Dogs and Cars

If you live near open fields and the countryside or have lots of private ground for your pet to run around in you won’t need to travel to give your dog opportunity to get plenty of excerise out in the open air. If there is a dog friendly park nearby within walking distance you need only pop on a lead but for some dog owners living in a city or busy town centre the only option is to travel by car.

It is important your dog feels comfortable and safe for necessary car journeys of any length. This is a list of car accessories for dogs

Dog Safety

Dog travel crates or cages specially adapted for cars not only makes your car journey safer for you but also for your dog, it also helps the dog feel more secure. Imagine how frightening it might be to your dog looking out the windows of a moving car!

If there is no room for a cage or if your dog travels in different cars consider buying a dog harness with seat belt adaptor. This is a great multi purpose travel accessory for your dog!

Word of warning: For those who think these are extreme, imagine what would happen if you were to have a car accident. Your frightened dog if unsecured will instinctively want to get out of the car and possibly run right onto a busy road.

Dog Comfort

The boot of a car is not designed for comfort so if your pet has to travel in the boot dog beds are much nicer to sleep on.

If you are planning a long journey in the colder months a dog blanket would be a good idea too. (Keep a blanket for yourself too in case of break downs!)

Food and Water

Your dog will get hungry and thirsty during a long car journey and will certainly need to quench his or her thirst after a long run. Keeping water and a bowl is a must but instead of the bulky hard bowls consider investing in those special dog travel bowls made of material that fold up when not in use, you can also get disposable travel bowls.

Handy hint: The car engine might need water too! The larger empty milk cartons are ideal for keeping a supply of water handy for both dog and car during the hotter months. If you are out in the country you can re-fill at a fresh water river or stream.

Shade from the sun

Drivers and human passengers have visors to protect them from the glare of the sun so don’t forget your dog and fit a car window shade where appropriate.

Tip: If you also have children you may already have car window shades that are just as suitable for your pet!

Dog Ramps

A dog car ramp can be a godsend! You can lift smaller dogs into the car but what if you have had a particularly muddy run or if you have an older heavier dog that can’t jump up? A number of dog ramps for cars are available that fold away neatly when not in use.

Pet First Aid

As exciting as running in the countryside can be for your dog, there can also hazards including barbed wire, broken glass and sharp sticks. The first aid you apply to your dog if it gets a nasty cut will be vital in its recovery and if you are out in the middle of nowhere it could be a while before you can get your dog to a vet. Pet first aid kits usually come with bandages, gauzes and sterile wipes and are small enough for your glove compartment.

Swellpets.co.uk has many more great products for dogs.

Cozy Dog Beds for your Dog or Cat

In your home and in your life, a dog is part of the family and you want to make them as comfortable as possible.  A is not only a place for your dog to sleep but also a refuge or a place to just relax in its own space.

Besides giving your dog a healthy dog food diet a nice comfortable, clean place to sleep is nearest to dog heaven on earth.  There are so many styles of dog beds some styles come with cedar filling that repels fleas. Cat beds are also available and one in particular is called a  which is warm and cozy for your cat’s sleeping quarters.

Many dog beds that can be purchased on line are made of leather, vinyl, warmer winter covers or cooler fabric dog beds for summer weather.  There are even dog beds that have chill mats to keep your dog cooler during very hot days in year round warmer climates.

Sizes of Dog Beds:

You clearly have to measure your dog’s size when it is fully grown to get the right width and depth of the dog bed so that it fits your dog.  Make sure there is enough room for your dog to stretch out fully while sleeping.

Types of Dog Beds:

There are many fabrics to choose that are washable and absorb odors as well as some that are very stylish. The benefits of a comfortable dog bed are a healthier happier and rested dog that is full of energy and well rested. Puppy beds also are essential for training a dog to sleep in its own quarters.

There are many styles of cozy dog beds from the very luxurious couches to round soft pillow types of beds that are chew proof for durability and longer wear. There are even dog beds with a canopy for outdoors that protects your dog from rain.

Training Puppies with a Dog Bed:

As one of many dog training techniques a dog bed also teaches your dog to obey commands and stay where it is taught is a safe haven for quite time or to rest.  Dog training e-books provide valuable information on how to set up a dog bed and where in your home is an ideal place for your dog.  A dog will never soil where it sleeps and this is a way to potty train your dog.

Older dogs need a soft dog bed for their painful joints and sleeping on a hard floor is not easy for the dog to be comfortable for very long periods of time. Some beds are made for older dogs that have warm heat to sooth their bones and keep them warm on chilly nights.

For dogs on the go there are dog crates with bedding and travelling dog mats, cushion dog beds, and donut dog beds.  Many dog beds are strong, durable and are waterproof for accidents while travelling with your dog.

The basis of having a dog is the companionship and unconditional love they give us and the very least we can do for them is make your home comfortable with a nice cozy dog bed.

TAGS: Dog bed, soft dog beds, training puppies with a dog bed, dog training techniques, styles of dog beds,  cozy dog beds, dog crates, travelling dog mats, cushion dog beds, donut dog beds, cooler fabric dog beds, older dogs, puppy beds.