Fur Baby Inc a.k.a. FBI - just kidding - we share the love for dogs

GPS Chipping Services for Pets

Pets can tend to escape their owners’ possession, and become lost while on walks even when fences, gates, doors, and other boundaries are set in place to prevent them. There are an increasing number of pet owners are looking for new solutions to help prevent the loss of a pet, or in the event of a loss, find and retrieve their furry loved ones. With the advent of GPS and readable microchips, companies have been developed microchipping and GPS installation into pet collars and leashes. There are benefits to both of these types of technologies, and here are just a few things you should know if you are a pet owner and are looking for similar technology.

GPS vs. Microchipping

Contrary to what many pet owners may think, there is a significant difference between microchips and GPS. Microchips are generally implanted beneath the skin of a dog or cat, typically in the shoulder area or back of the neck.  The microchip is not powered on at all times (as a GPS would be), but only when a microchip scanner is passed over the animal. Microchips do not contain strong internal batteries, and as a result, are not capable of being registered through a global positioning satellite. GPS collars, on the other hand, are larger, and worn on the pet’s collar. GPS collars do have a power source or interchangeable batteries, and can be tracked from a long distance via a global positioning satellite.

Pros and Cons

The single largest benefit of a GPS collar is being able to track your pet nearly anywhere. Many companies are now offering services or apps that enable you to monitor your pet with a mobile device. This is usually done through SMS or e-mails that notify you when your pet leaves a certain zone that you have specified when registering the system. Since the GPS device is attached externally, you do not have to worry about possible reactions or discomfort your pet could face by having a microchip implanted. However, this also means that the device can be removed by someone else, falls off, or shuts down due to the loss of battery power, rendering the device useless. The majority of models are often too big to fit correctly around a small dog or cat’s neck as well. As such, GPS collars are usually best for medium to large-sized pets.

Implanting a microchip in your pet’s shoulder or neck enables permanent identification for that pet. Worried owners can relax knowing that the chip cannot be removed or become detached by accident. They are also inexpensive, do not require monthly subscriptions, and only require a onetime charge for the procedure and the pet’s ID number registration. The process only takes a short while and is usually done through a small injection that would be no different than the pet receiving a vaccination shot. Owners will also not have to stay on top of additional battery power since energy is drawn from the chip only when being scanned. Nevertheless, there are some downfalls of microchips that pet owners may not be aware of.

While microchipping is becoming more and more popular, many shelters do not have universal scanners and may not be able to identify a pet if it has a chip that they hardware cannot read. In rare cases pets have experienced inflammation when microchips have been injected and installed under their skin.

So which option is the right one for you? If you are on a tight budget, microchipping might be the best option. The implant would free you of expenses for batteries, subscriptions, and expensive hardware. On the other hand if you do have the funds, a GPS collar may be a good choice as long as you have a medium to large-sized pet.

GPS Options

A good choice for a color GPS device may be the more popular RoamEO Pet Monitoring System. It comes with a GPS enabled receiver and collar, can track up to two pets simultaneously, and rechargeable batteries with the charger is included. The RoamEO pet GPS system is priced at $179. Tagg by PetTracker is a more advanced option at the same price, but after 12 months charges a monthly fee of $7.95 for their app.

Microchipping

Microchipping is a lot cheaper, often costing only $30 - $50 compared to hundreds in the long term for GPS tracking devices. You can get a microchip implanted in your pet generally at most shelters, and they are also sometimes offered at vaccination clinics. Interested pet owners should contact their local shelter for more information. A proper visit to the vet can determine if your pet can be microchipped, and these consultations should be made before any sort of minor surgery or injection happens.

Angie Picardo is a staff writer for NerdWallet. Her mission is to help pet owners stay financially savvy and save money with NerdWallet’s best credit cards.

 

Related articles

Top Five Tips When Traveling with Pets

New Device Allows You To Track Lost Pets On Your Phone

May is National Chip Your Pet Month

Products for a Sensitive Pup

Products for a Sensitive Pup 

Much like their two-legged counterparts, many furry friends also experience allergic reactions, or are born with natural sensitivity, that can quickly become debilitative without human assistance. Thanks to the increased pet awareness, many simple and inexpensive products now exist to aid sensitive pups in their everyday adventures. 

Dog Booties

For extremely active dogs, or dogs with sensitive feet, booties are a simple way to protect pups from the elements in harsh situations. Veterinarian-recommended for many a pup, washable booties come in a variety of colors and materials, ranging from fleece to nylon. And with sizes ranging from XXXS to XL, there’s a bootie available for every possible paw. To determine the best booties for sensitive feet, ask yourself three questions: In what type of weather will my dog be using the footwear? Over what type of terrain do we typically walk? And, during what type of activities will we use the boot? No matter the answer, from a casual sidewalk stroll to an active overland hike, booties exist to meet your pup’s needs.

www.dogbooties.com

 

Nose ‘n Toes Pet Balm by Hebert Honey 

Just like human lips and hands, puppy noses and paw pads are readily susceptible to cracking and chapped skin. Several products now exist to protect pups against harsh elements. All natural products like Nose ‘n Toes Pet Balm are helpful for your pooch and safe to ingest. Made with sweet almond, coconut, and vitamin E oils, and fortified with pure beeswax and honey, Nose ‘n Toes is free from scent – a key factor that help prevent your pet from licking the affected area. Pet balms provide a breathable barrier for pet skin, allowing oxygen to permeate the skin while “locking-in” moisture. Possible pet balm applications include nicks, cracks, small cuts, and dry skin resulting from hot spots or hair loss. As with human dermatological problems, some conditions such as eczema and psoriasis cannot be healed topically, so consider carefully your pet’s condition before deciding on possible remedies.

http://heberthoney.com/wordpress_169520940/?duka=nose-n-toes

 

PediPaws Pet Nail Trimmer

For fast, easy pooch pedicures, the PediPaw Nail Trimmer is a hand-down favorite among many pet lovers. This ubiquitous, as-seen-on-TV product really does provide a quick and effective option for painless nail trimming at home. The simple, battery-powered nail trimmer, effective for dogs or cats, can quickly trim and smooth pet nails without the mess or pain of traditional nail clippers. The PediPaws features a quiet, motor-driven emery wheel that files nails evenly and traps the filings in an easy-to-empty protective cap. When considering a nail grinder for your dog, ask yourself the following questions: What size trimmer is best for my dog? Will the power of the nail grinder be strong enough for my dog’s nails? (Not all electric grinders have the same power. Especially if your dog’s nails are thick and rough, a smaller grinder may not prove satisfactory.) Is the grinder convenient to use? Does it feature removable parts that could easily be lost? Does the grinder include a cover to capture nail trimmings?  Note: if you have long-haired dogs, you have to be extra careful so the nail grinder doesn't pull the hair off by accident.

With equal parts research, recommendation, and experimentation, finding the perfect products for your sensitive pup can prove much less frustrating.

Angie Picardo is a staff writer for NerdWallet. Her mission is to help pet owners stay financially savvy and save money with NerdWallet’s best rewards credit cards.

Winter Pet Care Tips for Dogs

The winter months can be harsh on your pooch, and taking a few precautions can make a world of difference and save them from potentially life-threatening illnesses like frostbite or hypothermia.  Just because they have fur doesn’t mean they are impervious to cold. Listed below are a few helpful reminders to keep your pet safe during the cold season:

• If it’s below freezing, never leave your pet outdoors. While long-haired breeds like Huskies and St. Bernards do well in colder temperatures, the same rule applies. In sub-zero temperatures any dog will need a warm refuge.

• Older dogs and puppies are particularly vulnerable to cold. Never leave an older dog or a puppy unattended in snow, sleet, or cold temperatures. They may need your assistance getting up and down slippery steps or through thick snow blankets.

• Pets with severe medical conditions like heartworms or diabetes may have a harder time regulating their body heat. Keep all of your pets up to date on shots and have any prescriptions filled before winter. If you get snowed in you’ll be glad you stocked up.

Furthermore, remembering the three fundamentals—Food, Shelter, and Grooming—will go a long way when it comes to your pet’s safety.

Food

• Dogs burn more calories during the winter to keep warm. Working dogs and active breeds will especially burn through calories at a higher rate, so keep plenty of food stocked and treats at the ready. But don’t go overboard—obesity is a major contributor to heart disease in dogs!

• Keep plenty of fresh water available.

• Check to make sure outside water dishes haven’t frozen over. You might consider buying a heated water dish.

• Keep dogs away from antifreeze (highly likely if your area has a snowplow service); it is poisonous and can be potentially fatal!

Shelter

• It cannot be stressed enough that you let your dog inside more frequently and give them shelter at night.
• If you see them whining, burrowing, or shivering, let them inside.
• Indoors—dog-proof your fireplaces and heaters. The threat of winter doesn’t only reside outside. If your dog is too close to a heat source, there is a potential for burning.
• Provide your dog with a thick, soft bed.

Grooming

• Towel-dry your dog when they come in the house from winter rains. Not only will this reduce debris and prevent mud from getting tracked indoors, but will also help them warm up faster and reduce the risk of hypothermia.

• Bundle up! Smaller dogs, shorthair and hairless breeds don’t retain heat as well as their long-haired brothers and sisters. Make sure they have access to adequate bedding, and ifyou’re planning on going out for a while, there is a large variety of sweaters and size-oriented coats available at major retailers like Petsmart, Petco, and even Wal-Mart. Make it fun, butcomfortable—the burden of bundling up doesn’t mean your pup doesn’t have to look good.

 
Also remember special holiday precautions:

• Fireworks can be annoying to dogs and they may become disoriented and attempt escape unsecured yards.

• Exercise precautions when introducing them to new people during holiday parties. Socializing your dog is important but make sure children know the proper etiquette—pulling ears and riding your aunt’s Great Dane is inappropriate. Take a couple minutes with each guest to introduce your pet properly.

• Be mindful of electrical cords on decorations on the tree—don’t leave edible ornaments hanging low.

Remember, your pets will need a little extra love during the winter. Your pets are part of the family and
will be grateful that you’ve kept them safe and comfortable.

Angie Picardo is a staff writer for NerdWallet, a website dedicated to helping pet lovers find the best
credit cards for all their pet care needs.

Labradoodles Creator Regrets...

I didn't know that NOT ALL Labradoodle are non-allergenic (based on this article - link below).  I simply didn't think of this: Labrador cross poodle could result in more lab or more poodle genes.  We don't have control of it.    

It's a very intereing read (only takes about 2 minutes).  The person who originally created "Labradoodles" spoke up: http://www.globalanimal.org/2010/12/02/man-who-created-labradoodles-regrets-the-cross-breed/25768/

When I shared the article on facebook, a friend who's involved in rescue said:

"Another big issue is what those unethical breeders do with the pups who inherit the lab coat. Most people looking to acquire a labradoodle are doing so because they need (or want) a hypoallergenic dog. Therefore, the pups born with the lab coat will not fetch the pretty penny the breeder was hoping for. I've heard of many puppy mills and backyard breeders who have drowned, beaten, and otherwise disposed of the unwanted allergenic puppies. So sad!"

I think most of us never thought about it.  Please share it.

 

Happy Rally Obedience Trials

Harry & Stella got so many good runs at the Alberta Kennel Club Summer Classic show.

They had some great runs (see the ribbons). Harry even got a perfect score once - that is the BIG 100 - we were so happy!

Harry now has RA and Stella now has RN titles.

Harry & Stella

Harry & Stella, resting in the shade, at the Evelyn Kenny Kennel & Obedience Club Show:

It was Stella's first time at the rally-o ring and she got a high score of 98!

Stella Turns Two

Our little Stella turned 2 this year!  

We made crustless quiche (as cake) and mashed sweet potatoes (as icing) and Stella shared it with Harry.  Then, we had some fruit & veggie pup-pie for dessert!

 

Pets and Hot Weather

On the Road - Car:

Everyone knows that we should not leave pets or children alone in a parked car. But with summer blazing, this year, like every year, there were a few tragic stories in the news.  So maybe everyone doesn't know?

The people involved always stated that they never thought it would happen and why had no one educated them about the danger? Well, what most people don't realize is how fast the heat can build up.  A few years ago, the National Weather Service conducted an experiment with a closed car on a sunny, 93F/34c day. They shut the car off and monitored the heat build up. The temperature inside the car rose to a deadly 119 degrees in only 10 minutes!   Even on an 85 degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle with the windows slightly open can reach 102 degrees Fahrenheit within 10 minutes.  Overheating can result in irreversible organ damage or even death!

Leaving the windows "cracked" makes very little difference. If you absolutely must take a pet with you on the road, do not leave them in the car, even for a "a couple minutes."  Because on a hot day, that's all it takes to be that next tragic story in the news.

At Home - Windows:

Did you know that during hot weather more pets fall out of windows? It makes sense with more windows being left open.  But pets don't often fall out of open windows. It seems the problem is loose fitting window screens. Check the screens in your windows to make sure they are solid and secure. Your pet may wrongly assume that it's sturdy enough to lean against. For more hot weather pet tips and warning signs that your pet might be suffering from overheating, check this list from the ASPCA website.

Other Tips for Hot Summer Days:

• Provide shade. Ensure that your pet has protection from the heat and sun – a dog house does not provide relief from heat. Bring your pet inside during the hottest part for the day.

• Provide fresh water. Animals do not sweat like humans. They need fresh, clean water to keep their temperatures low. Refill with cool water often during the heat of the day if the animal must be kept outside.

• Limit exercise during the hottest hours of the day. Exercise your pet in the early morning or in the evening. When possible, walk your dog on the grass. Asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet’s paws.

Happy New Year - and Another Canine Photo Secret for You!

Harry and Stella wish you a very happy 2010! We’d like to give you a Christmas present by explaining how we got them to pose with the piano.

When you first bring out a prop, it can make your dogs a little nervous. You want to encourage them to be curious and get comfortable with this new object. Clicker training is marvelous for this!

We put the toy piano on the floor in the middle of the living room so they’d have to learn to live with it. At first, we clicked and treated every time they even so much as looked at it. Gradually they were approaching and sniffing it. Again we clicked and treated for this. Eventually the piano was no big deal.

We left the piano there for a week. Every so often, we’d play a game with Harry and Stella. We’d call them over and put a treat on top of it. When they bravely approached and took it, we clicked. We gradually increased the complexity of this game until they were putting their paws on it. This was harder than you might think because it is very slippery plastic and they were nervous about sliding off. (BTW, it’s battery operated, so without the batteries we didn’t have to worry about getting them used to the sound it made when they pressed the keys!)

After a week of clicker training, the piano had become a fun exercise. Time for the photo shoot! Harry and Stella were given treats and praise for posing and the picture turned out beautifully!

Stella the Snow Bunny

Stella is 8-months-old today!  This is the first Canadian winter for our California girl and we're really happy she likes snow.

We have to be careful, because with her snowy-white Maltese coat, she'd be well camouflaged if she decided to play hide-and-seek in the yard!