Pet accessories are important to make your pet’s life (and yours) easier and more fun. If you're a new pet owner you may wonder what the right things to get are. If you're checking pet accessories Australia offers you probably came across many different things from beds to food bowls. Here's a short list that should make your shopping successful.
Bed
Your bed should have a bed on its own, no matter how much the two of you enjoy cuddling together in yours. A bed on its own means your cat or dog will have a comfortable place where they can relax and nap. This bed should meet your pet's needs. If you have a cat, choose a round doughnut bed filled with soft fabrics to provide extra warmth and comfort. Cats love to snuggle and to "knead" so the softer the bed the better.
Dog beds should meet their size, age, needs and health. Pick a smaller rounded bed for a smaller dog. If you have a large dog choose a futon. If your dog has any health issues such as arthritis, make sure their bed is made of memory foam (known to adjust to the body shape and provide support and comfort).
A Set of Bowls
No accessories for pets can go without a set of bowls. You can easily serve pet food in a simple porcelain plate you no longer use, but it's best to get a stainless steel one, as it's far more durable and you'll be able to wash it easier. Be sure to choose a bowl that will meet the size of your pet. Cats can go with smaller bowls, but if you have a German Shepherd, then it surely has to be big and meet the daily servings of food suitable for your dog.
When checking pet accessories Australia stores, don't forget to check for a water bowl as well. Bowls usually come in sets, so you'll probably get the two of them.
Always keep the bowls clean; just like you clean your plates after every meal, clean your pet's bowl every time they eat. This is essential for your pet's health (especially if there is more than one pet in your home). Place the water bowl near the food bowl (unless you have a cat; they want their water separate from their food bowl, otherwise they won't drink it). Always make sure there's fresh water offered to your pet with every serving of food they get.
Food Mat
Bowls go along with foot mats. The mat will prevent your floors safe and clean. Pets will make some mess while eating, especially if they're still young. There will be a spilling of liquids (from wet food or water). The food mat will make cleaning easier for you. It's a great choice if you have hardwood floors that can easily get damaged.
Collar
Pet parents should get their pets a collar. While cats wear it as an accessory (with a little plate with their name and owner's address and phone number), dogs need it for the same reasons plus because it's where the leash attaches. When choosing a collar, consider your pet's size, how it clasps, how sturdy the materials are and whether you can attach a leash to it.
Leash
Dog owners need a steady leash; it's best to get one with double handles. These leashes are usually around 2 metres long and made of heavy-duty nylon, letting you take even large dogs for a walk or run. Just be sure the leash has reflective stitching for night walks. There are leashes for cats as well, so if you want to take your cat for a walk, it's best to test the waters as early as possible. Young cats may easily adjust to the leash, but with older cats, it could be a challenge, as cats aren't fond of any accessories of this type. Use lots of treats as a reward during this process.
Toys
Pets adore toys. When they're young they can chew and bite on them, and run after them. Toys make a great choice for bonding between pets and humans. They are essential for helping a dog's jaw get stronger, but also a great way for your pet to have some fun. What type of toy you'll get depends on the type of pet you have. If you have a cat, choose a toy they can dig their claws and teeth into such as a soft stuffed mouse they can "hunt" or nap with.
Dogs are more into sturdier toys that won't get damaged after chewing and dragging around your house or backyard. You can choose toys with food compartments where you can place some dry treats and allow your pet to get to them. This way your pet (dogs especially) will stay occupied for hours trying to find and get the reward. These toys are a great pastime for restless or anxious dogs, but can also work great as well if you have to take your dog with you for a longer ride.
Hair Brush
When you get a pet, you have to accept that there will be hair all over your place. This is why you need a suitable brush to groom their coats and help them get rid of the excess hair. Brushing is especially relaxing for cats and dogs, so this time can be quality bonding for you two.
