The Pet Supplies Blog

Labor Day Sale at GregRobert Pet Supplies

2008-08-30T09:04:00.000-07:00

This just in:

GregRobert Pet Supplies Huge Labor Day Sale

From now until September 3rd - save $5.00 on the following items using coupon code: laborday (all lowercase). (If you are going to use Google Checkout - you may use code googlerocks on these items).

and MANY more items!

In addition, use coupon code laborday to save $5.00 on orders greater than $70.00. Use googlerocks on Google checkout orders (>$75)

We have not heard of any other Pet stores having a labor day sale. Traditionally, there is no Petco labor day sale and no Petsmart labor day sale.

If you know of any other sales this weekend on pet supplies - PLEASE post them here so that our visitors can save this weekend.

Did you know?

Labor Day was created to celebrate America’s working men and women and their
social and economic achievements. Labor Day was started in 1882 and is credited
to New York City’s Central Labor Union as they were the first to organize a
celebration that included picnics, speeches and protests in favor of labor
unions.

Make sure to honor your hard-working animal companion this labor day!

Happy Labor Day from all of us at Petazon!

Today is National Dog Day and GregRobert is Celebrating

2008-08-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

GregRobert announces a 2-day sale:

August 26th and August 27th to celebrate Dog Day in the US. Buy $75 of dog supplies (any kind) and save $5.00 on the already discounted prices. (use coupon code: michbiz)

Say YES to supporting National Dog Day with GregRobert Dog Supplies

National Dog Day has two goals:

to honor dogs, and
to rescue dogs from homelessness and abuse.

It's an opportunity for us to recognize and appreciate the value and importance of dogs in our lives.

President George W. Bush, a dog owner himself, sent a letter to the foundation in support of National Dog Day.

National Dog Day wishes to encourage dog ownership of all breeds, mixed and pure - and embraces the opportunity for all dogs to live a happy, safe and ”abuse-free life”.

We did a little bit of research on National Dog Day and found out that there is a discrepancy with respect to which day it really lands on. Some websites say that it is August 26th each year and some websites say that it is August 23rd each year.

National Dog Week is always the last week in September and that is undisputed :)

What should I do if I witness an animal being mistreated?

If you witness animal abuse or neglect, please contact your local humane society, animal shelter, or animal control agency immediately.

In most areas, those agencies have the authority to enforce state and local laws related to animals and the capability to investigate and resolve these situations. They rely on concerned citizens to be their eyes and ears in the community and to report animal suffering. You can choose to remain anonymous, although giving your name to your humane agency will enable that group to follow up with you when necessary.

Pump Up Summer Energy Savings - Pond Pumps that is!

2008-08-17T17:58:00.000-07:00

Simple maintenance helps your water garden pump operate at peak efficiency and helps you control energy costs. Skim your pond regularly to keep leaves and large debris from clogging the pump.

When debris does accumulate, be sure to clean the pump's pre-filter at the first sign of reduced water flow. Consider purchasing a pump like ClearChoice, which has Mechanical pre-filter sponges that remove suspended debris to improve water clarity. Choosing the right pump and maintaining it properly can ensure reasonable energy costs for every pond owner.

Starting with you!

Calculating Your Monthly Energy Cost

So, just how much does it cost to run your pump? Here are a couple of quick calculations to help you estimate your monthly cost.

Multiply the pump's wattage by .024 to convert to kilowatts.

Multiply that number by the amount you pay per kilowatt hour (you'll find this number on your electric bill, or you can use the national average of $0.0898 per kilowatt hour).

Multiply that number by 30 (days).

The final result is the monthly energy cost for your pump.

If you're paying more than $30 a month, you may want to consider switching to a different pump that's designed for continuous use and energy efficiency.

The Cal Torpedo Pond Pump is energy efficient. It is lightweight, water cooled, uses no oil and can be used in or out of water. Its high volume water flow and low energy consumption makes it the most unique pond pump available, and it requires no tools for installation.

Buy a pond pump at GregRobert and save $5.00 instantly with coupon code: googlerocks. Use this coupon when checking out with standard checkout or use the new Google checkout!

Choosing a Good Litter Box for your Cat

2008-08-13T17:38:00.000-07:00

At first glance, choosing a liter box for your cat seems like a "no-brainer". Just buy the first pan that you see, dump some litter into it, put it in the laundry room and

'Voila - you have a cat waste system that works.

Unfortunately, in most cases that won't work. Cats are very private and personal animals and there are a number of things to consider when purchasing a Litter Pan.

Litter Box Shape Matters to Some Cats: Litter boxes are made in a variety of
shapes that minimize the space they take up in your home. For example, there are wedge-shaped Litter Boxes that fit in a corner or a closet. They take up less space than normal litter boxes (rectangle) but some cats don't like them - so be careful.
The color of the litter box may matter: Litter boxes come in many colors including soft earth tones so they blend in with your decor. Many homeowners choose to cover up the litter box and the discreet,
design of the rattan weave litter box cover by Midwest Homes for Pets looks great in any room.
Some Cats LOVE the hooded boxes and some don't: Hooded litter boxes afford your cat privacy and also help to prevent the accidental spread of waste and urine. They help control odor, too. We love the new Translucent Hooded Litter box in 2 sizes (pictured above)
Self-cleaning litter systems are the latest Gig in cat pans: Built-in cleaning mechanisms, both manual and automatic, make waste removal easier and extend the life of litter. We like the Simply Clean Litter Pan by Radio Systems. The Simply Clean™ Litter Box System reduces odor-causing bacteria by continuously removing waste from the litter bowl and moves it up the conveyor system.
Litter is just as important as the box: New varieties of litter, which come in a range of textures and materials, and litter odor treatments, are popping up everywhere. Try the Feline Pine Cat Litter. Unlike other litters, there are no chemical additives needed to control odor as pine naturally bonds with ammonia, and there is never any sticky, smelly mess to deal with when the box needs to be changed.
Odor Control is a must and is easier with the new products available these days: Effective odor control products can create barriers to prevent the
growth of odor in the litter box. Our favorite is AMMO-cat Litter Additive. AMMO-Cat is a special zeolite resin that absorbs ammonia from cat urine and small animal litter, Ammo-Cat extends the life of cat litter up to three times.

Equally important to consider is getting multiple cat pans. Even if your cat is dead-set on the location and type of box that he or she uses, you could be in BIG trouble if the manufacturer decides to discontinue the product or alter the design such that your kitty will just not use. Keeping an extra "favorite pan" around the house can be a life-saver.

Why do you need a Dechlorinator or Water Conditioner for your Aquarium

2008-07-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

An Aquarium dechlorinator or chlorine remover is an additive that neutralizes chlorine in your aquarium or fish bowl. It is a chemical that reacts with the chlorine in Tap Water. De-chlorinators are ( in general terms ) 'water conditioners'.

Conditioners that ONLY dechlorinate water are the simplest type of water conditioner. Many, like AquaSafe also remove heavy metals that are bad for your fish. Although a dechlorinator is a water conditioner, not all water conditioners are dechlorinators.

Most municipal water supplies and holding tanks for wells in rural communities, farms, and ranches, are treated with chemicals. These chemicals are fine for us humans because they kill off harmful bacteria and other pathogens that are found in the water.

The most common chemicals found in your water are chlorine and chloramine.

The dosages of these chemicals in the water supply are low enough that they are not harmful to mammals (including people, dogs, cats, hamsters, horses, etc) or house plants, they are high enough to cause damage to fish. First they cause damage to your biological filter and eventually will hurt your fish. It is Aquarium 101 (ie .. very important) that your water is treated to remove chlorine with a dechlorinator before you add the water to your tank or fish bowl.

We like to recommend AquaSafe Water Conditioner for fresh and salt water aquariums because it makes tap water safe for your fish. It neutralizes chlorine and heavy metals present in municipal water supplies. If you have Goldfish - try the AquaSafe Goldfish version.

AquaSafe also neutralizes chloramines by breaking down the bond between chlorine and ammonia. It reduces both fish-toxic chlorine and ammonia components. In addition, it enhances the natural protective slime coating of fish to help wounds heal and protect fish from abrasions.

Whether you like our brand or another - never forget to remove the chlorine from water before adding it to your tank.

Urinary Incontinence in Pets

2008-07-21T20:03:00.000-07:00

Urinary Incontinence is an in voluntary loss of control over urination. Bladder incontinence in humans is talked about more and more these days. It used to be a taboo subject not that long ago. (Can you say Detrol?) There is little written about bladder control problems in pets though.

When your pet has urinary incontinence, it may cause your pet to urinate often throughout the entire day and night, or urinate without even knowing it. Urinary incontinence is not inappropriate urination (a behavioral problem) and it is not an urinary tract infection or submissive urination. Submissive urination is when a pet pees when they are yelled at or scared.

A veterinarian may need to test your pet to distinguish between urinary incontinence and other urination problems like submission urination or a urinary tract infection. Before getting too upset with your previously potty trained dog .. be sure to check with the vet that it is not one of these problemsIncontinence in dogs in most cases is primary sphincter mechanism incontinence due to the weakness of the urethral muscle. It is commonly seen in middle aged medium to large-size spayed female dogs.

Signs of urinary incontinence in pets include:

Dribbling urine while they walk
Finding wet spots where they sleep or around the house
Irritated skin from contact with urine

Treatment for incontinence in pets varies based on what’s causing the urination problem. Urinary tract infections are treated with antibiotics. If your pet has urethral weakness, your veterinarian may prescribe estrogen supplementation or another medication.

HomeoPet Leaks No More is specifically for urinary incontinence or "leaking" and is a homeopathic remedy. This is worth trying before jumping into surgery or estrogen supplements.
There are many Dog Diapers on the market that can help.

Urine-off makes a remarkable product that will stop the odor and remove urine stains. Urine-Off contains bacteria and enzymes that were painstakingly isolated and selected specifically for their appetite for the urine salt crystal.

Dog Agility Training - A Bonding Experience

2008-07-18T09:04:00.000-07:00

Agility Training for Dogs is Gaining Popularity as it Follows the past of Equestrian Training

Agility is a sport in which a handler or owner directs a dog through an obstacle course. The sport of agility was originally based on equestrian events, and is now enjoyed by many dogs and human owners or handlers around the world. In the US, agility training is gaining popularity at a speedy rate.

There are a variety of events and contests involving different combinations of obstacles and courses. A standard dog agility course will use nearly every type of obstacle, while a tunnelers course will be only tunnels, a jumpers course will be mostly jumps. Most well known throughout the United States are the jumping courses.

Any breed of dog or mix of breeds (your mutt can do it too!) can enjoy agility training. Some breed personalities and body types may be better suited to competitive agility success. There is no need to compete if you or your dog is not suited. Many owners and dogs get tremendous enjoyment with just training (and showing off to the neighbors and relatives).

While “any” dog can enjoy agility, there are some considerations regarding your dog’s age and overall health. Tremendously overweight dogs should get a clean bill of health before training. Talk to a vet.

Also - many senior dogs are able to enjoy agility into their senior years, but you should talk to your vet to determine if agility is safe for your senior dog.

Puppies Should Wait!

Puppies have soft bone plates in their joints. These bone plates need time to solidify, similar to the skull plates in human babies. Therefore, puppies are not allowed to compete in agility and should not train like adult dogs. Some agility basics can be taught to puppies for fun. Puppy agility training should be done with a professional and more and more “puppy agility” classes are popping up around the US.

Puppies can attend obedience classes prior to agility training so that they are ready to accept more complex commands. They should understand some basic obedience commands, particularly sit, stay, come, and down before starting training.

A great bonding experience - but remember .... safety first!

Save $5.00 on all agility training equipment and training treats that total over $75.00 at GregRobert. Coupon code: michbiz

The Dog Days of Summer Pet Supply Sale at GregRobert

2008-07-09T10:47:00.000-07:00

The "Dog Days of Summer"

Everyone knows that the “dog days of summer” occur during the hottest and muggiest part of the season. Webster defines “dog days” as...

the period between early July and early September when the hot sultry weather of summer usually occurs in the northern hemisphere

a period of stagnation or inactivity

But where does the term come from? Why do we call the hot, sultry days of summer “dog days?”

GregRobert Tip:
The dog days of summer are just around the corner, and pet
owners should be on guard for their furry friends' safety. Now
is the time to think about parasite control, heat stroke and
travel arrangements for cats and dogs.

In ancient times, different groups of peoples in different parts of the world drew images in the sky by “connecting the dots” of stars. The images drawn were dependent upon the culture: The Chinese saw different images than the Native Americans, who saw different pictures than the Europeans. These star pictures are now called constellations, and the constellations that are now mapped out in the sky come from our European ancestors.

They saw images of bears, (Ursa Major and Ursa Minor), twins, (Gemini), a bull, (Taurus), and others, including dogs, (Canis Major and Canis Minor).

The brightest of the stars in Canis Major (the big dog) is Sirius, which also happens to be the brightest star in the night sky. In fact, it is so bright that the ancient Romans thought that the earth received heat from it.

GregRobert Tip:
As pets spend more time outside during the warm weather, they
are likely to encounter a disease-transmitting insect such as
a tick, mosquito or flea. Pet owners should take a few minutes daily to run their hands, or a specialized comb, through their pet's fur to look for ticks.
Ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky
Mountain spotted fever.

In the summer, however, Sirius, the “dog star,” rises and sets with the
sun. During late July Sirius is in conjunction with the sun, and the ancients believed that its heat added to the heat of the sun, creating a stretch of hot and sultry weather. They named this period of time, from 20 days before the conjunction to 20 days after, “dog days” after the dog star.

The conjunction of Sirius with the sun varies somewhat with latitude. And the “precession of the equinoxes” (a gradual drifting of the constellations over time) means that the constellations today are not in exactly the same place in the sky as they were in ancient Rome. Today, dog days occur during the period between July 3 and August 11. Although it is certainly the warmest period of the summer, the heat is not due to the added radiation from a far-away star, regardless of its brightness.

Of course, the heat of summer is a direct result of the earth's tilt.

GregRobert Tip:
When it comes to keeping a pet healthy during the summer, owners need to be aware of how heat affects their animals. Remember that dogs have padded feet, and the sidewalk can be too hot for them. It's a good idea to walk them on grass if possible, and preferably in the early morning or evening."

Happy Summer - and remember buy Pet Supplies with Google Checkout and save $5.00 on all orders > $75 with coupon: googlerocks (all lowercase)

Happy 4th of July - Pets and Fireworks

2008-07-04T17:36:00.000-07:00

Pets. Firecrackers and other Fireworks

As many pet owners know, fireworks, sparklers, firecrackers and other recreational explosives commonly deployed on the 4th of July can cause a great deal of stress for some pets. Many dogs and cats have problems - but other pets like Rabbits, Guinea Pigs and Ferrets can show signs of stress.

Commonly seen stress signs include

Shaking and trembling

Excessive salivation or drooling

Incessant Barking and howling

Panicked attempts at trying to hide or get into / out of the house, fence, or other kennel type enclosure.

Refusal to eat food and stomach issues like diarrhea or nausea.

Some animals may loose bladder or bowel control from prolonged stress caused by fireworks

Some pets do fine and don't seem to notice the fireworks at all. Our dog in particular, gets excited about the firecrackers and seems to be enjoying himself. Some do well with having Mom or Dad nearby - or in some cases (with smaller pets) sitting on their owner's lap and being talked to in a soothing voice. Petting your dog or cat or holding him/her can go a great deal in
calming them.

There are some pets that cannot be calmed by petting or talking to them. Try one of the all-natural calming remedies for pets that are on the market. Many people have found great success in these potions

Animals that are extremely upset or frightened can hurt themselves and possibly escape if they are left alone. Results from a frightened pet escaping can be fatal. Frightened animals running loose are in danger of being hit by a car.

Note - please consult with your veterinarian if signs are excessive or persist after fireworks
have subsided. Also consult a vet if you suspect that your pet may have been poisoned or is otherwise ill.

Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

2008-06-30T15:20:00.001-07:00

With the hot summer weather upon us, it is important to remember to keep your pet cool.
Pets suffer from the same hot weather problems humans do, like overheating, dehydration and sunburn. You can take some simple precautions so that you and your dog can enjoy the summer months.

Dogs are much more susceptible to overheating than humans are because dogs are much less efficient at cooling themselves. A dog’s normal body temperature is 100-102 degrees. Dogs have sweat have sweat glands on their nose and pads of their paws. You probably know that dogs pant to cool down and drink water to cool down. It is important to always have fresh, cool water available for your dog. Remember if you are on walk, in the house or in the yard make sure you have fresh, cool water for your dog. If your dog is an outdoor dog, you need to provide a large shaded area for him and he should be brought inside during the hottest hours of the day. Make certain he always has access to cool water, because the sun can quickly make water too hot to drink. This can be easily accomplished by using a product like the EverFull Bowl that simply attaches to your garden hose. Once attached, you turn on the tap and the bowl fills to the perfect drinking level. The bowl automatically refills to the same level, every time your dog takes a drink.

Monitor the amount your dog runs or exercises during the hot days. Heat exhaustion in dogs is caused by dehydration and overheating due to over-exercising during hot weather. Heatstroke can occur when your dog’s body temperature is too high for a prolonged period of time. Both heat exhaustion and heatstroke can cause heart failure, brain and organ damage and even death. Pets that are thick coated or short nosed are susceptible, as are puppies, senior dogs and dogs with Heat exhaustion in dogs is often caused by dehydration and overheating from running or over-exercising during hot weather. Heatstroke can occur when your dog’s body temperature is too high for a prolonged period of time, and both can lead to brain and organ damage, heart failure and even death. Short-nosed, thick-coated breeds and (just as with people) puppies, seniors and dogs with respiratory, cardiovascular and other health problems are especially susceptible. Interestingly, this is just like people, heat affects babies, the elderly and people with
respiratory, cardiovascular and other health problems .

Signs of heatstroke can be one or more of the following: panting hard, staggering gait, dazed look, listlessness, restlessness, rapid heartbeat, dark red or purple gums and/or tongue and vomiting. If you think that your dog has a heat-induced illness, gradually lower his body temperature by moving him to a cool area, either to the shade or air conditioning. Then, apply cold packs to his head, neck or belly. You can immerse your pet in cool (not cold) water or give small amounts of cool water or ice cubes to lick — and then take him to the vet immediately.

Never leave your pet alone in a car during hot weather, not even for a minute. Even with the window cracked, a car’s inside temperature can increase as much as 40 degrees in an hour. About 80 percent of that increase occurs within the first 30 minutes. This means that on an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a car, with the windows cracked, can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes! This is deadly for your pet. If you ever see a pet in a parked car on a hot summer day, enlist the help of a security guard, go to the nearest store and page the owner, or call the local police.

Always protect your pet near water. People think all dogs can swim, this is not true! Many dogs cannot swim and many can, but get panic stricken if they are not familiar with the area. If you take your pet to a lake or have a swimming pool, make sure you have a life jacket for her and that she wears it.

A great way to keep you pet cool is to us the Cool Bed III ™ There is no electricity required to operate the Cool bed III and these beds are attractively designed to allow a cool spot for dogs. Simply add the recommended amount of tap water through the easy fill cap and burp with the new easy air adjustment valve. The unique Cool Core diverts the liquid better than ever throughout the bed for advanced cooling power. Your pet will have a dry, cool, comfy place to relax. This beds works simply - the water-saturated core (that you just add tap water) inside the Cool Bed III absorbs the dog's natural body temperature of 102 degrees Fahrenheit and converts it to room temperature. This is normally well below the dog's natural body temperature. For instance, it is 80 degrees in your house, the Cool Bed III will be 22 degrees cooler than your dog's body.

The Cool Bed III Features:

Indoor/Outdoor Use—The Perfect Place For Keeping Your Canine Cool Year-Round
No Electricity Required
Non Toxic
Unique Super Soft Material Maximizes Comfort And Cooling Capabilities
Aids In Medical Recovery, Skin Conditions, Callused Elbows, Arthritis and Excessive Panting
Easy To Clean - Just Wipe Down With A Damp Cloth
Great for Travel
3 sizes available:
Small 17" x 24" Up to 25 lbs
Medium 22" x 32" Up to 60 lbs
Large 32" x 44" Over 60 lbs

Also available are some great accessories for the Cool Bed III. The Cool Cover Fitted Sheet is the most affordable, durable option available in Cool Cover Accessories! This linen/cotton blend fitted sheet is available in two fashion colors to match any decor’.

The Cool Cover Bolster Sheet is the ultimate in Cool Bed III comfort accessory! This durable linen/cotton blend cover includes a soft, comfortable side bolster and will be any dog’s favorite cool spot.

Your dog is more than a pet. She is part of your family! Give her the hot weather attention she deserves so that both of you can have a great summer.

Posture Pro Elevated Dog Bowls; Better digestion with a Flare

2008-06-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

It seems to be common knowledge amongst pet owners to make sure that your dog's bowls are at the proper height for optimal digestion and relieves stress on your dog's hips and shoulders. But exactly what is the correct height? Many of the popular elevated feeders and bowls have adjustability - but what should you adjust them to?

Before going any further - you need to know the "Wither height" of your dog. This height can be different on every dog. Even dog's of the same age and breed have different wither heights. Measure from the ground to the top of your dog's shoulder to determine his or her's wither height. Subtract 6 inches from the wither height. This is the correct feeder height for your dog.

If your dog is a smaller breed, subtract 4 inches instead of 6 to define the correct feeding height.

Raised dog bowls allow for better posture, especially with older dogs.

Elevated Feeders promote better digestion - food moves from mouth to stomach quicker and easier.

Raised dog dishes will bring less stress on the Pasterns (canine forearm/wrist area)

and finally - dog dishes that are off the ground or raised are cause less "leaning", and relieve stress on hips and shoulder area.

To the right is the Posture Pro Raised dog dish in Cherry finish. The posture pro also comes in Maple, White and Oak finishes. They offer a number of bowl sizes from 1 pint to 3 quarts.

This simple precaution to raise your dog bowl is so easy. Why don't you do it? Your best friend will love you for it!

Pet Supply Store that Listens to a Different Drummer

2008-06-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

Pet Supplies on Sale!

“If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however
measured or far away.” Henry David Thoreau

Henry hit the nail on the head, we think - but seldom do businesses leave the beaten path for unknown territory - especially in the extremely competative vertical of pet supplies - but GregRobert has proven that the beaten path is not the only path with the launch of thier new "Quantity Discounts and Savings" campaign that hit the Internet last night.

In a time that everyone is raising prices because of the increasingly high cost of internet marketing, with more and more online retailers opening shop each day, GregRobert has taken a different path - LOWERING prices to increase market share in the pet supplies industry.

A huge "Across-the-Board" decrease in prices was launched and is proving extremely successful. Visitors can save a tremendous amount of money when purchasing more than one item of the same type.

You may have heard about GregRobert in the last few years because they were one of the first online pet stores that advocated and implemented Web 2.0 strategies for marketing including dynamic RSS product feeds.

Give the new feature a whirl the next time you need to stock up on Nylabones or Dingo Dog bones - check out GregRobert. Got to get Greenies? No problem!

A few specials off that beaten path - Enjoy!!

Sniffers Shake-Ins for Dogs 12 oz. All natural meal enhancer preferred over gravy and wet mix.
Excel Gas Preventative Digestive Aid - 60 tabs Alleviates gas while promoting digestive health in dogs.
HyperDog Food or Toy Storage Bin 20 or 40 lbs.

Cat and Kitten Urinary Tract Care - Bladder Care for Cats

2008-06-23T11:29:00.000-07:00

Bladder problems are common in cats. I can't explain why and even most veterinarians that I have asked don't know why. Weird .. but we have to deal with it.

Bladder problems and incidences are estimated at about 6% of the cat population- believe it or not. There is a great debate amongst professionals on their causes and their treatment.

Bladder problems in cats and less commonly, kittens, may be caused by either infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma or fungi, crystals in the urine or even noninfectious conditions such as interstitial cystitis. Bladder problems or urinary tract issues can be caused from trauma such as being hit by a car or falling out of a tall building or even a tall fence.

You can't do anything to prevent trauma induced bladder conditions, but you can do something about preventing infectious or dietary induced bladder conditions in your cat.

Before I continue, I want to make sure that you understand this: ANY INFECTION IN YOUR CAT OR KITTEN, any unusual behavior etc... PLEASE, PLEASE see your veterinarian first.

The first product that we have found to be effective is UTI Paste by Mark and Chappell

UTI Paste provides a source of dl-Methionine and natural cranberry extracts.
This unique formulation acts as an aid in the management and maintenance of
urinary tract health for your cat. Dl-Methionine an essential amino acid can
only be obtained from the diet, aids in lowering urinary pH levels.

The second product that is recommended by professions is by EXCEL.

Excel Bladder Paste is a tasty paste that is prepared with cranberry for your cat's urinary tract health and preventive care. Cranberry extract and DL-Methionine help balance the pH. Great for senior cats and indoor cats.

The most common signs of a urinary tract infection in your cat that you will see include:

Seeing your cat spending alot of time in the litter box, often straining to urinate.
Blood in the urine, at other times there may be just tiny spots of urine even though they were in the litter box for a long time.
Sometimes, they will associate the litter box with pain and actually urinate elsewhere.
Sometimes you will here them cry, moan or move about uncomfortably in the litter box due to pain and discomfort.
Sometimes, you will not see any urine and this can be very serious and life threatening because they may be blocked and unable to urinate and become toxic.

This is an emergency and you should take your cat to your veterinarian immediately. Any of the above signs warrant a visit to your veterinarian.

Pet Safety Barrier for Vehicles

2008-06-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Safety first when driving with your pet. It doesn't matter how well behaved your pet is, they should not come in the front seat when you are driving. Outward Hound has developed a classier looking barrier that says "High-end" without "High cost".

It is that time of year that people are traveling more with pets - taking them on vacation, camping and visiting relatives. Safety should be upmost on our minds.

According to the National Highway Traffic Administration, driver distraction contributes to 20 to 30 percent of all motor vehicle crashes, about 1.2 million per year.

In a recent AAA study, pets and loose objects were rated as being the 3rd worst driver distraction (1st being radio, 2nd being children).

With driver distraction being one of the leading causes of accidents, it is crucial to keep your dog retrained while driving a vehicle. Pet seat belts and barriers can save lives.

In a 30 mph collision a 30 lb. dog can exert approximately 900 lbs. of force. This is enough force to cause severe injury, or possibly death to occupants in the vehicle. Did you know that California requires seat belts on dogs in vehicles?

The Outward Hound Front Seat Safety Barrier keeps pets from climbing onto the console or into the front seat of your car and distracting your attention away from the road. The Front Seat Safety Barrier can remain in place when traveling with passengers and looks neat and clean.

If you are not ready to strap your pets in with a seat belt, the 2nd best solution is a barrier like Outward Hound's new Auto Pet Barrier.

Have a wonderful vacation this summer traveling with your pet and be safe!

The Doggie Diner from Farm Innovators

2008-06-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

Farm Innovators is not named "Innovator" for nothing. Watching this company over the last few years, they consistently develop products that catch my attention. They offer a slew of high quality heating products for pet and pond and thier latest - the Doggie Diner is not only convenient, it is something that will help your dog's health in a number of ways.

Offer your dog food and water year round from the Farm Innovators Doggie Diner with Built-In Heater and Auto-Fill.

In many cases, medium to larger dogs have to bend their necks (causing stress) while eating from bowls that are placed on the floor by well meaning owners. Studies have shown that elevating your dog's bowl can help in a number of ways.

The 3.25" tall legs on the Doggie Diner will keep the bowls elevated, aiding in digestion and stress reduction for your dog.

This dog bowl is great for all seasons: In the summer time, place this dog diner on a hard, flat surface and connect a standard garden hose to the bowl. The innovative auto-refill system will keep the water reservoir full, and circulate the water to keep it healthy for your pet.

Move the Doggie Diner to a dry, sheltered area in the winter and connect a grounded extension cord to the hidden electrical connection on the bottom of the diner.

The integrated heater is thermostatically controlled to operate only when the temperature falls below 35° Fahrenheit, and will keep the water from freezing to -10° Fahrenheit.

Feed your pet year round using this Doggie Diner with Built-In Heater and Auto-Fill.

One year warranty.

Dimensions: 21.375"L x 13"W x 10"H

Power: 60 Watts, 120 Volts

Mounting: place on flat surface

Construction: plastic, stainless steel

Mfg. Warranty: 1 year warranty

Take $5.00 off this product at GregRobert Pet Supplies with coupon code: michbiz when you buy $14.00 of dog treats, food or toys. (Cart total needs to be $75.00 to redeem coupon)

Rabbit Viral hemorrhagic disease (VHD) - A special Report

2008-06-05T05:46:00.000-07:00

Rabbit Hemmorhagic Disease (RHD) is a viral disease of rabbits which up until 2000 had never been seen in the United States.

There is no need to panic, but knowing about this fatal disease can help prevent the spread and I thought that keeping it fresh in every Rabbit owner's mind would help.

Here are a few precautions to take if you are a Rabbit owner, Small Animal Vet or work with Rabbits in any way.

It is important to quarantine new rabbits or rabbits returning from shows etc. for at least 6 weeks (especially during an active outbreak; at a bare minimum always isolate new rabbits for 5 days).

Be very cautious if importing rabbits or rabbit products from Europe or other
countries affected by RHD. Disinfect any cages and equipment brought onto the
premises with a 10% bleach solution or parvocidal
disinfectant.

You can carry the virus on your clothing, so if you have contact with other rabbits, change your clothes and wash your hands and disinfect your footwear before handling your rabbits and equipment. Make sure your food supplier doesn't have rabbits on the premises that could contaminate the food source.

Keep rabbits indoors and try to limit pests including insects and rodents that could potentially carry the virus to your rabbits.

Also keep dogs and cats that go outside or left the premises (and could carry the virus on their coats or paws) away from your rabbits.

Information provided courtesy of http://www.rabbitmart.com/

Horses are easy to control with electric fencing

2008-06-03T05:14:00.000-07:00

Electric Fences for Horses and other Livestock are humane and effective ways to control your livestock. Zareba seems to have the largest selection, but Dare products and Fi-shock have a number of good systems including solar models for those of us that prefer a bit of green.

Horses are intelligent animals and quickly learn to understand the effects of the electric fence. In addition, horses have thin hides and in most cases, they have well groomed coats and are shod.

If shod, the metal horse shoes make an great earth connection, which grounds the horse. A well-grounded, well-groomed horse will feel a safe, more intense shock.

Electric Fence Testers

Horses tend to use traditional wood fences as scratching posts, causing the fence to weaken or sag over time from the pressure that the horses put on it on a continuing basis. Many horses unfortunately fall into the habit of "cribbing" or chewing fences.

An electric fence prevents cribbing and chewing, protecting the horse from harm and prolonging the life of the fence.

If a horse is spooked and runs through traditional wire or wooden fencing, injury is more likely to occur than with an electric fence made of poly tape, wire or rope. To safely contain horses, you need a fence controller that maintains a minimum of 2,000 - 3,000 volts on the fence line.

All in all, the advancements in electric fencing for livestock these days, makes it a perfect choice for containing your horses and other livestock.

Great Gifts Ideas for Father's Day

2008-05-27T11:04:00.000-07:00

This year, Father's Day will be celebrated on June 15, 2008. Most people think that Father's Day was invented because the dads felt left out after Mother's Day was celebrated. Others think that Father's Day is just another ploy for retailer's to sell cards and gifts. Well, here is the history of Father's Day.

Father's Day was invented by Sonora Louise Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington to honor her father, William Smart. William's wife died when their six children were very young. William Smart, a cival war veteran, raised the six children himself on a farm in the state of Washington. His daughter decided to honor her father during a Sunday in June (the month of William Dodd's birth). She proposed Father's Day in 1909 and the first Father's Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910 in Spokane, Washington.

President Calvin Coolidge in 1924 showed support of this becoming a national holiday. Although, it was President Lyndon Johnson in 1966 who actually proclaimed it a national holiday; to be celebrated on the 3rd Sunday of June. It took until 1972 for Congress to permanently establish the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day.

With just a few weeks left before celebrating Father's Day, the time is now to find a unique gift.

The Ultimate Garden Cart - The Garden Rover is the perfect gift for the avid gardener. Two words decribe the Garden Rover - compact and mobile. Up to 18 tools can fit on the Garden Rover and the tools will be kept organized and can be pulled right to the garden or work site using the EZ Pull design. The 150lb. capacity lift plate improves cart stability, while helping move bags of mulch, seed, or other cumbersome items. The Garden Rover allows all this and takes up less than 2 square feet.

If your Dad does the outdoor clean-up/pick-up, there are so many Garden Carts to choose from that will make his work much easier for him. A great choice is the Foldaway Yard & Garden Cart. This heavy duty nylon cart has a 150 pound capacity and is perfect for for yard and garden cleanup or hauling wood. When not in use, the cart fold to compact size for easy storage.

Perhaps you Dad is a bird watcher. In that case, the Songbird Pavilion Cedar Bird Feeder is a beautiful aromatic cedar wild bird feeder that comes in a classic gazebo style design. In additon to the generous 4-pound seed capacity, the top cap opens for easy seed refilling. This feeder is a gift that will be appreciated for years.

Happy Father's Day to all the men who make the world a better place!

the Ultimate Pet Travel System - stroller, carrier and more

2008-05-25T20:24:00.000-07:00

So .. you got a little pet that you like to take places. Like .. all places. Whether you are on your way to the grocery store, or visiting an aging parent across town .. your little ferret, cat, dog or rabbit has got to go.

So why should you have to buy a stroller, a car seat and a carrier? Being the frugal individual that you are .. you want a product that can do it all. And, of course, it has to be easy on your pocket book and comfortable for Tootsie (or whatever your pet's name is).

Pet Gear has got your ticket and it looks like something out of the 3K world. (that's the year 3000AD.)

The Pet transportation system is innovative, functional and downright cool. A 3-in-1 pet system that features a lightweight stroller, a carrier and a car seat, Pet Gear has got our number. Or at least our pet's number.

Here is an overview of the features;

More than just a pet stroller it is an entire pet travel system with a stroller, shoulder carrier, and pet car seat! The Shoulder carrier is beyond cute.

A Car Seat: Securely buckle the carrier & attach the interior leash to keep your pet safe in the car on road trips.

Pet Stroller: Lightweight frame, rugged nylon fabric, and large, 5.5" wheels

Carrier: Detachable carry straps fit comfortably over shoulder

From the same manufacturer as the highly-rated, best-selling Happy Trails and Jeep pet strollers! (Pet Gear)

# For cats and dogs (and rabbits and ferrets) up to 15 lbs.

Folds and stores flat at the push of a button. (now this is the ultimate feature)

Two entrances--one on the top and one on the front (for your picky pet)

Interior leash to keep pet safely in carrier or stroller. Safety first - ALL the time

5-1/2 " wheels with locking brakes. This makes it super easy to maneuver.

Lightweight frame is very durable

Durable, breathable mesh
Large storage basket for treats, water bottles, and other pet accessories
Water-repellent 600 Denier nylon fabric
Enclosed compartment is 19”L x 11”W x 11”H
Removable pad included
Aqua Blue or Pink Ice
Very easy to assemble.

Interested? Use this coupon: pettravel and save 5 bucks by clicking here. expires June 20

Your Pet’s Eating Habits - A Special Article from ProPac Dog Food

2008-05-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

Your Pet’s Eating Habits

Some pets eat too much, some eat too little, and some eat—shall we say—inappropriately.

Generally, cats eat just enough to satisfy their energy requirements—though there are some cats that will overindulge. When dogs have free access to food at all times, obesity may result.

Dogs generally will eat everything that’s in their bowl, which means that you should measure what you give them so they don’t eat more than they should. Cats tend to eat slowly and to eat smaller quantities at a time.

Your individual pet’s nutritional needs are determined by its age, size, health, and level of activity. Your veterinarian can help you determine what is best.

It is normal for some cats to eat in cycles based on the varying requirements dictated by their metabolism. You should take this into consideration if you notice that your cat is not eating as much as usual. It does not necessarily indicate that they are dissatisfied with their food. Switching brands frequently can complicate the matter and create fussy eaters.

If you have both dogs and cats, they might raid each others’ bowls. The occasional sampling of cat food is generally all right for most dogs, though it may lead to obesity. It’s okay for cats to occasionally eat dog food, but you should not allow it to become a regular habit.

Don’t Eat That!

One day, you may be horrified to find your pet eating some non-food item. Things like clothing, rocks, and rubber bands are obviously dangerous, with the primary concern being the risk of intestinal blockages.

Some plants can be poisonous for pets to eat, but grass is generally nothing to be concerned about as long as it is free of pesticides and other dangerous chemicals.

For reasons only they understand, dogs may occasionally consume feces. You’ll likely want to discourage this, but in most cases it is not a cause for alarm. This situation can be reduced by using a high quality dog food that results in less waste. (PRO PAC Dog Food)

Loss of Appetite

Hot weather, lower activity levels or illness can cause a dog or cat to lose its appetite. In some cases, this can be cause for concern.

If your cat’s appetite loss results in weight loss or if it is accompanied by illness, see your veterinarian.

Small dogs and toy breeds are especially prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). If a hypoglycemic dog does not eat consistently, it may experience seizures or even death.

There are several things you can do to help stimulate your pet’s appetite. Sometimes hand-feeding is all it takes. Simply petting or talking to your pet may also help. A little water mixed with dry food may enhance its appeal to the senses, especially if warmed just a little.

When all else fails, medication may be necessary for appetite stimulation, so don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. Proper nutrition is paramount to your pet’s health.

Another Hairball?
A nice bonus that comes with cat ownership is that felines are notoriously fussy about keeping clean. It is their grooming process, however, that causes them to swallow a lot of hair. Generally, the hair moves through the digestive system and is excreted through the stool. However, if the hair fails to pass, it accumulates in the stomach until vomited. Use a hairball reduction cat food like Pro Pac

It is considered normal for cats to have an occasional hairball, but if your cat has them more than once a month, you should talk to your veterinarian.

What You Can Do

Routine brushing will help remove the hair that your cat would otherwise swallow while self-grooming. It’s a good idea to brush longhaired cats daily, and shorthaired cats at least twice a week. In the spring, when cats shed their winter coats, brushing is especially helpful.

The right cat food can help control hairballs. PRO PAC® Cat Hairball Reduction Formula uses a special natural vegetable fiber that helps hair pass safely and naturally through your cat’s system, reducing hairball formation.

If your cat is unable to eliminate a hairball, treatment will be needed. Special products and laxatives formulated especially for cats are available from your veterinarian or pet supply store.

A large hairball can cause a severe impaction or intestinal blockage. If your cat becomes unable to defecate, or develops diarrhea, appetite loss or swollen abdomen, see your veterinarian immediately. In such cases, surgery may be necessary to remove it.

And now your reward: Get $5.00 off any Pro Pac purchase greater than $75.00. Use coupon code: ProPac Click here to redeem ProPac Coupon
Coupon expires 6/10/08

Pet Tabs Dog Vitamins

2008-05-20T09:16:00.000-07:00

A healthy pet is a happy pet, and a happy pet can help us enjoy a much fuller and more rewarding life. Although a good premium food will provide a solid foundation, food alone cannot supply all the nutrients necessary to fulfill the unique requirements that your dog might need.

A deficiency of just ONE or more nutrients can leave your pet vulnerable to disease.

Pet-Tabs ® are a palatable vitamin and mineral supplement with several essential vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. We like to recommend Pet-tabs because they are low in sodium, fat and calories. So many dogs are overweight these days .. adding fat with a nutritional supplement just doesn't make alot of sense.

Pet-Tabs ® Iron. Plus These specially formulated vitamins contain iron, copper, amino acids, liver and B-Complex vitamins. They aid in the treatment of deficiencies in young, anemic, sickly, debilitated or convalescent dogs or cats.

Pet-Tabs ® Fatty Acid Granules. These are the exact same vitamins as Pet-Tabs with fatty acids to promote a glossy coat. These are great if you are willing to pay a bit extra for a beautiful coat. Obviously these are not as low in fat .. but if you have a young dog that you like to show off .. get Pet-Tabs with Fatty acid additives.

Pet Tabs Plus Scored tablets for dietary supplementation of older dogs, working dogs or dogs under stress. Contains 21 essential vitamins and minerals.

Industry standard for canine vitamin-mineral supplementation.
Helps correct nutritional deficiencies caused by poor diet or appetite loss.
Delicious meat-flavored base has special taste appeal.
Low in calories, sodium and fat.

We feel that keeping your dog healthy is so important and we want you to take the next step and purchase Pet-Tabs .. so here is a special deal.

Buy 2 365 count Pet Tabs and save $5.00. Coupon Code: michbiz CLICK HERE

Environmentally Friendly Fly Spray for Your Horse

2008-05-13T07:37:00.000-07:00

All horse owners know how annoying it is to have a horse continuously flipping his head around to get rid of the flies that fly around his ears and eyes. Just think how annoyed your horse must be. Your horse's tolerance for flies depends a different factors - his breed, color, temperament. Quarter horses can tolerate bugs better than thin-skinned thoroughbreds who really have a tough time tolerating bugs. Most flies are attracted to dark colors, so horses with dark coats seem to suffer more from insects than horse with light coats. Let's face it, no matter what breed or color, your horse will you making his life bug-free.

This has to be the greatest fly spray around for horses. It is non-toxic and all-natural; that's right, it is environmentally friendly! That means there are no pesticides or insecticides in it. It is a natural botanical spray that creates a physical barrier to flies, mosquitoes and gnats. This product features an isolated component of the marigold flower, and you know that marigolds have kept people's gardens free of bugs for years. The product is Marigold Fly Spray. This product is safe to use on your horse's face and ears. It will not sting eyes and will not sting wounds.

In addition, the Marigold Fly Spray smells good. It is not sticky and will not attract dust. The non-slip can be used on the saddle area and it will not stain clothes or equipment. Looks like a win-win situation.

The Horse Journal, reported that Marigold Fly Spray is the best product for horses with sensitive skin and young horses for fly protection.

Be kind to your horse and the environment! When the hot weather kicks in and the flies and bugs come out, use Marigold Fly Spray ~ safe for your horse and the environment!

Happy Mother's Day to all Pet Mom's! - Send flowers :)

2008-05-11T07:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day, no matter if your child walks on two legs or four legs; hops or walks, swims or slithers or basically just sits on your lap.

We read that 5% of Pet's send their owners flowers for Mother's Day. Obviously this fact was mis-worded .. but I think we get the point.

Pet ownership is very important to many of us and it is getting recognized as an important job thtat is worthy of celebration. The relationship between a pet and it's owners is a crystal gem in a sometimes murky world.

I recently saw a cute charm at the A Gift Personalized - Engravable Gift Collection that said "Let me get this straight, my grandchildren are dogs?" ... Pretty cute huh?

If your Mom has transitioned into a "Pet Mom" - we have a really nice idea for a gift - the PetARoo Travel Carrier is a long-time favorite amongst owners of smaller pets. You can carry your beloved pet close to your heart with this durable and popular carrier. Manufactured by Outward Hound .. it is not new to the marketplace. It is one of those pet products that has passed the test of time.

We at Petazon would like to extend a
Blessed Mother's Day to all Mothers out there!

Can Pets Sense Impending Earthquakes? - Anti-Anxiety Remedies

2008-05-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

I read an interesting article from the the National Geographic magazine that talked in detail on whether pets and animals can sense an impending earthquake. We have all heard the theory that animals can predict an earthquake - but is there any substantial evidence that this theory is true?

In 373 B.C., historians recorded that animals, including rats, snakes and weasels, deserted the Greek city of Helice in droves just days before a quake devastated the place.

Since then .. there have been a variety of reports on the extrasensory earthquake perception of our pets.Countless pet owners claimed to have witnessed their cats and dogs acting strangely before the ground started to shake during one of California's numerous quakes —barking or whining for no apparent reason, or showing signs of nervousness and restlessness, hiding under beds etc... HomeoPet Anti-Anxiety for Pets

One theory is that wild and domestic creatures feel the Earth vibrate before humans. Other ideas suggest they detect electrical changes in the air or gas released from the Earth. There have been even more incidents that show that animals can feel the foreshocks or small tremors that come before a full fledged earthquake.In the 1970s, a few studies on animal earthquake prediction were done by the USGS but nothing concrete came out of it.

Since that time the agency has made no further investigations into the theory.

There have been examples where authorities have forecast successfully a major earthquake, based in part on the observation of the strange antics of animals. For example, in 1975 Chinese officials ordered the evacuation of Haicheng, a city with one million people, just days before a 7.3-magnitude quake.

It was later discovered, though, that a rare series of small tremors, called foreshocks, occurred before the large quake hit the city - animals may have felt these tremors.

Get your Emergency Preparedness Supplies and Food at Nitro-Pak Coupons

Some people and professions, however, dismiss these kinds of reports, saying it's "the psychological focusing effect," where people remember strange behaviors only after an earthquake or other catastrophe has taken place. If nothing had happened, they contend, people would not have remembered the unique pet behavior.

There have been proposals for a special hotline or Web site where people could call or write in if they saw strange behavior in their animals. A computer would then analyze the incoming informaiton and messages to determine where they originated and how reliable they were. A sudden surge of calls or e-mails from a particular region might indicate that a quake was imminent.

The information would be checked to make sure the observations were not caused by other circumstances known to affect the behavior of animals, such as fireworks, or changes in weather. And to avoid issuing false warnings, the data would be used in conjunction with other monitoring devices such as seismological measurements.

A possible (and very speculative) interpretation is that when the rocks in a potential earthquake zone are stressed to almost the breaking point, the magnetic minerals in the bedrock are slightly realigned, changing the direction of the local magnetic field. Perhaps the animals sense this with their built-in compasses. Perhaps they don't. Nobody knows for sure!

Top 10 Tips to Green your Pet! - Biodegradable Poop Bags

2008-05-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

The topic of green is spreading fast to our pets. This possibly could be triggered by the increased gas prices .. but we think it's a positive consumer awareness that is starting to spread thoughout the ranks of pet owners and we applaud it! Here are a few more tips:

Adopt pets from shelters. Why buy when you can adopt one of the 70,000 puppies and kittens born every day in the United States?

Spay or neuter your pet. We don’t need any more homeless animals than we already have. As a bonus, spaying and neutering helps dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives.

No junk food: Certified-organic pet foods must meet strict USDA standards that spell out how ingredients are produced and processed, which means no pesticides, hormones, antibiotics, artificial preservatives, artificial ingredients or genetically engineered ingredients.

Clean up the poo-poos Scoop up your doggie doo in biodegradable poop bags so your buddy’s No. 2 isn’t immortalized in a plastic bag, while deep-sixed in a landfill somewhere for hundreds of years. Use the sanitary pooper scoopers that are friendly to the environment. Disposable scoopers are made of 99% biodegradable materials that you simply scoop, seal, and toss. No mess and no touch.
Melt the ice. Use a child- and pet-safe deicer such as Safe Paw’s environmentally friendly Ice Melter. Rock salt and salt-based ice-melting products, which kids and animals might accidentally ingest, can cause health problems, while contaminating wells and drinking supplies

Your cat will love you forever if you grow your own organic catnip or cat grass. Scrap yarn and fabric you might otherwise toss can also easily be transformed into pet toys.

Go Green with your dog, cat, fish or other small animal!!