Silicone Pet Supplies
Pet owners are turning to silicone pet supplies as a safer alternative to plastic and fabric. These products are durable and can withstand chewing, which is important for the long-term health of pets.
When selecting silicone pet products, consider the size, age, and breed of your pet. Also, look for quality and brand reputation.
Waterproof Pet Feeding Mats
If you’re looking for a dog food mat that keeps mess off your floors during feeding time, look no further than this silicone model. It features grooves along its surface to offer an extra grip on your pet’s bowls while the raised lip keeps any leftover water or food contained and prevents spillage onto the floor.
The mat is also antimicrobial, non-toxic and BPA free to ensure it’s safe for both your pet and your home and can be washed in the sink or popped into the dishwasher as needed. It’s also heat resistant so it won’t melt or warp during use.
It’s available in multiple sizes, so you can find one that suits your space while the adorable pawprint design adds a Silicone Pet Supplies touch of character to mealtime. Just make sure to regularly wash the mat to prevent any leftover food or liquid from accumulating and creating bacteria in the crevices.
Slow Feeder Bowls
Dogs that eat too quickly can gulp their food down without chewing it, which can lead to choking and digestive issues. Slow feeder bowls help prevent this by physically preventing dogs from eating too fast, and they also turn mealtime into a mentally stimulating game for them to enjoy.
Many of these bowls have ridges or nubs that break up the food, forcing the animal to work around them and take smaller bites. They also encourage the animal to use their paws instead of their mouth, which can improve digestion and prevent regurgitation.
Some of these bowls have a maze-like design that can be hard for animals to navigate, which is an issue for some pets. It can be difficult to clean, as the nooks and crannies can harbor bacteria. Another downside is that some dogs can be frustrated with these mazes and try to eat faster, which can lead to excess air intake, which can be dangerous.
Dog Collars
Dog collars need to fit properly and provide a solid attachment point for leashes. They also need to withstand repeated pounding, soaking and pulling.
Some types of collars, like prong and pinch collars, can be dangerous if worn incorrectly. These can put pressure on a dog’s larynx or trachea if they back out of the control loop and pull on their neck, explains Hodges.
A good solution is a flat nylon collar that’s easily adjusted for the right fit. The Black Rhino Comfort Collar features neoprene padding (the same material used in wetsuits) that’s soft on dogs’ necks, quick-drying and odor-resistant. Plus, it’s super tough and can hold up to repeat exposure to mud, salt water and sweat. The collar houses a waterproof GPS unit that tracks your dog’s location and activity. It does require a monthly subscription to use the tracking and location features, but it’s a great option for outdoor adventurers.
Dog Tags
The military uses dog tags to identify soldiers who are wounded or killed on the battlefield. Each tag displays the soldier’s last name, first name, unit number and branch of service. Some also contain the soldier’s social security number, blood type, religion and medical information. The tag also contains a notch to position it in transcription tools used by medics.
These tags are referred to as dog tags because they look like the metal tag worn on dogs’ collars. The term “dog tag” may also have been inspired by the fact that many draftees in World War II claimed they were treated like dogs.
Outside the military, dog tags are used by bikers to display their emergency contact numbers and by musicians who use them as a Silicone Pet Supplies fashion accessory. They can also be a handy way to identify people with special medical needs, such as the ill or elderly.
Chew Toys
Chewing toys help dogs keep their teeth and gums healthy, so it’s important to choose one that’s durable enough for them. Look for a chew toy that has ridges or other textures that clean teeth as they chew and ones that don’t splinter.
To make sure your dog’s new toy isn’t too hard, you can try the thumbnail test — if it hurts, it’s too hard for your dog and could crack their teeth. Also, avoid toy pieces that can cling to your dog’s fur or get stuck in their throats.
Most chew toys are designed primarily for chewing, but some have other features that engage dogs in other forms of play. For example, the textured surface of the Bullymake Steak chew toy can be used for tug-of-war. The toy also has squeakers that keep dogs engaged. And unlike plush toys, it’s made without stuffing to reduce choking hazards.
Pet Beds
Rather than napping in random places, like under the table or on the couch, pet beds provide an easily identified and comfortable place for your pet to rest. These types of beds also help prevent pets from contaminating furniture or rugs with drool, food stains, fur and other debris.
A bed that has a washable cover can help you keep your home free of odors, and it will also protect your pet’s skin from fleas and other parasites. Pets that regularly use a bed tend to be more house-trained and may be less likely to soil upholstered furniture or the mattress underneath.
Our doggy tester gave this bed a thumbs up, stating that she slept soundly on it during the day and night and that its bolsters were squishy but sturdy enough to support her neck and shoulders. The bed is backed by Purple’s 100-night sleep trial, which means you can give it a try before making a final purchase.
