As a dog owner, you start to find products, ideas, etc. that become your go to favorite things. I am no exception. I thought I would start a series of posts in which I chronicle a few of my all time favorite things that I have found through my journey of dog ownership. From food, to treats to toys to grooming supplies. Oh, and they have handy-dandy links, so you don't have to search for them. I'm nice like that.
Vetri Science Perio Support
- What it is: a powder that you put on your dog (or cat's) food and it helps maintain oral health. Cuts back tarter and staining.
- What it costs: It depends on where you get it. I have only found it online. It is pricey, but I can tell you it is worth it. Comes in 4.2 ounce and 16 ounce containers.
- Why I like it: Because it WORKS. Seriously. Gracie had really bad teeth at the age of two and my vet suggested a dental. I had someone tell me about this stuff and now when I take her in the vest talks about how good her teeth are. Vet also commented on Garmin's "beautiful teeth" the last time we were in. I have never brushed his teeth. It's also super easy to use because dogs like the taste.
Best Bully Sticks
- What it is: Bully sticks are...well...dried bull penis. There. I said it. They are all natural and digestible, so a better alternative to rawhide (which CANNOT be digested, by the way, and cause blockages). The website I linked has a ton of great products.
- What it costs: Depends on what you buy. You can buy individual bully sticks, grab bags or other chews. But, if you buy Bully Sticks in stores I can promise that you will spend more. This site has the best prices that I have come across.
- Why I like it: Because they are safer than rawhides, they are all natural and they are great to relieve the urge to chew. They are digestible. As with all things chewable, however, please SUPERVISE your dog. I order cow ears from Best Bully Sticks a lot and my two love them. Shipping is always quick from there as well.
The Honest Kitchen Dog Food
- What it is: An all natural, human grade, dehydrated dog food. They also have treats and supplements. And cat food! They also have a base if you want to add your own meat and veggies, so it is very versatile.
- What it costs: Not going to lie. It's expensive. The Keen that I buy is, on average, $57 for a 10 pound box, but that 10 pound box of food will last her nearly 2 months and makes up to 40 pounds of rehydrated food. If you want grain free, it will cost you more. But, the higher the quality of dog food, the higher quality of health for your dog.
- Why I like it: I started Gracie on the Keen a little over a year ago because she had terrible urinary issues. Recurring crystals, mainly, so she needed low protein and increased water intake and this fit the bill. I have to add water to her food to make it, so she is getting more water daily. Since starting her on it, we have had no issues with the pee problems, and that is a positive in my book. She also LOVES it.
Earthborn Holistic Dog Food
- What it is: A holistic pet food that is made in Evansville, Indiana. One plant, no recalls, good ingredients and a reasonable price. They have lots of variety (both grain free and grain inclusive) and they have some wet food options.
- What it costs: Again, depends on where you get it. I buy mine at Jack's Pets because they do buy 12, get one free (and I just earned a free one!). The Meadow Feast ranges in cost from $47-$55 dollars depending on sales, etc. Online cost may vary. Grain inclusive tends to be a bit less expensive.
- Why I like it: I used to use Taste of the Wild with my dogs, but with all the Diamond recalls, I couldn't trust it (I am a notorious food snob--anyone can tell you that) so I had to find something new. I did a lot of research and discovered this for Gracie (before THK) and she did well on it. Garmin has been on it since he was a baby. He is on the grain free Meadow Feast. His coat is great, he never balks at meals and has never had any issues with it.
Bark Box
- What it is: A monthly subscription service that sends a box of goodies to you pet each month. The products are high quality and various.
- What it costs: Depends on your subscription level. If you want one month, it will be $29. If you do three months, it is $24 a month. Six months? $19 a month. A year? $18 a month. Now, you have to pay up front, but you can cancel at any time. And shipping is free within the continental US.
- Why I like it: Because I like to spoil my dogs. Okay--and I like the fact that I can look forward to new products each month without remembering to buy them. You can also choose various levels--one month all the way up to a year. And you can choose the size that is right for your dog. Oh, and they support rescues. In fact, if you were to order one and put in this code: PCAR2BBX1 you get $5.00 off you subscription AND they donate $15 to Paws and Claws Animal Rescue. And I think that is pretty amazing.
Until next time when I continue my "Favorite (DOG) Things" series, enjoy Gracie cuddling with the toy from their latest Bark Box. Happy shopping!