5 Best Dog Friendly Cities in Europe

Europe is a dream travel destination for many people. While the same sentiment is expressed by people who love traveling with their dogs, they have to be a little more discerning when it comes to choosing specific countries in Europe that will be more welcoming of their pet. Here, we reveal five of the best cities in Europe where you and your dog will surely have the best time together.

Prepping for Your Trip

Before anything else, you have to plan very well for traveling with your pet. Wherever you’re coming from, it is likely that the best way to travel with a large dog or a small dog is by taking a plane. Research on the procedures and requirements of taking your pooch with you and you will have resolved a big chunk of the whole “travelling with a dog” challenge!

Dog-Friendly Cities to Visit

In no particular order, here are five European cities that are known for being very dog friendly:

  1. Berlin. A popular travel destination for art and culture, this German city is also one that is very friendly towards dogs. One of the best ways to get around with your dog is by joining a walking tour of the city’s top historical sites. Alternatively, a steamer cruise ship is a more relaxing way to get around – and one that welcomes dogs as well. The highlight of Berlin as a dog-friendly European country is the pet-friendly nature of its public transportation system. For as long as you get the right ticket, you’ll have no problem exploring around with your pet. The city also has many cafes and apartments that welcome dogs and go the extra mile to make them feel right at home.
  2. Amsterdam. You’ll immediately know that Amsterdam is pet-friendly once you realize that the city is practically teeming with dogs! The reason for this is probably because Amsterdam has so many beautiful parks that are perfect for sightseeing with a dog or two. Except for galleries and museums, dogs are pretty much allowed all over the city. Places that have no choice but to decline dogs as visitors have a sign that says ‘no dogs allowed’ for your information. They are also allowed to travel for free on public transportations, with the exception of trains that have a dog surcharge of 3 euros.
  3. Prague. The capital city of the Czech Republic has made a lot of effort to become a more dog-friendly city, which likely contributes to its increase in tourists. Most restaurants welcome dogs, and many proprietors even offer small meals for your hungry, four-footed co-traveler. Prague also has a lot of parks which you can explore with your dogs, and pet-friendly beer gardens are aplenty as well. As for getting around with your dog, the basic rule is that they need to be muzzled before they hop aboard. While the city still needs to work on increasing pet-friendly accommodations, a bit of research will yield several that are very accommodating to pooches such as Pod Vezi. In Prague, make sure to catch a flick at The Aero – the continent’s lone dog-friendly cinema! An annual dog film festival, Aero Pes Fest, is also a must-attend event for all dog lovers.
  4. Barcelona. Barcelona locals truly love their dogs, which is why they warmly welcome yours as well. In fact, the locals are very showy of their affection towards pets compared to other European cities. If you’re looking forward to the tapas experience, you’ll be happy to know that many notable places are also dog-friendly and even offer water should your pooch be parched.
  5. Paris. Dogs are an omnipresent feature of Paris, and you’ll instantly see how much the locals love their leashed pooches. They accompany them to the hottest restaurants, the most luxurious boutiques, inside taxicabs – everywhere! While there are some established rules about where dogs can and cannot go, Parisians basically ignore these or try to circumvent them. Dog friendly hotels are also plentiful, and some are even known to provide a welcome basket for both the tourist and his trusty, four-legged side kick!

Excited for your great European adventure with your dog? These tips will surely make it a lot more enjoyable – for both you and your pet!

 

Animal Cruelty Month: 6 Things You Can Do to Prevent Animal Cruelty

In recognition of Animal Cruelty Month this April, canine authority Jeffrey Scott Franklin, owner and operator of Cobra Canine, is sharing six ways to prevent animal cruelty. Please consider quoting his tips in any upcoming stories. Franklin is also available for interviews and bylines for any dog behavior or health/wellness related topic, including ways to prevent animal cruelty.
6 Things You Can Do to Prevent Animal Cruelty
1. Don’t get a pet as a toy or an impulse decision. The people who aren’t up for the 8 to 15-year commitment of responsibility (financially, physically and emotionally) are often times the ones who end up sending their pet to a shelter or simply not caring for the pet as is required. Pets need food, shelter, regular baths and nail clippings, vet checks, vaccines and in their lifetimes some sort of vet care or geriatric care may become necessary. Be prepared for these and this will make sure animals aren’t neglected.
2. If you don’t know much about dogs (or any specific animal in question), don’t breed them.  Let experts do the breeding work. Enjoy your pet to his or her fullest- without adding more animals that may or may not end up in great homes. While we aren’t advocates of spaying or neutering until at least two years of age, we do believe in being responsible if your pet is around other animals.
3. Volunteer at an animal shelter. If you feel the need to have a fuzzy pet friend, but not a lot of time- donate your time and energy to a local shelter. Go walk a few dogs and pet some animals that need some love and attention. There are never enough volunteers at these places.
4. Keep them warm and cozy. Donate extra blankets and care items you may already have in your home to local shelters.
5. Report suspicious activity. If you see animals that are maltreated, mistreated or neglected- report it.  You won’t get backlash for this from the authorities- but you very well may save an animal’s life in the process.  If we keep our eyes and ears open, animals have a much better chance at having a good life or potentially, a great life and a second chance.
6. Adopt or donate money to shelters. We have found many strays over the years, and helped them medically, given them training, and found them loving homes.  If you see an animal that needs some TLC, or a home- help as you are able.

HolistaPet CBD Oil & Cannabis Dog Treats Review & Coupon

HolistaPet is a company that focuses on developing products that aid in regulating both physical and mental health conditions for pets. Whether you have a dog or a cat, with HolistaPet, you can find CBD-infused tinctures, oil, capsules, and treats. HolistaPet applies dedication to utilizing remedies that are completely natural, and incorporating new technology in order to ease your pet’s discomfort and reduce their pain. CBD from HolistaPet is a great alternative to traditional drugs that require a prescription from your vet, as it doesn’t have any side effects.

 

HolistaPet has perfected their process across twelve years in business and you’ll find superfood and plant-based ingredients in all of their products. The product you get has also been developed to address the exact conditions that your pet is struggling with; each of HolistaPet’s treats has one of three formulas: Heart and Immune Care, Joint and Mobility Care, or Stress and Anxiety Relief. All products are also tested in labs and are completely vegan and organic, with no dairy, additives, preservatives, sugars, or animal products added.

 

Which Products Does HolistaPet Offer?

 

HolistaPet offers a wide range of products, including capsules, oils, and treats. Each of the three formulas comes with its own unique flavor; the Heart treats are Sweet Potato and Yummy Blueberry, the Joint treats are Cinnamon and Pumpkin Spice, and the Stress treats are Peanut Butter and Green Apple. HolistaPet also produces treats that are made just for cats.

 

HolistaPet also offers a CBD Pet Tincture if you’d prefer to add CBD oil to the treats or food that you give to your pet. The tincture is available in three sizes: 600mg, 300mg, or 150mg. It contains a full spectrum oil, meaning that the oil is made from the entire hemp plant, rather than just one part. If you have pets such as horses and rabbits, don’t worry–this CBD oil is safe for these animals as well.

 

A further option is HolistaPet’s CBD Pet Capsules. The capsules contain both powder from hemp seed and CBD and are an easy solution if your pet is already used to ingesting pills. You can also break open the capsules and sprinkle the contents onto your pet’s food or a treat. They won’t notice a difference in the taste of their meal.

 

How Can HolistaPet Help Pets?

 

HolistaPet provides a list of ways that the CBD-enriched products they produce can help. These include aiding with:

  • Mobility and joint problems
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Epilepsy and seizures
  • Tumors and cancer
  • Wellness and aging
  • Inflammation and pain
  • Allergies
  • Nausea and digestive issues

 

CBD could be the answer to many of the health conditions your pet faces, no matter which kind of animal or of what age. It’s important to keep in mind that some products may not have a noticeable effect on your pet, so you can try several out before you discover the best match. Review each product and its ingredients carefully, as you consider your selection.

 

As with any supplemental change or addition to your pet’s diet or medicine, make sure you consult your veterinarian and that you consider all of your options. Your vet will be able to help you make the best decision.

Products For Your Home You Will Love

With winter on the way, and fall finally here (thank goodness for the end of that scorching summer heat!), we are going to be spending more time indoors. Keeping that in mind, here are some interesting and useful new items that you can use year round.

Calamityware serving-ware brings whimsy and art to the dinner table. These fantastical porcelain-plates will also serve as conversation starters, with hidden pictures created by Calamityware and artist Don Moyer. These clever takes on flatware are both pretty and unique, while using a traditional blue and white color scheme. Unexpectedly decorated plates, mugs, and more are covered with depictions of sea monster creatures, giant robots, frogs, and more creatures from sci-fi.  Dishwasher and microwave safe, they are as functional as they are interesting. While they aren’t cheap- $42 for each plate, for example, they make your table a more fun place to dine. Check out all the options at  https://calamityware.com

dinner plates

Save money and single-use-plastic waste by filling and refilling water glasses and  bottles at home. Safe Home Drinking Water Test Kits help provide peace of mind, letting you know what’s in your water. Learn about your tap water with these helpful and easy to use home test kits. Test your water, and make sure that your family’s health is protected.  There is a lot of nonsense in most town’s water nowadays, find out if there is trouble with yours. 80% of the body is water, and you use it for everything- cooking, bathing, drinking, washing, and more. It’s vital to have safe water.  According to the brand, “Safe Home® and Safe Home® Pro EnviroTestKits from Environmental Laboratories, Inc. (ELI), one of North America’s largest EPA Certified Laboratories for testing drinking water, provides several testing options in three easy steps.  Upon receiving the results, you’re empowered to make appropriate decisions – for instance, installing a water treatment or filtration system or disinfecting your well system, among other solutions.”  They are easy to use, the directions take only about a minute to complete and are all but foolproof. There are options for test at home as well as sending a sample out for more detailed information. For more information, visit http://envirotestkits.com/drinking-water-test-kits/

at home testing kits

For your pets, check out HandsOn Gloves (in several colors and sizes, including for children). Get rid of all the excess hair and shedding, which will help your home as well as your allergies. Some dogs (and many cats) hate being brushed, but with the use of these gloves, it just feels like some petting and attention. You can use them in the water at bathtime, or dry. Get your kids to help out, and take care of the pets like they promised to- it’s not work and it’s very easy. It’s also effective, which many products can’t claim honestly.  They take off huge amounts of unwanted and excess fur with no pain or struggling- we were amazed by the huge clumps of fur made by our youngest dog, especially. Good for all hair types, although with very long haired pets you might want to supervise the kiddos so they don’t create knots (as with any brushing). Made with hypo-allergenic, bio-friendly components that are proven to be safe for use with humans and animals, it does it’s job by keeping everyone healthy. For more information, prices, and to choose yours, please visit https://handsongloves.com

easy to use pet brush

Tips to keep pet hair under control

 

It is wonderful to have a pet in the home but pets require a lot of care and attention. When you bring home a pet, you need to commit yourself to their wellbeing. It also means dealing with fur and hair they leave around the house. It is a never-ending battle to keep the fur off the furniture, clothing, and floor. If you are looking for tips to keep the pet hair under control, you have come to the right place.

Tips to keep pet hair under control

 

  • Brush: You need to embrace your grooming responsibilities. Give your pet a quick brushing outdoors every day and save the time spent on vacuuming every week. With regular brushing, you will notice a reduction in the amount of fur inside your house.
  • Use washable slipcovers: You or any of your guests would not like to sit on a sofa covered with pet hair. Invest in furniture covers which are made for this purpose. Choose washable slipcovers which can be easily maintained. You can remove them when your guests visit and simply toss them in the laundry.
  • Use throw rugs: If you manage to place rugs strategically inside your home, you will be able to find a solution to this problem. The rugs will help prevent the fur from spreading it into the house. You can place the rug at the entrance of your house. Choose rugs that are easy to wash and maintain.
  • Keep them clean: Make it a point to wipe the feet of your pet after they have stepped outdoors. This ensures that the entire house remains clean.
  • Cover up the pet: This is something not many would like to do but covering your pet helps keep the house clean. You can dress up the pet in a cute t-shirt and keep the fur off.

 

 

You can never completely get rid of the pet fur inside your home. Take small steps every day and ensure that the pet is brushed outdoors and there is minimal fur in the home. You need to vacuum the space regularly with a quality vacuum cleaner in order to achieve higher results. Choose a pet hair vacuum that fits your needs and maintain a routine of cleaning the furniture, carpet, and floor. There are a number of options available in the market. The vacuum is easy to use and it carries multiple features. Compare the top vacuums available for you and make the right choice. You can also compare the prices of the products easily and ensure that you are investing in a vacuum that is sufficient for your needs. The quality vacuum will keep your floor and carpet pet hair free and reduce your stress. The vacuum only takes a few minutes to clean up the entire space. It is not necessary for you to use the vacuum every single day, you can set up a routine and vacuum the floor once every three days or a week.

3 Ways to Keep Your Dog Safe Outdoors

Dog’s are truly man’s best friend and if you have kids then he becomes their best friend as well. We do everything we can to keep our dogs healthy, happy, and safe, just as we do our children. However, pets, of course, aren’t always inside of your home. You have to let them out, take them for walks, and let them get the exercise they need. Unfortunately, there are many hidden dangers lurking out there to harm your pooch. With that in mind, read on below for a few of the top ways you can keep your dog safe when he’s outside, whether he’s with you or just running around the fenced in the backyard alone.

Safe From Getting Stolen 

No dog is safe from being stolen. Whether you have a hunting dog, a Pit Bull, or a mixed breed, there is no guarantee that someone isn’t going to see your pet at the dog park or in the backyard and decide they would like to have that pet for their very own. This is where a dog GPS comes in handy for dog owners. GPS dog tracking collars can help you track down your lost pet, whether you are hunting for cougars in the mountains or simply letting him loose in the backyard. Such a device would also serve to help track down dogs who have managed to escape the backyard, which might end up being a more likely scenario than Fido being dognapped.

Safe When Walking 

Let’s face it, no matter how much your dog loves you, if they see a squirrel in the trees at the dog park or a cat across the street at home, they are apt to run off and not come back no matter how much you call them. Having your dog on a dog leash when you’re outside is the best way to ensure they don’t get away from you and become lost. There are many different kinds of dog leashes and harnesses out there to choose from, so you should be able to find one that meets your needs for the size of your pet.

Safe Around the Campfire

Dogs are forever children and if they are curious about something, then they are going to sniff around it to find out how it ticks. This can lead to a heap of trouble when it comes to being around a campfire. Not only can it lead to your pet being hurt, it can also lead to your house or campsite burning down as well. The best way to protect your pet from a campfire is by always extinguishing open flames, making sure that young puppies and kittens are kept away from the campfire at all times, and pet proof the area you’re in for fire hazards.

These are just a couple of the ways that you can keep your dog safe when they are outside. Whether it’s a GPS to keep them from being stolen or a well-rounded plan to keep your pet away from your open campfire, we all love our pets and we all do everything we can to protect them from harm.

Flying With Your Dog In-Cabin: What You Need to Know

Have you ever thought about how to fly in-cabin hassle-free with your dog? Truth be told, “hassle-free” might just be too much to ask if you’re flying with your pet. No matter how much you prepare, there might be some sort of snafu just waiting to happen while you’re in an airplane thousands of miles up in the air! It can be a barking spell, a poop emergency, or a dog-hating individual who just has to complain about something even though your dog is not bothering anyone.

While the possibility of hassles is always there, there are actually many things that you can do to make the flight as comfortable as possible for your pet. In this article, we’ll provide you with a few tips on who to fly in-cabin with your dog.

A Note on Plane Travel with Pet Dogs

Before deciding to bring your dog along for air travel, make sure to ask yourself first whether it’s worth the trouble, or more importantly, the risk. Take note that while some airline companies are more than happy to welcome small dogs in the cabin as long as they are inside a carrier, many others require all pets to be transported as cargo.

Extreme heat and cold are the most significant risks to dogs when they are placed in a plane’s cargo area, although underlying medical conditions can also considerably increase the risk for many other dogs. Snub-nosed or brachycephalic dogs such as pugs, bulldogs, boxers, and chow chows are also at an increased risk for respiratory stress because their physiology impairs their capacity to breath, especially under extreme temperatures or when they are stressed out.

In the 1990s, some 5000 animals were lost, injured, or killed on commercial flights annually according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which is why they advocated the passage of the Safe Air Transport for Animals Act. Given the possibilities, if traveling with your pet is not of absolute necessity, you’d be well advised to leave them at home in the care of your friends or family. Otherwise, make sure to talk to your veterinarian in advance so you can discuss the best way to transport your dog.

Traveling with Your Dog In-Cabin

Thankfully, there are airliners that allow smaller dogs to be carried in the cabin, where they can be more comfortable and near their owners. However, certain rules are typically specified by individual airline companies. You will want to make sure that you have an appropriate carrier for your dog. For example, American Airlines requires the dog and the carrier to weigh just 20 pounds (9 Kg) combined, and the carrier itself must fit underneath the seat in front of the passenger. Other airline companies will have their own rules, so make sure to check in advance what these rules are. For example, many airliners will not allow very young puppies or snub-nosed dogs to fly. The fees also vary from airline to airline.

Make sure to make arrangements with the airline company months in advance because they typically only allow a limited number of dogs onboard. This also allows them to make preparations in the event that another passenger informs them that they have pet allergies.

See to It That Your Dog Has the Right Attitude for Flying

Some dogs are naturally quiet and chill, while others are temperamental and easily stressed, especially when kept in cramped or uncomfortable situations. If your dog is the latter, do yourself and your pet a favor, and don’t force them to fly! Check your dog in a pet hotel, or better yet, have a friend take care of them instead. If you would really love to go on a vacation with your dog, consider going on a road trip instead.

Make Sure That Your Dog Has the Necessary Documents to Fly

Again, consult your veterinarian and the airline company in advance so you’ll be able to get your dog’s papers in order before the flight. One requirement that may be asked of you is updated vaccination for your pet with accompanying documents to prove it.

Choose a Comfortable Carrier for Your Pet

The carrier will be your dog’s personal “seat” in the aircraft, and given the size requirements, it might not exactly be the most comfortable place for your pet to be stowed in for many hours. Nevertheless, you can make the journey cozier for your dog by choosing a high-quality carrier that is just the right size for your pet but will still fit underneath the seat in front of you. One thing to remember, though, is that the carrier will become your carry-on baggage, so all other bags aside from your small personal item will have to be checked in.

 

Make sure to introduce your pet to their carrier weeks or maybe even months before the flight. Make the lodging experience as positive as possible by placing treats and some of their toys inside. You can also practice going on trips by placing your dog in the carrier and taking them out for a ride in your car.

 

Pack Right for the Flight

 

Once you have acquired your dog’s papers and have chosen an appropriate carrier for your dog, it’s time to start getting packed! First up, make sure to line your dog’s carrier with an absorbent lining pad, so just in case your pet needs to urinate, they won’t get wet. An absorbent lining pad typically has adhesive strips that keeps it in place and prevents it from bunching up. It also contains absorbent polymers deep inside, allowing any liquid to become absorbed and trapped within seconds.

 

Aside from an absorbent lining pad, other important things to bring along are wet wipes, poop bags, a dog collar and a leash, a small food and water bowl, treats, dog food (for emergency flight disruptions), a water bottle that you can fill up at the boarding gate, and something familiar from home, like your dog’s favorite toy.

 

Flying with your dog in-cabin can be a lot more comfortable for you and your pet if you prepare well for your flight. It is important to consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical condition that could make flying unsafe for your pet. Likewise, you should also communicate with your chosen airline company in advance to make sure everything is in order and arrangements are made to accommodate you and your pet according to your expectations.

Make Sure Your Home Is Healthy for Your Dog

Having a dog at home is an incredible way to ensure companionship and make great memories. However, it can also be challenging. After all, your furry friend will probably be curious and adventurous, and you want to ensure that your dog is not in any danger when he is simply roaming or exploring around.

If you have a pet dog, check out the following tips for ensuring that your house is safe. By taking some steps to make sure your home is good for your dog, you can create a space where you, your family and your dog can have great experiences for years to come.

Make Sure Cabinets Are Latched or Locked

When you have a dog at home, it’s important to make sure reachable cabinets latch or lock. That way, a dog cannot get into the cabinet and eat or tear up whatever is in it. (This includes food, medicine, chemicals and more.) By keeping your dog out of the cabinets, you can ensure that he doesn’t ingest something that will hurt or kill him.

Only Have Non-Toxic Plants

Do you have house plants around your home? If so, make sure they are non-toxic. That way, if your dog takes a bite, he won’t be poisoned. If you’re not sure if your plant is poisonous and you think that your pup may have eaten some of it, call your vet. You may have to bring your dog and the plant into the vet but he or she will be able to tell you if your dog is safe, and if not, treat him for any potential health effects.

Give Your Dog a Comfortable Space

Your dog should have a comfortable space to retreat to especially if he gets stressed or anxious. This means that your dog may want a crate of his own, or he may want a bed in a spot where he can hide away if something scary happens. If your dog’s special place is upstairs and he has aches and pains, a medication like Carprofen may help for inflammation in dogs. It takes away pain from arthritis and hip dysplasia (as well as other joint diseases) and can help make it easier for an older dog to do things like climb stairs or ease into small nooks and crannies.

Keep the Toilet Lid Closed

Your dog may love to drink from the toilet. In reality, though, that’s a bad idea. If you use cleaning products in the toilet, your dog can be poisoned. Or, if your dog is small enough, it’s possible he can crawl into the toilet and drown. Make sure that your toilet lid is closed, and that way you can use the bathroom when you need to and ensure that your dog doesn’t encounter anything hazardous there.

Be Careful With Wires

So many things in your house have wires: your television, your computer and your alarm clocks (etc., etc.). Make sure that you tie up loose or dangling wires and keep them out of the way of the dog. That way, your dog won’t be tempted to chew on them (which can cause shock and damage your electronics) or he won’t trip on them when he is running around.

Having a furry friend at home is a great way to warm up a space and make it feel loving. However, you can’t just bring a dog into your space without first ensuring that you’ve done the proper prep work. If you do the work to make sure that your space is safe and healthy for your dog, your family and your pets can enjoy a fun, stress-free life together.