By Nancy E. Hassel, LIPetPlace.com
While we are enjoying the warm weather and summer activities – our pets may not be. One thing many people tend to forget or not even think of is pet safety and heat.
While there are many ways your pet can overheat; too much exercise in the heat of the day; squished face pets like bulldogs, pugs, Frenchies, Shihtzus who can’t breath that great to begin with – they have a hard time with the heat; and lack of access to water for your pets especially if they are outside for any length of time in this hot and humid weather.
Of course this time of year the major concern is pets left in cars. It amazes me year after year, that I still see people on a warm day leaving the windows open a crack and leaving their very furry dogs in the car – while they go into a store. According to a study done by San Francisco University, and if you haven’t seen this video of a veterinarian sitting in a hot car which shows how quickly temps rise during a heat wave.
Why not try it yourself, without your pet of course. Next time it is a beautiful 75 -80 degrees, go sit in your parked car crack the windows a bit and sit in there for 10 -15 minutes. Don’t cheat by drinking water or turning the AC on. Now imagine yourself in a fur coat without the ability to sweat. Are you hot yet?
Sometimes people think it’s ok to run into the store for 5-minutes during the summer and leave their pets in the car. But what if you get stuck in the store, there is a long line, problem at the register, etc., and there you are in the air-conditioned store while your pet is sweltering in the heat, causing heat exhaustion or worse death.
What to do if you see a pet left in the car during during the warm spring, summer and fall months:
- Call Animal Control of the town the car is located in. *Helpful tip, program the Animal Control phone #’s of all your town municipal animal shelters into your phone so you can quickly access them.
- Call the police, tell them the location, make/model color of the car, give them the license plate number. Take a photo of the car, license plate and pet inside the car.
- Stay until the authorites arrive to be sure the pet was safely evacuated from the hot car.
- Know the laws in your town, city and state. Some people may take actions into their own hands if the animal is in severe distress in the hot car and may get in trouble for bashing in the window of a car to save the pet. Some areas the laws are changing where you would not get into trouble.
Check to see if the car is running, sometimes people leave their car locked and running with the AC on, water in a bowl to run into a store for 5 minutes. It may not be ideal, but they are making the effort to make sure their pet is cool while they do their errand. This also goes for people who are traveling alone with their pets on a road trip, and may have to stop to use the rest stop.
Pet owners should also know if you are caught doing this or someone reports your car with a pet in it to the police, the police have the right to break into to your car with whatever means necessary, call animal control and have your pet seized. You may be issued a summons, arrested for animal cruelty, or more. So the next time you are running up to the supermarket on a hot day, please, please, please leave your pets at home in the AC!
by Nancy E. Hassel, LIPetPlace.com
Out walking your dog lately and notice all the Pokemon people out and about? Well it can be challenging to navigate through the crowds of kids (and adults) while walking your dog, here are some tips to help make this craze a little less stressful for you and your pup, and you thougth this post was a joke!
1. You want to make sure you dog doesn’t actually step on one of the Pokemon characters.
2. Be sure to clean up after your dog so Pickachu and his friends are safe from stepping a pile of duty.
3. When approaching the zombi-like humans walking looking down at their phones, let them know you’re coming – my own dog nearly got stepped on countless times in the last few days.
4. While daylight may be new to many Pokemon Go fans – realize their eyes may not have yet adjusted to the bright sunlight and they may not see you or your dog right away.
5. Sudden movements may startle your dog – like the kid who was so excited he got one broke out into a dance stomping his feet – scared the crap out of my dog and me too.
6. Some Pokemon players are bringing their dogs along with them, great! Luckily my dog is super dog friendly, but their dog may not be, so always get their attention (the humans) and ask if your dog can say hello to their dog.
7. Make sure while crossing the street at a crosswalk, give them a wide birth, suddenly no one seems to look both ways or gives you and your dog any room to pass them.
Okay, okay – poking some fun at Pokemon – it seems like a fun thing for millennials to do, gets them out, social and forming their own community. It’s nice to see, but really be careful, my dog Cody did get scared by that foot stomping kid and they really are NOT looking where they are walking. Could actually be a great socialization tool for your dog weaving your way in and out of the Pokemon peoples.
by Nancy E. Hassel, LIPetPlace.com
7 picks from Global 2016!
6.2 miles of trade show floor this year at Global Pet Expo, 3,218 booths and over 1,000 exhibitors at those booths. So to narrow this down to 7 picks – well not an easy task – and maybe not fair as I saw a ton of pet products that I would love to share – but we would be here forever! So I choose 7 picks and few honorable mentions! In no particular order, here’s some of the cool products that caught my eye while in Orlando 2 weeks ago:
Automatic Litter-Robot – So this may be a steep price at $449.00 but really – if you have a cat or cats, in my opinion the Litter-Robot by Auto Pets is the way to go. Litter box cleaning is no fun and this is virtually hands free, and should make your life so much easier. Another great thing, this pet tech product is fully made in the USA – how cool is that? You can see my Youtube video about coming soon!
Tall Tails Authentic Dog Products once again had a beautiful booth with many new products debuting at Global this year. A new collection, the Run Wild collection has a bold new pattern and design on many of their exisiting products and new products like the Flying Disc which is perfect retreiving games with your dog and it even floats. The new 3-in-1 blanket is a great combo for those dogs who love to snuggle under the covers, find a comfy place to relax on after hours of play.
Jakks Pet Faces pillows – these stopped me in my tracks because of the sheer adorableness of them. And they were incredibly soft and the faces are lifelike and cartoonish all at the same time. Perfect gift for the pet lover in your life or even your pets. They had many cat face pillows including Grumpy Cat, and also for dogs, a Boxer, Bulldog, Rottie, Boston Terrier, Yorkie and Pom.
The Orijen and Acana booth where they were doing a food tasting with chefs making food for people with the same human grade ingredients that goes into the dog food – it was a big hit, there were a lot of people sampling their food and their display was incredible. They had a display of all the ingredients that go into their foods – nothing like I have seen before (it’s usually just pictures of the ingredients). Their pet food is made in Canada, but in a few months a brand new facility will open in Kentucky and all the food will be made and ingredients sourced in the USA.
Hurtta – If you are someone who likes to go on adventures with your dog, off the beaten trail, like me – then you will love the products from Hurtta – from Finland. Especially the Sun & Bug Blocker – it may seem crazy to put your dog in this full body coat for lack of a better term. But just the other day I walked my dog Cody in a relatively new county park, and was picking the tiny ticks off him as we walked (and he wasn’t in the brush). This coat also provides a UPF of 40 blocking most of the UV rays from the sun. The other coat they had that I absolutey loved is the Ultimate Warmer. In looking for a coat for Cody, I could never find anything that actually fits him, covers his butt and goes up to his neck. He is a wuss when it comes to the cold, so I can wait to try this for him.
Finding toys for my dog that he won’t destroy is nearly impossible. Even the toys that say durable, puncture resistant – are usually no match for him. Walking the trade show floor I saw a ton of really nice toys, adorable toys, super soft toys – non of which would last more than 3 minutes. I know many of you can relate. On my last day at Global I saw something that I thought, hmm, I bet this would be a good choice for Cody, the Virtually Indestructible ball by Hueter Toledo, Inc. It comes in many sizes, some even have a ball within a ball and best part, made in the USA! Hope to get one soon to try it with Cody!
Beco Bowl by Beco Pets – if you have a big dog, you know finding a collaspable water bowl that is non-toxic and well made is hard to find. I literally have been searching for 6-months for a Large collapsable water bowl to no avail. The majority are made for small or medium sized dogs – or the opening of the bowl is just too small. On the last day, literally the last 15 minutes of the show I found the Beco Bowl (thanks Dana!), so I can wait for Cody to try it. It is sustainable, toxin free, as are all their products.
A few other pet products that I loved was the PawFlex new series of tug toys, A Pet with Paws Vegan pet carriers made from recycled plastic water bottles, Einstein Pets 1 calorie all natural healthy pet treats, and the emjoi squeaky toys! For more pictures of great products you can click here.
If you were at Global – what was your favorite find?
by Nancy E. Hassel, LIPetPlace.com
Excited to bring you our 2015 Holiday Pet Gift Guide where you can find gifts for pets and pet parents alike this holiday season! From gifts that help you cherish your pet’s life, their memory – to functional, stylish, comfy and even products to help your pet’s ailments. I invite you to visit each product listed below and visit their website as well to learn more. In the spirit of the Holiday season – while doing your holiday shopping perhaps you can purchase 1 extra gift to give to someone who could really use it for themselves or their pet. Happy shopping!
We often think of our pets who may have passed on, during the holidays and all year long. MiY Pet Perennials Kit is a wonderful way to remember your pet for years to come. It is the is the perfect healing activity for anyone experiencing pet loss. Each kit contains everything necessary to craft 12-14 planting wafers. Each wafer propagates a one square foot area with wildflowers. What a beautiful way to remember you pet and help the earth at the same time! Pet families can customize their
living memorial by incorporating a portion of a pet’s cremation remains into the process. A meaningful gift for sure.
Another really sweet and meaningful holiday gift is to have a pet portrait painted by a talented artist. It doesn’t have to be a memorial, it is something you can do now for your favorite pet parent. I know for myself, when my dog Max passed, a few incredible people in my life had a couple paintings of him done. It was perfect. Animal artist Michelle Kohler located on Long Island does hand painted portraits from your photo onto canvas or wood. Prices start at $75.00 for 8×10 size and paintings are done in acrylic or oil. Michelle also does a mini portrait “CHRISTMAS COOKIE” tree ornament for $30.00. The Christmas Cookie is a miniature portrait of your pet on a slab of last years Christmas tree. They are absolutely beautiful! To order your gift today contact Michelle at mk336soa@yahoo.com or by calling (631) 374-6378.
Have a pet parent in your life that loves, loves, loves jewelry? Well you have to check out this beautiful new dog motif jewelry and photo jewelry in
by Zelda’s Song in their Etsy Store! Brand new designs include our first-ever silver necklaces and photo necklaces. To make gift-giving easy, they have created our Paw Print Cuff Bracelet, pictured below – which is a fashionable paw print emblem presented on their popularleather cuff bracelet. You can just add a name to personalize for your favorite dog lover! You also have to check out all their other products on ZeldasSong.com you are sure to find something you love (and maybe just for yourself!)
If you’re like me you prefer a leather collar for your dog. For me there are many reasons, durability, strength, beauty and of course the many choices there are today. You cannot go wrong with a beautiful dog collar from Auburn Leathercrafters. Hand crafted right here in New York and with high quality leather – a family owned and operated company. They have matching collars and leashes like the ones pictured below, collars with bling, for the largest dog you can imagine down to the tiny pup. You can find their collars in many fine retailers – but if you don’t have a pet store near you go to their consumer website CollarsandMore.com.
If you are looking for a healthy dog treat for spoil your pup with you need to check out Deb’s Healthy Pet Center! Offering a wide range of food, treats and supplements. They sell only all natural items, and the majority of what they offer are single-ingredient products. There are NO steroids, antibiotics, preservatives, hormones, grain or gluten in any of their products, all of which are made in the USA with only farm fresh ingredients grown here. They are committed to 100% sourcing ingredients and manufacturing in the USA. So your pet can be healthy now and healthy for life.
The next two items are perfect to be given as a gift together, you’ll see what I mean in a minute!
The Torus Water Bowls are new to the market and high tech yet simple to use. The water bowls store water inside its reservoir walls, filtering the water as it automatically dispenses. The large capacity means less filling and it’s low profile and grips mean less mess or spills that you will have to clean up. Torus has a lock, fill and drink function for portability and does NOT require batteries. The 1 liter bowl is ideal for small pets and the 2 liter bowl is ideal for larger or mutliple pets. The bowls are available in Charcoal, Red, Blue & Pink (1 L only). Torus includes one carbon filter, lasting 1 month and has a 12 month warranty. Visit their website for more information on this cool new bowl.
Ok, maybe you will get the tie into the next product! 😉
UGODOG is the #1 Indoor Dog Potty approved by the APA. This pet potty is environmentally friendly, keeps paws dry, is easy for pets to use, has absorbent liners that are reusable and biodegradable and owners get a free training manual with purchase. Makes a great gift for pet owners, especially those who are in high rise apartment buildings, in cold weather areas (who can’t get out quickly to take their pets out), and it’s great for older dogs too for them to have a safe clean place to go in your home say if you are out longer than anticipated. And for puppies too!
Brand new to the market, like literally launched 2 weeks ago is Deziner Dogs, brought to you by pet entrepreneur Heather Lehrman, “Deziner Dogs was created not only by me, but by every pet owner I run in to.” Not only will Deziner Dogs differentiate your dog breed with their apparel and leash line, it will also start many conversations between dog owners. Their mission is to make high quality, fashion forward & fun products for you and your pet! Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed.
If you’re thinking holistic pet care, that can be a personal choice – but I am sure as you’re reading this you know of at least one person who has a dog, cat or horse that may have a specific type of aliment. Perhaps the traditional way of treating that ailment hasn’t really help their pet, if so, I encourage you to check out Dr. Baker’s Canine System Saver. It is an all-natural herbal supplement that is a safe and effective alternative to treating many dogs ailments – instead of using harsh anti-inflammatory medications. Suitable to help manage ailments dogs suffer from such as: Arthritis; Chronic Dermatitis; Inflammatory Bowel Disease; Respiratory Disorders; Hip Dysplasia; Cartilage Destruction; Geriatric Wasting; Athletic/Repetitive Stress and Autoimmune Disorders. Created by a holistic veterinarian right here on Long Island, Dr. Don Baker who has 30 years experience and is passionate about helping our pets in a holistic effective way. Of course with any treatment plan you should contact your own vet first – but you need to visit their website and find out more about this great product.
If you’re looking for luxury for your home and your pets, then Tall Tails Authentic Dog Textiles is where you want to look! Tall Tails is a leader in manufacturing high quality textiles and accessories for dogs and their families. Tall Tails offers products that pet parents love to provide for comfortable living, beautiful design, and interaction with their pets. Tall Tails helps provide soothing solutions for everyone in the family after a long day on the mountain peaks or the city streets. Quality products include: supportive beds, super-soft blankets, absorbent grooming towels, interactive toys, durable leashes, and WaterwoofTM pads. You will end up wanting their items for you and your pets, but they make beautiful holiday gifts as well. You can find their products in over 500 pet boutiques across the country.
Wishing you and your pets a very Happy Holiday season!
by Nancy E. Hassel, LIPetPlace.com
Being prepared for an emergency with your pet:
- Have proper ID tags on your dog/cat with your Cell phone # on it.
- Make sure if your dog is microchiped – that the microchip registered with your proper contact information (many people don’t realize this) read our post here “Is your pet’s Microchip registered?“
- Have a copy of your pets most recent veterinary records with you and an extra copy in your car, take a photo of them store them on your phone as well.
- If you have to evacuate – Do you know where you are going? Is it pet friendly shelter or hotel? Can you bring your pets with you?
- If you are staying with family or friends and they have pets you should bring your pets crate with you, (or go out and buy one now), to be able to give your pet a safe secure place to be incase the pets don’t get along.
- Have an extra crate in the trunk of your car – if you have to leave in a moments notice.
- Gas up you car before the storm is close and get some cash so you have it just in case.
- Have a recent, clear picture of your pet printed out – put in a ziplock baggie, (what if you can’t re-charge your phone?)
- Store pertinent contact information for Emergency Vets within a 50 mile radius of your home and Animal Shelters in your phone (and have printed out) – you may not have wifi – so being able to access your contact list is helpful.
- Have a bag prepared and ready to go with all your pets needs.
- Always have an extra collar and leash in you car and in this bag. And in your car also.
- Have a 1st aid kit prepared and in the bag – I keep one in my car too.
- Take a Pet CPR and 1st Aid class – being prepared ahead, knowing what to do can save a pets life. Click here to see the next class coming up on Long Island.
- Have a week’s supply or more of pet food and water (if you feed raw realize that you may have to feed kibble in place of that raw food in case you’re power goes out or if you are staying somewhere with your pet that has no refrigeration for the raw food.) Also a great option for Raw is the freeze dried raw food that doesn’t have to be refrigerated.
- Any medication your pet is taking – make sure you have refills of that ready to go – call your veterinarian now – better to be safe than sorry. (Many vets will call a pets prescription into a local pharmacy if you can get to the vet’s office or if you don’t live close to your vet.)
- Have towels and blankets in your car – incase your pet is wet and needs to be dried off.
- Have a crate, carrier or cage easily accessible if you need to leave in a hurry – and you can throw it in your car. (Many store our crates in not so easy to get to places – attics, basements, if you have to grab it in a moments notice).
During the storm – if you don’t have to evacuate and you’re riding it out at home as many of us will be – remember that:
- Many pets can be completely freaked out during storms. They feel the Barometric pressure, they hear the wind, rain and thunder. So you and your family have to be diligent about keeping them safe, indoors and confined.
- Make sure your doors leading outside are secured – so your pet doesn’t sneak outside.
- If you have a gated yard, be sure to tie or bungy cord that gate shut, and if you absolutely have to take your pet out during the storm (this is Very much NOT suggested!). If you do have to take them out for potty, have a properly secured collar or harness on, (that they can’t slip out of), and leash your pet to take them outside. Wear gloves or tie your dog to you when going outside so the leash doesn’t slip out of your hands.
- I personally would wait to take my dog Cody outside or only let him go potty a few feet from the door and if you have wee-wee pads in the house – see if your pet would use them.
This is not about being paranoid – this is about being prepared!
For Long Islander’s you can click here for a list of Animal Shelters below:
Long Island Town Municipal Shelters – where lost pets could be:
Town of Babylon Animal Shelter
51 Lamar Street
West Babylon – 11702
631-643-9270
Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter & Adoption Center
300 Horseblock Road
Brookhaven – 11719
631-286-4940
Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter
3320 Beltagh Avenue
Wantagh – 11793
516-785-5220
Town of Huntington Animal Shelter/Adoption Center
106 Deposit Road
East Northport – 11731
631-754-8722
Town of Islip Animal Shelter
210 South Denver Avenue
Bay Shore – 11706
631-224-5660
Town of North Hempstead Animal Shelter
75 Marino Avenue
Port Washington – 11050
516-944-8220
Town of Oyster Bay Animal Shelter
150 Miller Place
Syosset – 11773
516-677-5784
Town of Smithtown Animal Shelter
210 East Main Street
Smithtown – 11745
631-360-7575
Town of Southampton Animal Shelter – Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation
102 Old River Road
Hampton Bays – 11946
631-728-7387
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