Does your dog get stressed from car rides, thunderstorms, does not sleep like he/she used to, or is easily restless? You have probably seen a number of herbal products on the market to help calm a dog (or cat ) in a variety of situations. But are you considering an alternative? Well, we have a new product called “Thunder Shirts”. They are designed to be snug fitting (i.e. provide gentle, constant pressure to the torso), and this constant pressure can have a calming effect (think about why we swaddle babies in their blankets when they are upset/crying). It is the same principle as is used by many individuals with autistic tendencies who use pressure to relieve anxiety, dog trainers who use pressure wraps to calm dogs and vets who use squeeze chutes when vaccinating cattle.
I was able to try out the Thunder Shirt on my dog Samson for the first time this weekend. After a happy run and swim at a local dog park, Samson was waiting in the car for us when a thunderstorm came through. After a loud clap of thunder, I ran back to the car and found him shaking. It took him more than 10 minutes to somewhat calm down. I then got his Thunder Shirt from the trunk and put it on him (in the rain), and he was shaking again. I got the shirt on him, and within 3 minutes of putting the shirt on, he was no longer shaking.
I’ll have to try the shirt on him a few more times, but I think there is something to this shirt. It is definitely worth checking out. Their website is www.thundershirt.com
Deer ticks have recently been found on dogs in Calgary, High River, and Ardrossan (just east of Edmonton). These ticks used to be more common in BC and the Yukon, but times have changed. We should take precautionary measures because deer ticks can carry the bacteria that causes Lyme Disease (You can view the article at http://calgary.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20100520/CGY_Ticks_Lyme_100520) Treatments are available to deter ticks and mosquito bites.
Do you have a new puppy that is teething and chewing on everything. Why not try taking a rope toy, soak it in water, and then place it in a bag in the freezer for a day. Then give it to your dog outside. It soothes their gums, and helps them to cool off on these warm days. Enjoy your new puppy, and take lots of pictures, because they grow up far too fast!!
Does your dog love pig ears? Global now has a frequent buyer plan on pig ears: buy 10 and get 1 FREE! The computer will keep track of your pig ear purchases on your account so you don’t have to get them all at once. See you soon.
I recently heard a tip for a long lasting dog treat. Take a Kong and stuff it with peanut butter (all natural PB won’t have any sugar or salt added to it). Place it in the freezer for 2 days and then give it to your dog. It is supposed to keep your dog busy for hours! To clean it, just put it in the dish washer. I wish I heard of this when Samson was young.
Come celebrate Samson’s birthday on March 25 and March 26 at Global Pet Foods. You will get 15% off Samson’s favourite treats and toys. Samson will be at the store for much of the time these days, so you can give him a treat and he would love the extra attention! See you soon.
Global Pet Foods can help you save money: 40% off all beds; 30% off coats, sweaters, and booties; up to 40% off various dog and cat toys; and 10% off Ex-pens. Sale ends March 31, 2010. See you soon.
Finally, after a couple of months of not being able to get it, Solid Gold Wee Bit dog food is back at Global Pet Foods in Airdrie. No need to call stores all over Calgary. We have both 4 lb and 15 lb bags in stock. See you soon!
Great news! Global Pet Foods just received a substantial shipment of frozen blood worms … the first in months. You no longer have to search around the country or Calgary, but can conveniently get them here again in Airdrie. Don’t know how long they will last, or when we’ll be able to get them again. See you soon.
