Global Pet Expo 2015 Dog Products!

Hello Pet Journal readers, I hope your Spring is off to a great start. As some of you may know, the 2015 Global Pet Expo was held March 4th - 6th, the pet industries largest annual trade show. Featuring some 1,051 exhibiting companies, 3,113 booths and more than 3,000 new product launches. Obviously with those numbers, I can't possibly show you all the newest products. So for this month, I'd like to show you some of the top dog products, winners and favorites. Enjoy!

Cycle Dog Collars: These collars will last for years! Hand crafted by a small company in Oregon from bicycle inner tubes, these collars are durable, comfortable and will NOT fray like conventional nylon collars. The rubber tube also makes it quick drying and doesn't absorb oils or odors. Overlayed colors, patterns, and reflective material for any dog. Also be sure to check out their whole line of recycled bicycle tube products. Around $25.00

Pod Trackers: The World's smallest and lightest real-time GPS Pet tracker. Pod is a sleek tracking device (about the size of a wine cork) which attaches to your pets collar and lets you instantly locate your animal from your phone as well as track their activity and fitness levels. Best of all - no contracts or monthly fees. $185.00

iFetch: The automatic ball launcher for dogs addicted to fetch. It's simple, just plug in, set to desired distance (10, 20 or 30 feet) drop in a ball and your dog's ready to go. Dogs learn quick how to play with the iFetch by themselves, and training tips are included for the dogs who have more of a challenge. Uses 1.5" balls (3 included) and optional batteries for non plug in use. $115.00

Foobler: A dogs natural instinct is to hunt and forage for food. It keeps their brain and body active and engaged. The Foobler is an automatic puzzle feeder with 6 timer activated pods that deliver a full days worth of kibble or treats. There are many puzzle and time release feeders available but Foobler is unique as it bridges the gap between the two. Just fill the 6 pods with up to 2 cups of kibble, set the intervals (15, 30, 60, 90 minutes a bell will ring alerting your pet) and it's ready to enable controlled feeding thorought the day while stimulating your dog mentally and physically. Made out of high density polyethylene to withstand the harshest treatment from your dog. Easy to clean and available in multiple colors. Bluetooth version is also available allowing more options and customization. $39.99

Next month I will be featuring the favorite products for cats and other pets. Thanks for reading!

March Products!

 

Hello Pet Journal Readers! What a mild Winter we've had compared to last year. Even though there has been some cold snaps, they've broken rather quickly and we can't complain with the little amount of snow that has fallen in Northeast Wisconsin. Lets hope the rest of the Winter follows in the same fashion. Next month I hope to feature the newest and most innovative products from the Global Pet Expo, which is held March 4 -6th in Orlando FL. For this month, I scoured some stores and found some neat products I hope you'll enjoy.

Wobblewag Giggle: A fun toy for Fido! Wobblewag Giggle is an interactive ball toy made for dogs of all shapes and sizes. Made from safe durable vinyl, the toy features unique tubes inside which emit sound when rolled or shaken - no batteries required! Six clutch pockets allow any size of dog to join in the fun, whether for a game of fetch or just by himself he is sure to have a blast. 4.5" and 5.5" $14.95 - $19.95
Burts Bees Natural Pet Care: For those of you who already love Burts Bees for yourself, why not check out their line of products for your pet? From shampoos, ear cleaners, to oral care, their products all adhere to the highest environmental standards and are made from safe, natural ingredients. Check them out online ( www.burtsbeespets.com ) or at your nearest pet specialty store.

JW Pet iN Action: Some customers have found an ingenious use for a simple dog toy that I think many of you would love. Bully Sticks are popular treat for dogs, but many large dogs eat through them too quick, causing the long lasting chew to become more like a snack. JW Pet sells a dog toy that is shaped like a strand of DNA, made of natural rubber. Just slide the Bully Stick (or any other treat) in between the twists and it makes it quite the challenge. Small or large $4.99 - $7.99

Pet Shoppe Dental Kit: As with humans, Canine dental care is very important for the general health and well being of your pet (not to mention the bad breath!). I know I've reviewed other dental products before, but this is a little different. I stumbled upon this kit at the store and was impressed with it, especially for being so inexpensive. The kit includes all the essentials - canine safe toothpaste, a brush that fits over your finger, and a regular brush with both a small and large end. It's quality made and works exactly like it should. If you can't find this exact kit, there are others much like it (for example Arm & Hammer sells one) but this one was my favorite. $4.99

That's all I got for you this month! As always, thanks for reading.

February Products!

Hello Pet Journal readers! I hope you are all doing well, and enjoying this relatively mild Winter (compared to last year!) we've been having. I've had a bit of trouble finding suitable products to review this month (it seems I've reviewed them all!) but I did find a few I think you'll enjoy.

Contech SquirrelStop: A major problem with feeding wild birds is the squirrels, who using their instincts and intelligence outsmart us in their quest for food. Well it's about time for us to outsmart the squirrels and Contech is here to help. SquirrelStop attaches to any hanging feeder up to 10 pounds. The weight of the squirrel causes SquirrelStops to start spinning, gently but effectively forcing the squirrel to jump off, while leaving birds free to feed. Safe, easy to use, and no assembly required. $39.99

Catit Play Circuit: Simple yet fun cat toy, sure to provide plenty of entertainment for your cat. Play Circuit consists of a ball and track. The balls swirl pattern is made to attract your cat's attention and the "peek-a-boo" track allows your cat to see, chase, and swat the ball. Multiple layout possibilities and additional tracks can be purchase to expand the fun. Be sure to check Catit's whole line of "Design Senses" products, which incorporate all your cat's senses while he plays. $10.99

PetBox: Us humans look forward to getting our monthly subscriptions in the mail - shouldn't your pet too? PetBox is a box of goodies shipped to your pet each month, consisting of only premium products; treats, toys, and accessories freshly selected each month. Select a membership plan and pick your favorites or complete a brief profile and PetBox will surprise you with a customized selection tailored to your pet. Take a look, learn more, and enjoy the convenience of PetBox at www.getpetbox.com. For dogs or cats, free shipping in the United States and plans as low as $7.95 per month.

As always thanks for reading! See you next month!

2015 Pet Products!

Happy New Year Pet Journal readers! Hope you had happy holidays and a great start to your New Year. As we head into January and farther into Winter, I wanted to review some Winter related products to help you and your pet endure the cold.

Allied Pet Bowl: Every pet needs access to clean fresh water. Cold winters here in Wisconsin, however, can quickly turn that bowl of water into a solid ice chunk, leaving outdoor pets with nothing to drink. Snow, even though plentiful, isn't a source of water. Not only will some pets not eat snow, but snow can be up to 95% air, leaving your pet to eat enourmous amounts just to stay hydrated. Allied has added a heated pet bowl to their product linup. A built in thermostat heats the bowl keeping water ice free. Cord chew protecter, nontip design, durable plastic. 1 quart capacity for small to medium dogs and cats. $17.99

Safe Paw Ice Melter: Conventinal salt can take a nasty toll on dogs paws. I've seen our dog's paws, normally very tough, get raw, swollen, and bloody from just playing out in the salty street. Friends dogs have had the same problems, their salted driveway causing their dogs discomfort and constant paw licking. Safe Paw is an environmentally friendly, pet and child safe, salt free ice melter, that REALLY works. Safe to use on decking, asphalt, concrete, pavers, plants, shrubs, metal and won't stain or destroy flooring if tracked inside. 8lb easy pour container. $15.99

K&H Lecro: Outdoor pets in winter need a place to warm up on those extra cold days. A soft warm bed sounds nice, doesn't it? K&H Lecro is a comfortable, heated pet bed which heats to a soothing 102F degrees, keeping pet warm and cozy on even he coldest days. Also great for that indoor pet who likes to lounge outside but gets cold. Outdoor/indoor, chew resistant cord, fleece cover and a 1 year warranty. Small, Medium, Large: $34.99, $54.99, $81.99

TUF-FOOT: Dogs paws take a lot of abuse in Winter. From the hard icy ground and numbing cold, to the dry houses, it's amazing they can go barefoot. Sometimes, though, they need a little care and protection. TUF-FOOT heals cuts and tenderness, protects soft and tender pads, prevents cracking, and toughens his paws to whatever Winter can throw at them. 8oz, $14.99

Hope you enjoyed this month's products, as always thanks for reading and oh, Happy 2015!

Pet Products December 2014!

Hello Pet Journal readers! I hope this finds everyone well and enjoying this Holiday season. As 2014 comes to a close, I would just like to thank you all once again for reading and presumably enjoying my product reviews.

Alarm Charms: A fantastic product for pets with special medical needs. Alarm Charms are the first Medical ID tags for pets. On the tag is not only your pet's health condition (with universal medical symbol and text) but a unique ID#. The ID#, when entered at www.alarmcharms.com, alerts the finder to your pet's medical conditions, treatment protocols, your contact information and everything else needed to insure you and your pet can be quickly AND safely reunited. Alarm Charms are scratch, rust, fade and noise resistant. $18.95

Kong Glide & Seek: An exciting toy for cats, Kong Glide & Seek keeps your cat on his toes. A plastic dome with holes throughout keeps your cat guessing where the feather topped disc will be as it glides randomly around. Designed to fulfill natural hunting instincts. Easy one button operation. $15.99

WonderBowl Selective Feeder: A great product for multiple pet households. Using infrared technology, WonderBowl only opens its lid for the pet wearing the unique tag. When the pet leaves, the lid promptly shuts, preventing other pets or children from getting into the bowl. This is very useful for keeping pets with special diets food safe, the dog out of the cat food, or even just the ability to leave your picky dog's food out all day without worrying about your other pets stealing it. Water resistant, sturdy non-slip design, and dishwasher safe insert. Uses "D" batteries or AC adapter (sold separately) and comes with 1 tag (additional tags sold separately). $54.99

Paw Pods, Fish Pod: Especially for a child's fish, Fish Pod ables you to give a fish a more proper burial then flushing down the toilet. Fish Pod is a small all-natural pod made from 100% bamboo and rice husk, so it is completely biodegradable. Included is sympathy card, where a child can write their thoughts, and seeded leaf to be buried along with the pod. The seeded leaf sprouts beautiful wild flowers year after year as a living memorial. Sized for a small to medium fish. $19.99

That the products for this month. I'll see you all next year - 2015!

Cat Products!

　
Hello Pet Journal readers! When I started to write this month's article I realized something. Being a dog person, I sometimes forget about another common household pet - the cat. According to the Humane Society, there are actually more than 10 million more owned cats than dogs in the U.S. So for this month, I would like to dedicate an article to our feline friends.

Pet Zone EZ Scoop: The idea of an automatic litter box sounds so good to cat owners. However, I've looked and looked and have never found one that didn't have a host of complaints, problems, or stopped working after a few months. Pet Zone EZ Scoop combines the ease of automatic box with the simplicity of a manual scoop. EZ Scoop works similar to normal automatic boxes, with a large sliding rake, but is operated manually with a simple scooping motion, depositing waste directly into the storage bin. Quick disassembly and smooth surfaces for easy cleaning. $52.99

Kitty Holster: For some reason, many people view taking your cat for a walk on a leash as absurd. But many cats, especially those in large cities, can't safely roam on their own and a leashed walk allows them to get out, exercise, and be happier. Kitty Holster is the original award winning cat harness. Made out of ultra-lightweight fabrics, Kitty Holster is soft, comfortable and secure with wide velcro closures. Available in all sizes, and many colors/designs. Made in the U.S.A. Price varies.

KittyScoop: Possibly the best, most innovative litter scoop on the market. KittyScoop is a litter scoop with a built in waste container. Simply scoop the waste, tip back and the waste goes directly into the sealed container. To empty either pull out the bag, or if using bagless just open the rear door and dispose. Trap door ensures what goes in stays in - reducing dust and allergens. Easy to clean, optional bags included, and made in the U.S.A. $19.99

Catit Design Treat Maze: The smart way to feed your cat! Treat Maze provides important physical and mental stimulation by making your cat work for his food. Cats use their paws to move their food through a maze, where it collects in a tray to eat. Rotating disc allows you to challenge your cats ability by increasing or decreasing the openings for a more difficult challenge. $17.99

I hope you enjoyed this month's article, as always thanks for reading and I'll see you next month!

October Products

Hello Pet Journal readers! Autumn is here, bringing with it changing colors, cool weather, and my personal favorite - no bugs! Now is the time to get out with your dog and explore our outdoors, especially the forest and trails. For this month, I'd like to review some products that were previously left out of my Summer articles as our last goodbye to Summer.

Dog Gone Smart Dirty Dog Doormat: That's a tongue twister! Anybody who owns a dog understands the mess their paws can make, collecting and tracking in all sorts of debris. Dirty Dog Doormat stops the dirt in its tracks. Super absorbent material absorbs up to 7x its weight it, while drying 5x faster than ordinary mats. Great for under their dog bowls too! Easy to clean, available in medium, large, or long runner. $23.99 - $61.99

Popware Pooch Pouch: Keeping treats with you, especially when training, can be a bother. Not only are they difficult to get out of your pocket, but they can make a mess of your clothes, especially if you forget some in them. Pooch Pouch is the convenient way to store and give treats. Clipping onto your pants, this 100% memory silicon pouch makes grabbing a treat quick and easy, perfect for training. Dishwasher safe. $7.99

Dr. Emmos Pet First Aid: Pets, just like humans, get their share of injuries. Cuts, scratches, sores and the like need to be attended to. Using human first aid products is an option, but many products are unsafe for pets, and even the ones that aren't can make a pet sick if he licks it off. Dr. Emmos is one of the few companies that makes first aid products soley formulated for pets. Their line of products is all natural, 100% safe around eyes, ears, and mouth (even if ingested) for ALL animals. Check out their line of products and (as their motto says) "Be Prepared. Everywhere."

Victor Electric Trap: As always this time of year, homeowners in Wisconsin have problems with mice trying to find a warm home for the winter. Pet owners have the additional concern of safety for their pets. Conventional traps, sticky pads, poison, etc. are all dangerous to use around pets, who have a habit of getting into everything. Victor has created an electric mouse trap that quickly and humanely kills mice with a high voltage electric shock. It is delivered from AA batteries when the mouse steps on a metal plate, completing the circuit. A tunnel prior to the plate and safety switch make this trap 100% safe for pets. Indicator LED's show when it is set, caught a mouse, or when it has low batteries. 4 AA's (not included) last for over 50 uses. $19.99

I hope you enjoyed this months article. As always, thanks for reading.

Unique Pet Products

Hello readers! This August was a particularly nice month...I hope you got out with your pets and enjoyed it. For this month, I'd like to review some unique products I came across the past few months.

Magic Latch: Dog owners understand the struggle of trying to leash their pet. Even if you manage to get him to sit still, conventional leashes consist of a manual clip, difficult to open or attach, and usually requiring two hands. Magic Latch is a brilliant redesign of the standard clip. Place the "dangle" on his collar and the "grabber" on the leash, that's it. Now whenever you need to leash your dog, simply hold the grabber in close proximity to the dangle and they magnetically latch together. To unleash, just press the button and they release. Secure locking latches will not break and are tested to 300lb+ of weight. Universal for any leash/collar of dogs up to 85 pounds. Never struggle to leash your pet again! $24.99

Doggie Drinklets: Dogs need plenty of water to stay healthy and hydrated. Most of us owners keep a bowl with us, but having one with you isn't always an option. Doggie Drinklets is the most compact and portable water bowl on the market. At only a few millimeters thick, Drinklets can go with you anywhere, in your bag, purse, pocket or even wallet. Just open the bowl with your fingers, fill, and when your done either close and re-use or dispose of. And the price can't be beat! 7 bowls to a pack - $5.99

Help 'em Wash Pet Curtain: Most dog owners know that when you wash your dog, you'll be getting a bath too. Help 'em Wash, however, allows you to wash your dog without actually touching him. The shower curtain has two shoulder length gloves built right in, completely waterproof. Full access and clear so you can easily see your pet - without getting wet. Non-toxic PVC, standard size with rings included. $24.99

ABO Gear Happy Habitat: A lot of indoor cats like to go outside, but it isn't always possible. Whether they live in a dangerous area, might run away, or whatever the reason-they're stuck inside. This can leave them unhappy, anxious, and in some cats even destructive. Happy Habitat is a perfect solution for those adventurous felines. Happy Habitat is a portable enclosure, allowing your cat to stay safe while enjoying the outdoors. Mesh construction allows for full outdoor experience while also serving as secure containment. Includes stakes. $69.99

Next month I plan on reviewing a few Autumn related products. Until then, thanks for reading and enjoy the rest of your Summer.

August Pet Products

Hello Pet Journal readers! I hope you all had a great 4th of July and are enjoying your summer. For this month I'd like to review a few useful products I've discovered. Enjoy!

Feliway: "The Secret to Happy Cats." Cats are very territorial and even small changes, like redecorating, can cause a cats stress level to rise. Scratching, spraying, scaring, nervousness etc. can all be signs of a cat not being comfortable in his own home. Feliway is a synthetic copy of the feline facial pheromone, used by cats to mark their territory as safe or secure. Using Feliway can cause a cat to stop bad habits, relax, and be happier. Available in spray or plug in diffuser. Price varies, but is very reasonable.

Sill Shield: It doesn't take much for dog's nails to gouge or tear up wood. Even good dogs can easily damage your window sills by just trying to get a look outside. Sill Shield protects your windows sills with the toughest clear plastic covers on the market - up to 400% thicker then the competition. Fitted design and wrap around edges protects against impacts, scratching, or whatever your dog throws at it. Quick and easy installation with included Velcro coins. Made in the U.S.A. and backed with a lifetime guarantee. Custom sizes available. $11.99 - $16.99

Howard Pet Tie-Out: This is the perfect tie out for dogs. A heavy duty spike holds the unity firmly in ground, while allowing the head to revolve 360 degrees, preventing the cable from getting wrapped around the base. Best of all, the entire cable retracts neatly into the head, reducing the chances of getting tangled and making it easy to use and store. Small, Medium, or Large. $25.99 - $39.99

As always, thanks for reading. See you next month!

Summer Pet Products!

Hello Pet Journal readers! At least for us near the lake, the weather is finally taking on the feel of Summer. As I promised last month, this months article will be on Summer products for your pet. Enjoy!
Chilly Bone: Great toy to give your dog on a hot summer day. Just fill with water, freeze, and let your dog cool down as he chews. Great for teething puppies too. Made out of durable canvas, reusable. Medium or Large, $5.99 to $7.99



Doggles Pet Sunscreen: Pet sunscreen sounds like a joke, but surprisingly many dogs get irritating sunburn. Especially in thin haired breeds, common areas of sunburn are the nose, snout, and for sunbathing dogs, the tummy area. Doggles comes to the rescue with a convenient sunscreen spray. Also prevents sun bleaching on dark haired breeds. Safe for all dogs, non oily, Made in the U.S.A. 2oz bottle $7.99
K9 Unit Insulated Bottle: Quality product originally designed for professional working dogs. K9 Unit is constructed from insulated stainless steel, impact resistant and BPA free. Rugged outer shell is molded from grippy silicon, which fits over the bottle protecting it and doubles as a water bowl. Its design has a large capacity and encourages dogs to drink naturally. 25oz size, in a variety of colors. $19.99
Outward Hound Cool-it Bandana: Keeping dogs cool is essential to their well being, especially on hot summer days. Cool-It is made with polymer crystals that absorb 30 times their weight. Just soak for 15 - 30 minutes, put on your dog and Cool-It will keep him comfortable for hours. Non-toxic, and available for any dog in 3 sizes. $4.99
Kool Dogz Ice Treat Maker: Fantastic way to occupy your dog on a hot day! The Kool Dogz kit contains a steel base, extension rod, water reservoir, steel bucket and ice treat recipes. Fill the bucket with water, add toys, treats, or anything you choose, then freeze. Place the frozen block onto the raised base, and let your pup at it! He'll be captivated by the sight and smell of the goodies frozen inside. As he licks and chews, it not only entertains but hydrates and cools him down. Easy to clean stainless steel. $24.95



Waboba Fetch: This is an amazing product you have to see to believe! Waboba manufactures a whole line of balls that actually BOUNCE on water! Fun for people and also dogs with their "Fetch" ball. Firmer core is extra durable, and since it bounces on water, a throw can cover much more distance than an average ball as it skips its way over the waves. Plus, it's pretty cool. $9.99
That's all the products for this month. Until next month, have a happy (and safe) 4th of July!