There’s a truly incredible variety of dog accessories out there – from beer for dogs to a custom pillow printed with a life-size image of your dog. Lots of these accessories are fun, quirky gifts for the uber-passionate dog lover, but a few may actually make your life and your dog’s life easier. So, how do you separate the zany from the truly effective? We’ve rounded up some of the best in useful dog accessories for you here!
1. Car Safety Accessories
A harness, barrier or crate is an important accessory for keeping your dog safe during car travel. Especially for long car rides, these accessories ensure that your dog and the other passengers ride safely, even if an emergency arises. Harnesses can buckle into the seatbelt of a car, holding your dog in place should you be rear-ended or need to suddenly brake. For larger dogs a barrier in the back of a sedan of SUV can give them their own space, while keeping them safe. A special travel crate is probably the safest option for you and your dog – find one that’s been crash tested.
2. Automatic Food and Water Dispenser
Your dog probably has a feeding schedule he looks forward to each day, but you can’t always be there at the perfect time for him. An automatic, timed food dispenser ensures that your dog receives the right amount of food at the correct time each day. A water fountain serves a similar purpose, providing your pet with fresh water on a regular basis. Running water can also encourage your pet to drink more, keeping them hydrated and healthy.
3. Pet GPS Tracker
1 in 3 pets will go missing in their lifetime. While we all know how important it is to make sure our pet wears a collar and has an up-to-date microchip, these GPS trackers can add a layer of security. Some of the fancier models even track your pet’s exercise and movement, alerting you to changes in behavior that might indicate a health issue. Many of these trackers come with an app, so you can easily keep an eye on your dog from anywhere.
4. Nighttime walking gear
A reflective vest, glow in the dark or LED collar can help you and your pet stay safe on evening walks. Even the tallest dog can be hard to see over the hood of a car, especially in the dark. These vests let you pursue late night walks without the worry. As a bonus, you can invest in some added features like a vest that keeps your dog cool, or one with pockets to help you carry bags and treats. LED collars can even come with colored options to help suit your mood on long night walks.
5. Dog Booties
While certainly not an accessory for all dogs, booties can make life easier on the paws of some pets. If your dog has a problem with allergies, sometimes boots can keep them from bringing home pollen or other allergens. In the extreme cold, boots can protect their feet from chemical ice melters, or from moisture that might freeze between their paws and become painful. In the heat, boots can protect their paws from burning on the pavement during a walk. Some owners buy special foot protection for hikes over rough terrain, giving their dogs extra grip and protection.
None of these gadgets are required for a happy, healthy pooch, but they may help you care for your furry friend. We know you want the best for your dog, and so do we. That’s why at Pawderosa Ranch we offer the highest quality care and canine enrichment in our daycare and overnight lodging. We love your dog, and we want only the best for them. Contact us today and learn more about a stay at the ranch.
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