Gift Ideas for Pet Lovers #1 - The Look of Courtyard Taupe

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Groovy Posh Pets Deal of the Day: Large Booster Car Seat for Pets

made from a dense foam with a removable micro suede cover that is machine washable. - See more at: http://groovyposhpets.com/large-booster-car-seat.html#sthash.HXVUijI5.dpuf

  This durable good looking, comfortable car seat is made from a dense foam with a removable micro suede cover that is machine washable.

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$110.99

Pet Loss: Cremation and Cemeteries

Losing a furry family member can be as devastating as losing a human family member or friend. The bond that grows from the unconditional love has saved many from emotionally debilitating circumstances.  It’s easy to look forward to the excited tail wagging and bright eyes as you walk through the door, especially if it has been consistent for years. Which is why, many find it very painful when they lose their four-legged best friend and want to give them the same send off they would for their human family- whether that be a cremation or cemetery.

More and more people are choosing to memorialize their pets, opting for more than the backyard burial. According to Bloomberg Business Week, there are approximately 700 pet cemeteries, funeral homes and crematories offering services for pets across the U.S.

There was a time when people hid their grief because many couldn’t understand the emotional impact of the loss; after all it was only a dog or a cat. In fact, owner of Shugart’s Deceased Pet Care in Atlanta, Donna Shugart-Bethune, said it was almost like an underground operation because people wouldn’t want their neighbors to know and asked her father to come in an unmarked car.

Now many options exist, from balloons to memorial services. And as many from various backgrounds - men, women, wealthy and working class are choosing to say good bye the way they would to their humans.

Choosing a facility is not an easy task, however Pet Loss Professionals Alliance, offers guidance on the questions to ask as well as organizations that follow a certain level of professional conduct and services.

Saying good-bye is a personal choice – do it in whatever way you believe would honor your relationship with your furry family.

Groovy Posh Pets Deal of the Day: Distressed Hoodie

Check out this super cool distressed hoodie, by Kade Kimber...we have sizes for the tiniest pooch to the "big dawgs".

$50

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Groovy Posh Pets Deal of the Day: Stylish Jaraden Purse Style Carrier in Gold Metallic

 Jaradén - Le Petit Mon Ami Collection Carrier - Gold Metallic

 $177.99

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Groovy Posh Pets Deal of the Day : Mademoiselle Tee by Ruff Ruff Couture

 NOW $43

I love Paris in the Fall!

The Ruff Ruff Couture® Paris print Mademoiselle tee features a proper white peterpan collar, white lace, pink velvet and sleeves that elegantly puff at the shoulder. Proudly made in the U.S.A. Shop it now at GroovyPoshPets.

I love Paris in the Fall

I love Paris in the Fall

Groovy Posh Pets Deal of the Day- Large Deluxe Soft Crate

It's great for home or travel.

Fits in the back of many SUV'S and Minivans. Rounded corners protect auto and home interiors. Top storage bag holds fleece pad when not in use. Tough, water resistant materials. Extra strong steel frame. 4 Accessories Included: take-a-long toy and treat bag, soft pad with fleece on one side and water resistant nylon on the other, removable inner tray, and an adjustable leash. Size: 42"L x 29"W x 28"H, Capacity up to 90 lbs.

Shop it Now: http://groovyposhpets.com/large-deluxe-soft-crate-generation-ii-moss-green.html
 

Fits in the back of many SUV'S and Minivans. Rounded corners protect auto and home interiors. Top storage bag holds fleece pad when not in use. Waterproof inner tray removes for easy cleaning. Top, front, and side entry doors for easy access. Name tag sleeve for clear indentification. Tough, water resistant materials. Extra strong steel frame. 4 Accessories Included: take-a-long toy and treat bag, soft pad with fleece on one side and water resistant nylon on the other, removable inner tray, and an adjustable leash. Size: 42"L x 29"W x 28"H, Capacity up to 90 lbs. - See more at: http://groovyposhpets.com/large-deluxe-soft-crate-generation-ii-moss-green.html#sthash.RVs4c9mE.dpuf

Fits in the back of many SUV'S and Minivans. Rounded corners protect auto and home interiors. Top storage bag holds fleece pad when not in use. Waterproof inner tray removes for easy cleaning. Top, front, and side entry doors for easy access. Name tag sleeve for clear indentification. Tough, water resistant materials. Extra strong steel frame. 4 Accessories Included: take-a-long toy and treat bag, soft pad with fleece on one side and water resistant nylon on the other, removable inner tray, and an adjustable leash. Size: 42"L x 29"W x 28"H, Capacity up to 90 lbs. - See more at: http://groovyposhpets.com/large-deluxe-soft-crate-generation-ii-moss-green.html#sthash.RVs4c9mE.dpuf

New Pet Care Facility in New York

The Spot Experience of New York has unveiled its 9000 square foot facility offering full-scale services for dogs on 42^nd Street.

The new location offers, convenience and comfort, with in-facility and in-home services inclusive of concierge amenities, cage –free day care and over night boarding, personalized walking, grooming training services, convenient retail products and other innovative pet care services.

Mitch Morrow, founder and CEO, says the state of art facility is in addition to the quality and expertise they provide. “Through the most intensive training and certification process in the industry, Spot staff is unmatched in the level of care provided for pets,” Morrow reports. “Our use of innovative technology and customer service expertise creates the best atmosphere, and the only one that I’d personally ever bring my two beloved dogs to be cared for.”

Check out and celebrate the new opening at the launch party on Wednesday November 19.

Halloween Photo Contest - Enter for a Chance to Win a $50 Gift Card from Groovy Posh Pets

How To Choose a Pet Care Facility Checklist

Do you want the best pet care facility for your pampered pooch or finicky feline? Choosing a reputable safe environment means doing your homework way ahead of your travel plans or event. And the best place to start is with a list of your needs, deal breakers and budget then taking the time to visit various locations to see if they fit your requirements and expectations.

Preparation

Word of Mouth

Recommendations are always a great place to start - ask your friends, vet, neighbors, local rescue groups, shelters or your dog park buddy. Keep in mind that everyone has a different standard, need and budget so it’s best to visit the referred facilities in advance to make sure it meets your level of expectation.

Also if you are a cat parent, you may want to consider a cat only facility.

First Impression and the Environment

How do you feel when you walk in to the facility?

What is your first impression? Is it clean?

Is it warm and inviting?

Do the dogs look happy or anxious?

Do they offer web cams? It’s a nice way of checking in when you have some time.

Is it climate-controlled?

Daily Dog Care

Are dogs in their individual kennels or do they share?

How is the ventilation, heating and cooling?

What are the exercise options - are the dogs let out to run around? Is there space on the property for this or are they taken for daily walks outside of the facility?

What is the daily routine? What kind of activities- social group play, toys, play equipment are provided?

Do they offer grooming services?

Doggie Comfort

How big is the sleeping area?

How long do they stay in enclosed area?

Do you need to bring a crate pillow to place in the kennel for added comfort?

Do they offer special care for dogs with arthritis or disabilities? For instance, dogbeds that provide additional comfort or are they on the floor and can you bring your own if you need too?

Daily Cat Care

If in same facility as dogs, are they kept in separate areas?

How often is the litter changed?

What’s the daily routine - activities?

Health

Are pets required to have vaccinations? How do they manage disease control?

Emergency Procedures

Is there a vet on the premises? If not, is there one on call? If there is an emergency will they call your vet in case of emergency?

Food

How often are they fed?

What food do they provide? Do they provide natural or organic food and treat alternatives? Will they allow you to bring your own brand of food or treats?

Staff

What training does the staff have in general and with difficult or sick dogs?

Fees

What are the daily and weekly rates?

What are the charges for late or early pick up?

Are there additional charges for emergency care in addition to vet?

Can they provide any references?

General

Are dogs required to be spayed and neutered?

These basic list of questions should get you on the way to finding the best home away from home for your furry family pet when you have to travel or entertain. 

Dog Treat Recall

http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-recall/simply-nourish-dog-treats-recall/

What's New at Groovy Posh Pets

This is just too cute. We are loving this classy and fabulous Coco Quilt Jacket by Dogs of Glamour.

$54.94.

Click to buy it now! 

Wackiest Pet Names of the Year Revealed

BREA, Calif., Aug. 6, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The results are in – Peanut Wigglebutt and Snuggles Butt Le Lee head the list of unforgettable monikers chosen as the Wackiest Pet Names of 2014. Each year, Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), the nation's first and largest provider of pet health insurance, celebrates the most clever, creative and quirky pet names nationwide. After a thorough selection process, 50 priceless pup names and 50 comical kitty names were chosen from VPI's database of more than 500,000 insured pets. The top 10 dog and cat monikers were put to a public vote, where Peanut Wigglebutt and Snuggles Butt Le Lee proved wackiest. Following are the top 10 Wackiest Dog and Cat Names of 2014:

	Dogs			Cats
	1.  Peanut Wigglebutt 2.  Sir Hog Knucklehead                3.  Sasha Biggiepotamus Fierce 4.  Otto Von Longdog 5.  Zippity Do Dawg 6.  Airbubble McMuffin 7.  Hamburger Patty 8.  Angus T Brackencrack 9.  Mister Buddy Pickles                10. Waffle Dots			1.  Snuggles Butt Le Lee 2.  Count Flufferton 3.  Katy Purry 4.  Walter Croncat 5.  Joey Banana Pants 6.  Felix Thunder Paws 7.  Nutty Kitty 8.  Senor Meow 9.  Sassy Brat Cat 10. Purrscilla

Peanut Wigglebutt

Snuggles Butt Le Lee

"With more than half a million insured pets in our database, we encounter a variety of fun and eccentric pet names," said Curtis Steinhoff, director of corporate communications for VPI. "We've learned that while some of these names are assigned just for the laughs, many of these monikers hold a special meaning or story behind them. Dogs and cats are now viewed part of the family and these unique, yet specific, names mirror that."

For photos and background stories of the winners and the top 10 nominees, along with the full list of the 50 unusual dog and cat names, visit www.wackypetnames.com.

Deal of the Day : Doggie Sky Box Booster Seat

http://groovyposhpets.com/skybox-booster-seat-khaki-with-brown-details.html

Wake up call...cute pets waking each other up

Tips on Keeping Your Cats and Dogs Fit and Healthy

Healthy portions 
Just like we have to watch the size of our portions, it’s important to limit the amount per serving for your furry family! Read the labels on your pet food and follow the recommended servings.  

Goodies 
Tasty treats are always a weakness, so hard not to think of them sitting in the kitchen pantry waiting to be enjoyed and devoured. That’s why we understand when our pooch keeps hovering around the bag of treats, looks at us with those big brown droopy eyes begging for those tasty mouth dribbling snacks. However, the difference between them and us is that they don’t know it’s not good to eat too much, whereas we know better although we don’t always do better. So be strong when looking into those hard to resist eyes.

No people food
Do not give your pets human foods as they can be detrimental to their health and sometimes fatal.  

Eat slowly
Eating too fast makes us and our pets put on weight too quickly. Feeding your pooch smaller portions more often will help to keep its weight down, and to prevent them from gorging.

Exercise
Fit means taking your dogs for walks or runs…often. Take some time to play with your cats.  

Yearly check up 
Visit your vet once a year.

 

Source: Health News Digest,  American Veterinary Medical Association

Salsa lessons from the chihuahua

Loving this...taking lessons!

Most Aggressive Breeds

A must watch...dangerous dogs or humans?

Clever Bathing Tips to Wash Fido Right

Does widdle-biddle, Mr. Wiggles, want a bathy-wathy?
 

It's likely not the first time you've heard yourself say that while trying to get your dog in the bath. But doggone it, that smell isn't going anywhere and it's got to be done! 

Before you start to barter with treats galore, here are some tips for making bath time a doggone walk in the park: 

1. Round up the Right Tools: Be sure to prep the tub area before bath time. Place a rubber bath mat or thick towel in the tub so your pup won't slip, and lay another towel just outside the tub. A hand sprayer can make rinsing much easier, says the management at Delta Faucet. Their four-setting Palm handshower can gently spritz a schnauzer, or hose down a hound. Consult your veterinarian or groomer and choose a mild shampoo formulated for dogs. Finally, place extra towels within close reach. 

2. Start with Persuasion: Bath time can be downright stressful for Fido. Most dogs don't like being restrained, and many hate water more than the neighbour's calico cat. Teach your pup to associate baths with things he loves. Precede the dog wash with a romp in the yard or end with a treat, new toy or long walk.

3. Give Him the Brush Off: In the backyard, gently brush your dog's coat to detangle knots and remove loose hair. (Trust us, your plumber will thank you.) When you're both ready, lead your dog to the tub, lift him in and reward him with a tasty treat. 

4. Get Wet: Thoroughly soak your dog with lukewarm water, being careful to avoid spraying near his sensitive ears. Work in the shampoo, using a massage technique, and be sure to lather up the smelly spots – neck, toes, belly and yes, rump. Use a soft cloth to wipe his face. Rinse your furry friend well as even a little shampoo residue can make them itch. 

5. Do the Shake: Towel-dry your dog as much as possible while he's still in the tub, then pull the curtain closed, and let the shake begin. Rub him down with another towel, and then let him loose. Reward him with praise, snuggles and a treat – he earned it. 

www.newscanada.com

Top Tips to Protect Your Pet in the Great Outdoors

The arrival of spring and summer means our pets will be spending more time exploring and playing outdoors. Long walks, frolics in the yard, and trips to the park are fun for dogs and owners alike, but do keep an eye on health risks, say advisers in this field.

Pets Plus Us, a pet owner community and insurance provider, offers some guidance for the warmer months: 

• Provide your pet with ample water and food.

• Don't leave a dog or cat exposed to the hot sun for extended periods. Make sure they have ready access to shelter or shaded areas when outdoors, and bring them inside for breaks.

• Never leave a pet in a parked car. The temperature inside can quickly rise.

• Take your dog or cat to the veterinarian to ensure they have up-to-date vaccinations and preventative medications to keep them healthy all year long. 

“In addition to heartworm disease, there are other serious and even more common health issues that pet owners need to be wary of, ,” says Dr. Chip Coombs, the chief veterinary officer at Pets Plus Us. “Be on the lookout for signs of intestinal parasites in your pet, like roundworms and hookworms, which not only make your dog ill, but can also cause problems in people who contract them. Now is a good time to visit the veterinarian to ensure your pet is protected.”

Here are a few things to keep in mind to minimize the risks posed by parasites:

• Regular deworming of any outdoor pet is the best solution to guard against these internal parasites. 

• Be attentive and watch for symptoms. Ticks and fleas are easier to spot than internal parasites. If your dog has internal parasites, usually you will notice that they aren't acting themselves. Symptoms vary, but your dog may be lethargic and lose its appetite. Other signs may include vomiting, diarrhea, and swelling or pain in the abdomen. 

• Provide your pet with healthy food and fresh water. A high-quality diet is key to their overall health.

• Groom your dog regularly to maintain a healthy, clean coat and skin.

• Take the time to discuss these and other pet health practices with your veterinarian. 

Finally, pet health insurance helps us look after our furry friends by covering the costs if they fall ill or have an accident requiring medical attention. It can even cover more routine items like exams and vaccinations. 

More information on pet health is available at www.petsplusus.com.

www.newscanada.com

Prepare Your Pet for Emergencies

Emergency Preparedness Week (May 4-10, 2014) is a good time to think about preparing your family for emergencies of any kind, like a power outage, severe storm, or hurricane. It's also important to remember the furry and feathered members of your family too.

Here are some tips to help keep your pets safe:

Identify your pet. If you become separated during an emergency, identification may be the only way to find them. Make sure each animal wears a collar and identification tag at all times. 

Put together a pet emergency kit. Here are some things to include:

- A sturdy crate or carrier

- A strong leash or harness

- ID tag and collar

- Food and water for at least 72 hours (4L/day per average dog, 1L/day per average cat)

- Bowls and can opener for food

- Newspaper, paper towels, plastic bags, litter, and/or litter box

- Special medications, dosage, and veterinarian's contact information

- Pet file (including recent photos of the animal, your emergency numbers, contact information for friends who could house your pet, copies of any licenses, and vaccination records)

- A pet first-aid kit

- Blanket and toy

Plan for evacuations. The best way to protect your pet in an emergency is to bring it with you, however, most evacuation shelters will only accept service animals. Make a list of where your pet can be taken, such as:

- Hotels

- Boarding centres and animal shelters

- Animal clinics

- Family members and friends 

Keep your pet inside during severe weather. Animals are sensitive to sudden changes in temperature and often isolate themselves when scared. Never leave a pet outside or tethered during a storm.

Separate cats and dogs. Keep smaller pets such as hamsters away from larger animals. Stress can lead to unusual behaviour.

Keep newspaper inside for hygiene purposes and feed your pet wet food in order to reduce the amount of water it may need.

If ordered to evacuate, take your pet with you. If you must leave your pets in the house, do not tether or cage them. Leave a sign in the window and a note on the door indicating what animals are inside. Provide water and food, and leave toilet seats up.

More information on emergency preparedness is available at www.GetPrepared.ca.

www.newscanada.com

Tips for Boating with Your Dogs

Boating is a pleasure for the entire family including your beloved pets. No matter whether we are out on the water for a day, a weekend, or a month, we all prefer to bring our pets on board instead of leaving them on dry land.

DiscoverBoating.ca offers some helpful tips to prepare to go boating with pets including:

Bring a Flotation Device. Pets should always wear a flotation device, preferably one with a handle so their head can be lifted above water.

On-Water Exercise. Get your pet active by letting them run on deck or swim. Bring floatable toys to play with. It's a good idea to have their nails trimmed and in good shape before your boating excursion.

Eats and Treats. Bring a little extra pet food, plus some treats, just in case they work up an appetite. Carry a fresh water supply as well. 

You don't own a boat? Go to DiscoverBoating.ca to discover all the other options for getting out on the water anywhere in Canada. 

www.newscanada.com

The Benefits of Using Doggie Strollers

Doggie strollers are great! There are many who think it is a frivolous and ridiculous concept and that dogs and cats should walk and not be carried around in strollers. On the other hand, there are others who love the idea, because they are cute, and able to bring their furry family with them everywhere; and for some it is a necessity.

Apart from being cute there are benefits to using a pet stroller to carry your dog or cat.


Firstly, by way of doctor’s order, recovering dogs are sometimes limited to activities in the home because they are not allowed to move around depending on their illness. Also big dogs and older dogs are prone to arthritic pain and cannot go too far because it is too painful to move about. However, a stroller is a perfect way for pets in these situations to get some fresh air and still join in family activities. You can push them in the stroller to the park where they can get out and move around.

Furthermore, it’s a great way to take your pet to an event with you, whether an outdoor concert or festival. It makes it easier to maneuver with them through the crowd while protecting them.

For smaller dogs it reduces the strain from carrying them, their snacks and toys. It is also a wonderful option to have them window shop with you at the mall.

For the athletic and active, pet parent, it’s an awesome way to get a run in with your little furry friend.

Now that you have seen the advantages of having a pet stroller, here are some tips on how to choose the perfect one for your loving pet. They come in all shapes,sizes and colors.

Choosing the right size: Make sure it is roomy enough for your size dog or cat, they should be able to have enough room to sit up and to lay down. Be mindful of the height within the cabin as well as the height from the floor for your comfort.

Suspension- This is important because you want it to be easy maneuvering, especially over bumps.

A vet shares, the benefits of using a doggie stroller:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHevEDEvQs4

Happy strolling...

The love of a dog... when he loses his human.

There are many stories on the loyalty of dogs...but this dog remains loyal to his owner after she passes away.

Heartwarming Thai Commercial - Thai Good Stories By Linaloved

This brought tears to my eyes. It's all about the little things that you give. Have a blessed week.

Dangerous Foods for Your Dog

Natural Remedies:Give Your Furry Friend the Best Health Possible

To pet owners, our furry friends are people too.

We go through the joys of raising them much like we do our children—and in return, they bring us endless happiness and unconditional love. We learn our pets' individual characters and adore them for their quirks and unique personalities. In short, pet parents consider these little ones to be important members of the family, and treat them accordingly. When it comes to optimizing their health, did you know there are a couple of extra things you can do, in addition to getting them the best food?

Similar to our human diet, we often find nutritional deficiencies which can cause a variety of problems if they are not addressed. Even the best pet food will have similar disadvantages because, like humans, our pets are not all the same. Many of the natural health products that you and your family use (like safe and effective vitamin and mineral supplements) can also be found specially-formulated to fit your pet's unique needs. 

Natural remedies are becoming more widely available. These range from anxiety remedies, allergy products, natural flea solutions and even lawn care, to the more familiar vitamins and minerals like multivitamins, probiotics and Omega-3s – all specially-formulated for your pet. 

As we become more conscious of age-related pet problems, as well as common daily health issues like allergies or digestive problems, natural alternatives are good solutions to your pet's ailments, potentially saving you expensive trips to the vet and making them feel healthy and energized. The Canadian Health Food Association recommends speaking to your veterinarian for recommendations, to your natural health retailer, and visiting chfa.ca for additional information. 

www.newscanada.com

http://www.groovyposhpets.com

Breed Spotlight : American Cocker Spaniel

Overview

Those wide set eyes will get you every time. Plus their charming, gentle and sweet disposition makes them a great companion.

Physical Characteristics

Height: Male 15"/ 38.1 cm           Female 14" / 35.56 cm
Weight: 24-28 lbs

Coat: Beautiful silky hair, needs to be trimmed every couple of weeks. They are however, big shedders!

Life expectancy: 13-14 yrs.

Temperament/Personality

Affectionate, gentle, friendly, intelligent, affable, obedient, even-tempered, eager-to-please, charming, merry, some can be timid

Daily Living

Apartment living is also suitable as long as they get sufficient exercise. They should be taken on daily walks.They are good in the city or country and in any climate.

Group: AKC Sporting and Gun Dog

Pet Food Recall: Dry Dog and Cat Foods Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 5, 2014 - Pro-Pet LLC, St. Marys, Ohio, has initiated a voluntary recall of a limited number of Dry Dog and Cat Foods for possible Salmonella contamination. A single field test indicated products manufactured during a two day period, on a single production line may have the potential for Salmonella contamination. Pro-Pet LLC is voluntarily recalling the potentially impacted products made during this timeframe. There have been no reports of illness related to this product to date.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Product	Best By	Lot Code	UPC Number
40 lb Hubbard Life Happy Hound Dog Food	05 06 14	096 13 SM L2 2A	1219033878
40 lb Hubbard Life Happy Hound Dog Food	05 06 14	096 13 SM L2 1A	1219033878
18 lb Hubbard Life Cat Stars Cat Food	05 06 14	096 13 SM L2 1A	1219033873
40 lb Hubbard Life Maintenance Dog Food	05 06 14	096 13 SM L2 2A	1219033875
15 lb Joy Combo Cat Food	05 06 14	096 13 SM L2 1A	7065407721
40 lb Joy Combo Cat Food	05 06 14	096 13 SM L2 1A	7065407713
40 lb Joy Combo Cat Food	05 06 14	096 13 SM L2 2A	7065407713
20 lb QC Plus Adult Dog Food	05 07 14	097 13 SM L2 2A	2351780103
40 lb QC Plus Adult Dog Food	05 07 14	097 13 SM L2 2A	2351780104
40 lb QC Plus Adult Dog Food	05 07 14	097 13 SM L2 1A	2351780104

Customers should immediately discontinue use of any impacted product and contact Pro-Pet at 1-888-765-4190 for disposition.

For more information on the recall, customers can contact the customer service line for Pro-Pet at 1-888-765-4190. Customer service representatives will be available Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm CT.

Source: FDA press release 

A Cat Nap...

                An entirely new meaning to the expression "sleep tight". Wouldn't it be great if we could just put our heads down anywhere for a nap! For your pets sleeping needs. Click http://groovyposhpets.com/pet-furniture-and-ramps/pet-beds/

Pets Need Dental Care

If you're a responsible pet owner, there are certain regular trips to the veterinarian's office that you see as essential – heartworm pills, vaccinations, etc. You may not, however, have considered your dog or cat's teeth.

Dental health for pets may be lesser-known, but it's an important part of veterinary care. It's also something pet owners are increasingly recognizing as a necessity to keep their furry family members healthy and happy.

In February, many vet clinics across Canada recognize Dental Health Month in an effort to raise awareness of dental health and encourage pet owners to have their pets examined.

“Over 70 per cent of cats and dogs over the age of three years have some form of dental disease,” says Dr. Colleen Skavinsky, the chief veterinary officer with Petsecure, a Canadian pet health insurance provider. There are similarities with human dental diseases. Although cavities are rare, pets commonly suffer from plaque, tartar, gum inflammation, infections and loose teeth.  Many of these problems occur below the gum line and require treatment by a veterinarian.

These problems are often overlooked by owners, as dogs and cats will still appear to eat normally despite their discomfort. Pets can also sometimes suffer accidents, such as broken teeth, from overenthusiastic chewing on a bone or a chew toy.

In 2013, Petsecure paid over 4,000 claims for vet care surrrounding dental illnesses or accidents. As with other forms of veterinary medicine, advances in technology mean that pets have access to the best dental care available, but costs continue to rise.

Many pet owners are able to reduce the costs of a trip to the vet with pet health insurance, and preventative steps can also be taken at home. Pet-friendly toothpastes, gels and rinses to help keep teeth clean and plaque-free are widely available.

“Home brushing programs are the cornerstone to a lifetime of dental health,” says Dr. Skavinsky. “See your veterinarian for tips on starting a homecare program for your cat or dog.”

www.newscanada.com

We're excited...featured on San Diego's KUSI-TV - Pet Patrol.

So excited our product - Thermo Kitty Sill - was featured on San Diego's KUSI-TV, The Pet Patrol, Cool Pet Products segment, hosted by Sandie Lampe.

This is how it looks...Thermo Kitty Sill.  Shop it at http://groovyposhpets.com/thermo-kitty-sill.html