From Paris Hilton and her elaborate dog "palaces" to the weekend throngs at PetSmart, Americans love to pamper their pets. For many people, pets are like their children. And pampering our pets has become a favorite pastime.
Here are some ways you can pamper your own beloved dog or puppy:
- Buy health biscuits, treats or gourmet fare for your pooch. There are hundreds of suppliers of specialty dog treats, when are often homemade. Look for ingredients that are veterinary approved while still passing the finicky pet's taste test.
- Be fashion forward. OK, this might be a little too extreme for some pet owners, but an entire fashion industry exists for pets. From pet "booties" to sweaters, hats and jewel-speckled dog collars, you can keep your pet warm with a few simple purchases.
- Dog beds are available at most pet supply stores. If your pet is an outdoor animal with its own dog house, don't put a dog bed inside the dog house. Your pet will track in mud and moisture from rain, causing the bed to become damp and filthy and attracting bugs and insects. Most dog beds are designed only for indoor use. If you insist on putting a dog bed inside a dog house, trying spraying it with water-proof fabric protector first. This may at least provide some protection against the elements.
- Should you consider buying health insurance for pets? This could be a wise investment, since veterinary bills can easily run into the hundreds or the thousands of dollars. Each health insurance company provides different policies, so be sure to read the fine print before signing on the dotted line. Also, you may want to ask your veterinarian or a fellow pet owner which insurance company they would recommend.
- Pet psychics? We must be kidding, right? No, there are self-proclaimed pet psychics and they are often used by the rich and famous. We won't go into a lot of detail here but if you want more information on this area, begin your investigation by searching the internet.
- Groomers, bathers, dog walkers and more. Depending on your own time constraints or lack of facilities, you may want to enlist these types of services. There are businesses that focus on providing these types of services. Usually the bulletin board at your local veterinarians office will host business cards from these types of services. Or just ask a neighborhood teenager if he or she would like to earn a little spending money.
- For outdoor dogs, buy an insulated dog house and install a heating and air conditioning unit. An insulated dog house can sometimes cost more but is worth the additional expense. An insulated dog house is often built with insulating sheets on the walls, ceiling and floor, which are then covered with paneling or plastic. When shopping for an insulated dog house, find out about the construction. You can spend as little or as much as you want when purchasing a dog house. Price isn't always indicative of quality so inspect the dog house carefully before making a commitment.
- If you plan to travel and can't take your pet, look into a "doggie spa" or a "doggie daycare." More than just a kennel, these types of resorts often provide private rooms for each dog, complete with beds, televisions or music, toys and just about anything else your precious pooch might need. Although pricey, these resorts can help ease the worry of the traveling pet owner and the stress from leaving your pet behind.
Author Resource:-
Todd Arend is a freelance writing professional whose expertise covers a variety of areas, including patio and backyard furniture, landscaping and design. He regularly writes about Insulated Dog Houses and Outdoor Furniture.
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