Earlier this week, Sharon a PetBest fan on facebook at www.facebook.com/petbestcares, asked for our help in naming her adorable new puppy  (male yellow Lab, with a little brown spot on his nose).  With Sharon’s help, looked to our awesome facebook fans and created a spontaneous contest to name this cutie!

Thanks to everyone who participated, with over 1500 entries Sharon was thrilled and the name DUSTY was chosen.

Here are the winners who picked “Dusty”: Sheila G., Shirley S.H., Diana C., Kacey C., Donna R-M., Jan A.R., Bob S.

Winners, please facebook message or email customercare@petbest.com to receive your prize, a $30 voucher to shop at ♥ www.PetBest.com♥ . Thanks again for participating!

Thunderstorms during the summer, Fireworks around the 4th of July, visits to the veterinarian and traveling are a few of the reasons that can cause severe pet anxiety.  In fact, these reactions to loud noises and stressful situations can result in destructive behavior and injuries to terrified pets. In an effort to escape these situations  even the most well behaved pets have caused damage, become aggressive or have runaway during these frantic times.

One way to help your pet become less stressed is preparation.  Doing a good bit of research ahead of time can ease the tension on your pet and family. Consulting your veterinarian, investigating remedies and practicing the therapy ahead of time will help calm the nerves of even the most frightful pet. Veterinarians have realized for many years the “phobias” pets suffer from and are recommending easy effective cures for these ailments.

One of newest and safest remedies for your pets is the Thundershirt. The Thundershirt utilizes a pressure wrap system similar to wrapping a human baby snugly in a blanket. The slight amount of constant pressure your pet feels is enough to calm their nerves and address the situation that is causing the anxiety. Affordably priced the Thundershirt is a safe inexpensive way to treat your pet holistically.

Currently, Thundershirt  is sponsoring a contest for “Thundershirts next big star contest!” Enter a photo of your dog wearing a Thundershirt along with a story and you could win one of three prices. Your pet could be the next top model for Thundershirt! The most popular submission wins.Visit their website for details http://www.thundershirt.com/contest/#!/about

Check out PetBest.com for an everday low prices on Thundershirts and your favorite brand of pet food.  http://petbest.com/products/Heather-Grey-Stress-Treatment-Vest/Thundershirt-HGSTV

Here we are approaching  the dog days of summer.  Don’t let this summer be a bummer. This is the time of year where we all spend countless hours outside enjoying what mother nature has given us. Vacationing and backyard parties, and exploring what the warm weather months have to offer are among a few of the summertime bounties at our disposal. Our pets are no different then we are in the exploration of the dog days of summer.
Every year lost pet cases increase during the Summer months. The tips below will help in pet owners being prepared for that instance when your  four legged family member has decided to explore the neighborhood. Being prepared will cut down the amount of time your pet will be away from it’s family, lessening the anxiety of finding a lost pet.

1) Dog Licenses – License your pet with your local municipality. Most require a current rabies certificate and a small fee to obtain a license for your pet. For your feline friends check with your local animal control office as some do not require them to be licensed. A reliable and comfortable pet collar is recommended to keep the tag on your pet.

2)Dog/Name tags – Basic information is a must. Your pets name, your name,  phone number and address will assist in the safe return of your pet. Also, keep your contact information current on the tags. Many times owners will move or change phone numbers, but not update the information needed for a much quicker return of your family member.

3)Microchip – Contact  your veterinarians office for their advice on which service is recommended. This is a permanent I.D. chip embedded just under the pets skin. Unlike dog tags these can never fall off. Most Veterinarians and animal control offices have scanners that can read the chips. This is a must if you travel with your pet. Once again it is crucial to keep your contact information up to date for the reasonably priced chips. For more detailed information follow this link from the Humane Society.   http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/microchips.html

4)GPS pet collars – These smart collars have GPS systems so you can track you pets movements anywhere. The service works with any computing device or smart phone. As with any device that runs on batteries a full charge is very important. Follow this link for a suggested comparison http://www.organic-pet-digest.com/dog-tracking-collars.html

5)Photos of your pet – Keep photos handy of your pets. A couple on your phone and at home will assist in giving an accurate description of your loved one to neighbors and first responders.

6)Animal Control – Most cities and counties have an animal control or animal services agency. Find their contact information and store in your cell phone and at home. Most animals that are lost from their owners will at some point have contact with the local animal services agency.

7) Home Check – Ensure that all gates, doors, and fences are pet proof so your pet does not explore their way out off of your property and onto city streets. If your pet has found a way out inevitably they will find that option again to continue exploring.

 8) Proper collars, leads and leashes – During the Summer it is the best time to take your four legged friend for walks in the neighborhood, the local park, etc. Outfit you pet with the correct size of collar, lead or leash to help prevent injuries, as well as, escapes while on theses outings.  Most pet stores will gladly assist you with fitting your pet with the proper equipment.

If you follow any combination of these tips, The success of finding your lost pet will increase ten fold. Preparation is the key to prevention. You can obtain ultimate satisfaction as a pet owner by using these tips, which are a small consideration to being a responsible pet owner.

Have a safe Summer!

Author, Matt Cole – PetBest.com product specialist

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