity, offering lots of praise and love throughout.   How To Crate Train A Dog First and foremost, you should ensure that the cage is large enough to accommodate your dog. If they can stand up and turn around in it comfortably, it should be fine. To make it as appealing as possible, soften it with cushions and blankets to create the perfect snuggle spot for your furry companion. Once your crate is all set up in a convenient area like the living room, you can start the training procedure by enacting the following steps: Introducing your dog to the crate - When presenting the crate to your dog for the first time, make sure that the door is securely open. It can usually be fastened to the side of the cage to prevent it from closing on your dog abruptly. Your dog might go straight in and explore or be extremely cautious and hesitant.  If this is the case, drop a trail of food treats leading up to the cage, inside the door and in the middle of it. Don’t force them in if they’re refusing to enter, just keep dropping the treats inside the cage until they calmly go in. If food isn’t working, throw their favourite toy inside. This process could take anywhere from several minutes to a couple of days, so just keep on persisting.  Feed your dog meals in the crate - When your dog willingly goes in the crate to collect their treats, place their food dish inside and towards the back of the crate. If they’re still slightly reluctant, place their dish near the crate door and push the dish further back in the crate every time you feed them. After your dog becomes accustomed to eating their meal in the crate, you should close the door while they are having their food. The first time you do this, open the door immediately after they finish their food. From then on, try leaving the door closed for a bit longer each time after they’ve finished eating. If your dog begins to whine and cry, don’t open the door until they stop, or they’ll learn that’s how to get out.  Close the door for longer periods of time - As you reach a point where your dog is eating regularly in the crate and remains undeterred by the door closing, start confining them in for short periods of time while you’re in the same room. You should repeat commands to enter, such as “crate” or “bed”, in a friendly tone and praise them with a treat every time they go in. Practice sitting near the cage at first, then move to other parts of the house for short bursts of time. After this, return to the same spot and let them out of the cage after a few minutes. Do this several times throughout the day, each time increasing the duration of your absence. Once you’ve reached 30 minutes with no disturbances, you can leave them when you’re out of the house for short periods, as well as letting them sleep there during the night.     Why Is Crate Training Important? Crate training provides dogs with a sense of comfort and security. Dogs are den animals after all. They instinctively seek out confined spaces to find a shelter for themselves. Crate training is beneficial because it means that the crate will become a dog’s safe haven.  It’s recommended to crate train dogs from a young age. Crates encourage bladder control as dogs don’t like to soil their sleeping quarters, which in turn helps to establish a routine. You can personally enjoy peace of mind when leaving the house, knowing that your dog is safe and happy within their cage. Crates are also the ideal solution for confining your dog at times when they may be feeling overexcited or confused, such as having lots of guests in the house. They can be taken into cars for a safe way to travel with your dog too, as well as giving you the opportunity to take them to places where they may not be allowed out. The perfect resting place for dogs, a crate can have a profoundly positive effect on both yours and your pet’s life when used humanely and correctly. 

By Johanna Buitelaar-Warden

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Our Favourite Winter Accessories for Pets
28.01.20 January 28, 2020 Seasonal Featured

Our Favourite Winter Accessories for Pets

Winter can be a dark, dull month so why not brighten it up with some new accessories?! It's important to keep our dogs warm in the cold weather, especially if you have a toy dog or short/fine haired breed. If you’re looking for a new dog walking set or snuggly dog coat for your pup, look no further! We’ve picked out some of our favourite items that are just perfect for the cold weather…   Ruffwear Dog Coats & Accessories If you’re looking for the most practical outdoor dog accessories then Ruffwear is the go-to brand. Ruffwear design dog products to be used in all kinds of conditions, from the hottest to the coldest. We love their range of winter dog coats, especially as they have a plethora of walking accessories, including collars, leads and harnesses, to match!   Mutts & Hounds Dog Coats & Accessories We love the stylish tweed dog coats by Mutts & Hounds. Fashion and function collide to make coats and accessories that work for everyday. We are particularly in love with the wax jackets - now our pup will coordinate with us in our Barbour jackets; and the dog bow ties are adorable for indoor and outdoor wear!     House of Paws Dog Jumpers If you have a toy or fine haired breed, keeping them warm in Winter is really important. The cable knit jumpers from House of Paws ar ideal for the Winter. They come in a range of sizes and colours to suit a variety of breeds.   Feline Favourites from the Cat Emporium We don't need to clothe our cats like our canine companions, but there are some items that you might like to invest in to make your cat more comfortable and keep them active indoors during the coldest months. We have some gorgeous plush beds that will offer your cats the cosiest nights sleep as well as some toys that will keep them occupied when the adverse weather stops them getting outside.   Cosmopolitan Cat Beds A recent addition to our range of cat beds and the sister design to our popular Cosmopolitan Dog fabric, Cosmopolitan Cat is a silhouette print featuring various breed including a Ragdoll cat, British Shorthair and black cat. Available in a super squishy donut bed with cosy sherpa fleece top or the snuggle bed; the same donut shape with an added blanket layer of sherpa so your furry companion can snuggle under the covers!       Luxury Velvet Cat Beds and Matching Blankets Our luxury velvet beds for cats are perfect for the colder months. The super soft, plush velvet is perfect for snuggling down into when the temperature drops. Available in three beautiful colours that will look gorgeous in any room!   Cat Toys A bored cat can become anxious and unsettled, so combat that with plenty of toys! If you have an outdoor cat, you may find they don't want to go out as much or you may want to keep them indoors in adverse weather during the Winter. Providing them with plenty of stimulation at times like this is most important. Here are a few toys we really like that will help keep them active when they can't get outside.  Catnip toys such as the KONG Patchwork Teddy Jollly Moggy Catnip Mice are ideal for cats; the catnip will entice and keep them coming back for more, and they can bat the toy around and chase to their heart's content! These are great for you to join in the fun. You can throw them around and watch your cat play The KONG window teaser has all the same benefits of the previous two, but as sticks on the wall, your cat can go back and forth and play on its own. How adorable is the feathered bird. Your cat will never get bored of stalling out his feathered prey! Below is a collection of our Catit Senses 2.0 toys. These really are the ultimate in feline entertainment. The items are all designed to work alone or together as in the picture to create a mini playground for your cat. Each piece is designed to appeal to one of your cat's very unique senses - when put together your cat will find a myriad of things to do to sate all of their desires: scratch, massage, stretch, play, hunt, eat... they will find all of that and more in a world of Catit Senses!​ These are just a few of our favourite winter things for cats and dogs. Explore our collections online and you'll find all sorts of goodies that your pets will love.  If you have any questions about anything in this article, do get in touch; we're always happy to help with any queries.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New British Shorthair Kitten
14.01.20 January 14, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New British Shorthair Kitten

It is probably no surprise that the British Shorthair is the most popular pedigree breed in the UK. Who couldn’t fall for those big amber eyes and super squishy cheeks?! They are not only loved for their beautiful, teddybear-like appearance, but for their loving temperament. Rather than the usual feline aloofness, British Shorthairs are known for their loving nature making them great family pets. They are less independent than other breeds, love human company and will follow their owners from room to room. In this article, we talk a little about the history of the breed and then discuss the ideal shopping list for those who are about to bring their new British Shorthair kitten home.   The History of the British Shorthair Cat They're the oldest pedigree breed in England and once known as the British Blue as that was their only coat colour, they are thought to have descended from domestic cats imported from Egypt. They became extremely popular in the Victorian era and were the only breed to be shown at some of the earliest cat shows. They almost became extinct after the World Wars but were revitalised, with the American Cat Association accepting the breed in 1967 followed by the International Cat Association and Cat Fanciers Association in 1979 and 1980 respectively. Since then the breed has only grown further in popularity and can be seen in almost every coat colour - the most popular is still Blue (grey).   British Shorthair Kitten Shopping List Are you wondering what to buy your British Shorthair Kitten? Here are our recommendations: Lords and Labradors Cat Washroom  While British Shorthairs love company and being around their human parents, they do like privacy when they go to the loo! Our Lords and Labradors Cat Washrooms will provide a private space to do their business. The breed can grow quite large; they are naturally round with a broad chest so make sure you choose a litter tray large enough for them.   Cosy Cat Bed There are a number of options when it comes to cat beds. We all know cats can be stubborn and once they find their favourite spot to sleep, no amount of coaxing will get them to sleep elsewhere. It’s best to see what kind of thing they like to sleep on and go from there. Shop our full range and choose your favourite - there is a bed to suit every cat and every interior decor too!   Cat Food British Shorthairs mainly live indoors and due to their naturally sedentary lifestyle and huge appetites can gain weight quickly. We’d suggest a good quality food designed for indoor, less active cats that is lower in fat. You could speak to your vet for their opinion and also your breeder to find out what their cats eat. We tend to suggest a mix of dry food and wet for all cats. The dry food helps clean their teeth whilst the wet helps to keep them hydrated - cats naturally don’t tend to drink vast amounts of water. Keep a bowl of dry food down all day for grazing along with fresh water and then feed a meal or two of wet food; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Every cat is a little different and finding the right food for your particular cat will come with time and advice form your vet if needed.   Cat Bowls You will need bowls to put their food in. We love small bowls as they're ideal for dry food and water whilst the saucers are perfect for a portion of wet food.  Catit also make a cat water fountain. As we said before, many cats will shun their water bowl and drink little. The fountain provides a trickle of filtered water which may just encourage fussy cats to drink more. Many cats favour running water over still - how many of you have a cat who takes a drink from a running tap?!  The filtration also means the water stays fresh and free of any nasties.    Shorthair Cat Grooming Kit The British Shorthair is known for its thick, plush coat which doesn’t require a lot of attention. A weekly brush should usually suffice with a more regular groom during shedding seasons which are usually in the Spring and Autumn.   Scratch Post or Tree Most people will keep to choose their pedigree cat indoors. British Shorthairs in particular can be rather relaxed and trusting so letting them out isn’t always the best idea. If they are going to be indoor pets, then a decently proportioned cat scratch tree is a must. A series of posts and platforms will Gove them an area to exercise and allow them to scratch. Rather than a bad habit, scratching is a necessary , natural instinct in cats and keeps their claws healthy and allows them to stretch out their muscles. We’d definitely suggest investing in a tree as large as you have room for. Obviously if you live a small apartment or flat you will need to be clever about what you choose. You could opt for some platforms that attach to the wall if you have limited floor space and then have just a small post on the floor. Whatever you choose, creating an environment that allows your cat to exercise and fulfilling their scratching needs is a must.     Cat Toys! It’s important to give your cat plenty of stimulation, especially those living solely indoors. A series of toys will help with development, appeal to their hunting instincts and is also great bonding time with owners. Buy a mixture of toys; some catnip mice for them to play hunt, a wand teaser toy so you can play with them and perhaps a puzzle toy with a tasty treat reward. Try to rotate their toys so that they don’t get bored. New things should keep them interested longer!   Cat Carrier Whether you need something for short journeys or longer ones, a good quality carrier in an appropriate size is a must-have. You will need something from the day you collect your new bundle of joy to transport them home in safety. Our favourite is the Mobile Dog Gear Pet Carrier plus. This has a number of features to make journeying with your cat a breeze. The top opening makes trips to the vet super easy, there are fitted bowls for feeding on longer journeys and it can be seat belted into the car for safety. An all round super product!

By Zac Girdlestone

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Winter Pet Safety Advice - Keeping Your Pet Safe In The Cold
07.01.20 January 07, 2020 Health Featured

Winter Pet Safety Advice - Keeping Your Pet Safe In The Cold

​Christmas is behind us and we’ve just entered the New Year. We may be well into Winter, but the coldest weeks are still ahead. Frosty mornings and plummeting temperatures can pose a challenge for many reasons, not least for looking after our pets. There’s no reason not to enjoy the Winter period; we love crisp morning walks and then snuggling down under a blanket with a hot drink on our return, but it’s essential to make sure you take extra precautions to ensure your pet stays warm and safe at the same time. Here we point out a few hazards for pet owners to consider during Winter:   Winter Safety Tips for Dogs Keep Them Warm This may seem obvious, but maintaining your dog’s body temperature is really important. Wrap them up warm when going out for walks - especially short and fine haired breeds, and make sure if they get wet that you quickly dry them as soon as possible. Keeping a drying coat in the car when travelling is great, as you can quickly change them into this from their coat to help dry them more quickly and regulate their body temperature.  Visibility is Imperative We all know how short daylight hours are in the Winter. Not only this, but visibility can be much lower than usual in the daytime too, especially in certain weather conditions. If you’re venturing out with your dog in the dark or when visibility is low, making sure you're BOTH visible is a must. Reflective clothing, leads and collars with reflective strips and even a light of some kind will all ensure you can be seen by motorists and other people out and about. The Ruffwear Range of coats and accessories are perfect for outdoors adventures as many pieces feature reflective strips. Maybe attach a Beacon Safety Light to your dogs collar or coat too - you can’t be too safe. Be careful of snow, ice and grit Walking in snow and ice can be painful for dogs. If you’ve been out in the snow, make sure you dry their paws thoroughly after and ensure no ice has collected in-between toes. It’s also essential that you’re aware of grit. Some grit used to defrost roads and pathways can cause burns to dogs paws and can even be toxic if ingested. You could make your dog wear special all weather boots to protect them in icy or snowy conditions. If not, try not to walk in areas that have been gritted and always clean their paws well on your return.   Keep Them Active Indoors There may be some days that you don’t want to take your dog out - perhaps you don’t want to risk the snow or ice. In this case it’s important to keep your dog as active and exercised indoors as is possible. Keep them occupied with lots of toys. Puzzle games and interactive toys with a tasty treat element are perfect for these days. It’ll keep their brain stimulated and boredom levels low.   Don’t Leave your Dog Unattended in the car Just as you wouldn’t leave your dog in the car on a sweltering hot day in the Summer, you shouldn’t leave them alone in a vehicle in the Winter either. Temperatures can drop quickly in cold weather. Even if your dog is wearing a coat, it’s not suitable to leave them alone for long.   Winter Safety Tips for Cats Keep Your Cat Warm and Dry It may seem obvious, but keeping your cat as warm as possible is your number one priority. If you have an outdoor cat, you might want to limit their outdoor adventures, especially after dark. Be Wary of Antifreeze Anti freeze is extremely toxic to cats and many other wildlife and can be fatal if ingested. Be careful when using it, spray sparingly and try not to spill it anywhere. Store such products in a safe place and clean any spillages immediately. If you notice your cat vomiting, drinking more often or breathing abnormally with a high heart rate, it could be sign that they’ve ingested antifreeze. In this case seek veterinary advice immediately; it’s imperative that they are treated as soon as possible. Check Your Car in the Morning Cats seek warmth in the winter and it’s not unusual for them to crawl under car bonnets and wheel arches. Tap your bonnet in the morning before you drive to startle any hiding neighbourhood cats before you drive off. Provide them a litter tray You should ideally provide your cat with a litter tray all year round, even for outdoor cats who prefer to toilet outside. A litter tray will give them somewhere safe to relieve themselves when it isn’t possible of safe or convenient to go outside.  Keep Them Away From Hot Things This may sound counter productive, but hot fires and stoves are equally as dangerous as the snow outside. Never leave your cat alone around open fires or any other burning hot implement such as candles or hot radiators. They need to keep warm, but in a safe controlled environment. Provide lots of indoor Activities Indoor cats will probably have a plethora of toys around them anyway, but it’s really important to offer the same to outdoor cats in the coldest months. If you’re going to keep your outdoor cat inside more often, giving them mental stimulation is a must. Plenty of toys and scratching accessories will make sure they don’t get bored and allow them to exercise indoors.  Provide Outdoor Shelter Ensure your cat has somewhere to retreat if they do get caught outside in inclement weather. It may be fine when you let them outside, only for it to snow an hour later. Make sure there is somewhere in your garden that they can get to keep as warm and dry as possible.                         Fresh Water Many outdoor cats prefer to drink outside. If this is the case, make sure you clean out the bowls on a regular basis and ensure they’re not frozen over. Provide water bowls inside as well, so that they always have access to fresh water.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Have A Happy New Year With Your Pets!
31.12.19 December 31, 2019 Seasonal Featured

Have A Happy New Year With Your Pets!

New Year’s Eve is upon us; it’s time to celebrate all the best parts of the past year and look forward to a new start in 2020 - not only the start of a new year, but a new decade! Whether you’re watching the fireworks on tv or at home; having a few drinks with loved ones; or just having a quiet night in, it’s important to think about our pets at this time of year. Like halloween and Guy Fawkes Night, New Year celebrations often involve fireworks which can be detrimental to your pet’s stress levels. If you live in town, noisy New Year’s party goers may also cause your pet distress. Here we suggest a few things to help keep your pet happy and stress-free this New Year:   Exercise Your Pets Ensuring your dog or cat has plenty of stimulation during the day, will hopefully wear them out enough to keep them restful in the evening. Take dogs on a long walk in the afternoon. If it’s a nice enough day, perhaps play a Game of Fetch to get their mind stimulated. Cat owners should get the Cat Toys out of the toy box and encourage your cat to get hunting those feathers and catnip toys. Hopefully, tired pets will be less bothered by any fireworks or, for those in towns, noisy revellers out and about in the early hours. Also, getting out and about with your pets is a great start to those New Year’s get-fit(ter) resolutions too!   Distract Your Pets If they’re not sleepy or the noise levels wake them from their slumber, offering your pet something nice to focus on will distract them from everything else going on. Give them some tasty treats, perhaps a puzzle toy with some treats inside which should keep them occupied for a while. Hopefully this will help keep their stress levels down. For dogs, we have a host of chew toys, some with tasty treat prizes, that will keep them playing for ours - chew toys are a great solution for all kinds of destructive behaviours caused by boredom or stress.  For cats, the range of Senses toys and activities by Catit are a great idea. Each item can be used alone or in conjunction with other items from the range to create a multi-sensory playground for your felines. They'll be so enthralled with their new toys that they won't notice the fireworks going off in the background!   Prepare a Cosy Den For Your Pet We advise giving your pet a safe space at all times of year, but it’s essential on occasions such as New Year when the festivities might get too much for them. A crate furnished with bedding and a cover is our recommendation for dogs as it offers privacy and comfort when they just want to get away from the rest of the house - pop a Chew toy in too to keep boredom levels low. For a cat, we’d suggest a high scratch tree with covered hideout. Cat’s like to be high up and feel safe when they can retreat to a private space. Whatever space you provide your pet, make sure they are comfortable and maybe add a blanket so they can curl up and feel protected if need be.   Background Noise We mentioned distraction earlier - if toys aren’t enough, then turning on the tv or radio may help drown out any noises outside. Pick something calming if possible; the last thing you want to do is add the noise of a loud action film to the New Year’s celebrations.   Pet Calming Products We have a range of premium calming products for pets that are great for any situations that could cause them distress or nerves. These are ideal for travelling, moving home or any other time when your pet might get stressed by a change to routine. We have sourced balms, sprays, room diffusers, calming jackets and edible treats. Shop our range here: anxious-pet We hope our tips help you and your pets this New Year's Eve. However you decide to celebrate this New Year, we hope you have a happy and healthy one and wish you all the best for 2020.  If you have any questions about this article or have any other queries, please do get in touch. We’ll do our best to help in any way we can.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Picture Perfect Pets - Christmas Dressing Up Outfits & Accessories for Dogs
12.12.19 December 12, 2019 Seasonal Featured

Picture Perfect Pets - Christmas Dressing Up Outfits & Accessories for Dogs

Who doesn’t love sharing a picture or two to their social media timeline during the festive period? Maybe you send out family portrait Christmas cards?  We have a whole Dressing-Up Box full of festive themed fancies so your pup will look their best when the camera flashes. From stylish bandanas and bow ties to novelty jumpers and hoodies, there is an outfit to suit even the fussiest furry fashionista!   Dog Bow Ties & Bandanas For the dapper dog about town one of our many Christmas inspired bandanas or festive bow ties will add the perfect finishing touch to their look. Whether it’s a festive print such as the adorable snowman or snowflake patterns, or you opt for an oh-so-sparkly sequinned version, your pup will look a bobby dazzler when the camera comes out.   Dog Christmas Jumpers If you’re looking for something practical as well as adorable, then a Christmas jumper might be just the thing. We have novelty versions for fun loving dogs or more stylish cable knit and star adorned designs for fashion conscious pups. Whatever their style there’s a Christmas jumper to suit.   Dog Hats & Scarves Top off your dog’s festive look with a Christmas hat or scarf. We have knitted scarves to match some of our jumpers as well as a variety of hats - from knitted snoods to novelty Santa and elf hats. Whatever the theme of your pictures or Christmas Cards we have something for your dog to wear that will enhance the theme perfectly. Whether you’re going for fun-loving and a little silly or you’re looking to create a stylish, more refined aesthetic, there is bound to be something on our dressing-up box rails for you. Don't forget to tag us in your social media posts... we'd love to see your pup wearing their Christmas outfit! 

By Zac Girdlestone

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All Eyes On New

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    Tavo Hendrick Stroller Adapter

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    Tavo Hendrick Stroller Adapter

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  • Tavo Shell Pet Bed & Swaying Lounger - Latte

    Tavo Shell Pet Bed & Swaying Lounger - Latte

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    Tavo Shell Pet Bed & Swaying Lounger - Latte

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  • Tavo Hendrick Small Dog Carrier & Car Seat with ISOFIX - Onyx

    Tavo Hendrick Small Dog Carrier & Car Seat with ISOFIX - Onyx

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    Tavo Hendrick Small Dog Carrier & Car Seat with ISOFIX - Onyx

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  • Tavo Additional ISOFIX Base For Tavo Maeve Pet Protection System

    Tavo Additional ISOFIX Base For Tavo Maeve Pet Protection System

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    Tavo Additional ISOFIX Base For Tavo Maeve Pet Protection System

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  • Tavo Roscoe Stroller Frame for Maeve and Hendrick

    Tavo Roscoe Stroller Frame for Maeve and Hendrick

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    Tavo Roscoe Stroller Frame for Maeve and Hendrick

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  • Tavo Dupree Small Dog Carrier & Car Seat with ISOFIX - Merle

    Tavo Dupree Small Dog Carrier & Car Seat with ISOFIX - Merle

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    Tavo Dupree Small Dog Carrier & Car Seat with ISOFIX - Merle

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  • Tavo Crispin Pet Travel Crate with ISOFOX Connectors - Onyx

    Tavo Crispin Pet Travel Crate with ISOFOX Connectors - Onyx

    Tavo

    Tavo Crispin Pet Travel Crate with ISOFOX Connectors - Onyx

    £374.99
    £374.99
    + 2 Colours
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  • Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat Medium with ISOFIX Base - Sable

    Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat Medium with ISOFIX Base - Sable

    Tavo

    Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat Medium with ISOFIX Base - Sable

    £449.99
    £449.99
    + 1 Size | 5 Colours
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  • Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat with ISOFIX Base - Onyx

    Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat with ISOFIX Base - Onyx

    Tavo

    Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat with ISOFIX Base - Onyx

    From £349.99
    From £349.99
    + 2 Sizes | 5 Colours
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  • Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat with ISOFIX Base - Merle

    Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat with ISOFIX Base - Merle

    Tavo

    Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat with ISOFIX Base - Merle

    From £349.99
    From £349.99
    + 2 Sizes | 5 Colours
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  • Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat With Base in Fawn

    Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat With Base in Fawn

    Tavo

    Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat With Base in Fawn

    £449.99
    £449.99
    + 1 Size | 5 Colours
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  • Tavo Dupree Small Dog Carrier & Car Seat with ISOFIX - Onyx

    Tavo Dupree Small Dog Carrier & Car Seat with ISOFIX - Onyx

    Tavo

    Tavo Dupree Small Dog Carrier & Car Seat with ISOFIX - Onyx

    £249.99
    £249.99
    + 2 Colours
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  • Tavo Crispin Pet Travel Crate with ISOFOX Connectors - Merle

    Tavo Crispin Pet Travel Crate with ISOFOX Connectors - Merle

    Tavo

    Tavo Crispin Pet Travel Crate with ISOFOX Connectors - Merle

    £374.99
    £374.99
    + 2 Colours
    Trustpilot
  • Rosewood Easter Mini Eggs For Dogs 150g

    Rosewood Easter Mini Eggs For Dogs 150g

    Rosewood

    Rosewood Easter Mini Eggs For Dogs 150g

    £2.49
    £2.49
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  • Felix Joyables Duck Liquid Treats 4 x 10g

    Felix Joyables Duck Liquid Treats 4 x 10g

    Felix

    Felix Joyables Duck Liquid Treats 4 x 10g

    £1.39
    £1.39
    Trustpilot
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