A Harvest Hike

I took Bobby & Alfie on a lovely long walk yesterday, through the fields and tracks between Horton and Ravenstone in Northamptonshire. It was really relaxing actually, and the 3 of us thoroughly enjoyed it.

It’s funny because, at home, or in the shop, or any enclosed space, Alf & Bob constantly play fight like, well, dog and dog. As soon as they are in the great outdoors, they barely acknowledge each other and prefer to engross themselves in their own missions. Bobby just likes to find things for you to throw for him, and searches continuously for the next object. Alfie is intent on sniffing, then spraying any slightly upright object he sees. This normally means Bobby is way out in front, Alfie is hanging well back (sniffing something), and I am in the middle!

We got to see a few combine harvesters doing their thing, which was a very picturesque Autumnal sight.

The boys, of course, did manage to find the smelliest, dirtiest, blackest pond in the world, and gleefully swim in it before I could catch them up! All part of the fun I suppose, just hope they didn’t drink any!

I think Autumn is my favourite time of year to walk the dogs, and I’m not looking forward to the dark nights ahead. Oh well, at least I’ll get to wear my nice wellies again J

In the pictures Bobby is wearing his Puppia harness in the new colour, navy! You can buy yours here --> http://www.barkitty.co.uk/category_dog_harnesses_2.shtml

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J'aime Bobby!

This week a whole range of new coats will arrive from Bobby, not the yappy Jack Russell, a wonderfully luxurious French brand!

The design and quality is outstanding, and many come with built in harnesses, so they’re easy to pop on at ‘walkies’ time!

Come and see them for yourself, and don’t forget to bring your pup to try them on… Parisian Pooch chic at Barkitty!

Le Lap of Luxury pour votre chien!

 



‘Complice’ waterproof coat, size Small – XXLarge, from £31.50 available in red or grey with co-ordinating lead!

 



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An Evening with the Dogfather

I am so excited to announce that Barkitty will be hosting 'An Evening with the Dogfather' on Thursday 20th September 7pm-9pm. Don't miss out on this opportunity to get expert advice from one of the UK's leading dog trainers. He will discuss how to combat behavioural issues, pulling on the lead, excessive barking and agression issues.

Tickets are £18 each, which includes drinks on arrival and during the interval, a free gift, and 10% off in Barkitty on the night. This is an exclusive event, with very limited seats available (anyone who's been in to the shop will know why)!
To book or for more information  call 01327 349328 or email hello@barkitty.co.uk. The Dogfather’s website is www.dogfathertraining.co.uk.

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Animal Magic: Benefits To Your Health Of Getting A Pet

Animal Magic: Benefits To Your Health Of Getting A Pet
by K9 Magazine

Getting out of a warm, cosy bed on dark, frosty mornings to take the dog out is probably the last thing you feel like doing. But take encouragement from the fact that it really is good for you.

Quite apart from a blast of fresh air to wake you up, going walkies gives you both the chance to get some exercise. Getting up and about is a great way to keep your dog happy and healthy, but vitally important for you, especially if you’re going to spend the rest of the day slumped at your desk.

Your daily dog walk may not feel as strenuous as sweating buckets at the gym, but rest assured it’s doing just as much good. According to pet health care experts Bob Martin, dog walkers actually get far more exercise than people who consider themselves regular gym goers – an average of five hours and 38 minutes per week, compared with just one hour and 20 minutes per week for the Lycra lovers.

Feeling smug? You should be, as even the fact that you’re getting out every day can have huge health benefits. Scientists believe that doing up to an hour of moderate activity most days combined with a healthy diet could cut mortality rates by 50 per cent.

The benefits of owning a dog go beyond a mere leg-stretch. Medical researchers have found that dog owners have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, for example, and are generally healthier than those without a canine companion.

There’s the social aspect of meeting other dog owners while out and about, and the structure of having a daily routine; both factors which could go a long way to raising mood and stirring you from inertia. In fact, researchers at the University of Portsmouth found that daily dog walking could even ward off depression. Are there any sights in life happier than a dog proudly carrying a stick? You can’t write a prescription for that.

Cat owners can take heart from the news that researchers have claimed all manner of health benefits from caring for a feline friend – in fact a study by the University of Minnesota found that cat owners have a much lower heart attack risk.

It doesn’t take a doctor to tell you that curling up with a cat on the couch at the end of a stressful day can have psychological benefits, either. According to a study carried out by the Mental Health Foundation in conjunction with Cat’s Protection, it’s all down to the relaxing vibrations in a cat’s purr.

Even having a tank of goldfish in the corner of a room is thought to be relaxing, and while lizards and snakes aren’t everyone’s choice of perfect pet, they’re an interesting addition to the household. Having a pet is good for kids, too – it can help them develop a sense of empathy and responsibility, as well as boosting their self-esteem, say psychologists. Owning a dog can also help children become more active, guarding against obesity.

Care for your pet, and it will care for you.

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Harness Fitting

Written May 9th 2012

 I am often asked for dog advice from customers, so I though I’d share some information about something I do have a bit of knowledge about – harnesses. I always recommend getting your dog a harness, but more importantly, a harness that fits well! An ill-fitting harness will do more damage to the dog than good!

 Harnesses eleviate back and neck pains for dogs, especially those that “pull” on the lead, as the pressure is more evenly distributed across strong parts of their bodies. They can improve behaviour as the owner has much more control over the dog. In a recent study of 400 dogs conducted in Sweden by Behaviorist, Anders Hallgren, his students and several Chiropractors found that; 63% of the dogs examined had neck and spinal injuries and 78% of the dogs with aggression or over activity problems had neck and spinal injuries.

And, of the dogs with neck injuries, 91% experienced hard jerks on a collar and leash and/or strained against their leashes.

At Barkitty we have a range of harnesses beginning at just £10.00 for a nylon printed version; Puppia soft harnesses which are best selling items, recommended by vets worldwide starting at £16.00; up to Mutts & Hounds handmade linen harnesses from £28.00. You will soon be able to buy these items online, however if you’re nearby feel free to bring your dog instore to try some on and most importantly get fitted correctly.

We can ensure your dog is wearing a perfect fit in a style to suit them and a price to suit you! All fitting is completely free with no pressure to buy – we just care about dogs and want them to be comfortable!

Little Jake was fitted in a polka dot harness and matching lead (£23 for complete set) and left a happy and comfortable little boy!

So come in any time, 7 days a week with your dog for a complete harness fitting service. If you are unsure if we can cater for your dog or have any other questions feel free to call beforehand on 01327 349328.

Lisa x