BERGAN AUTO-WATA AUTOMATIC WATERER

If you keep your dog's water bowl outside, it might not be the first thing that is on your mind to regularly refill it. In fact, it can be easily forgotten. Historically, solutions to this have been such ideas as keeping the hose running at a steady trickle or even keeping multiple water bowls outside to keep the dog hydrated while the owner was away. However, the best solution available to a dog owner is the The Bergan Auto-Wata Automatic Waterer.

The Bergan Auto-Wata Automatic Waterer is an automatically refilling water bowl that provides a fresh water supply for your pet while you are away from home. The Bergan Auto-Wata Automatic Waterer comes with a connector for a regular garden hose. If the water is kept on a slight trickle, the bowl will refill itself with the aid of a simple float mechanism like that inside of a toilet. The back-up reservoir behind the bowl holds up to 1 qt and the bowl itself holds 1 qt. This is the kind of outdoor water bowl that will sate the thirst of just about any outdoor dog. This bowl is meant for outdoor use during moderate to warm weather and it should be disconnected in the winter months to protect pipes from freezing.

The Bergan Auto-Wata Automatic Waterer can be mounted to the wall, fence or patio floor to prevent it from being accidentally knocked over. If it does get kicked, The Bergan Auto-Wata Automatic Waterer also has a flow-stop to make sure that no extra water is spilled. This water bowl is designed to take a beating. It is made of a strong, crack-resistant, high-density polypropylene which is a widely-used plastic.
It is easy to forget to refill your dog's water bowl when it is outside. The notions of leaving a bowl (or several) out or a slow running hose for your dog's water supply aren't really secure. The Bergan Auto Wata Automatic Waterer is the solution that will give you peace of mind and also take care of your dog's outside water needs.

For the Bergan Auto-Wata Automatic Waterer and other dog bowls click here.

NATURAL BALANCE DOG FOOD ROLLS

If your dog is a picky eater, working through a new training regimen, older, or needing something new and nutritious, Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls might be for you.

A dog food roll can be used as a tasty retort to a picky eater. There is no question that some dogs have fussy palettes. At times these types turn their noses up to the food that they have been regularly consuming for long periods of time. Sometimes they don't want to try new things, and they demand flavor enhancers with their food before they will consider consuming it. For a picky dog, a Natural Balance Dog Food Roll might be the perfect solution to those finicky ways. Natural Balance states outright that their dog food rolls can be “full feed or add to dry.” “Add to dry” is what the owner of a picky dog should consider. Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls are easily grated, chopped or crumbled. But the addition of some Natural Balance to your finicky dog's meal should be enough to put it “over the top” and make your dog happily consume his meal.

Because of the tantalizing flavor of Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls (beef, lamb, turkey, duck and potato) they can also be used as a training treat. If you are working through a discipline routine with your dog, Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls might very well be the product that you need to get your dog's absolute attention with! This product isn't just for owners working with the family dog either, breeders, trainers, and show handlers can all benefit from the positive responses that their dogs will give this product.

Another interesting use for Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls is that medication can be hidden within pieces of it. Natural Balance also cites that their food rolls are great for convalescing dogs as well. If your dog is older, or possibly even recovering from an illness or surgery, Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls might very well be the palatable food to consider in order to guarantee that your pet eats all of his meal.

Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls are a highly concentrated dog food packed with nutrition. They are a great product for a lactating females, older dogs, or even weaning puppies. This is a dog food that can be transitioned to over a 7 day period with minimal gastronomical issues. Dogs are sensitive to the foods that they have introduced to their diet, and Natural Balance does its best to provide an easy adjustment. Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls have been developed by veterinarians and animal nutritionists with a focus on optimal skin and coat conditioning. This product contains premium meats(an excellent source of protein), dried kelp(an excellent natural source of vitamins, mineral and trace elements) and high quality animal fats (naturally preserved with mixed tocopherols, vitamin E, and ascorbic acid – vitamin C). The animal fats are the what will help your dog to have healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Each unopened roll can be stored for up to a year. At room temperature! Of course, after opening, they should be refrigerated. Long term storage of this opened product requires freezing. There is no BHA, BHT or Ethoxyquin in this product. Instead, potassium sorbate, a non-irritating, non-sensitizing preservative is used.

Full of nutrition and dense with latent energy, Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls are a wonderful additive to your dog's kibble. These rolls are packed with value, and don't require huge servings, because of how compact and balanced they are. West Coast Pet Supply is proud to stock four different flavors of Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls in varying sizes. Give one a try and see how your dog likes it.

See All the Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls Here

Orijen Dog and Cat Food

West Coast Pet Supply is pleased to now stock Orijen Pet Food. Orijen Pet Food products are made at their award-winning factory in Alberta, Canada. Orijen won the Glycemic Research Institute's Pet Food Of The Year Award for 2010-2011. This is an award for the pet food with the healthiest overall product. Orijen has come by this award naturally, because they are a company that makes sure their products are biologically appropriate. What this means is that Orijen Pet Foods focuses on dogs and cats and their evolutionary and anatomical needs. An aspect of this focus is their strong protein formulas achieved by a large choice of fresh meats. Orijen also zeroes in on a limited carbohydrate formula, keeping their percentages at 80% protein and 20% fruits, grains, and botanicals. Orijen doesn't use vegetable proteins, and cites them as “inappropriate.” Orijen uses ingredients supplied by locals in the region. Orijen Pet Foods are always fresh, never frozen and preserved with botanicals rather than standard preservatives.

Orijen's products are always fresh and never frozen. The poultry used in their products are completely free-run. Think of the classic Midwestern farm with chickens and turkeys doing as they please in a weather-sheltered barn environment. This is the type of table-grade poultry that arrives at Orijen for processing every day. The free-range concept that Orijen uses for its poultry also applies to the boar, beef, lamb and bison it uses in its Regional Red Dog Food products line.

Similarly. The fish used in Orijen's products are wild-caught year round from the northern lakes in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Winnipeg as well as the North West Territories of Canada. Orijen's saltwater fish are harvested by independent fishers from the Pacific Ocean. Herring and flounder are caught wild, and salmon are wild or farmed, according to season. Orijen's adage of “never frozen, always fresh” also applies to the fish that goes into Orijen Pet Food. Even more importantly, all of the fish that go into Orijen's Pet Food products are tested for mercury which is a common fish pollutant. This helps to keep the “fit for human consumption” production standards that Orijen prides itself with.

The botanicals found in Orijen products are selected by one of North America’s leading homeopathic veterinarians. Orijen's’s products aren't preserved with Ethoxyquin, BHA/BHT or any other popular pet food preservatives. Instead, various natural preservatives such as fennel, peppermint, fenugreek, vitamin E and rosemary are used to give the Orijen products a decent, natural shelf life.

Protein-rich, carbohydrate-limited, and grain-free, Orijen Pet Foods are designed to match your pets' natural diet as closely as is possible in a kibble format. Orijen food is also produced in small batches. This gives the kibble a unique shape, smell and color. Orijen Pet Foods are a wholesome, ingredient-conscious product for you to consider for your pet dog or cat. With a variety of both dog and cat foods being stocked here at West Coast Pet Supply, you are sure to find the formula that best fits your pet.

Click here for Orijen dog food at West Coast Pet Supply

Click here for Orijen cat food at West Coast Pet Supply

CRATE TRAINING YOUR CAT

Crate Training Your Cat
By: WCPS

When people think of crate-training a pet, they usually think of a dog. However, cats can be crate-trained too. Cats, while a little more finicky than dogs, can be conditioned to use their crate as their hang-out spot just as much as dogs can.

If you plan on flying with your cat, Petmate Cabin Kennel is a great cat-friendly travel carrier. It is built to fit directly under the airline seat in front of you. The Petmate Cabin Kennel is also great for automobile travel as well.  The Petmate Cabin Kennel also feature lots of ventilation holes, so that your cat gets a healthy airflow. The Petmate Cabin Kennel also comes in a model with a wire top, so that you can actually look in and interact with your cat while traveling.

Petmate Cabin Kennel

The Noz2Noz Pet Suite crates are also great multi-use pet carriers. They feature steel doors that open left or right, and some models also feature an overhead opening as well. Some of these models are airline approved, but it is good to look into the specific airlines to find out their particulars.

Noz2Noz Pet Suite

Using a crate is probably a part of your regular veterinarian routine. If your cat is familiar with her crate, trips to the veterinarian will be a lot less stressful. Lots of cat owners simply rely on their crate for times when they need to move the somewhere stressful.  However, the crate can be a regular part of your cat's life, thereby making it easier for times of travel, both good and potentially tense.

Your cat's crate should be big enough for her to remain comfortable for extended periods of time. One aspect of this might be the inclusion of a litter box. There are disposable litter boxes available by Van Ness that will fit into a cat's crate to add an extra sense of security. Van Ness makes a variety of odor and stain resistant, unbreakable, high impact plastic litter boxes.

Van Ness Disposable Little Pans

Part of the security that a cat may feel about their crate is that cats are territorial and will enjoy their own space. This applies whether in the house or on the road. One idea if you have a full grown cat is to leave a new crate in the room/territory that your cat spends the most time in. That way she will explore it on her own. The idea behind this is what is known as “free access crate training.” Placing treats and toys into the crate will also help to kickstart regular crate use. Even if your cat goes in and pulls the toy or treat out, half of the battle was getting her to go in there in the first place.

Another key issue is to get your cat used to being in this enclosed space. The use an over the counter pheromone like Comfort Zone might just reduce any notions of stress concerning this new object in your cat's space. Feel free to add bedding, lightly sprayed with the pheromone as well.

Comfort Zone

If you are looking to keep your cat occupied in her crate for an extended period of time, you might also consider hanging a scratching toy from the ceiling. Pieces of carpet for the cat to scratch on are also a good idea.

The Booda Hang-N-Scratch is a good example of a toy to hang in your cat's crate. This toy is made of 100% sisal which removes old claw covers.  This removal of old claw covers is why cats scratch in the first place.

Booda Hang-N-Scratch

Climatizing your cat for a crate should be a pleasurable experience for your cat. Outside of whatever treats you may have already placed inside of the crate, when you go to pet her, have some extras on hand.

Petting your cat while she is in the crate and actually giving her treats while she is inside will be extremely useful in getting your cat used to her crate. Also, as you experiment with shutting the door for short periods of time treats will be a key part of selling this action. This isn't something that should be done immediately. This should be after several days of your cat having the crate in her space and finding that it is a safe place to hang out in. If you close the door on her too quickly, she may not be so anxious to make the crate her hang-out spot.

Innova Cat Treats are perfect for this. Innova Cat Treats are made with elements from all five food groups and are also rich with important fatty acids. As a matter of fact, these treats are evenly cooked so that there is a minimum of value lost from the nutrition as they are being prepared. Innova Cat Treats are also preserved with Vitamin E. These treats are 40% protein and if given sparingly, can be a healthy addition to your cat's diet.

Innova Cat Treats

It is very possible to crate-train your cat. Cats aren't the same as dogs, but with the right balancing of treats, attention, and possibly even pheromones, your cat should take to a crate with little or no problem.

West Coast Pet Supply Main Page

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR RABBIT HUTCHES

Indoor and Outdoor Rabbit Hutches
By: WCPS


There are essentially two different ways to house your pet rabbit. The most common is an outdoor hutch. Of course, there is also the indoor cage. Outdoor hutches demand a bit more vigilance, but they do keep your house clear. Indoor hutches are probably the safest but require a level of constant attention. Whichever hutch that you choose, rabbits are relatively flexible creatures and if their housing is handled properly, their location will work well for both you and them.

Outdoor rabbit Hutches

If you are thinking about choosing an outdoor hutch, the first concern should be the effects of the weather on both the hutch and the rabbit. In a perfect situation, it should have a tiled or even asphalted roof. An outdoor hutch should be able to resist wind, rain, and sun. The location of the outdoor hutch needs to be thought through, and part of that process should be the weather that the rabbit will be exposed to. Also consider the walls that come with the hutch and if the rabbit will be protected enough in the case of both a serious storm or extreme heat. Rabbit hutches tend to be up against fences, houses and garages. If possible choose a wall for the hutch that will help the rabbit with the outside weather.

With an outdoor hutch, safety is something that a rabbit owner should be concerned with. Chances are that where your rabbit stays won't be akin to “the forest.” However, rabbits are still in a position to be bullied by neighborhood dogs, raccoons and even cats. Something to consider is that your rabbit should not be left in a position where their floor is unguarded. Many outdoor hutches have wire floors because rabbits do generate a lot of waste and a wire floor allows it all to fall through.. However, outdoor rabbit hutches should have a space where there is wood or some sort of platform between the ground and their feet. Even if it seems that there is no way for a potential predator to get into the hutch, a rabbit's feet can be attacked if it has no safe place to stand. Also, it is good for rabbits to have different surfaces to stand on rather than just wire.

Indoor Rabbit Hutches


Choosing an indoor rabbit cage isn't quite as difficult an choosing an outdoor one. Weather and the potential for predators outside of other household pets aren't really a part of the equation. This gives you a bit more freedom to choose an indoor rabbit cage based on your own needs, as well as those of your rabbit.
In regards to rabbit waste, indoor rabbit cages typically offer a tray under the wire floor which can slide out for easy cleaning. The other type of indoor rabbit cage is the plastic “catch-all” base that detaches from the rest of the cage. Usually this base is rather deep, so that any waste that the rabbt generates can be caught in bottom of the cage and it can easily be dumped into the trash. Plastic bases efficiently stop bedding and litter from being kicked out of the sides of the cage by your rabbit.

Your rabbit should be able to get in and out of the cage (if it is to be left of the floor, and the door is open), and you should be able to reach inside as well. The entry should be easily accessible because you will need to be able to reach in and touch your pet in the center of the cage, spot clean, refill and clean food bowls, and remove old food or treats.  A door on the side might be all that you need. Some cages are made with a door on the side and a door on the top for better accessiblility. There are several different options for an indoor cage.  There are even indoor cages that come on casters.  These are good if you need to move your rabbit into different areas of the house while cleaning, etc. A lot of the decision-making depends on where you will be keeping the cage and also the temperament of your rabbit.  Whatever the case may be, you should be able to reach all parts of the interior easily. An indoor rabbit cage with one side door and one top door is probably best.

Indoor cages also need to be cleaned regularly.  The best is once every three days.  Rabbit fecal matter doesn't particularly smell, but rabbit urine can be quite pungent.  Also, rabbit urine will stain anything that it is on after a period of time. One nice thing about rabbits is that they pick a corner to use for their urine, and they stay with that corner.  However you choose to work with your pet rabbit, whether a pile of hay in that corner or newspaper, this is something that needs to be cleaned up regularly. If not, you will receive an olfactory notice every time you are near the cage.

It is possible to keep a pet rabbit happy both outside and inside.  If you are considering keeping your rabbit outside, a key benefit is that the rabbit will be out in the fresh air.  If you are considering keeping your rabbit inside, the rabbit wil be safer from potential issues with other animals.  Whatever way that you choose to house your pet rabbit, if you do it correctly, their location will be something that you and your pet will be happy with.

Click Here For All Rabbit Supplies Here at West Coast Pet Supply
West Coast Pet Supply Main Page

BIODEGRADABLE PET WIPES

Biodegradable Pet Wipes
By: WCPS

Biodegradable Pet Wipes are made by The Green Pet Shop. The Green Pet Shop is an Earth-Friendly company that looks to provide products that are safe for people, pets and the planet.

With a strong consciousness concerning the potential carbon footprints that we and our pets can leave on the planet, The Green Pet Shop strives to bring pet products to the market that won't compromise the environment. By recycling materials and using organic and natural ingredients, The Green Pet Shop manages to maintain their “green” attitude with all of their products.

West Coast Pet Supply currently offers The Green Pet Shop's Biodegradable Pet Wipes. These aren't your average pet wipes. The first thing that you will notice abut them is that they are big, they measure 9”x 5”. They are also strong. They will handle the paws of a frisky dog, and not leave a stickiness. These wipes are fragrance free, and only contain natural plant ingredients. Biodegradable Pet Wipes are safe for people, pets and the planet. With a 3 in 1 purpose of cleaning hands, paws and coats, Biodegradable Pet Wipes fulfill a pet-owners almost daily need to “clean something up.”

Biodegradable Pet Wipes are great for removing dirt from your pet's feet after a walk. They are also good for pets that don't like to bathe. They are safe and gentle enough to use around eyes, ears, cuts and minor scrapes. Furthermore, they can be used to control dander and loose hair. In fact, Biodegradable Pet Wipes can help minimize hairballs in cats, by picking up loose hair before it can be ingested. Biodegradable Pet Wipes also are made with natural moisturizers which will help your pet's coat look healthy and shiny.

Each pack contains 80 wipes, and the pack is small enough for a coat pocket or a glove box. Because they are biodegradable, you won't have to feel bad about “wasting paper” in order to touch up your pet or get him clean. All of the natural ingredients in The Green Pet Shop's Biodegradable Pet Wipes will decompose back into their natural elements.

Biodegradable Pet Wipes by The Green Pet Shop are safe for people, pets and the planet.

Click here for Biodegradable Pet Wipes
West Coast Pet Supply Main Page

Great Dog Co.'s Antler Chews

By: WCPS

In 1991 Great Dog Co.'s first product was Michael's Great Dog Biscuit Mix. The idea was a wholesome one, with an organic product that you would bake at home. The product failed, but Great Dog Co. has kept the original standards that they started out with. One of those standards is evident in the fact that Great Dog Co. manufactures in a human grade facility. Their chews and treats are made for dogs, but prepared as if they were being made for humans. Furthermore, Great Dog Co. doesn't use soaks, colorants, washes, nitrates, BHA, BHTs, or sorbates.

Great Dog Co's Antler chews are a sturdy dog chew that last for an incredibly long time, sometimes as long as six months! Sold as “natural, mineral rich and renewable” Great Dog Co.'s Antler Chews will not splinter.Not only that, they are teeth whitening, all natural, and tougher than just about any other chew that you could give your dog. If you have been shelling out money regularly for dog chews that get destroyed immediately, or neglected, perhaps one of Great Dog Co.'s antler chews are for you and your pet.

Elk and Deer shed their antlers every year. It is interesting to know that antlers are actual bone, and not some other sort of material. Deer shed their antlers in December and elk shed theirs in the springtime. The animals re-grow their antlers again every year. A strong “rack” on one of these creatures is a sign of a healthy, calcium-rich diet. A full antler rack grows rapidly on a deer or elk in just three to four months. It is said that the rate at which deer and elk antlers are renewed makes them the the fastest growing formation in the animal kingdom. Similarly, it is said that the detachment and eventual shedding of the antlers is the fastest deterioration. Obviously, the antlers are a determining factor in whether the animal will have a chance during mating season in the autumn.

Great Dog Co.'s Antler Chews come in three heavy sizes. There is the Medium, which will slow down a chew toy destroying dog that's 15-45 lbs. The next step up is the Jumbo which is for dogs that are over 45 lbs, and then there is the Monster size, which is for dogs over 65 lbs. These are great new products now available at our online store here at WEST COAST PET SUPPLY.

Medium Antler Chew


Jumbo Antler Chew


Monster Antler Chew

West Coast Supply Main Page

CAN I GET HARDWOOD FLOORS IF I HAVE A DOG?

Can I Get Hardwood Floors if I Have A Dog?
By: Peter Demmon

One should never question whether or not to  get hardwood floors if they have a dog. Hardwood floors require a heightened level of vigilance and diligence.  If a dog owner is able to embrace this heightened floor consciousness, there really shouldn't be too much of a problem.  The issues that a dog owner/hardwood floor owner needs to address are rather simple. The main one being, "If there is a dog in the house, how are you going to be able to maintain a decent looking hardwood floor?" The answer for a hardwood floored house with a dog is attention to detail. The hardwood floor will take damage, by both dogs and humans. There are many, many different angles to consider on this subject.  Hopefully this post will shed some light on more than a few of them.

The first point to consider is the size and temperament level of the dog. If the dog is big or heavy and likes to  run through the house, hardwood floor damage will be a regular thing. Similarly, a high strung dog that is smaller can also damage to your floors too. Most people think that smaller dogs won't be able to seriously damage a hardwood floor. But a smaller dog can bring its own "scratchy damage" to the floor. In short, the floor is going to get damaged no matter what size dog you have.  Your best bet is to consider what brings out the hyperactivity in your dog and act accordingly.  A great example of this is when someone knocks on the door.  Dogs historically have been known to spring into action when someone is at the door, and that makes the front doorway area a place that will sustain damage.

There are several solutions for this type of damage. One obvious, yet simple solution is to place a throw rug in active areas. Placing mats and rugs in areas that get lots of traffic is logical.  This logic holds even if there is no dog in the household. Another method is to keep the dog off of the hardwood floors period. If this isn't an option, well-placed floor mats should suffice.  Another issue to consider is if your dog slobbers, and where he slobbers.  There should be a mat for this behavior as well.

Probably the most important thing for a potential hardwood floor owner to consider is the length of his dog's nails. Regular nail clipping for a dog is going to really put a damper on potential floor damage. Also, if your dog grows an excess amount of hair between the pads of his paws, he is going to find the floor to be slippery use his nails to compensate. Another thing to watch out for with dogs that slip on the floor is that the dog himself might get hurt. Simply put, the installation of a hardwood floor means that you will have to pay closer attention to your dog's paws.

Some owners with a lot of time on their hands choose to put dog booties on their dogs when indoors. This is a tedious method of dealing with dogs potentially tearing into the hardwood flooring. Another solution that some dog owners use is dog nail covers.  If you look at the picture at the top of this post, you will see that these are plastic caps that you can buy for your dog's nails that stay in place with the glue that they come with. They can be purchased in an array of colors and even come transparent.  These caps stay in place for about 8 weeks. One issue that some dog owners have cited with the use of such caps is that sometimes the nail grows within the cap and the cap needs to be cut off. Dog nails have nerves, unlike human nails. If the nail gets too compacted, the dog could begin to limp.

A dog's fur is another part of this puzzle to consider. If the household dog is particularly hairy, it is now officially time to stay on top of your dog grooming practices. Regular bathing and the use of stripping combs like the Mars Coat King are perfect for this. Also, it is time for the hardwood floor owner to focus on daily rituals of sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping regularly.  A hardwood floor doesn't hide the daily dust and grime that a carpet might.

Dog hair can also get in between the boards and catch on most surfaces on the household. One of the bonuses of keeping your dog's coat regularly groomed is the fact that the hair won't be constantly building up in corners of the hardwood floor. The hair of your dog should also help you decide the kind of hardwood flooring that you plan to install. Some types of pre-fabricated tongue-and-groove flooring feature gaps between the pieces. Sometimes the gaps are subtle, but there is a gap nonetheless. These gaps will eventually be filled with doggie dirt and grime. One report that I read was from a woman who said that once grime gets into these cracks, it would never completely come out.  The solution to this is to get hardwood with the smallest gaps possible between the boards.

Another item that isn't too high on the list, but should be considered is the potential for urine stains. If your housebroken dog manages to "sneak" a urine puddle past you, this can be extremely damaging to the floor. The damage is twofold. The first aspect of a dog's urine stain is olfactory. The wood is going to stink.  The urine will sink deep into the wood because it is porous. The second is that the stain will be dark, possibly black. If the hardwood you have is darker in color, then the smell aspect will be the biggest worry. However,  if your hardwood floor is light in color, there will be a visible dark stain. There are several products available for this kind of issue. One of the most reliable is Nature's Miracle Stain and Odor remover.  There are home remedies as well, an example of this would be used if the floor coloring is really light.  Drops of hydrogen peroxide can be left overnight on the stain. The hydrogen peroxide should be used sparingly though because a  large amount of it will give bleach-like results.  The key is to pay attention.  Sometimes those rugs and mats that you have left around high traffic areas have absorbed liquids (possibly even urine), and it is good to check them regularly.

The fact of the matter is that maintaining a hardwood floor with a dog in the household is a lot of work. The hardwood floor owner has to embrace a newer, more vigilant level of floor consciousness. The floor will definitely take some damage as a result of your dog, but it will also take damage as a result of you too. Hardwood floors can be maintained with a dog in the household, but there needs to be a deeper consideration of the potential damage a dog can bring.

WEST COAST PET SUPPLY MAIN PAGE

HomeoPet Products

HomeoPet Products
By: WCPS

The idea of homeopathic treatment is to treat ailments or diseases with natural substances, versus heavy medications and drug use. This is different from the original homeopathy idea formed in 1796 by a German doctor who theorized that ingesting small amounts of that which caused ailments might actually kickstart the body's immune system in such a way that healing results could be seen. Homeopathy is an alternative that has also been adopted for household pets, with HomeoPet being the leading contributor to this type of treatment.

HomeoPet is a company that makes a line of exclusively homeopathic remedies for pet ailments. HomeoPet's products are natural, and a cursory perusal of their website will show you the precise ingredients that are used and why the ingredients are in the product. HomeoPet offers several different homeopathic treatments to such issues as anxiety, joint stress, digestive problems, incontinence, hot spots, and bug bites. HomeoPet also has a wide range of skin and first aid ointments to keep your pet comfortable during times of injury or allergic reactions. With an extensive symptom checking page on their website, Homeopet will point a pet owner in the direction that they need to go in to find relief for their animal. The only thing that Homeopet asks is that pet owners have their animals checked by a veterinarian before administering Homeopet products in order to be sure that the diagnosis for the ailment is correct.

Homeopet's products were established for public sales in 1994, but the concept behind the company is several years older. In 1987 HomeoPet products were first introduced to clinics. However, the remedies had been under development since 1977. And now, HomeoPet products are registered with the FDA and are manufactured under an FDA registration process, inspected by the FDA, and they meet all of the good manufacturing practice (GMP) standards.

West Coast Pet Supply offers a full range of HomeoPet Products. All HomeoPet products come in 15 ml bottles and there is nothing in any of the HomeoPet products that will register positive in show dog testing.

 

For our full list of available HomeoPet products here at West Coast Pet Supply, click here.

West Coast Pet Supply Main Page

Natural Balance Synergy

Natural Balance Synergy
By: WCPS

Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance Synergy is a dry dog food focused on a “Synergistic Diet.” Synergy in and of itself literally means cooperation. Corporate culture originally adopted the word synergy and made it into a neat sounding label for how high-powered departments, executives and workers could work together to achieve a goal. However, Natural Balance has re-appropriated the name and applied it to their superior brand of dog food.

The synergy that Natural Balance speaks of is the combination of prebiotics, backyard benefits, high quality protein, and excellent looking skins and coats. The first and most key element of this synergistic process is what is known as prebiotics.

Prebiotics are nutrients that trigger bacteria in the intestines. While not digestible, they ferment well, aiding digestion. Prebiotics help with all sorts of aspects in the digestive process. Most specifically, they get the whole bowel process under control. This would include any sensitive stomach or irritable bowel issues and a boost to the immune system. Some of the prebiotic foods that are in Natural Balance Synergy are oatmeal, pearled barley, carrots, oat fiber, flax, and dried cranberries.

Prebiotics pave the way to what Natural Balance refers to as “backyard benefits.” Backyard benefits simply means that with the proper amount of fiber, clean-up in the backyard is going to be easier because of a lower, healthier stool volume.

Another aspect to the backyard benefits is the high quality protein that Natural Balance Synergy contains. A proper protein balance helps keep the dog's body clock ticking properly and the stool healthy. With chicken, lamb meal, and salmon meal, the chances of sensitive stomach issues are seriously reduced. The value of the protein works in tandem with the prebiotics and in turn helps with muscle maintenance and support.

Dogs will also benefit from the omega fatty acids that are a part of the salmon meal. The salmon oil, coupled with flaxseed help produce a healthy looking coat, and vibrant skin. The healthy looking coat and vibrant skin wouldn't be possible without the prebiotics or the protein however. The prebiotics and protein work together with the flaxseed in order to make the dog look healthy and strong. This is also a part of the synergistic process.

With the prebiotics, backyard benefits, high quality protein, and excellent skin and coat production cooperating together, Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance Synergy dry dog food manages to really keep your pet healthy. The synergy within the nutrition, digestion and ingredient facets of Natural Balance Synergy all work together for the betterment of your dog.

Natural Balance Synergy 5 lb bag

 

Natural Balance Synergy 15 lb bag

Natural Balance Synergy 28 lb bag

West Coast Pet Supply Main Page

West Coast Pet Supply Coupons

West Coast Pet Supply Coupons
By: WCPS

We do offer coupons and promotional codes from time to time.

The best way to be notified of them is to become our fan on Facebook! Usually our coupons and promotional codes are released on Facebook, and if you are a fan of West Coast pet Supply, you will receive notification in your news feed.

So become a fan today! Not only are we offering coupons and promotional codes from time to time, but we have contests and interesting pieces of pet and pet product trivia as well.

Become our fan on Facebook!

West Coast Pet Supply Main Page

DOGGLES

Doggles
By WCPS

“After the World Trade Center tragedy, we were one of the few companies that the ASPCA contacted directly for protective gear for the Search and Rescue dogs.” - The Official Doggles Website

“Vets and Vet Ophthalmologists all around the world recommend our product.” - The Official Doggles Website

Doggles do have some great eye-protective value. The first is an ultraviolet coating on the lens. Ultraviolet rays are the same rays that cause sunburn. Extended amounts of time in the glaring sun (for example, in the snow, or at the lake) can potentially damage your dog's eyes. Doggles fit right to your dog's face, so that no UV rays can get in from any angle. They also protect your dog's eyes from sand, debris and small insects on windy days at the beach or rides in the car with his face in the wind.

Doggles protect your dog's eyes, and look cool while doing so.

Dogs can generate a lot of heat on a sunny day, and this special eyewear also features anti-fogging lenses.  Doggles aren't going to fog up on your dog and leave him disoriented.

Doggles are made out of polycarbonate, which is the shatterproof plastic used for CDs and bulletproof windows. Polycarbonate is a strong, bendable plastic that is more than able to handle any abuse that your dog or his travels might bring.

While they look like pro-sports goggles, Doggles actually feature two adjustable straps to hold them to your dog's head. There is the head strap and a chin strap. This way the Doggles remain affixed to your dog's face. Regular activity won't shake them loose. Doggles are slightly flexible and come with an extra wide nose bridge so that both eyes are fully covered and protected. In order to fit comfortably to your dog's face, Doggles have a comfortable foam padding between the glasses themselves and your dog's face.

Even though they look extremely cool, the bottom line is that Doggles are for the actual protection of your dog's eyes. With many different styles to choose from, there is probably one out there that is perfect for your pooch!

See our available selections of Doggles Here

West Coast Pet Supply Main Page

We also found some more pictures of dogs wearing Doggles that demonstrate the potential cool factor.

PUPPIES EATING POOP

Puppies Eating Poop
By:WCPS

Puppies and poop eating.  It is just something that a lot of puppies do.  There are a host of different potential health problems that your puppy could have that inspire him to eat his own feces.  One of the reasons could be that he has an allergy and hasn't completely digested the food that he has consumed.  He then smells the undigested nutrition that wasn't extracted the first time through his system and eats accordingly.

Some feel that feces eating is part of an instinctual trait that dogs have from thousands of years ago when dogs were cave dwellers. The theory is that ancient dogs used to eat their own waste to keep their caves/dens clean.  Dogs tend to keep their living areas clean, and don't defecate in their “hangout spots.” Another theory is that mother dogs eat the defecation of their puppies sometimes in order to keep the nest clean. This could be learned behavior. Dogs in kennels learn this behavior for other dogs too.

But unfortunately it is probably just that your puppy likes the taste of his poop.  And now he has a bad habit.

There are three points to realize if your puppy is eating his poo. One is that this is common. This happens a lot more than you think. Your puppy isn't an anomaly. The second is that to a dog, this is relatively normal behavior. Dogs scavenge, and they take everything into their mouths.  It is the humans who are disgusted by it. The third is that it is a habit that can be stopped.

There are some simple solutions to this problem. One is to walk your puppy out with a leash when it is time for him to go. That way you are on the case and able to get him out of there before he can give in to his bad habit. The other (which runs tandem to the previous suggestion) is to clean your dog's poop up immediately after your dog goes.

When these solutions are too much to handle, there are several over-the-counter methods as well. Some dog owners suggest adding a meat tenderizer to the puppy's food in order to make the dog's feces taste bad. Others suggest pumpkin or pineapple added to the puppy's food as other coprophagy deterrents. If these are items that you've tried and haven't had success with, Four Paws offers a product called Potty Mouth which should do the trick.

Potty Mouth is a packet of 60 or 120 chewable tablets. If you feed your puppy one tablet for every ten lbs of food consumed the results should be noticeable within the first 2 week cycle. A preventative dosage of a tablet a day can be used as well.

Potty Mouth isn't full of a bunch of undecipherable chemicals either. Its ingredients list features brewers yeast, cayenne vitamins B1, B2 and B6, niaciamide (also part of the B vitamin group), iron and copper.  

If you do a cursory online search for customer reactions to Potty Mouth you will see that this is a product that does what it is supposed to do.  If you use Potty Mouth, in just a short amount of time you will have your dog cured of this foul habit.

For a more in-depth article on coprophagy and dogs click here

Potty Mouth is available here in two different sizes

WEST COAST PET SUPPLY main page

PUPPY BAGS

Puppy Bags
By: WCPS

Part of taking your puppy for a walk is the fact that he will probably need to use the bathroom while out.  A cursory search on the Internet for stories about angry homeowners with dog poop in their front yards will turn up all sorts of horror stories.  Lawn owners and dog owners alike feel strongly about this subject.  The best solution is to be prepared in case your dog feels the urge to go poo while you have him out for a walk.  There are many different solutions to this. The tried and true one is to have a bag ready to go if there happens to be a mess made on the sidewalk, somewhere at the park, or even someone's lawn. Responsible pet owners always clean up after their pets.

Bags on Board is a wonderful product for just this issue. The Bags on Board company pushes the motto, “Stop over-poop-ulation.” They are advocates of a clean community and cite potential health issues that can affect a sidewalk, park, or yard if dogs aren't picked up after. 

With various colored dispensers shaped like a doggy bone, a fire hydrant, and more, bags on board is an easily clip-able key-chain sized trinket that makes cleaning up after a dog on a walk that much easier. Bags on board even makes it possible for you to design your own Bags on Board Dispenser! There are many, many, many different patterns that can chosen (from checkerboards to music notes and every conceivable pattern inbetween), or a picture can be uploaded and Bags on Board makes a template that can be printed out and applied to your own Bags on Board dispenser. Bags on board bags are both biodegradeable and leak-proof. The dispenser can hang from the leash, and comes both as standard or retractable. There are also several different colored bags to make the task that more amusing.

Puppy bags are useful items to have with you on any and every walk you take with your dog. With the potential for a fine, and the general unpleasantness that everyone has experienced with dog messes that haven't been cleaned up, Bags on Board is a perfect way for you to “do your part” and keep city streets, parks and private lawns clean.

Order your Bags on Board dispenser and bags here

WEST COAST PET SUPPLY main page

PUPPY HOUSEBREAKING PADS

Puppy Housebreaking Pads
By; WCPS

When training your puppy where to go to the bathroom, the results aren't always immediate. Accidents will happen, but ultimately, the master plan is to train your puppy to wait and go outside.  When your puppy has an accident, place him immediately on the housebreaking pad.  The general process is to train your dog to get closer and closer to the door for bathroom time and then outside.

Soon the pad can  be moved into the yard where you would like him to go. Little Stinker Housebreaking Pads are the perfect tool for this kind of progression. Over the course of several days, you will have housebroken your pet. Teaching your puppy where to go to relieve himself can be an arduous task, Little Stinker Housebreaking Pads make it a lot easier.

Housebreaking is something that should be done over several days and should be done with the puppy's owner seriously involved in the process. A very common method of housebreaking comes with crate training. The puppy stays in the crate for a period of time, and then is encouraged to use the bathroom when released. If your puppy makes a mess away from the pad, immediately pick him up and place him on the pad.

Accidents will happen and this is a part of owning a puppy. Whats more, relapses are also a part of having a puppy as well. Puppy pads can be kept around as a reminder for a dog that has had a relapse.

Little Stinker Housebreaking Pads are specially scented to inspire and encourage your puppy to go on the pad. Not only that but the pad also contains anti-bacterial and odor eliminators. The super absorbent polymer turns the liquid into gel and absorbs over 100 times its volume. In other words, it soaks it up like a disposable diaper. Little Stinker Housebreaking Pads are also leak-proof with their plastic lining. If you can encourage your puppy to use the pad wherever you place the pad down, the mess will be completely contained.

Housebreaking a puppy can be difficult.  With Little Stinker Housebreaking Pads, the job can be that much easier and complete that much sooner.

See our selection of LITTLE STINKER products here

WEST COAST PET SUPPLY main page

TEETHING PUPPIES

Teething Puppies
By: WCPS

Imagine 42 fresh teeth growing into your gums at once.  They are breaking through, and pushing your baby teeth out.  Your mouth is going to be irritated and you are going to want to chew on something...anything!  This is exactly what puppies go through.  Puppies will chew on anything and everything in order to alleviate the irritation as they break in their adult teeth. Their gums are itching and aching as these new teeth come in. With your dog's new jaw developments come all sorts of potential damage. Shoes, chair legs and cell phones can all fall victim to this new onslaught of young adult canine choppers. While shoes and cell phones can be put away, it isn't that easy to hide that sofa, chair, or table leg.

A popular solution for this age-old problem is Grannick's Bitter Apple Taste Deterrent For Dogs. Grannick's comes in either a spray or dabber bottle and discourages the biting process. Wheras other taste deterrent products eventually grow on the puppy and become a flavor that the dog likes, Grannick's maintains a taste that dogs aren't in favor of.  Find the forbidden place that your puppy is gnawing, and apply some Grannick's for a quick solution.  This is an old taste deterrnet that has been successful for decades.

In 1960, a pharmacist named Irv Grannick experimented with many different bitter flavorings to come up with the right concoction that would dissuade a dog from licking or chewing on any given surface. The product worked. Grannick's Bitter Apple soon became a respected product and has earned the respect of pet owners throughout the world. Grannick's is also a member of the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association and the World Wide Pet Industry Association.

Breaking in 42 adult teeth at once is going to be uncomfortable no matter what you do for your dog.  Give him a chew toy, and keep him away from your furniture legs with Grannick's.

Find our selection of GRANNICK'S BITTER APPLE products taste deterrents here


WEST COAST PET SUPPLY main page

PUPPY SMELL DEODORIZER

Puppy Smell Deodorizer
By: WCPS

Puppies choose to use the bathroom when the feeling hits them. Their main drive is to do their toilet business somewhere quiet and away from their food or their bedding. This can make it so that some stains might not be discovered for a bit of time.

Also, puppies need a bit of time to figure out and master their urinary skills.  When housebreaking a dog, he should be taken outside to relieve himself once an hour.  He should also be taken out after he wakes up from a nap, after he eats or drinks, and after playing. Obviously, within this scheduling, some moments for bathroom use are going to be missed.  Mistakes are going to happen.  These mistakes will need to be cleaned up, and they may leave a residual smell.

The telltale signs that your puppy needs to relieve himself are all there (circling an area with his tail in the air, sniffing the ground), however, you will need to learn these. Until you do, there may be some accidents.  And sometimes, no matter how mature your dog is with his bathroom skills, there will be accidents.

 Nature's Miracle features a line of pet products that will greatly help out a new puppy owner struggling with stains and odors. Everyone knows that puppies are messy little creatures. Nature's Miracle Stain and Odor remover is the perfect product for puppy messes.

Nature's Miracle is guaranteed to permanently eliminate all stains and odors, even urine odors that other products fail to remove. This product woks on all sorts of stains and odors, including foods, blood, vomit, feces grease, dirt, grass, smoke and perspiration. It also works on older stains and odors as well.

As soon as it is applied, it begins to break down and remove the offending stain immediately. It also will work on and remove stains that have been sitting for awhile before they have been discovered.

Nature's Miracle is great for carpets, floors, furniture, clothing, cages, littler boxes and your puppy's living area. It is also a handy product to have around in case of puppy accidents while traveling. Nature's Miracle also comes as both a spray or a wipe. Featuring active natural enzymes that will work on the stain until it is gone, Nature's Miracle is a definite item to have in your household while raising a puppy.

When potty-training your puppy, there will be accidents. It is good to be prepared with products like Nature's Miracle Stain and Odor remover.

 Nature's Miracle Stain and Odor remover

WEST COAST PET SUPPLY main page

PUPPY SHAMPOO

Puppy Shampoo
By: WCPS

Puppies, being as curious and fun as they are, will no doubt get filthy. When they do, they will need a bath and probably a shampoo.  When bathing your puppy, remember that he is going to want to shake himself dry. Also remember that a very small puppy isn't going to be generating very much body heat. Dry him off quickly! 

Probably one of the biggest questions that this entire post brings up is, "how often should I wash my puppy?"  This is a good question.  A lot of it depends on the dog.  A dog with naturally drier skin probably doesn't need to be bathed as often as a dog with normal skin.  If your dog is spending a lot of time outdoors, it is a good thing to consider a regular (weekly) bathing schedule.  If your dog is a lot more of an inside dog, perhaps going longer between baths is something to consider.  If your dog sleeps on your bed, maybe more often.  If your dog has access to the furniture (that you sit on) perhaps bathing more often is something that you should consider as well.  However, if your dog is going to be primarily an outside dog, bathing may not be so much of an issue, because he is outside.  Also, if your dog takes walks in dog parks and at local playgrounds, it might be a good idea to bathe him more regularly.  Diseases can be carried in and fester within your house.  An example of this is the extremely hearty parvo virus, which can survive just about anywhere for long periods of time. 

Dog bathing is something that can happen in the bathtub, and if your pup is small enough, maybe even the kitchen sink. If you use the bathroom, keep the door closed and other doors closed throughout the house in case your dog breaks the first barrier!  He is a puppy, and he doesn't know any better than to run through the house if he gets past you.  This is what brings about the classic “hosing in the front yard” method of bathing a dog on a hot day.  Some dogs like extremely cold water, but it is good to still monitor the temperature of the water coming out of the hose.  However, there will be colder days when you will have to bathe him inside.

AvoDerm makes an extra-mild shampoo for puppies that won't irritate their skin. Puppy's need to have their fur treated carefully. This shampoo creates a wonderful shine for your puppy's coat. 

AvoDerm Puppy Shampoo is tearless, extra gentle and hypoallergenic. Featuring aloe vera, avocado oil and a subtle fragrance, AvoDerm Puppy Shampoo will leave your puppy fresh and clean. Avacados are a great source of essential nutrients for your puppy's skin and coat health.  AvoDerm Natural Puppy Shampoo is recommended for breeds that are prone to skin problems which includes dry, itchy skin, dermatitis, moist eczema, scaling or loss of hair. AvoDerm Natural helps renew the oils your pet's coat needs to stay shiny and healthy year round.

Click here for AvoDerm Puppy Shampoo

 WEST COAST PET SUPPLY main page.

PUPPY FLEA AND TICK CONTROL

Puppy Flea and Tick Control
By: WCPS



One of your first worries with a new puppy should be flea control.  Fleas are troublesome to puppies because they maneuver through fur easily and cause irritation with their blood-sucking bites. The way fleas live on your puppy's skin and in his fur increases the chances of your puppy actually eating them. The problem with this is that fleas are a tapeworm delivery system, potentially hatching tapeworm eggs in your puppy's stomach if ingested.  Then there is the potential of an allergy to flea bites which could worsen the situation.  The flea is a determined pest.  Female fleas suck fifteen times their body weight in blood daily. Furthermore, fleas are aggressive egg-layers. In a month, ten female fleas can lay close to a hundred thousand eggs on and around your dog!

Ticks on the other hand, are blood sucking arachnids (eight-legged and related to spiders). The most obvious issue with a tick bite is the transmission of Lyme Disease. In 2005 it was estimated that there would be 40,000 new canine Lyme Disease cases by 2012. With Lyme Disease it takes a latched-on tick 48 hours to actually infect your dog.  If you are vigilant in your grooming you and your puppy won't have to worry about Lyme Disease. But still, why should your puppy suffer through a tick bite in the first place? Another disease that ticks carry that puppy owners should worry about is Rocky Mountain spotted fever. If a dog contracts Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, there are all sorts of things that can go wrong with your dog's health, including kidney failure. (See ANTI-TICK WARFARE Pt. 2 ROCKY MOUNTAIN SPOTTED FEVER)

Interestingly enough, both fleas and ticks do most of their "hopping on" while your puppy is outside.  A puppy owner can be diligent and keep an eye out for grassy areas and fields where a puppy might catch a tick, but stay closely in tune with your puppy's fur.  Your battle however, is not a new one.  There are many different products available to help you keep these pests at bay. 

Zodiac makes the FleaTrol collar specifically for puppies over twelve weeks old.  Zodiac has been in the anti-flea and tick business, protecting dogs, cats and puppies for over 35 years. The Zodiac FleaTrol Flea and Tick Collar works in as little as 24 hours. It is also a product meant for puppies over 12 weeks old. The FleaTrol Flea and Tick Collar remains effective for up to five months. It still works after swimming or a bath and buckles easily around your puppy's neck.

Zodiac also makes Spot On Flea and Tick Control for puppies, toys and miniatures under fifteen lbs. Zodiac Spot On is applied between the shoulder blades of your puppy and is water resistant. This means that your puppy can be bathed and play in the sprinklers without worry of the product washing off. Zodiac Spot On comes in a four month supply per package. It is the perfect product for a summer with a puppy that is over six months old.  If you choose to use Zodiac Spot On, not only will fleas and ticks be repelled, but your puppy will also be protected from mosquitoes. The most dangerous aspect of a mosquito bite on your puppy is the potential transfer of the heartworm. Wheras heartworm used to be limited to humid areas, like the American south, heartworm infection via mosquito is now possible just abut anywhere in the world. Spot On, if used properly, makes your puppy “untasty” and therefore unbitten. With over 2,000 different species of fleas, 800 species of ticks and over 160 species of mosquitoes in the United States alone, it is a wise choice to protect your puppy from these pests.

Click the following links to learn more about these and other products.

Zodiac Fleatrol Flea and Tick Collar for Puppies over 12 Weeks Old

Zodiac Spot On 4 Month Supply

For more puppy supplies visit the WEST COAST PET SUPPLY main page

UNIQUE PET NAMES: DOGS

Unique Pet Names: Dogs or I have a Puppy, Now What?
By: WCPS


Sometimes you know what you will name your puppy and sometimes you need a bit of help.  While considering this article, we asked a lot of questions of dog owners and came up with some interesting takes on the naming process.  One is that a lot of people already have a general idea of the kind of name that they want, they just haven't decided on the particulars.  An obvious example of this would be that the name would be either male or female sounding.  Though some people prefer to have asexual sounding names for their dogs as well.

Another factor in name-choosing that we came across was the general "look" of the dog.  Does his look convey happiness?  Silliness?  Playfulness?  These are all factors that some weighed into the naming of their puppy as well.

Time and time again however, what we found was that people were serious about the name of their dog.  They didn't want to simply name the dog "dog," they wanted the name to mean something unique.

Unique names can be a mixed bag.  They might seem unique at the moment, but as time goes on, other people might use that very same name for their dog.

The standard top 20 names for male dogs are as follows: Max, Buddy, Jake, Bailey, Rocky, Charlie, Jack, Toby, Cody, Buster, Duke, Cooper, Harley, Riley, Bear, Murphy, Lucky, Tucker, Sam, and Oliver.

The most standard top 20 names for female dogs are as follows: Molly, Bella, Lucy, Maggie, Daisy, Sadie, Chloe, Sophie, Bailey, Zoe, Lola, Abby, Ginger, Roxy, Gracie, Coco, Sasha, Angel, Lily, and Princess.

There are obviously thousands and thousands of other names to choose from.

We have compiled a few sites with dog names archive below:
Over 1000 more here
2000 Unique Pet Names
11,000 Suggestions
Male, Female, Clever, Popular, Big Dog, Small Dog, Hunting Dog Names and More
Names by Type, Letter or Appearance, And Even Matching Names For Two Pets.
Cute Puppy Dog names Site


The bottom line however, is that after you get a new puppy and name it, you are going to need all sorts of various items for it.  That is where we come in.  WEST COAST PET SUPPLY is ready for all of your puppy needs.
We have the following in our online store:
Flea Medicine
Shampoo
Housebreaking Pads
Puppy bags
De-Wormers
Coprophagy Deterrents
Nutritional Supplements
Dental Health
Grooming
Leashes
Tie-Out Cables
Muzzles
Training Leads
Whistles
Choke Training Collars
Harnesses
Treats
Toys
and more!

Check out our Dog Supplies and see what we can do for you!