Dog Care
Dog is man’s best friend, we’ve been told. “My dog is a member of the family,” we tell each other. Yet the book “
The Truth about Dogs” points out another side of our canine friends: dogs steal the food off our plates, take the best spot on the couch, and routinely destroy our property. Just who is this dog creature, anyway? Perhaps only you, in partnership with your dog, can determine that. But this guide can surely help you find the Web’s best resources for care of this mysteriously lovable pet.
Adding a dog to your family is a big step—and a bigger commitment than most people realize. ... read more »
Once you’ve determined you’re ready for a dog, the fun part comes: what kind of pooch ... read more »
There’s a lot that goes into the day-to-day care of a dog, like establishing a daily routine ... read more »
Armed with the right resources, there’s a lot you can do to help keep your dog healthy. ... read more »
Whether you want to save money on flea medication or dog food, find a snazzy dog sweater, or buy a new leash at 3 a.m., the Internet offers the convenience, wide selection, and discount prices you crave. Read on in this section for advice on what to buy and where to find the best sites to get dog chow, toys, accessories, medications, carriers, and crates.
- If you have a purebred dog, an older dog, or a dog with health concerns, be sure to consult your veterinarian for recommended brands of food and medical items. An experienced professional who is familiar with your dog (and its specific breed, age, and health condition) can make the best suggestions.
- For an overview of the different diets and foods available for dogs and how to select the right one, see the “Where can I find the best health information for my dog?” section of this Web guide.
- The online versions of your favorite brick-and-mortar pet stores, like PetSmart and PETCO, often have a bigger inventory than their physical counterparts, along with special discounts and deals. Try shopping for your dog on these sites to save time and money.
For advice on what to buy…
eBay
has an excellent guide on pet gear. Visit the guide for tips on things like dog toys, collars, leashes, training guides, food and treats, crates, and more.
PetEducation.com
offers a detailed introduction to the different types of collars and leads (leashes) available. You’ll find information on sizing and descriptions of the different collar styles most suitable for certain types of dogs. Learn about harnesses, halter-type collars, chain-slip collars, and pronged collars.
For dog food, toys, and accessories …
Dog.com
promises “Everything and Anything Dog,” and it delivers. From high-end dog food and treats to dog beds and dog collars, you’ll find what you need—and a lot more. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, scroll down the homepage to find the most popular categories and see the best-selling items in each for inspiration.
PetFoodDirect.com
provides detailed write-ups for all the food products the site carries and stocks a raft of grooming devices, toys, collars, and all the necessary accoutrements of the modern household dog. The site also offers discounts on quality products, definitely making it worth a visit.
SitStay.com
has a long list of must-haves for the special dog in your life. Look for beds, crates, collars, grooming supplies, supplements, and more. There’s even a section called “
Cooling Your Dog,” full of gadgets to keep your pal cool on a hot summer day.
OhMyDogSupplies.com
promises “Unique dog gear you’ll never find at the local pet store.” It backs up the claim with a money-back-plus-$100 “uniqueness guarantee.” Browse the extensive selection of natural and organic dog foods, luxurious dog beds and couches, sterling silver ID tag bling, and ultra-hip dog travel accessories.
For medications …
1-800-PetMeds
is a licensed pharmacy and a convenient—and often cheaper—alternative to visiting the veterinary clinic. If a prescription is required for any medication that you order, then 1-800-PetMeds will contact your vet to verify.
For carriers and crates …
PetTravel.com
details the airline requirements for pet carriers and crates and includes links to purchase authorized carriers for in-cabin travel and approved crates for dogs traveling as cargo.
Pet Dreams
sells crates made by Midwest (the largest manufacturer of dog homes in the United States) as well as a variety of crate covers, beds, and bumpers. Choose from classic, plush, side-door, or designer Cratewear to transform your dog’s crate into a royal boudoir.
HandsNpaws
sells a wide variety of pet products but specializes in items for the dog who travels and enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle. Marvel at the huge selection of carriers, car travel accessories, outdoor gear, and outerwear.
Who knew?
DogBirthdaysAndParties.com
brings new meaning to the term “party animal.” Whether it’s a birthday party, a puppy shower, or an obedience school graduation fiesta, the site has you covered with party supplies, invitations, activities and games, and free dog birthday cake recipes.
If you’re of the “have dog, will travel” mindset, you’re in luck: the ... read more »
The Web is overflowing with magazines, blogs, and communities devoted to all things canine. ... read more »
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