Category Archives: Pets

Advice for all your furry, feathered, feline, &/or four-legged friends…and more!

5 Unusual Pets that are Legal to Own

While most people have stereotypical pets like birds, reptiles, cats and dogs, these are some other interesting options for pets. These pets, as told by CBS news , are legal in the United States. However, while they might be legal in the United States, individual states might have regulations or laws against them. Either way enjoy there unique cuteness!!

1) Capybara

This wonderful pet is from South America. It can live to be 8- 12 years and is the worlds largest rodent (CBS news) .

2) Serval

This pet originated from Central and South Africa and can live to 19 years of age. It should be noted that it is most successful hunters of all wild cats (CBS news).

3) Wallaroo

The wallaroo is from Australia and is a mix between a kangaroo and wallaby. It can live for 15-20 years old (CBS news) .
4) Axolotl

This unique looking reptile can be found in central Mexico. This reptile is similar to a salamander however it is a stage behind it in development and still lives under water (CBS news).
5) Pot Bellied Pig

This adorable animal can be found in North and South America. It can grow to be about the size of a medium dog and can live to 10- 15 years old (CBS news) .

5 Ways to Keep your Pets Safe throughout the Summer

Beside keeping your pets safe by vaccinations, flea and tick control, it is important to take these steps below to ensure their safety in the summer. This list was provided by the Humane Society of the United States. While this list has ample information, check out the rest of their website to ensure that you are caring for your animals correctly!

Flickr Creative Commons: Eddy Van 3000

1) Watch the Humidity

Not only is the temperature important to your animals health, but the humidity can also affect your animals. The higher the humidity becomes, the harder it becomes for animals to remove the heat within their bodies. If the humidity is high, there is a higher risk of your animals over heating.

2) Limit Exercise on Hot Days

Flickr Creative Commons: Pedro Ribeiro Simoes

If it is a very warm day, you should limit your pets exercise to prevent them from over heating. However, if you are going to give them exercise, make sure it is earlier in the morning or late into the afternoon. That way you limit sun exposure, and burning your pets paws on the black top.

3) Provide Ample Shade &Water

Flickr Creative Commons: Tambako The Jaguar

Since the summer tends to be very hot, and their is a high risk of overheating, make sure that your pet has the equipment to cool down and relax. By providing shade and water, your pet can recuperate safely from the heat.

4) Cool your Pet Inside & Outside

Just as bodies become warm, so do their insides. To ensure that they are staying cool and regulating temperature, provide your pets with cool mats and towels. Even a frozen peanut butter treat can do the trick!

5) Never Leave Your Pets Inside a Parked Car

This one is very important!! Do not leave your pets in the car during the summertime. Your car can become very very hot, leaving your pets with no way to escape the heat or cool down. If you must leave them in the car, make sure you leave the air on, a window open and limit your time away from the car to under 15 minutes!!

5 Animal Care Tips to Prepare your Home for Spring

Flickr Creative Commons: Nguyen Hoangnam

It is officially spring!!! No more winter blues or cabin fever! It is time to take you and your animals outside and enjoy the nice warmer weather! However, before you do, read this list of tips and tricks to protect your home and yourself before your pet’s spring season mayhem.

1) Help with Removing Pet Stains and Odor
As a pet owner, you know how it goes, a pet is messy, dirty and can track in a lot of things from the outside. In spring, this can be even worse, because things tend to be more muddy. That is why it is good to know a few good tricks for removing pet stains and odors. Fortunately the Humane Society has your back with these simple pet stain and odor removing tricks.
2) Find your Cure to Shedding

Flickr Creative Commons: Chris Isherwood

Pet shed all year round, it is a part of their nature. However it seems that spring brings about a whole new type of shedding. For homeowners this can unfortunately be a predicament, as they do not want their home covered with fur. Luckily, Martha Stewart has some suggestions to rid your home of fur and some tip to control your pets shedding.
3) Find New Toys for Spring

Flickr Creative Commons: Michael Gil

If your a Minnesota native like me, you understand that your pets have been inside most of the winter. However, as spring rolls around, the pets and yourself get more antsy to go outside and play. That is why it is important to get some new pet toys for spring. If you are confused on what to buy, check out these two sites for dog and cat toys.
4) Protect your Home from Flies and Ticks

Tick and flea season is upon us! Protect your pets and loved ones by using flea and tick controlling products. This way your animals can play outside and you won’t have to worry about them bringing the outside back with them. For the best protection for your animal, consult peteducation.com to find which products will work best for you!

5) Reduce your Animal’s Winter Weight with a Diet Change

During winter animals get less of a chance to play outside and burn off some of their energy, causing them to pack on a few pounds of winter weight. So as the spring rolls around, putting your animal on a diet can help them get back their sprightly figure and enjoy their spring summer that much more. For tips, check out V.C.A Animal Hospitals weight reduction plan for cats and dogs.

Five Pooch-Friendly Products for Winter

Winter is still here and it’s not going anywhere for a while. For some pet-owners a lot has to be done around the house once temperatures start dropping. These products mentioned below are important to have around the house to make both, your and your dog’s life much easier.

1. Freedom Pet Pass Door

This product is a huge upgrade from the old school doggie doors. During winter one of the worst things is wind, and because some doggie doors are made of thing material or not made for winter time, dog-owners are constantly having to let their dog in and out of the house. Who’s got the energy for that? That’s why these were invented. Magnetic strips on all sides and your dog will feel safe to come in and out as much as (s)he needs to without you having to worry about it at all.

2. Puppy Go Potty

If its something we’ve seen this year is that when it snows, it snows hard. Sometimes the weather may not allow for our pets, or even ourselves to do outside. In these situations, be assure that Puppy Go Potty Liter will help any situation that arises. It seals any odor, and is made out of organic material. Tell us if you currently have a product like this in the house and how it’s working out for you in the comment section below!

3. Soothe & Shield Paw Balm

Winter walks can be very harsh on a dog’s paws. The winter elements, such as ice, snow, and even the salt on the roads can be hurtful to their paws and sometimes even painful. This balm will protect your dog’s paws, and prevent any damage from the cold winter walks.

4. Dog Boots

Most of the people reading this who are dog owners are most likely dog owners themselves and already have more than a couple of dog boots at home. We know at least the Minnesotans do! But for all our dear readers out there who might have just recently adopted a dog, then go ahead and click here so you and your dog can enjoy walks in the snow with no problem. The product itself is self-explanatory, it will protect your dog’s paws from the cold and let him run around without being uncomfortable by the cold.

5. Spill-proof mats

To avoid your dog’s water bowl from getting too cold on the floor, it’s a good idea to have this spill-proof mats. Not only does it avoid a mess but it also allows your dog’s water to stay at room temperature. Not too shabby, right?

Photo by Josh / Flickr: Creative Commons

Well dear reader this is where we end our post. Hopefully this has given you some guidance as a dog-owner, as to what to do during the winter time. Let us in the comment section below if you have any of these products and how they’ve worked out for you! Or if you’re thinking of buying one as well!

How To Easily Travel With Pets

Do you ever feel guilty leaving your pets behind when you travel? We know, we understand. All pet owners are familiar with that feeling. Don’t worry, we’ve found an article that lists for you all the necessary preparations you need to easily travel with your dear pets. Find the original article here.

1. Find Pet Friendly Hotels.

We often are in such a rush to find a good deal on hotels we forget to check hotel’s pet policies. Some welcome pets with no problem, others not at all. Be sure to check if the hotel you book allows pets in rooms and provides the right needs for your them, too.

2. Let him/her go potty!

Just like any other baby, they all need to go to the bathroom and it’s important to take those breaks in order for him or her to do so. You know your pet, if he or she seems restless it’s probably time to stop and go potty.

3. Puppy pads are a must!

You never know… when they need to go, they need to go. Be prepared just in case. Bring some extra not only for the ride to wherever you’re going to, but also for where you’ll be staying.

4. Go for a longer ride than usual.

Is this your pet’s first time traveling? It would be a good idea to train him/her to expect a longer car ride than usual. Take a 2-4 hour ride and notice how they act. Do they get agitated, or motion sickness? Hopefully they wont, but see if they can stomach the travel when it does happen. That way you both won’t have any unexpected surprises. Good luck with this one!

5. Take their medications and proper food.

Don’t forget their medicine, or to be aware of their diet restriction if they have any. This is probably a very obvious point but no harm in reminding. Create a checklist, reminders on your phone if they need to take medications at certain times. With all the hectic traveling you might forget. Avoid problems, where they can be avoided.

6. Airlines and their Pet Policies.

Do they accept pets on the plane? Some have a weight limit, and some might be more lenient about it. Call and make sure you have everything set before you bring your pet to the airport. Familiarize yourself with the process of the handling of pets. Some are taken with the luggage, so it’s good to know where your pet will be at all times when they aren’t with you. Click here for a list of Pet-friendly airlines.

7. Crate ’em

We know, it’s not easy to seem them in a little cage. While you might think it’s okay to let them roam around the car, it might distract you and cause a crash. Avoid this at all cost. If you know your pet gets restless or might distract you while driving we strongly recommend you follow this step.

8. Collars with Tags and Emergency Contact Info are a must.

You can never be too safe with this. In case you and your pet separate make sure your contact information on their tag. Again, avoid this at all cost. But, if it happens make sure the information on the tag is updated, and your current number is there.

9. Pack their Toys, Blankets, Pillows, etc.

Just like sometimes we like to take our own pillows to friend’s sleepovers, taking your dog’s blankets, pillows or anything they usually carry around will help them feel at ease as well. These items will smell like home to them and they won’t feel so out of place when they travel.

So dear reader this is where we end this blog post. We hope you have safe travels and this list of tips finds you just in time before those travels, and hopefully saves you some headaches. Safe travels and Happy Holidays!!

6 Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

Break out your masks and monsters! Its Halloween, and time to be scared! While being afraid at Halloween is actually a lot of fun for humans, it can be an especially stressful for pets. Between the combination of strangers, costumes, and continual door bell ringing it is no wonder that this is a terrifying time for our furry friends. Read on for tips and tricks on how to avoid a real scare and keep your pet safe this Halloween.

1). No Human Treats for Pets

While candy and other chocolates can be a tasty treat for humans, these sweets can be extremely harmful for pets. Besides chocolate, watch out for gum and sugarless candy sweetened with xylitol which can be lethal for Fido. In the event that your pet does eat something dangerous, immediately call your vet or the Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435).

The next day, or after trick or treaters leave, be sure to check for stray wrappers or other bits of candy they may have dropped. You don’t want Rover to find these before you do.

Instead, why not spoil your dog and make these homemade peanut butter, bacon & pumpkin dog treats? They are super easy to make and we promise your dog will love you for it.

2). Keep an Eye out For Decorations

In a home with pets, it goes without saying that Jack-o’- lanterns lit with candles are a bad idea. Curious creatures can easily knock them over and cause a fire. Instead, opt for artificial or battery powered lights for your decorating needs.

Similarly, decorations are not chew toys. Prevent pets from chewing on cords by keeping cords off the floor and out of reach. If chewed, Fido could suffer from cuts, burns or life threatening shocks. Better yet, try to keep your decorations outside to prevent problems before they happen.

3). Be Careful with Costumes

According to the Humane Society of the United States, an estimated half of pet owners dress their pets in costumes for Halloween. Pumpkins and ladybugs are the perennial favorites.

While pet costumes may be hilarious, it is important to keep your pet’s best interest at heart. Do the right thing and double check that your pet can comfortably breath, walk, eat and go to the bathroom. In addition to what your pet is wearing, be aware of how long your pet is dressed up. Oftentimes, these costumes are made from irritating fabric that can become uncomfortable or tight over long periods of time.Not to mention, it is important to be wary of small parts can be torn off and gobbled up. Just the thought of Rover chewing off and ingesting part of his costume is downright terrifying.

4). Keep Pets indoors

Before nightfall, take your pets indoors. While pets are always safest indoors at night, this is especially true on Halloween in order to avoid pranksters who may want to harm pets.

5). Keep pet in secure place

Even the best behaved pets can become anxious or worked up during the Halloween commotion. Reduce stress for pets by putting them in a separate area with their favorite bed and toys well before trick or treaters arrive. This way they will have a safe haven where they can feel secure, comfortable, relaxed while being tucked away from any hazards.

Similarly, even if you are just having friends over for a Halloween party, keep your pets away from the festivities in their safe room. Even familiar people may become scary as masks and costumes change how people look and smell to a pet.

6) Make sure ID tags are on

Unfortunately, it is possible that your pet may accidentally run out the door or get lost amidst all the Halloween excitement. Should anything happen, you want to make sure Fluffy is safely returned to you. Pet owners, please double check that your furry friends are wearing their tags. Wouldn’t you rather be safe than sorry?

Lastly, while it may be the spookiest night of the year, remember to have fun! If you don’t have a timid dog or a scaredy cat get them involved too so all the family can participate and have a tail wagging good time. Happy “Howloween” from RNR Realty!

Built-Ins for Bow Wows and Meow Meows

If you are building or remodeling it is important to know what you want, but it is also important to design your home with your pet in mind. Because who are we kidding- we treat our pets like our like our children and we want them to have the best. However, oftentimes the designs of their areas stick out from the rest of the house in unfavorable ways. Luckily, designers today are embracing this challenge and setting out to build unique and aesthetically pleasing pet accommodations. Whether it be for sleeping, feeding or relaxing, these pet friendly built ins are sure to please. For the original article from Attic Magazine on Built-Ins for Pets, click here.

Feeding Area

Instead of your normal feeding area, imagine sleek cabinets with drawers for dry kibble and built in dog bowls at base. This clever cabinetry helps alleviate tripping over the bowls and the subsequent scattering of kibble.

Sleeping

Why not utilize nooks and crannies for dog beds? Areas such as under a window seat or below a staircase are perfect for keeping Spot’s bed out of sight.

Pet Gates

Pet gates are another area of trouble. Many of us resort to plastic baby gates to alleviate this problem. But wait! A better solution is in store! Custom gates for stairways that blend into the rest of the house can protect children and pets alike.

The Litter Box

Ah the illusive litter box… it is enough to send any cat lady screaming. Unsightly plastic litter trays are now being hidden in clever new ways. For instance, curtains under a laundry room sink or faux cabinets with a hidden door for Whiskers on the side help hide this unattractive necessity.

However, if undertaking a total remodeling project seems like a daunting task, check out these DIY pet projects and other tips for living with pets on our At Home With Pets Pintrest board. On the other hand, if you are up for the challenge check out Attic Magazine’s article on pet built-ins for further inspiration. Regardless of the design approach you take, remember to keep your furry friends in mind.

Water Safety Advice for Protecting Your Pets this Summer

Petco Provides Water Safety Advice for Pet Parents This Summer (via PR Newswire)

Download image Petco. (PRNewsFoto/Petco) SAN DIEGO, May 27, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — In an effort to keep pets and pet parents active and safe this summer, Petco is providing tips and advice for letting pets join in on outdoor water activities while keeping…

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Pet Traveling Tips

The full original post can be found here: Pet Traveling Tips.

Looks like this doggy duo is ready to hit the road! But are they "up to speed" on their vaccinations?

Summer is a prime travel time, whether you’re going on a quick weekend getaway or a long road trip. If you’re planning on bringing your furbabies along for the ride, though, you’ll need to take extra precautions to make sure they’re comfortable, content, and in good health so they don’t end up putting a damper on your vacation. Remember to get them up-to-date on all their necessary vaccinations before you set out, and plan ahead to make stops at hotels that are for sure pet-friendly. And don’t forget to pack their favorite toys as well as the food/water dishes they’re accustomed to, so they’ll feel somewhat at home. Keep in mind: the easier you make the trip for Spot and Kitty, the easier they’ll make the trip for you. Happy tails – oops, we mean trails – to you!

For the entire list of tips for traveling with pets, go to blogpaws.com.

Pet Odor Can Chase Away Buyers

Original Article: Pet Odor Can Chase Away Buyers | By: G. M. Filisko | Published: October 15, 2010

Don’t let pet odors derail your home sale.

Having pet odors inside your home can turn off potential home buyers and keep your home from selling. Ask your real estate agent for an honest opinion about whether your home has a pet smell.

If your agent holds her nose, here’s how to get rid of the smell:

Air your house out. While you’re cleaning, throw open all the windows in your home to allow fresh air to circulate and sweep out unpleasant scents.

Once your house is free of pet odors, do what you can to keep the smells from returning. Crate your dog when you’re out or keep it outdoors. Limit the cat to one floor or room, if possible. Remove or replace pet bedding.

Scrub thoroughly. Scrub bare floors and walls soiled by pets with vinegar, wood floor cleaner, or an odor-neutralizing product, which you can purchase at a pet supply store for $10 to $25.

Try a 1:9 bleach-to-water solution on surfaces it won’t damage, like cement floors or walls.

Got a stubborn pet odor covering a large area? You may have to spend several hundred dollars to hire a service that specializes in hard-to-clean stains.

Wash your drapes and upholstery. Pet odors seep into fabrics. Launder, steam clean, or dry clean all your fabric window coverings. Steam clean upholstered furniture.

Either buy a steam cleaner designed to remove pet hair for around $200 and do the job yourself, or pay a pro. You’ll spend about $40 for an upholstered chair, $100 for a sofa, and $7 for each dining room chair if a pro does your cleaning.

Clean your carpets. Shampoo your carpets and rugs, or have professionals do the job for $25 to $50 per room, depending on their size and the level of filth embedded in them. The cleaner will try to sell you deodorizing treatments. You’ll know if you need to spend the extra money on those after the carpet dries and you have a friend perform a sniff test.

If deodorizing doesn’t remove the pet odor from your home, the carpets and padding will have to go. Once you tear them out, scrub the subfloor with vinegar or an odor-removing product, and install new padding and carpeting. Unless the smell is in the subfloor, in which case that goes next.

Paint, replace, or seal walls. When heavy-duty cleaners haven’t eradicated smells in drywall, plaster, or woodwork, add a fresh coat of paint or stain, or replace the drywall or wood altogether.

On brick and cement, apply a sealant appropriate for the surface for $25 to $100. That may smother and seal in the odor, keeping it from reemerging.

Place potpourri or scented candles in strategic locations. Put a bow on your deep clean with potpourri and scented candles. Don’t go overboard and turn off buyers sensitive to perfumes. Simply place a bowl of mild potpourri in your foyer to create a warm first impression, and add other mild scents to the kitchen and bathrooms.

Control ongoing urine smells. If your dog uses indoor pee pads, put down a new pad each time the dog goes. Throw them away outside in a trash can with a tight lid. Remove even clean pads from view before each showing.

Replace kitty litter daily, rather than scooping used litter clumps, and sweep up around the litter box. Hide the litter box before each showing.

Relocate pets. If your dog or cat has a best friend it can stay with while you’re selling your home (and you can stand to be separated from your pet), consider sending your pet on a temporary vacation. If pets have to stay, remove them from the house for showings and put away their dishes, towels, and toys.

More from HouseLogic : Preparing your home for sale | Staging your home for sale | Spring cleaning guide

G.M. Filisko is an attorney and award-winning writer whose former mutt Marley no doubt created a wet-dog aroma in her condo that still remains. A regular contributor to many national publications including Bankrate.com, REALTOR® Magazine, and the American Bar Association Journal, she specializes in real estate, business, personal finance, and legal topics.

Visit HouseLogic.com for more articles like this. Reprinted from HouseLogic.com with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®.