Creature Comforts

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Dog - Supplies

Creature Comforts

"Creature comforts" - we all need them, and now is the time when we get and give those special gifts that make life just a little better. The new couch you have longed for may arrive in time for the holidays, and this winter, your bedroom may sport a new designer comforter.

However, in your family room, the picture isn't so comforting. Your dog's bed may look a little too chewed, and the room may smell like an entire pack of man's best friends have taken up residence. Take heart. It may not be your canine pal, but rather his beloved but ratty dog bed or tattered crate mat that needs to go.

Christmas is the perfect time to prepare a remedy that will spruce up his life, your home and both your spirits. Why not get your pup a Christmas gift that will last and look great beside that new couch?

A Bed By Any Other Name

Every dog needs a place to call his own. That place can be anything from a blanket, to a cedar-filled cushion, a new doghouse or an exercise pen in the yard. Whatever the form, a fresh crate liner, new cushion or a cushion cover can revive (and deodorize) the old favorite.

However, when it's time for something new, be forewarned that your pup may not be as thrilled as you would hope with his new Christmas gift. Dogs are creatures of habit and prefer things with a familiar feel and scent.

What can you do? Simplify your pup's acceptance by incorporating something old with something new:

Instead of placing a new bed or cushion under the tree, consider placing the gift where you want your pet to use it or as close to his favorite spot as possible.
Use positive reinforcement indoors or out - a pat, your usual firm commands and pleasant voice will help to reassure.
Provide a familiar scent. Place a toy or part of his old bedding in/on the replacement, and rub old items against the fresh fabric. Add an old cushion to a new crate or doghouse or a well-loved mat to the new exercise pen. The more familiar you can make the new home, the better.
You can place treats on the new bed for him to "discover." This can also localize treat eating to one area, cutting down on vacuuming chores.

If you are careful to ease the transition, your pet will feel comfortable with whatever style of furniture or accessories that fit your fancy. Make sure your selections suit your pet's size and breed, and they complement your taste and lifestyle. Remember, quality materials not only look better, but they last far longer.

The Rest of Your Dog's World

Once you have your pal all cuddled up for a long winter's nap, examine the rest of the house for eyesores. Now is the perfect opportunity to replace the cereal bowl your pup inevitably noses across your floor and the water dish he constantly spills.

Appropriate dishes and accessories will reduce mess and save wear and tear on your best friend's back and neck. Choosing the appropriate size is also critical, as is convenience. Cleanup can be a snap with new dishwasher safe materials and a decorated swipe-clean mat to keep spills off your floor. Cutting even a few moments here and there will quickly save enough time for a game of catch or Frisbee with your pal. After all, that's the best present your pup can hope to have for Christmas.