The ones we write about are ones that we really do love. However, there are some products that we cannot live with out, products that have redefined our relationship with our pets, and we wanted to let you know what they are…
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This product has enabled me to handle three large dogs at a time on a walk. I want to make this clear because I’m talking about three dogs that pull to a point where I have no control over them. Three dogs that outweigh me in sheer weight, and can pull nearly five times their own weight. We believe in making sure our pets get the exercise they need, and this can be difficult when you have three who could pull you to Alaska if the desire struck them. We have tried MANY products designed to control them in the past, we have spent countless hours and thousands of dollars on training, and the only thing that has been successful for us is the Halti.
The theory behind the Halti is that if you have control over a dog’s head, you have control over the dog. The same premise works for horses, and if you can control a 1,000-lb animal by slipping a halter over his head, you can certainly control a 50-lb animal in the same way.
The best part of the Halti is that you don’t have to use it forever. Two of my three dogs no longer require it during walks. They know that they are not supposed to pull. Brock is working his way out of it and while we do still use it on our daily walks, we are weaning him off it a little more each day.
Be sure you know how to use it properly. The product comes with a very informational DVD that explains how to use it and it’s important you do not use jerky motions or pull too quickly or you risk damage (just as you would if you used a collar). If you’re afraid to take your dog out for a walk because he pulls or lunges, buy this product. It will totally transform your life. (Read our Halti Review)
When walking our dogs, it’s important to have my hands free for the “higher maintenance” dogs (also known as Brock and Cheiss). Bree is wonderful at being on her own. She prefers a loose leash, and other than being a bit “ADD” (SQUIRREL!), she excels at setting the pace, taking the lead and being a calm, laid-back leader.
However, I need my hands free for Cheiss and Brock. The Kurgo Quantum 6-in-1 Dog Leash
The LICKS Joint Plus Heart Treat for Dogs
LICKS Liquid Vitamins for Dogs
Athlete is perfect for dogs who compete in sports as the unique formulation aids in rapid muscle recovery during or after sports events.Skin + Allergy + Shiny Coat offers dogs with thinner coats a huge advantage in growing “normal” fur and eliminating skin conditions during summer or winter. Elder Dog is fantastic for seniors as it helps pets naturally replenish lost vitamins and minerals that are normally depleted with aging. The Home Feeding Aid is a wonderful resource for rescue animals, pets in health crisis who don’t want to eat, or any dog who has a “picky” appetite as it works by increasing palatability and ensuring your pets have a fully balanced diet, no matter what you feed.
Licks Pill Free is easily given to pets, and can be administered by hand, in water, or in food. Read our review here: A Look at LICKS Pill-Free Supplements
I’m generalizing here because there are several I like. So let’s begin. These sprays are fantastic “break through” sprays to get rid of that “doggy smell”. They are perfect between baths, when you have company over, or when your dog is getting a bit overwhelming. These are my favorites (in no particular order):
Nootie Japanese Cherry Blossom Fragrance: This fresh fragrance will keep your dog smelling clean between baths and it conditions the skin and coat at the same time. It’s perfect on the days that “drop by” visitor or client who comes over without notice. Nootie’s Daily Spritz
- Ingredients: Purified Water, SDA 40 Alcohol, Nonoxynol 9, Polyquat 7, Glycerin, infused with essence of Japanese Cherry Blossom, Preservative
- Read our review: Preparing Pets for Holiday Visitors
Gerrard Larriett Spray: This is another great spritz for pets. Mood-enhancing Jasmine raises pet’s spirits and you’ll be a lot happier as well when your pet climbs in your lap for a cuddle. It’s formulated for sensitive skin, paraben-free, PH-balanced and made in the USA. Lanolin naturally re-hydrates sensitive, dry skin. Custom-formulated moisturizing agents leave coat fragrant and shiny in between baths. Happy Jasmine Aromatherapy Freshening & Shining Spray For Pets
- Ingredients: Lanolin, Jasmine Essential Oil
- Read our review: Gerrard Larriett – Top Quality Aromatherapy for Pets
EarthBath Grooming Wipes: These wipes are perfect for quick clean ups on the go or sudden visitors (after your dogs have been wrestling in dust). The wipes are very lightly scented but still leave a clean, fresh smell behind rather than the wet dog smell we all dread. They are 100% bio-degradable, cruelty free, and fragrance and allergen free. Each Earthbath All Natural Puppy Grooming Wipe
- Ingredients: Purified Water, Polysorbate 20 (a natural derivative of sorbitol), Green Tea Leaf Extract, Hawaiian Awapuhi Extract, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and Benzoic Acid (a natural preservative)
- Read our Review: Earthbath Puppy Wipes and Spritz
Our absolute favorite air purifier is a tiny little unit that you can take absolutely anywhere. It’s called Critterzone and it removes even the toughest odors. Just plug into the wall and let it roll.
The neatest thing about this is that it comes in several sizes so you can put it in your car, your home, a single room, or an entire home.The technology is the same used by restoration crews after a fire. If that doesn’t tell you how effective it is, I don’t now what will. What we love best of all is that it doesn’t “replace” the odor with a perfumy odor, it smells just as it would if you left your doors and windows open for a week: Pure, fresh, and free from any odor at all.
- Learn more about CritterZone (and if you order one, save yourself $10 by using coupon code: PETSWEEKLY)
- Read our Review: CritterZone Eliminates Pet Odors & Restores Air Quality
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Cycle Dog Collars: This fun, earth-friendly company makes some of the best collars we have ever seen. Our favorites are fashioned from recycled bike inner tubes and while that may sound uncomfortable to the dog, I can assure you it’s not. Rather, your pups will experience a completely waterproof, very colorful, incredibly long-lasting collar that lasts for a very, very long time. This is the collar our dogs wear every day and I would recommend Cycle Dog Recycled Dog Collar
- Read our review Collars with a Higher Purpose
Two Hound Design Collars: Made in the USA, these collars are some of our favorites for dressing up or just when you have company over to the house. We love the elegant design of the martingale, the sassy styles of the side release and the overall beautiful looks of these collars. They are also very affordable with prices starting around $30 depending on design and style.
- Read our Review: Collars with a Higher Purpose
Buckle-Down Collars: These durable collars are not only bright and attractive, they are super long-lasting. Best of all, they come with a unique easy-release so you’re not fumbling with latches. They operate the same way that an airline seat belt works. We love the huge selection of designs!
- Read our review: Buckle-Down Dog Collars
We hope you take a moment to look over these amazing products and learn how they can become indispensable in your life, too!