Backpacks and lifejackets

Xtra Dog have been asked by a number of customers for dog backpacks and life jackets, so we are delighted to be able to offer the EzyDog range of summit back packs and life jackets designed in Australia. Michael Kohler offers some useful advice on dog back packing whilst Jennifer Waller discusses using floatation devises on dogs.

Dog Backpack - Tips to Consider Before Using a Dog Backpack
By Michael Kohler

There are many kinds of backpacks in the world. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you will probably purchase a regular backpack. However, if you are an animal lover and like to go on outdoor adventures with your canine friends, you will probably want to purchase a dog backpack. Dogs can be one of the best animals to take with you on a camping or hiking trip. Not only will they give you companionship, but they will help protect you in the wilderness. Here are a few things you can use a dog backpack for wind going on your favorite camping excursion.

The concept of the dog backpack is not a very new idea. As long as dogs have been part of the domesticated lifestyle of mankind, people have utilised their dogs by creating dog backpacks for them so that they can help carry the load where ever they are going. In today's society, it is more of a luxury item then an item of necessity or survival. Today, dog backpacks are very popular with those hiking and camping on or along the great trails and wilderness sites of the world. There are a few things to consider, however, before going on your trip with your canine pal loaded up with camping gear.

One thing to consider before purchasing your dog's backpack is to make sure that it fits your dog properly. If possible, bring your dog to the store and get him or her a fitted properly for their backpack. If you are thinking of putting any kind of extensive load into the backpack, nature it fits snugly and is okay for the dog to wear for long durations of time. Never overload the backpack, especially if your dog is a smaller variety which cannot support a large amount of weight.

Before loading your dog up with things for your camping or hiking trip, make sure that your dog is healthy. Just like humans, dogs that are not healthy are probably not going to be able to help you carry very much weight. Likewise, if the dog is under the weather, you may end up putting your dog in your backpack and taking him or her home due to their illness. So always check to see if your dog is well before going on your trip.

As you might have guessed, it is probably not a normal feeling for your canine companion to wear a backpack. Dogs are used to being free. They are somewhat domesticated with collars, but not wearing an entire backpack, especially ones that are weighted down with many objects and items. The first thing you should do is get your dog used to the backpack without anything in it. Put it on your dog for a few minutes a day. Allow them to get used to it. Gradually, over the course of a few days or weeks, your dog may grow to love their backpack and at that point you can begin placing items in it to condition them for carrying things for the trip.

Overall, the most important thing to remember is the well-being of your dog. Though it would be cute and also helpful to have your dog help with the burden of bringing certain items along on camping or hiking trips, it is better to make sure that your dog is well and comfortable with its new backpack before going on any excursion into the wilderness. Dog backpacks can be an ideal addition to any camping or hiking trip may take. Just make sure that it is okay with your dog you will both have a happy and healthy time in the wilderness together.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Kohler
http://EzineArticles.com/?Dog-Backpack---Tips-to-Consider-Before-Using-a-Dog-Backpack&id=477289

Information on Life Vests For Dogs
By Jennifer Waller

If you are looking for an item that will ensure the safety of your beloved dog in the water, a dog life vest is just the thing for you. This genius innovation began decades ago mainly for working dogs such as police dogs and their design has now evolved considerably from being ideal for smaller toy dogs and large dogs and dogs both young and old. They come in a variety of types, sizes, colors and are made from different sorts of materials with or without patterns and so forth. With so much variety, it often becomes difficult to choose which dog life vest is ideally suited to your needs and personal preferences. With a general know-how of the working and purpose of these jackets and what to expect while shopping for them, the choice should become much easier.

Life vests for dogs are essentially flotation devices which are designed to give your dog more float near the torso or chest region to help them stay afloat in the water while they paddle and also to help them breathe easily and keep their heads above the surface of the water. Mostly these vests are made of materials such as nylon which are easy to clean and some even have a handle on the back to make it easier to pull your dog out of the water with ease whenever the need arises. Furthermore, manufacturers design these in bright and neon colors so that it is easier for you to spot your dog when it is in or around water wearing the vest.

One of the most important things to consider and take care of while looking for a life vest for your dog is the size. Vests are made in many different cuts and sizes to adequately fit your dog according to its size and breed. The perfect fit and feel is essential for the dog to feel comfortable and be safe with the vest on in the water. Since the size is of such importance, it is a good idea to make your dog try the article on before you purchase it. The internet is a great place to start looking for vests and doing a quick comparative survey on the web will help you decide which vest is the best for your dog. Standard vests cost anywhere between twenty and fifty dollars with the designer varieties being more pricey.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Information-on-Life-Vests-For-Dogs&id=4114691] Information on Life Vests For Dogs.

Xtra Dog are delighted to the EzyDog new SeaDog Flotation Jacket range. The stylish and highly versatile jackets are the essential extra for your dog, not just at sea but anytime you venture onto the water.  They are very robust and feature a grab handle on the back to help with an emergency recovery situation and a zip pocket to carry little essential extras. Warm, comfortable and above all, a potential life saver for your dog.  To see this in action click on the video below.

AHere at