Most of the time when our pets exhibit bad behavior, there is a deep seated issue. Boredom, lack of excercise, fear, anxiety or stress can be at the root of the problem. This issue has everyone thinking and you would be amazed at how many solutions are available to you and your family pet. Most products designed to address behavior are targeted at environmental enrichment. Some of the more inventive ones, target instinctive behaviors that are missing in our pets' lives. By just adding some of these to the daily routine can make a world of difference for your furry friend.
My newest favorite is the snuffle mat. The mat encourages the use of the nose; every dog's favorite sense. We humans don't seem to realize how important it is for dogs to smell things. We inadvertently discourage it by hurrying our pets along on their walk. You can add treats or food to the mat and let your dog lavish in some fun sniff and find times. Look for DIY versions.
Feeding toys can be great for keeping pets occupied and extending the time it takes to eat. Starmark makes a wobble toy that can hold an entire kibble meal. The eggserciser is a feline friendly version of this. Not only are these toys a lot of fun, they can also encourage and develop natural instincts like hunting and foraging which are a great cure for boredom and stress. A Kong should be in every pet's toy basket. Put them in the freezer overnight with wet food or peanut butter. Et Voila!
I'm currently saving up for something called clever pet. At $299, it seems pricey for a cat or dog toy, but its sooo much more than that. Your dog or cat can play mind games while you're away. Designed by neurologists, this will keep your pet busy and make him or her smarter.
If excessive barking is the issue, pet tutor is the product for you. Also on the pricey side, this smart phone enabled system can teach your dog that calm and quiet gets the reward. For this reason, its also great for helping dogs with separation anxiety.
DogTV and icalmpet offer digital and musical media with ultimate relaxation in mind. You can also stream on spotify or netflix.
While all off this stuff is really great, you don't have to spend a fortune to keep your pet happy. Let's not forget exercise! Daily walks, runs, and one on one play, or training times are vital for any pet's well being. Exercise combined with high quality food, regular vet care and normal routine is the foundation to being a happy pet.
My newest favorite is the snuffle mat. The mat encourages the use of the nose; every dog's favorite sense. We humans don't seem to realize how important it is for dogs to smell things. We inadvertently discourage it by hurrying our pets along on their walk. You can add treats or food to the mat and let your dog lavish in some fun sniff and find times. Look for DIY versions.
Feeding toys can be great for keeping pets occupied and extending the time it takes to eat. Starmark makes a wobble toy that can hold an entire kibble meal. The eggserciser is a feline friendly version of this. Not only are these toys a lot of fun, they can also encourage and develop natural instincts like hunting and foraging which are a great cure for boredom and stress. A Kong should be in every pet's toy basket. Put them in the freezer overnight with wet food or peanut butter. Et Voila!
I'm currently saving up for something called clever pet. At $299, it seems pricey for a cat or dog toy, but its sooo much more than that. Your dog or cat can play mind games while you're away. Designed by neurologists, this will keep your pet busy and make him or her smarter.
If excessive barking is the issue, pet tutor is the product for you. Also on the pricey side, this smart phone enabled system can teach your dog that calm and quiet gets the reward. For this reason, its also great for helping dogs with separation anxiety.
DogTV and icalmpet offer digital and musical media with ultimate relaxation in mind. You can also stream on spotify or netflix.
While all off this stuff is really great, you don't have to spend a fortune to keep your pet happy. Let's not forget exercise! Daily walks, runs, and one on one play, or training times are vital for any pet's well being. Exercise combined with high quality food, regular vet care and normal routine is the foundation to being a happy pet.
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