New Items Now In Stock

We have been busy here at Beyond The Q and have some exciting things coming soon!

We are in the process of restocking some of our products and have added some new gift items for you and your dog. Need a special gift for your dog or for a friend’s dog? Maybe someone got a new puppy or finished an exciting title? Check out exciting new gift sets! Need a gift for a fellow dog lover? Check out our new gifts for humans too! We will be uploading more to our store in the coming weeks and many items are unique and one of a kind so keep an eye on our store. If you use Etsy, you can add our store to your favorite list to help see our releases first!

Stay tuned for even more exciting things to come!

Fast CAT – Preparing For Your First Test

So you want to try the fast-growing sport of AKC Fast CAT but you don’t know where to start? Here are some things you can do at home to help you and your dog be prepared for your first test.

Bag On a String

Many dogs have a natural chase ability. However, in a new environment with you 100 yards away, some dogs may be a little unsure of what is going on. Also, dogs with a lot of obedience training may not understand that they are allowed to chase the lure. To help provide clarity, it may be useful to introduce your dog to a bag on a report before you get to your first test.

Bindi tried to grab the bag and run when I photographed this!

For this all you need is some kind of rope or string and a bag (poop bag, grocery bag, etc.) Tie the end of the rope to the middle of the bag and then drag and wiggle it on the floor in front of your dog. Once they are curious about the bag you can start moving forward, dragging the rope behind you. When the dog follows you can run in the opposite direction. This engages the natural chase instinct. For dogs who are trained to “leave” things you can add a permission cue like “get it” so they know it is okay for them to chase it.

Please note, for safety do not let your dog catch and start ripping or eating the bag! You don’t want them to chock or eat so much it causes a blockage. If this is a concern, I would work on training a good “trade” command first. Otherwise, you can also get a flirt pole with a toy on it to work on bringing out your dog’s natural chase instinct without having to worry about the dog consuming the bag. If you would like to learn more about flirt poles you can click here.

Which Leashes and Collars to Use

Another important consideration is how you will have your dog released. Is your dog comfortable being restrained by their collar? Do they get nervous with having people bending over them? There are several options that you can utilize for the release of your dog. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Here are a few of Bindi’s collars/leashes

A flat buckle collar and a snap lead is what many teams start with and works well for dogs who are comfortable with people restraining them by the collar. Bindi ran her first tests like this. Martingale collar/leash combos with a quick/snap release are also popular. Our last weekend out, we tried out a Speed Release I got that was specifically made for Fast CAT tests. This is a short leash that has a special quick release clip with a rope on the end. It creates a nice smooth transition and is great for dogs who get nervous with people in their space. It worked great and, while Bindi did not mind being restrained with a collar grab, I would definitely use this option again if Bindi was being released by someone she was not very familiar with. I will put links at the end of this post with where I purchased these for those who are interested.

Something I haven’t tried yet but is popular is the collar/leash combo specifically designed for Lure Coursing and Fast CAT tests. With these the leash part is strung through the D-rings of the collar and when it’s time to release the dog, one end of the leash is dropped so the collar quickly slips off. I have several friends that use these and like them. Since I don’t have one myself, I don’t have a specific seller to reference but there are several highly rated sellers on Etsy that are worth checking out.

Don’t forget you will need a second leash with you to catch your dog at the finish line!

Tally Ho

When it’s time for the dog to be released, a worker at the start line will call out “Tally Ho.” It’s good to condition your dog to this before-hand so they are not as nervous about someone calling out by them. You can easily practice this a few times with a friend or classmate but what if you live alone and don’t attend classes regularly? That’s when a cell phone comes in handy! You can record yourself, or someone you know, calling out “Tally Ho” and then play it back to practice at home. This is especially helpful for sensitive dogs as you can start with the volume lower and increase it over time. You can even use various free online tools to change your voice so it doesn’t sound like yours!

Better yet you can combine this with your bag on a string/flirt pole practice so your dog starts to understand that “Tally Ho” means it’s time to chase the bag!

The Flag

When your dog is released, the worker who calls out “Tally Ho” will also wave a flag to indicate the start. I honestly did not give this much thought beforehand but, on Bindi’s first run, this caught her off guard and she looked back for a few strides when she took off to see what this strange lady and flag were all about. I watched several friends that were running new dogs have a similar experience. Bindi has a very solid temperament and was more curious than anything, but I did see some more sensitive dogs startle with this.

Don’t have a flag at home, no problem. You can often pick up flags, or things to build a makeshift flag, at your local dollar store.

Many people attend their first test having done no prep work at all and rely on the dog’s natural chase instinct or ability to recall and do just fine! I like to plan ahead though and hopefully, if you are like me, you will find this information useful.

Heading to your first test? Click here to check out our post on heading to your first Fast CAT event!

Links to the Leads Mentioned Above

Bindi’s Snap Leash – Hug A Bug Productions

Bindi’s Martingale/Leash – Rush to Tug

Bindi’s Speed Release – The Speed Release

Fast CAT – Your First Test

Recently Bindi and I attended our AKC Fast CAT tests and we had a blast! I had no clue what to expect going into it so I thought I would share what we learned to help out others who are new to the sport but thinking of trying it.

So what exactly is Fast CAT? Fast CAT is a coursing ability test where the dog chases a lure (aka bag on a rope) down a 100 yard straight track. The lure is also referred to as "the bunny." Someone holds/releases your dog at the start line (this can be a friend, someone you know at the test or the club will often have volunteers to assist) and releases your dog to chase the lure with the call of “Tally Ho”. Then you (or someone you ask) catches your dog at the end once they cross the finish line. Dogs are awarded points based on their miles per hour and if they qualify for a multiplier because of their height. You can find additional information on points and calculations in the AKC rule book.

Looking down the track from the start line to the finish.

Here are some tips for attending your first tests.

1. Inspection

Before your dog runs, they will be required to go through a quick "inspection." Here you will gait your dog up and down and one of the volunteers will evaluate your dog to make sure there are no signs of lameness. If your dog is a female, you will need to wipe their butt with to show they are not in season. This applies even if they are spayed. Note inspections need to be done before EACH run so if the club is offering two runs per dog, you will need to go back and be re-inspected before the second run.

2. Don't Forget to Check In

Once your dog has passed inspection, you need to check in your dog. This lets the volunteers know your dog is here and ready to run! It will also give you an idea of where you are in the running order if they have one. Things can change with the running order to accommodate multiple dog handlers, volunteers, etc. so don't assume if a preliminary running order was sent out ahead of time it will be completely accurate when it's time to run. Each club handles check in a bit differently so watch for information from the secretary and/or check the premium to make sure understand what the expectations are.

3. Runs Go Quick

A well-run Fast CAT test is like a well-oiled machine. It goes quick so make sure you are keeping an eye on the running order if the club is using one. You will want to have your dog at the start line and ready to go a few dogs before it's time to run. Remember, you need time to get to the end of the track to catch your dog too!

4. Don't Forget to Bring Two Leashes

Since someone will be holding/releasing your dog at the start and you need catch your dog at the end, you will need two leashes.

5. Make Sure Your Dog Sees/Hears You

While many dogs catch on to chasing the bunny very quickly, your dog may be a bit confused as to what is going on the first couple times. It is okay to say your dog's name, jump up and down, wave your hands, etc. BEFORE the Tally Ho call so the dog knows you are at the finish line. You want to make sure you are not using any toys, noise makers or treats to get their attention though. These can only be used after the dog crosses the finish line (see below.) Some clubs offer an opportunity for people with first time dogs to have you walk/run down the track to the finish line while your dog is being held at the start line. This helps then focus forward and get a visual of where you will be. I did this with Bindi her first run! Please note AKC is reviewing allowing people to walk down the middle of the track in fall of 2022 so please check for any updated rule changes on this in the future.

6. Don’t Accidently Step Across the Finish Line and Onto the Track

In the excitement of the moment, it can be easy to focus on the dog and forget where you are. Make sure you don’t accidently cross over the finish line and onto the track!

7. You Can Run Too  

Yes you read that right. After the finish line there is a “run out” area so dogs can get back down to speed after running full out. Once your dog starts down the track, you can also start running into that run out area to help motivate your dog to move even faster! This can work out great for dogs that don’t have a strong interest in the bag on a rope but do like to do recalls at home.

8. After Your Dog Crosses the Finish Line You Can Use Toys & Treats to Catch Them

Many dogs get super excited to run down that track and when they get to that bag they want to catch/kill it. Hence you are allowed to bring toys and treats in to catch the dog once they cross the finish line. Make sure these items are put away and it is clear you are not using these until your dog passes that finish line! I brought Bindi’s tug treat pouch and put it in my pocket to make sure I didn’t use it to motivate her to run without realizing it.

9. The Bling

Once your dog successfully completes a run, you will want to head over and collect your dog's qualifying ribbon and pickup any title ribbons/rosettes they earned.

Currently it takes 150 to earn your BCAT, 500 points to earn your DCAT and 1,000 points to earn your FCAT. Each subsequent 500 points earns your dog another FCAT title (FCAT2, FCAT3, etc.)

10. Photo Opportunities

Some clubs have photographers and they can capture some incredible photos so watch for information via email and at the test. Rebecca's Dog Photos captured the awesome actions shots of Bindi I am sharing in this post.

Some clubs will also offer areas with props and such for you to take photos with your dog after their run(s.)

11. Have Fun!

Above all else have FUN with your dog! Regardless of the outcome, you get to spend time with your dog and friends. Life is short and you never know when the last time you will step to the line with your dog is. Just two days after our first Fast CAT trial, Bindi was stung by a bee/wasp and went into full anaphylactic shock within minutes. Fortunately, I live just a few miles from an emergency vet and was able to get her there quickly for treatment. She was in critical condition with a guarded prognosis but, after two days in ER and two more weeks of recovery at home, she bounced back and made a full recovery.

Here is Bindi's BCAT title run. It was HOT this day so she was not running as fast as she usually does but she was so happy to be back out and running after having to take some time off to recover from her shock event. Thanks to my friend Elizabeth for releasing her for me.

https://youtu.be/gg5bgUcs1rc

I hope this helps you to enjoy your first trial more and stress a little less. Happy running!

*This information is accurate at the time of writing this article. Please refer to the AKC's Rules and Regulations for the most up to date information.

AKC Virtual Home Manners Titles

AKC Virtual Home Manners Titles

Have you heard the word? AKC has a new virtual titling program called Virtual Home Manners (VHM.) This new program allows you to work on practical skills at home with your dog and provides a great transition to in-person AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and Canine Good Citizen (CGC) classes,

There are two levels in the program: Virtual Home Manners Puppy (VHMP) for puppies 3 months to 1 year of age and Virtual Home Manners Adult (VHMA) for dogs age 4 months or older. Each title focuses on 10 skills that help your dog become a well-mannered pet. The skills focus on having basic control of your dog and working on developing your relationship.

How Does It Work?

  1. You will want to get a video of your dog performing the skills required on the VHM checklist.
  2. Upload your video and send it to an Approved CGC Evaluator (I am approved through the AKC and would be happy to witness your video click here for more details.) Some CGC Evaluators may also offer live options, such as Zoom, to witness your submission.
  3. Once your video is watched, the CGC Evaluator will send you a Checklist/Video Review combined verification form if your dog passes the test. The evaluator will also send this form to the AKC.
  4. You will want to send this form, along with the Virtual Home Manners Title Application and $25 AKC fee, to the AKC for the title to be recorded.

Virtual Home Manners Puppy (VHMP) Skills

The following are the required skills for the VHMP test. You can see the detailed information about what each skill involves by viewing AKC’s Virtual Home Manners Evaluator and Participant Guide.

  1. Allows Owner to pet the puppy
  2. Grooming
  3. Sit on command – can use lure
  4. Down on command – can use lure.
  5. Come when called
  6. Go to Place
  7. House-trained
  8. Demonstrates relationship – no food rewards in this exercise
  9. Out for a walk
  10. Exercise outside – no food rewards in this exercise

Here are a few pictures from my puppy Bindi’s VHMP test

Virtual Home Manners Adult (VHMA) Skills

The following are the required skills for the VHMA title. You can see the detailed information about what each skill involves by viewing AKC’s Virtual Home Manners Evaluator and Participant Guide.

  1. Allows owner to pet and groom the dog
  2. Sit on command – no lure
  3. Down on command  – no lure
  4. Comes when called
  5. Manners related to food
  6. Doorbell or knock on door – Dog behaves appropriately
  7. Go to place/crate – Stay 1 minute
  8. Demonstrates relationship = no food rewards in this exercise
  9. Out for a walk
  10. Exercise outside

Do you have your video ready to go? Click here for more information if you would like me to review it for you. Happy training everyone!

PupBox Review

With baby Bindi's arrival, I decided to check out PupBox; a pet subscription box focused on puppies! I had seen advertisements online for this box and was intrigued by the high quality toys and treats pictured along with the fact that some of the boxes included “accessories” for both the puppy and their human,

PupBox Basics

PupBox contains toys, treats, chews, and accessories that are all handpicked based on your pup's age and physical characteristics. As your puppy grows, the box changes to meet your puppy’s developmental needs. Each month you receive 5-7 products along with training tips. The company notes that all treats and chews are sourced in the USA. It is also good to note that they do not include any rawhide products in their boxes. Instead they use alternative chews like bully sticks, ears and bones that are not as hard to digest.

PupBox has you start by completing a questionnaire so they can get to know your pup. The questionnaire itself is written in a fun, whimsical way. It starts by asking the basics like your pups name, date of birth and gender. Then it asks for an approximate size as an adult (itty bitty, smallish, mid side or large & in charge) so appropriate toys and chews can be picked. It then asks for coat type (short, medium/long & hypoallergenic) and asks for you to upload a pic of your pup (this is optional.) There is also an area to add any known allergies or notes you may have (like if our dog is a more aggressive chewer.)

Finally you get to choose your plan. At the time of writing this, they had 1 month, 3 month, 6 month and 12 month options available.

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Our Review

For Bindi’s questionnaire, I put down smallish and medium/long coat. She has no Known allergies so nothing to note there and I uploaded a photo because why not?!

Bindi was very excited to get her “own” box. At first she through it was a prop for trick dog work and immediately started to offer behaviors on and around it. Once I opened it up though she realized there were goodies inside and jumped right in (literally.)

So what was in my first box? We received the following incredible items:

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GoDog Small Rainbow Bee Plush Toy – I love GoDog Toys! They are made with Chew Guard Technology so are tougher and last longer than standard plush. This toy is just fun. Besides who can resist a busy bee (those who have seen the movie Best in Show will understand.)

Flavorit Bone in Medium Mint – This toy helps to satisfy a dogs natural urge to chew while freshening up the breath, caring for the teeth, & keeping from boredom. It is infused with food-grade flavor to help keep your pups interest. Better yet it has tiny holes all over the bone where you can spread your dog’s favorite treat (like peanut butter or yogurt!)

X-Small Leaps & Bounds Chomp and Chew Tennis Ball Toy – This adorable hippo toy is ideal for chewing and fetching. It’s the perfect size for small to medium sized puppies.

Dogsbutter Immunity and Digestion Peanut Butter – This peanut butter is made without any hydrogenated oils or added salt/sugar which makes it a healthier treat for your pup. It’s perfect for using with the Flavorit Bone provided.

PupBox Alien Cheese & Bacon Dog Treats – The shelties love these treats. They easily break into smaller treats for training purposes.

PupBox Training Tote - This is a nice little treat bag. It’s perfect for training at class or on-the-go.

Training Guide – They also provided a guide with some training tips specific for Bindi’s age range (3 months.)

Packing Sheet – They also include a personalized packing sheet that not just lists what was included but goes into some detail as to why it was included.

Bonus the inside cover of the box has an area for keeping track of things like your dog’s height and weight as they grow.

Update

Right as I was getting ready to publish this our second PupBox arrived. I am happy to say I was again very pleased with the contents and quality of the items provided. Here is a breakdown of what was in box 2:

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ZippyPaws Lady Bug Puzzle Toy - This fun toy challenges your puppy to borrow out the lady bugs from the leaf for fun, interactive play. Each lady bug squeaks as well to excite your pup!

Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Bone – This fun bone toy is buoyant and bouncy for varied fun. You can add a treat for more fun.

Value Size Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats Chicken - Made with more of the delicious chicken your dog loves, BLUE Wilderness Wild Bits are the soft-moist and meaty treat made to satisfy their wild side. Made with DHA which is an important fatty acid found in mother’s milk, DHA helps promote cognitive development in canines. Both of my girls love these.

N-Bone Puppy Teething Ring Pumpkin Flavor Dog Treats – Perfect to satisfy your puppy’s natural urge to chew and soothe sore gums from teething. Fortified with DHA and beneficial fatty acids to promote a healthy brain, ideal skin health, and a shiny coat. These chews are completely edible and digestible. Bindi loves these!

Barkworthies 5-to-7-inch Beef Scapula – This single ingredient chew is highly digestible. It’s great for teething puppies!

Of course this box also contained an age appropriate training guide and packaging sheet. They also included additional training information on how to socialize your puppy during the time of COVID-19.

Conclusion

We were VERY happy with this box! Everything provided was high quality and Bindi (and Reba) enjoyed the contents. I felt the toys provided were perfect for Bindi’s age. The treats were enjoyed by both. I liked the addition of the training pouch for the owner. The training guide provided was actually very useful. They were good, age appropriate tips for puppy owners.

If you are getting or have a puppy I would recommend looking into this box. The items provided are truly customized to be appropriate for the age of your puppy and the whole experience has just been fun.

As always, please monitor your dog when they are playing with their toys to make sure the "fit" and toy type are appropriate for them.

4 Paw Trainer Rating
4 Paw Dog Rating

4 Paw Trainer Rating

4 Paw Dog Rating

If you are interested in learning more about PupBox or would like to subscribe, you can click here to go to their website and get your first box for 50% off!

If you are interested in finding out more about the individual items included in the box you can click on the corresponding pictures below.

Free General Care Info Sheet

🐾🐾SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT🐾🐾

One topic I have written several blog posts about is about being prepared in case of an emergency. With the current outbreak of COVID-19 going on, it's important to prepare in case you are one of those that gets sick and is not able to care for your pets(s) for awhile. While I am hoping to get a more detailed blog post put together in the future, I wanted to share something right away with all the dog lovers out there.

I put together a quick General Care Info sheet you can use to keep track of your pet's food, supplements and medications. Below is a link to a pdf where you can download and print this for FREE. I encourage everyone to take a minute to fill one out for each of your pets. My hope is you will never need to use them but, if you do get sick, at least you know those caring for your pets will have detailed instructions. I also have a dog medical & health tracker set of 19 forms available in my Etsy store that has a lot more detailed tracking available for those who need/want it.

Click here for the FREE General Care PDF

Feel free to share this with friends and family. I just ask that you do not reproduce it for resale.

Click here to visit my Etsy store with the detailed dog medical & health tracker forms for those that want to be able to log and track things in greater detail.

Stay Home. Stay Healthy. Talk to you guys again soon.

Dawn

KONG Box Review

Pet subscription boxes are trending in the market right now but what boxes truly live up to the hype? I have purchased pet subscription boxes in the past and while they were fun, I ended up with a bunch of toys and treats that I could not use. When I heard about the Kong Box though it got my attention.

See like many dog owners out there I use KONG products often with my dogs and recommend them to students, puppy buyers etc. My dogs love the KONG treats/chews and their toys have been fun and good quality. KONG was offering a "cancel at any time" guarantee so I figured what the heck, let's see what this newest box is all about.

The KONG Box Basics

So what exactly is a KONG Box? A KONG Box consists of hand-picked toys, chews and treats that Kong sends out either monthly or bi-monthly (a feature which I love) to your dog. Each Box consists of two toys (one training toy and one personality toy) and three treats/chews along with recipes and tips. Your first box also includes a KONG Classic (which I keep a couple on hand for each dog so I can always have one filled and ready to go!)

KONG tries to match up the best items for your dog based off of a quick questionnaire you complete when registering. When I signed up my sheltie Reba they first wanted to know if she was a Puppy, Adult or Senior dog. Then they asked me if she was a Small, Medium, Large or X-Large size dog. Next they wanted to find out about her chewing habits (Teething, Average, Power or Aging chewer.) Lastly they asked if there was a special area that I could use help with for her. My options were the following: Chewing, Digging & Barking, Teething, Separation Anxiety, Crate Training, Weight Management, Boredom and None of the Above.

Next they asked how often I would like to receive the box: monthly or bi-monthly. I love that they have a bi-monthly option. When I had three dogs I went through toys and treats much quicker than I do now with just Miss Reba. Plus, when we add another puppy to our pack, I can sign up for the "puppy" version of the box and alternate months! There is the economic factor too.

Our Review

For Reba's preferences I put that she was an adult, average chewer, medium size (she fits into the small dog weight but KONG has some guidance about sizing on the website and I know the medium size KONG's fit her better) and that she could use some help with boredom as she has been a bit lonely since Nina's passing.

As soon as I brought the KONG Box in the house Reba started bouncing up and down with excitement. Perhaps it was the keen sense of smell picking up on something or the excitement she was feeding off me but she knew that box and contents belonged to her! When I put it on the ground she started standing on and pawing at it. Then I opened the box and the fun started.

Box Opening
Box Opening
KONG Box Intro
KONG Box Intro
Fun Packaging!
Fun Packaging!
Reba checking out (and loving) the contents
Reba checking out (and loving) the contents

So what was in the box? We received the following awesome items:

KONG Classic Medium - KONG Classic's rubber material helps satisfy a dogs' natural chewing instinct. They are also great for things like separation anxiety, teething, crate training and just fun entertainment. The unpredictable bounce to them make them an exciting and interactive toy. They are perfect for "stuffing" treats and food into!

KONG Goodie Bone Medium - Similar to the KONG Classic, this toy is bone shaped and has "goodie gripper holes" on the end for stuffing treats into. It makes a great food dispensing toy.

KONG Ballistic Gliderz - This durable toy is part of KONG's ballitic family. The lightweight yet durable design creates an erratic flight pattern that entices dogs. It also contains a squeaker and can even float.

KONG Stuff'N Sweet Potato Spread 5 oz - Made with human-grade ingredients this easy to squeeze tube is perfect for filling KONG toys or for training.

KONG Ziggies Chicken Large - These delicious chews were designed to be highly digestible and are perfect for stuffing into KONG toys. As an added bonus, they also help to freshen your dog's breath.

KONG Digestibles Smoky Beef 4 oz - KONG Digestible are a safer rawhide with patented holes that make them more than 90% digestible. This proprietary design speeds up hide softening and fluid absorption. The multiple holes aid in faster, more complete digestion. All with a smoky taste dogs love. As with all rawhides please monitor your dog when using these chews. Whenever I use chews of any kind with my dogs I "trade" them for something else when the chews are getting smaller for safety purposes.

Receipe & Tip Cards

 

KONG Box Contents
KONG Box Contents
Classic KONG & Goodie Bone
Classic KONG & Goodie Bone
KONG Ballistic Gliderz
KONG Ballistic Gliderz
KONG Treats
KONG Treats
KONG Recipe Cards
KONG Recipe Cards

Not captured on film is when Reba tried to pull a fast one on me and sneak the bag of Digestibles out of the box and hid them in her bed. Nice try girlie. I have a feeling she is already planning her sneak attack for the next box!

Conclusion

Needless to say Reba was VERY happy with the box. The Ballistic flyer has been her toy of choice for the last two days. Not only are these products my girl loves but they are things we will actually use. Reba just had a KONG with the new spread in it today. The best part, this box was also a great value. I priced these items individually on Amazon and the total at the time I wrote this review was just over $65. The KONG Box was $28! Now you do get the bonus Classic KONG in your first box, which for my size was a $10 value, but even without that it's still a good value. All delivered right to my door where I can watch my girl get excited box after box.

If you are looking for a dog subscription box, or if you are someone who frequently uses KONG products, this is one box you will want to look at. As a dog trainer and dog sports competitor I have seen the value of KONG products. As a dog lover, I appreciate having good quality products to provide my dogs with.

As always, please monitor your dog when they are playing with their toys to make sure the "fit" and toy type are appropriate for them.

4 Paw Trainer Rating
4 Paw Trainer Rating
4 Paw Dog Rating
4 Paw Dog Rating

If you are interested in learning more about KONG Box or would like to subscribe you can click here to go to their website.

If you are interested in finding out more about the individual items included in the box you can click on the corresponding pictures below.

Stay tuned for the next box!

reba box outside

Dogs On Board Decals Now Available

🐾 Help Keep Your Dog Safe When Traveling With These Dogs On Board Decals 🐾

If you know me, you know how much emphasis I put on traveling safely with my dogs. I designed these decals for vehicles like cars, trailers and motorhomes to help alert drivers to stay back as you are traveling with your dogs on board.

I currently have 8 designs to choose from (4 non-breed specific and 4 breed specific) including a temperature controlled and monitored options for those who crate out of their cars at shows/trials. As time allows I will be adding other breeds.

All decals are made with premium quality indoor/outdoor vinyl. Regular vinyl is rated for up to 6 years and the glitter vinyl is rated for up to 8 years!

You can head on over to my Etsy store to see the options!

 

Dogs onboard etsy main
shelties on board main
Dogs onboard circle etsy main
shelties on board glitter

O2COOL 5″ Clip Fan Reviewed

Summer is almost here! With that comes another challenge: keeping our dogs cool in the heat. Today I want to share with you one of the tools I use to help keep my dogs cool and comfortable during the summer; the O2Cool 5" Clip Fan.

About

The O2Cool 5" clip fan features 5" blades and has two speeds: low and high. They run off 4-AA batteries and the manufacturer states the run times to be 14 hours on low and 11 hours on high. The fan head rotates and pivots so you have complete control of the airflow. The sturdy clip opens approximately 2.25" and can attach to many surfaces.

My Review

I love this portable fan! It is my to go to fan when heading outdoors to train or to clip on crates inbetween runs. I can just toss it in my training bag and run.

 

Keeping cool outside
o2cool soft
o2cool rtk
o2cool clip

The convenient clip allows me to easily attach the fan to a fence for outdoor training. With a fully adjustable head I can make sure the airflow is hitting my dog. Once adjusted you can easily "lock" the position into place so you don't have to continuously adjust it. The fan also easily attached to the lip around the door or my Ruff Tough (now Ruff Land) crates as well as the bar on my soft side crates.

The 5" blades throw off a decent amount of airflow for their size and overall the fan is quieter than similar fans from other manufacturers I have tried. Now don't get me wrong, these fans do a great job for their size but the 5" blades can only do so much. If it is really hot, or if I will be at an all day trial/show, I will bring out my O2COOL Desktop fans or my Ryobi fans. If you are looking for a smaller, more portable fan though the O2COOL 5" Clip fan is a great choice.

4 Paw Trainer Rating
4 Paw Trainer Rating
4 Paw Dog Rating
4 Paw Dog Rating

To purchase or find out more about these awesome portable fans click here or follow the link below. I have found great deals on these on Amazon.