SPH Supplies Blog

Summer's here, and many of us are heading to the water with our furry companions. While a refreshing dip in a stream or a splash in the pool sounds like fun, there's a hidden danger lurking: water poisoning.

What is Water Poisoning?

Also known as hyponatremia, water poisoning occurs when a dog drinks too much water too quickly. This disrupts their electrolyte balance, specifically sodium levels. Both fresh and saltwater can lead to water poisoning, with different consequences.

Fresh Water Dangers:

Electrolyte Imbalance: Excessive fresh water intake dilutes electrolytes, especially sodium, affecting vital organs like the brain.
Breeds at Risk: Collies, known for their water obsession, are particularly susceptible to over-drinking during playful splashing.

Keeping your dog cool in hot weather is important to prevent overheating. Several products are available to help you do this, including dog cooling jackets, ice pods, and cool mats.

Dog cooling jackets work by absorbing water and then slowly evaporating it, which helps to cool your dog down. Here are some dog cooling jackets and vest ideas from various manufacturers:

Kurgo Dog cooling vest/coat -  All sizes available here
Easidri Dog Cooling Jacket - All sizes available here
Prestige Dog Cooling Jacket - All sizes available here

Ice pods are another great way to keep your dog cool. Ice pods can be placed in your dog's bed or crate to help them stay cool. You can find ice pods for small animals here

Cool mats work in a similar way to ice pods, by providing a cool surface for your dog to lie on. Cool mats can be beneficial for dogs who are unable to regulate their body temperature well, such as puppies, older dogs, and dogs with certain health conditions. You can find cool mats in various sizes available here

In addition to using cooling products, there are a number of other things you can do to help keep your dog cool in hot weather. These include making sure they have access to plenty of fresh water, avoiding exercise during the hottest part of the day, and providing them with shade to lie in.

The excitement of welcoming an 8-week-old puppy into your life is unmatched! But amidst the puppy cuddles and playful energy, preparation is key to ensuring a smooth transition for both you and your furry friend. Here's a checklist of essential items to make your puppy's homecoming a joyful experience:

1. Creating a Safe and Cozy Haven:

• Snugglesafe Puppy Bed with Microwave Heatpad: This innovative bed provides the warmth and comfort of cuddling with siblings, easing anxiety and promoting relaxation during those initial nights away from home. The microwavable heatpad is a safe and natural way to create a calming environment for your pup. Link to item here

2. Potty Training Essentials:

• Simple Solution Puppy Training Pads: Accidents happen during potty training. These super-absorbent pads provide a designated spot for your puppy to relieve themselves, helping you establish a consistent routine. Available in various sizes to adapt to your growing pup, Simple Solution Puppy Training Pads make potty training a breeze. Link to item here.
• Simple Solution Chew Stopper Spray: Chewing is a natural puppy behavior, but protecting your furniture is crucial. This handy spray has a bitter taste that deters inappropriate chewing, redirecting your pup's attention to safe chew toys. Link to item here.
• Simple Solution Stain and Odor Remover: Accidents are inevitable, not just with puppies but in any household! Simple Solution's powerful stain and odor removers are a lifesaver. They tackle not only pet messes but also spills like red wine, coffee, and more. A must-have for any pet-loving (or accident-prone!) home. Link to item here.

3. Early Dental Care is Key:

• Vet's Best Advanced Dental Spray: Starting a dental care routine early on helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup, leading to healthier teeth and gums throughout your pup's life. This convenient pocket-sized spray is easy to use and helps freshen your pup's breath, making cuddles even more enjoyable. Link to item here

4. Additional Tips:

As days get shorter and temperatures drop, keeping your furry friend warm and visible during walks becomes a top priority. Look no further than the Flecta Hi Vis Dog Jacket, the perfect combination of stylish safety and cozy comfort for your canine companion.

Double the Warmth, Double the Fun:

This innovative jacket incorporates Flectalon®, a thermal insulation technology originally developed for NASA! It works by reflecting your dog's own body heat back to them, providing exceptional warmth without adding bulk. So, whether you're strolling through frosty mornings or battling chilly winds, your dog will stay toasty and happy.

See and Be Seen:

The bright fluorescent fabric of the Flecta Hi Vis Dog Jacket ensures maximum visibility day or night. This added safety feature is crucial for low-light walks and helps keep your dog noticeable by motorists and other walkers, minimizing the risk of accidents.

As passionate pet owners, we all want to ensure our furry friends enjoy long, healthy lives. Unfortunately, there are certain threats like Alabama Rot (Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy or CRGV) that can pose a serious risk. While the exact cause of this disease remains unknown, understanding its symptoms and taking preventative measures can make a big difference.

What is Alabama Rot?

Alabama Rot is a rare but potentially fatal disease affecting dogs. It damages blood vessels in the skin and kidneys, leading to skin lesions and, in severe cases, kidney failure. While the cause is unclear, some believe the disease might be picked up on paws and legs during walks in muddy areas.

Recognising the Signs:

Emergencies can happen anywhere and anytime. We can do very little to control or avoid it. All we can do is prepare ourselves for such situations. If you are a pet owner, you cannot deny the fact that you need to be continuously alert of your pet’s safety. Dogs or other pets have high sensing power. Yet they are accident prone or may fall sick at the drop of a hat. Keeping a safety First Aid Kit handy can avoid last minute panic and gives you time and relief until you see a vet.

Essential Items to Have in Your Dog’s First Aid Kit

First Aid Kit should have all the essential amenities that can be needed in time of any emergency. You can include the following items to make your First Aid Kit a full-proof one!

1. All the Necessary Paperwork and Vaccination Records- If you are travelling with your pet, you may need the help of an unknown vet and you will be required to furnish the necessary documents and vaccination details related to your pet dog. Even if at home, keeping all these documents handy is advisable.
2. Emergency Phone Numbers - You cannot afford to waste time searching for doctor’s details and phone numbers in case of need. These emergency phone numbers should be in your vicinity and within reach.
3. Antiseptic Solution/Ointments - If your pet encounters a cut or wound, the first step is to wipe the area with an antiseptic lotion to stop germs from getting through the cut area. An antiseptic can stop the spread of infection.
4. Scissors - Every First Aid Kit is incomplete without a pair of scissors. You need to cut open the medicines, cut bandages, snap tapes for your first aid treatments.
5. Gauge and Tape- For the dressing of the wounded area, gauge and tapes are needed and should be included in your First Aid Kit
6. Rubber Gloves - Wounds should not be treated with naked hands. Gloves help in checking the spread of germs through hands.
7. Hydrogen peroxide - This mild antiseptic is used on wounds and minor cuts. It helps to prevent infection.
8. Wipes - Sterilized wipes should be handy for emergencies.
9. Disposable Tissues- You may need to wipe blood or vomit and here arises the need for disposable tissues in your First Aid Kit.
10. Comforter - If your pet has encountered an accident it may be in pain and anxiety. A comforter can provide mental relief to your pet.
11. Torch - How would you examine a wound without a strong bright torch? It is a must-have First Aid Kit item.
12. Emergency Medicines - Ask your vet to suggest you some emergency medicines in case of certain emergencies. Keep them handy and within reach.

SPH Supplies supply all pet accessories, medications and disinfectants, all delivered safely to your home.

You must have often seen a dog with a piece of fabric tied around its neck. It is a dog collar that pet masters usually use for many different reasons. Similar breeds of dogs are tied with different pattern of the dog collar for identification purposes. Plus it also protects the neck area of the dog. It can also be used as a fashion statement for them. Whatever may be the purpose of its use it is an essential dog’s accessory and can’t be done without!

What Are The Different Types Of Dog Collar?

There are several different types of dog collar the most common ones being flat collars, elastic/stretch collars, break free collars, protection collars (stud collars), buoyant collar, training collars, and medical collars. All the different types of collars have their specific usage and are used according to different needs. For example, a protection collar is spiked with sharp metal points for self-defense. Buoyant collars are used for floating and keeping safe in the water. Medical collars are infused with flea repellent whereas a training collar can be used to teach basic manners and give training to a pet dog!

Should Dog’s Sleep With Dog Collar On?

It is generally suggested to free the dog from the grip of a collar to allow it to breathe in relief while at sleep. A very tight dog collar may strangulate the dog in sleep and may also lead to rashes and cut marks around its neck. It may expose the neck area to infections as the enclosed neck area seldom gets a chance to air out and leads to germs breeding.