Puppy Play Time: 4 Top Toys

“Dog toy” is like the swear word of the house.  We don’t like to talk about them because we can’t seem to find a toy that will last longer than 20 minutes in our house.  I have noticed that anything with a seam or squeaker seems to be instantly shredded to pieces.  The squeaker is the prize in the center for my dogs and they like to throw it around and squeak it all day. 

Remember to always monitor your pets when they are playing.

Having three dogs who are avid chewers, shredders, or destroyers, if you will, makes buying toys more difficult than doing a backflip.  And toys aren't cheap!  I have compiled a list of the longest lasting toys (with one fun, bonus surprise toy) that have survived the greatest test of all: facing the wolf pack!

4.  Nylabone Original Dura Chew Dog Chew

The Nylabone is a long lasting chew toy that doesn’t splinter or break apart.  This is one of my top favorites because of its durability.  They also come in different flavors!

3.  Air KONG Squeaker Tennis Balls

I have one dog in particular that loves tennis balls.  The KONG ball seems to be the longest lasting tennis ball I have found.  An all around classic toy!

2.  VIP Products Tuffy's Red Paw Ring Dog Toy

Tuffy’s Ring toys are very long lasting and durable.  They work well for tug-of-war and even can be thrown like a disc! 

1.  KONG Dog Toy

This toy is great in our house.  A multi-purpose toy that they can gnaw on and get treats out of the center from.  The KONG is such a great, long-lasting toy because the pups never get too caught up on trying to tear out seams and can get their favorite treats inside with a little bit of effort!

Bonus! Petco Marketplace Playtime Dog Toys

To be honest, this line of toys run very cheap and I am so surprised that they have lasted so long in my house.  My dogs love these toys and seem to just enjoy throwing them around with each other.  

What is your pets favorite toy?  Comment below!

Doggie First Aid: Preparation for Pup Owners

Image courtesy: Ready Nutrition

There is nothing more terrifying than dealing with a puppy emergency - trust me, I know.  Nobody wants to deal with a puppy emergency, but in the event that one does happen you will be comforted in knowing that you do have supplies readily available.  It's a great idea to prepare a first aid kit and keep it well stocked.

After my first true puppy emergency, I realized that I was not prepared for a worst case scenario to happen.  I went on searching the internet to find a list of things that dog owners should have to help with any type of first aid emergency.

Here’s a list of supplies you should have in your first aid kit, courtesy of Cesar Milan, along with my personal recommendations: 

Medical Records and Emergency Phone Numbers

It is important to have an updated medical record on hand in case of an emergency along with a list of nearby emergency or 24 hour vets.

Wound Spray

I recommend having Vetericyn on hand at all times if you are a pet owner.  Vetericyn is non-toxic and free of chemicals.  It helps with hot spots, rashes, cuts, and irritated skin.  Check out this website for more information!

Bandages

Bandages are useful for wrapping cuts or scrapes.  Make sure you get something like this so it doesn't stick to your dog’s fur. The bitterness of the bandage keeps pups from licking/removing the wrap! 

Eye Wash and Ear Wash

In the event that your pup gets something in their eyes or ears, make sure you have a reliable eye wash and ear wash to properly rinse the area.

Dog Cone

Dog cones have many uses and are not just for keeping a dog from getting at hot spots!  Cones can prevent dogs from scratching their face, itching hot spots, and is very helpful in protecting pups after they have surgeries (so they do not tear out stitches)!  All three of my dogs wore cones at one point to keep them from tearing stitches.

Muzzle

Muzzles have a negative association in the public eye but they have many different purposes.  Dog activists are looking to change the negative association with dog muzzles into a more positive, preventative association.  Dogs tend to return to “animal instinct” when wounded, in pain, or if they are unfamiliar with dogs.  Check out these fun muzzles! 

Hydrogen Peroxide

Peroxide has a plethora of uses and should definitely be in your puppy first aid kit!  This can be used in case of an emergency to induce vomiting.  If you cannot get to an emergency facility in time this option can be utilized to buy you extra time but it is not recommended as a replacement for emergency vet care.  

So what do you think?  Do you have your doggie first aid kit prepared?  Are you ready if an emergency were to take place? Comment about what's in your first aid kit.