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Global Pet Industry Trends

March 30, 2016

The Global Pet Expo was in Orlando last week, and while I was unable to attend, I was provided with some excellent insight and pet industry trends from my friends at Petcurean.

I love that they shared these trends with me because this blog was started, and is written for, people who believe their pets are part of their family. These pet parents believe their pets are their family and fully integrate pets into their lifestyle. As a result of this integration, the pet industry is growing. According to GfK, global pet spending reached $70 billion. One-third of that total spending belongs to the United States. Are you surprised?

To be perfectly honest, if I assess my spending habits, this isn’t as surprising as it seems. I want Rooney to be as integrated as possible into our lives and to have the very best life possible. Sometimes, this means an increase in spending. That being said, it’s interesting to learn which markets within the overarching pet industry are growing.

Growing Pet Industry Trends according to Petcurean & Global Pet Expo:

High-Tech Tracking:

From activity trackers to communication devices, the high-tech pet industry is certainly growing! Although not too long ago, high-tech pet items seemed like a novelty, these days, the industry is becoming more mainstream. These devices include; Voyce fitness tracker with a mobile app, and Petchatz, which lets you video chat with and remote treat!

Interactive Toys:

Interactive toys are on the rise! These items will make sure our pets stay entertained and exercised! This super fun automated ball thrower will keep your dog fit, and Hear doggy toys make squeaks that only your pet can hear!

Limited Ingredient Food Options:

Healthy, high-quality food continues to be a focus for manufacturers and pet parents alike. With food allergies in pets a growing concern (42% of consumers are worried their pet has a food allergy or intolerance), limited ingredient products are on the rise. Petcurean showcased its GO! Limited Ingredient Diet SENSITIVITY + SHINE food, which offers a single source of meat protein (Duck, Salmon, Venison or Turkey for dogs) and as few, high-quality, premium ingredients as possible to meet the nutritional requirements for dogs and cats.

Although I have yet to invest in the high-tech interactive toys, I have already switched Rooney to high-quality grain-free Petcurean food and used the Petcube to keep track of Rooney and communicate with him.

What pet industry trends have you invested in?

Disclaimer: I am a Petcurean Blogger Advocate. I have been compensated in exchange for providing my opinion. However, My Kid Has Paws only discusses products I truly believe in. In fact, I feed Petcurean to Rooney every day.

Spring Snow Essentials

March 17, 2016

For the past 4 years California has been in a serious drought, but this year we are so lucky to have had normal rainfall and our mountains covered in snow!

This means that Spring Break this year can include a trip up to the Sierras.

As many pet parents make the decision to travel to the snow during the first few weeks of Spring, it is important to remember that your dog could benefit from some snow equipment.

This is particularly important for those of us who do not live where it snows, but only visit the snow on certain occasions.

So, if you are taking a trip to the snow soon, here is what your dog will need:

Waterproof Snow Jacket

Spring Snow Essentials Spring Snow Essentials Spring Snow Essentials

Rooney is wearing a personalized snow jacket that we ordered from Pridebites. Now, all Corgi parents know that it is nearly impossible to find clothing that fits a Corgi body. Pridebites however, prides themselves on being Corgi enthusiasts and they really know how to make a good jacket. This jacket is fleece lined and waterproof to keep Rooney warm and dry for future snow adventures and during our upcoming storms. You can use our code KIDPAW to receive 20% off of your purchase!

Snow Boots

The need for snow boots is two-fold.

  1. Traction: Especially in the spring, snow can very quickly turn into sludge or ice. This provides an excellent opportunity to your dog to lose traction and potentially tear a ligament. If your dog is comfortable wearing snow boots, I would definitely recommend them for running around.
  2. Paw Protection: Ice accumulation between the toes can make it difficult for your dog to continue walking or playing in the snow. Additionally, exposure to cold weather can cause cracked paws and bleeding.

Sunblock

Although there is snow on the ground, the sun can still do damage to your dog’s skin. Of course, a jacket will help protect their skin, however if it is warm enough that you feel your dog only needs boots, please remember to apply sunblock if your dog is at risk for sunburn. Dogs with thin or white coats are most at risk for sunburn.

Veterinarians recommend using a sunscreen that is fragrance-free, non-staining and contains UVA and UVB barriers (Veterinary Partner). Also, if the sunscreen has ingestion warnings, it is recommended they aren’t used on pets because they can be toxic. To learn more about the possibility of sunburn and some summer solutions, please visit my post “Can My Dog Get Sunburned?”

Pay Attention to their Temperature

Visiting the snow during the Spring can be interesting. There is snow on the ground so there is a possibility that your dog might be cold, but the sun is usually out which can cause the temps to rise. For this reason, pay attention to your dog’s temperature while they are out playing in the snow. Are they panting excessively? Then maybe they don’t need their jacket for a while.

I hope this list helps you feel prepared for your Spring trip to the snow!

Disclaimer: I am a PrideBites PAWtner. This post contains my affiliate links. If you purchase a product via these links and use my discount code, I will receive a commission.  PrideBites is not responsible for the contents of this post. My Kid Has Paws only shares information about things we believe our readers will enjoy.

 

Also, I would like to wish everyone a very Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Here is a St. Patrick’s Day post if you are interested in learning more about Irish Dog Breeds: 7 Irish Dog Breeds for St. Patrick’s Day.

If Pets Had Thumbs… (And a Chance to Win!)

February 29, 2016

March 3rd is If Pets Had Thumbs Day! (It’s also Rooney’s Grandma’s Birthday!)

I was just made aware of this day and I think it provides an excellent opportunity to think about what our pets would do if they had thumbs.

Corgi wearing Notre Dame Leash and Collar

Here is my list of things Rooney would absolutely do if he had thumbs:

  1. Open doors so that he could run around the neighborhood and visit his friends
  2. Send love letters to his girlfriend Shasta
  3. Get treats out of the treat jar regularly
  4. Open the fridge at snack time

For a chance to win two 25lb bags of Petcurean dog food (our favorite), leave a comment below and tell me what you think your dog would do if they had thumbs!

Win a 25lb bag of Petcurean - NOW Fresh Grain-Free Adult Dog Recipe

Why do you want to try Petcurean?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I can’t wait to read the entries!

 

Also, yesterday marked the end of our 20 Day Dental Health Challenge. How did it go for you?

Here are my results.

I definitely brushed Rooney’s teeth more often throughout the month. However, it was really important for me to leave the toothbrush in a location where I was easily reminded.

How did the challenge help you?

Disclaimer: I am a Petcurean Blogger Advocate. I have been compensated in exchange for providing my opinion. However, My Kid Has Paws only discusses products I truly believe in. In fact, I feed Petcurean to Rooney every day.

3 Biggest Challenges for Pet Parents Who Work Full-Time

February 22, 2016

I work full-time, and so does my husband. We will probably always work full-time.

While some people and thought leaders have expressed that working full-time and having a dog is unfair and unacceptable, I must disagree. My immediate response to these people, is to ask them the following question: So you don’t think veterinarians or veterinary technicians should have dogs?

Usually, this gets them thinking, and rarely do they have an intelligent response.

While I could go on defending why I think pet parenting and working full-time is acceptable, I will leave that for another blog post.

Right now, I would like to address the biggest challenges pet parents who work full-time face, and how to overcome them.

Challenge 1: Travel

Many people who work full-time end up having to travel for work. Sometimes, these work trips are scheduled on short notice. When this happens, you can get stuck trying to find a space in your local dog hotel or kennel.

If you know that traveling for work is a possibility, be sure to have not only 1, but 2-3 pet sitters that you can call on for last minute overnight arrangements. Kennels and doggie hotels can get full, and pet sitters can only take or stay with so many dogs. That’s why it’s important to have backups AND have backups who are familiar with your dog and vis versa. Nothing is scarier for your dog than you suddenly leaving them with a stranger. Not to mention the stress it might put on you if you have to choose whoever is available rather than who is the best.

Challenge 2: Time

When you work full-time and have a commute, your work week hours can be crazy. Sometimes, you may spend more hours away from home than you do at home (including sleep). Giving your dog dedicated time is really important for keeping your relationship strong. I don’t think anyone reading this blog wants a dog in their home for show. You want to have a strong bond with your dog. You want them to love you as much as you love them. So here are some of my ideas for spending quality time with your dog even when you have a crazy work schedule:

  1. Walk them. Providing your dog with the exercise they need is not only crucial for their health and good behavior, but it strengthens your bond. If you don’t have time to walk them for 30 minutes in the morning, aim for 2 shorter 15 minute walks (one in the morning and one in the evening). I recently started a new work schedule, and I get up at 5:30 to take Rooney for a walk once or twice a week, and on other days I try to walk him in the evening when I get home.
  2. Play games. Right now, many pet parents across the U.S. can’t walk their dog every day due to the weather. In these situations, you can always play games with your dog. Treat puzzles can provide lots of activity and stimulation. However, if your dog only wants to destroy treat puzzles (Yes Rooney, this is you), you may want to try some indoor nose work. Playing games with your dog for 20-30 minutes gives them lots of mental stimulation and makes them feel loved.
  3. Training. Work on basic or advanced tricks with your dog. Similar to playing games, this activity will give your dog 20-30 minutes of quality time, which in turn strengthens your bond.

3 Biggest Challenges for Pet Parents Who Work Full-Time

Challenge 3: Exercise

I know that I mentioned walking with your dog above, and while that provides your dog with some of their needed exercise, it may be more of a bonding activity for you and your dog, and they may need even more exercise. If you work full-time I would recommend providing your dog with one or two of the following options:

  1. Dog Walker. Even if you walk with your dog several times a week, your dog may need longer more challenging exercise intervals. If this is the case, you may want to find a good dog walker. If you live in an urban area, chances are, there is an app for finding a dog walker. For example, if you live in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Seattle, or New York, you can use Wag, or if you live in Los Angeles, Orange County, or San Diego, you can use ZingyPet.
  2. Doggy Day Care. This is an option I am currently looking into for Rooney. It’s important to understand that doggy day care comes in many different shapes and sizes. You may be looking for more of a large doggy day care that has flexible hours in a public location, or you might prefer a smaller more private doggy daycare. Either way, Rover.com is going to be a great resource for finding dog walkers, doggy day care, and dog boarding in your area.

The added bonus to doggy day care is that Rooney can commute with me, which gives us more time together. While dog walking and doggy day care can get a bit expensive, it is worth it to consider these activities as a supplement to the time you spend with your dog.

The best advice I can give as a pet parent who works full-time is to incorporate your dog into as many of your activities as possible and evaluate the quality of time spent with your dog. Try your best every day and remember…they only have you!

Was there anything I left out? What challenges do you face as a pet parent who works full-time?

4 Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Your Dog-Loving Valentine

February 13, 2016

This post is for all those procrastinators out there! Yes, this includes me too!

I love holidays, and I love gift giving. However, every now and again I find myself the day before a holiday or occasion without a gift to give. While running to the mall is always an option, sometimes I find myself circling still very unsure of what to buy.

If you are like me, and you find yourself late in the day on February 13th with no Valentine’s Day gift, here are a few last-minute ideas that may impress your dog-loving Valentine.

4 Last-Minute Ideas for Your Dog-Loving Valentine

Picture: This is Shasta, Rooney’s Valentine!

  1. Plan a Picnic: (Weather-permitting) All you need to do is run to the store (or not, if you have everything to make sandwiches or some other picnic-y food) and get some basic supplies for a nice lunch. In most cases, sandwiches will do. Find a cute basket and a cozy blanket and take your loved one out for a nice picnic. Make this Valentine’s Day gesture extra cute by including your dog(s). Make sure to pack a travel food and water bowl for your dog(s) so that you can all enjoy a lovely lunch.
  2. Plan a Spoil Your Dog Day Trip: Every pet parent loves to see their dog get spoiled. So plan a day where you, your Valentine, and, of course, your dog(s) visit a few of their favorite places. If you live in a colder area, the day may start out with an indoor dog park. Then a trip to the local groomer so that your dog can feel fresh and clean. In the Bay Area, you can take your dog(s) to Pet Food Express where they have a self-service dog wash. Then take a trip to your local pet store so that they can pick out some toys and treats. Then head to the local bakery to pick up some after dinner dessert for both your Valentine and your pup. If your Valentine is someone who LOVES to spend time with their dog, this will be a rewarding day!
  3. Donate to a Rescue on Their Behalf: It’s not uncommon to be able to donate to a rescue and personalize that donation in honor of someone. If your local rescue has these types of forms, be sure to put them in your card to your Valentine. Or, you could get some construction paper from Target, cut out a heart, and make a custom certificate. I know that this gesture would really warm my heart and the hearts of many other pet parents.
  4. Plan a Hike: (Weather-permitting) If your Valentine is someone who likes the outdoors, plan a Valentine’s Day hike on a dog-friendly trail! Perhaps add a little flare by giving them their gift at the top of the hike
    bring all of your hiking essentials.

If your Valentine loves dogs, but doesn’t have one yet: If your Valentine loves Corgis (because who doesn’t, right?), but they are not ready to bring one into their home just yet, you could look up a local meetup on Facebook or Meetup.com to see if there are any play days scheduled. If there is one in your local area tomorrow, take your Valentine to visit with their favorite type of dog! You could even post a message about it within the group tonight. I know that many of the Corgi groups I am apart of would love to have other Corgi enthusiasts visit :).

It’s always a good idea to have flowers and dinner plans for this day too. It may be too late for reservations, but you could always make dinner at home!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

What are you and your Valentine doing tomorrow?

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