Veterinarians Share Their Essential Pet Products for Canadian Pet Owners
As a pet owner, you likely rely on the expert advice of veterinarians for health-related guidance for your beloved furry companion. But have you ever wondered what these animal healthcare professionals consider indispensable for their own pets? We reached out to veterinarians and specialists from practices across Canada to uncover the products they simply cannot live without, excluding basic medications and food. From innovative grooming tools to life-saving tracking devices, here are their top recommendations.
Long-Lasting Dental Chews for Heavy Chewers
Dr. Karanbir Randhawa, a radiation oncologist at PetCure Oncology in Mansfield, Texas, highlights the challenge of owning heavy-chewing dogs. "My dogs can destroy any toy and consume any long chew in mere minutes," he explains. His solution? Purina Dental Chews. "These actually last a long time with them, around twenty minutes," Randhawa notes. These treats not only reduce tartar buildup and freshen breath but are crafted with high-protein, nutritionally thoughtful ingredients.
Shock-Absorbing Leash to Reduce Strain
Dr. Sarah Blair, a veterinarian at Noah’s Animal Hospitals in Dallas, Texas, owns three cats and a Havanese dog who believes he is feline. She swears by her Ezydog leash, which features a shock-absorbing bungee construction. "It drastically reduces strain from pulling and sudden movements," Blair says. Available in three lengths, this soft, neoprene-covered leash includes an adjustable handle that can function as a normal leash or a belt, with multiple clips for attaching poop bags or training totes. "I wear it as a belt most always, as I am generally in a hurry and carrying way too many bags," she adds.
Non-Enzymatic Odor Eliminator Spray
Clinton Welch, a veterinarian at Thrive Pet Healthcare Terrell Plaza in San Antonio, Texas, emphasizes the importance of managing pet odors. "Animal Odor Eliminator Spray is a must-have," he states. "Dog odors are inevitable, but this spray neutralizes them quickly, especially after outdoor adventures or rainy days." Its non-enzymatic formula penetrates tough residual odors and can be applied directly on pets to target issues like anal gland odors or yeasty smells on feet and ears.
Portable Water Bottle and Circulating Fountain
Blair also recommends a stainless steel portable water bottle like the PupFlask, which includes a lid that doubles as a bowl. This leak-free option is durable and features a convenient loop for attachment. Additionally, she advocates for circulating water fountains for cats, noting that her dog prefers it too. While she doesn’t specify a brand, options like the PetSafe fountain offer benefits such as stainless steel construction to prevent bacterial growth and a volcano design to avoid whisker fatigue in cats.
Effective De-Shedding Tool and GPS Tracking Collar
Dr. Catherine Clinton Welch, with five large shedding dogs, praises the Furminator as her go-to grooming tool. "It’s a lifesaver during shedding season, pulling out the loose undercoat without damaging the topcoat," she explains. Meanwhile, Dr. Peter Brofman, a veterinary neurologist in Albuquerque, New Mexico, favors Tractive GPS tracking collars for his cats. "These collars allow real-time tracking with unlimited range, providing location updates every few seconds," he says. They also monitor vital signs like heart rate and behavior, requiring a monthly subscription for operation.
Durable Toys and Natural Stain Eliminators
For aggressive chewers, Randhawa endorses GoughNuts indestructible toys made with natural rubber and carbon reinforcement. These toys feature a safety indicator to signal when replacement is needed. Clinton Welch also stocks Nature’s Miracle Urine Destroyer, an enzymatic formula that breaks down odors and stains completely. "With five dogs, accidents happen, and this works wonders," she asserts.
Grooming Essentials: Clippers and Antiseptic Soap
To handle minor injuries, Clinton Welch recommends having pet clippers on hand. "Trimming fur around wounds keeps the area clean," she advises. A highly rated cordless clipper set offers quiet operation and safety for beginners. Pair this with an antiseptic soap like Douxo S3, which disinfects while hydrating the skin and reducing yeast counts.
Important Note: The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the specific products mentioned unless otherwise noted. Their insights are based on personal use and professional experience, aimed at helping Canadian pet owners make informed decisions for their pets' well-being.
