Taking a walk is a great way to get out without foregoing any restrictions and it is good for you and your pet at any time but even more so when stress and fear are factored in. Great walking gear makes this time well spent even better.
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The weather has been it's usual weirdness here in PA. We are finally experiencing temps in the teens and some snow. Of course it will be 30 degrees warmer tomorrow..I mentioned we live in PA right? Regardless of where or what your winters are like it is crucial that your dog still gets exercise.
Dogs need physical activity every day, or else they are at risk of becoming stressed, under-stimulated and overweight. If you don’t provide your pup with outlets for energy, they may develop behavioral problems such as whining, excessive barking, digging, chewing, biting or playing too rough. We at Geartac Systems love winter but know it can be a challenge to walk your dog or even to know when or how to get them outside when Jack Frost brings the snow and ice.
Winter Pet Care
While there’s not one right answer for an exact safe outdoor temperature for your dog, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Your dog’s age, breed, and health are all major factors as well. Remember that puppies and elder dogs are much more sensitive to the cold weather because their bodies can’t regulate their body temps well. If it’s below freezing, these dogs should be taken outside to eliminate only.
Different breeds have better tolerance to winter weather. While no dog should be left out in the cold alone, breeds like German Shepherds, St. Bernards, and Akitas have thick coats that help protect them from the elements. Small dogs and short-haired dogs need a sweater or jacket for the added protection and warmth.
Any physical conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia will only be aggravated by the cold. We just had Darby at the Vet last week. We thought she had a sustained a leg injury walking on the ice but it turns out she suffers from mild arthritis and dysplasia. Armed with new knowledge about the cold and a few doses of anti inflammatory meds and joint supplements and our Girl is back to adventure and exploring even if sometimes it is only in the backyard.
The best piece of advice I gleaned from the article a lot of this info is taken from by John Reh for Dogs Love Running is to know your dog - pay attention to the signals they are giving you. If they are shivering, standing in a hunched position, lifting their paw(s) off the ground, or giving you verbal cues (like whining or barking); bring them inside. More serious signs are things like lethargy, weakness, or slowed breathing which are all signs of hypothermia. Keep an eye out for frostbite as well. The most common places this will effect is their tail, paws, and ear tips. If they are turning pale or blue, get your dog to a veterinarian.
Bottom line, don’t let the cold weather keep your dog from getting exercise. You may have to limit your regular walk to only 5 or 10 minutes, but make sure to get them outside even if it’s just for a little bit when the weather is appropriate. If the weather isn’t cooperative, make sure they are getting sufficient potty breaks and find other activities indoors to keep their minds and bodies active.
Final Precautions
I hope this information helps you. Winter doesn't have to be agonizing dog walks or filled with dread. Enjoy your time and check out all of the great gear on our website to make the journey with your dog safe and fun!
]]>Just a quick post to give some tips on how to keep your pups safe this week from foods that they can not have to remembering to have their ids on in case they get out or lost in all the hub bub of family, turkey, football, parades etc.
We at Geartac Systems would like to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving. We truly are grateful for your support and for the community that we have found in dog ownership and through our products. Just a reminder, there is still time to enter our Thanksgiving contest. Send us a pic of your dog with a word on why you are thankful for them. We will post it on our social media and whoever gets the most votes will win a Gearleash K9! Also be sure to check out our BFCM promotion on the Hands Free 3 Piece Holiday Package. Geartac Products make excellent gifts! Hook your friends and fam up with some quality dog walking gear..they will love it!
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COOKED BONES AND TRIMMINGS: It may be tempting to let your dog chew on the bones after you cook the turkey, but cooked bones are extremely dry and brittle. In addition to potentially causing intestinal blockages, the bones can also splinter in the dog's throat or digestive system and cause severe damage, internal bleeding, or death.
FAT TRIMMINGS OR SKIN: Dark meat turkey and turkey skin is very high in fat. Animals are susceptible to pancreatitis from high-fat content foods. Pancreatitis is not always curable, and symptoms include vomiting, depression, abdominal pain and reluctance to move. If you suspect pancreatitis, make sure your pet goes in to see the veterinarian.
BREAD DOUGH: Bread dough with the yeast in it can rise in your pet's stomach and cause discomfort or even more serious conditions.
WRAPPINGS: Foils, waxed papers, turkey bags, strings, garbage bags, toothpicks, pretty much anything that has had contact with food is tempting for animals. You would be surprised just how agile our pets can be when it comes to 'counter surfing'.
OTHER HOLIDAY FOODS: Foods containing grapes, raisins, and currants can result in kidney failure in dogs. Chocolate and cocoa contain theobromine, a chemical highly toxic to dogs and cats. Ingestion in small amounts can cause vomiting and diarrhea but large amounts can cause seizures and heart arrhythmias. Many sugarless gums and candies contain xylitol, a sweetener which is toxic to dogs that can cause a life-threatening drop in blood sugar and liver failure. Keep dishes loaded with onions away from your dog. Onions contain thiosulphate, which damages red blood cells and can cause anemia in dogs.
SMALL CHILDREN: The holidays are a time for family to come together, and if your relatives bring small children around a pet that is not used to living with little ones, do not leave them unattended. Children can't help but to pull ears and tails or lay on pets while they are sleeping. Not all dogs or cats are patient enough to tolerate this, so keep everyone safe and happy and supervise children around the animals.
IDENTIFICATION: Make sure you have valid ID tags on their collars or write your phone number directly on their collars with a permanent marker. Make sure dogs are wearing their licenses, and consider a microchip.
Above info taken from article, "Thanksgiving Safety Tips" Humane Society Ventura County Published November 2018
We at Geartac Systems would like to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving. We truly are grateful for your support and for the community that we have found in dog ownership and through our products. Just a reminder, there is still time to enter our Thanksgiving contest. Send us a pic of your dog with a word on why you are thankful for them. We will post it on our social media and whoever gets the most votes will win a Gearleash K9! Also be sure to check out our BFCM promotion on the Hands Free 3 Piece Holiday Package. Geartac Products make excellent gifts! Hook your friends and fam up with some quality dog walking gear..they will love it!]]>“Everyone thinks they have the best dog, “ wrote W.R. Purche. “And none of them are wrong.”
Today we would like to kick off a contest about gratitude. Specifically, why are you thankful for your dog? I have told you some of what makes me grateful for my Darby, email us a pic of your dog to our site or post in comments there or on our IG / FB page with some thoughts. The entry with the most likes or comments will win a Gearleash K9! Winners will be announced the week after Thanksgiving. We at Geartac Systems are incredibly grateful for all of you, your support and we can't wait to hear from you.
]]>“Everyone thinks they have the best dog, “ wrote W.R. Purche. “And none of them are wrong.”
Today we would like to kick off a contest about gratitude. Specifically, why are you thankful for your dog? I have told you some of what makes me grateful for my Darby, send us a pic of your dog to our site at info@geartacsytems.com or on our IG / FB page with some thoughts. The entry with the most likes or comments will win a Gearleash K9! Winners will be announced the week after Thanksgiving. We at Geartac Systems are incredibly grateful for all of you, your support and we can't wait to hear from you.
]]>To our men and women (and dogs) in uniform, past, present, and future, God bless you and thank you. Included is a video of a song Jon Bon Jovi wrote "Unbroken"to honor vets and their service dogs. It is part of a film titled To Be of Service. He announced that all proceeds from downloads of the charity single will benefit the Patriotic Service Dog Foundation which is a non-profit organization that provides service dogs to veterans and first responders in need.
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Today is National Cat Day according to Facebook or some sort of designator of these things. Here at Geartac Systems we design and market Dog Gear but we are proud owners of a cat who thinks he is Top Dog..Jynx.
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Today is National Cat Day according to Facebook or some sort of designator of these things. Here at Geartac Systems we design and market Dog Gear but we are proud owners of a cat who thinks he is Top Dog..Jynx. When we first got Jynx five years ago he was a little bundle of black fur with big green eyes who was named Mustang because he had managed to get himself into the engine of a Ford while trying to elude capture and got himself stuck. Luckily for this black cat, he was in the parking lot of strip mall that had a pet store and the very caring staff searched high and low for the cars owner and rescued him from the engine covered in oil. A few weeks later on Black Friday we put in an application for the mischievous kitten and he found his furever home a few days later with us. Todd and his Dad are car enthusiasts, Todd owned a Mustang at the time and Great Grandpop had a long career with the Ford Motor Company so we felt it was destiny! It was agreed that his name would change though..he needed a magical name befitting a black cat and Jynx, a perfect moniker was picked. He has since grown into a very large 19 pound bundle of joy (according to my son Griffin and I) or nightmare (if you ask Logan or Todd). Cats like dogs pick their humans and those two were not on the list...don't let them fool you though..we all love Jynx very much and he tolerates us. When we decided that it was time to add a dog to our home a couple of years later, Jynx voted no and he is still protesting our decision. He and Darby have struck up a frenemy relationship though that is sometimes loving and very sweet. Like when they fight for the coveted spot next to me on the couch only to decide that they will sun themselves together in the other room or when Jynx makes his mad dash outside and Darby stands close by making sure he is ok. We have thought about possibly using the Geartac K9 Hands Free Walking Device and attaching a light lead to Jynx so that we could walk him but haven't tried it yet. Do any of you walk your cat? If so I'd love to hear about it. With Halloween coming up this week remember to take extra care with your cats so they don't get out. As an owner of Black Cats all my life I honestly do not believe that people often try to abduct black cats for for some sort of sacrifice...if they do they are psychopaths not witches or satanists as they are revered by them but some people do adopt them or steal them because of their association with the occult and superstition. That being said guard all your pets well everyday and until next time let's give some recognition to the cats who make our lives more interesting. I honestly think that for cats National Cat Day is everyday as they were once revered as Gods in Ancient times and they have not forgotten. Feel free to share your cat/dog friendship pics or stories. We love seeing them. Hope you and all your furry friends have a great day.
]]>October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) sponsors this event to promote the adoption of dogs from local shelters.
According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.3 million dogs enter shelters every year. When these abandoned and sometimes abused animals find their way to a shelter, each one needs a forever home and their potential is limitless. Some of the benefits of adoption are often hidden. Human and canine both enjoy increased activity and social interaction through daily walks. When we rescued Darby (or she rescued us to be honest) we suddenly had a new companion that needed daily exercise. We didn't have a fence yet but even after getting one we realized how beneficial daily walks were for her and us. When we adopted Darby we needed some quality gear and fast. Problem was there were not a lot of options that fulfilled our needs. We wanted sturdy, comfortable, durable leashes and harnesses. We wanted them to be orthopedically safe for us and her. We wanted to make walking and hiking with our girl safe, fun and EASY. We also wanted to use sustainable materials that were made and manufactured in the United States. Walking Darby was a challenge. She is strong, really strong and even though Todd and I were able to lift weights with the best of them, we were not about getting pulled around or possibly injured. This is how the Geartac K9 Hands Free Walking Device, The Geartac leashes and the Geartac X-Body Harness came into existence and helped us start a dog gear business, Geartac Systems that has changed our lives in so many positive ways. All because we adopted a beautiful Bully Girl from the Brandywine Valley SPCA.... one of the best decisions we ever made. We are advocates for Shelter dogs but we understand that isn't for everybody. This doesn't mean that we all can't be part of the solution. Even if you are not ready to adopt from a shelter, already have a dog, would only buy a dog from a reputable breeder who you have thoroughly vetted or you just love Dogs (Cats, Guinea Pigs, Alpacas whatever ;) ) YOU CAN HELP.
Donations and volunteers at local shelters are always welcome. Dogs love to be walked, played with and given affection even if they haven’t found their forever home. Every moment they spend socializing increases their opportunity for adoption. During Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, or anytime during the year, visit, volunteer, donate and adopt!
HISTORY
In 1981, the American Humane Association founded Adopt A Dog Month in response to the growing number of dogs and puppies entering shelters every year. Along with the need for shelters and adoptions, spaying and neutering help curb the rise in unwanted pets, too.
The ASPCA joined in 1984 and the Month of October is designated as a time to adopt, donate, and raise awareness for shelter dogs. Below is a link to an article for ways that you..yes you..you have more power then you know..can help.
Our friend Michele who is a Rock Star Human that volunteers so much to this cause at the BVSPCA added that aside from donating and adopting, volunteering to spend time with the dogs, walking and helping them socialize is a great way to get involved.
We at Geartac Systems, really believe in the transformative power that dogs and humans share and we truly wish to help as many dogs as we can. For the remainder of October, all purchases over $50 will include free-shipping and a 10% donation to The Brandywine Valley SPCA who helps so many dogs in this region and all over the United States. Did you know that not only are they a no kill shelter but they also rescue dogs from all over the country who find themselves in need?
Our product line is a great way to ensure that you and your new dog develop a healthy walking protocol. We have gear designed for all your needs from hiking and running, to dog treats and travel/car safety They also make great gifts if you know anyone who is a pet owner. We hope that you will take advantage of this as we truly appreciate what the BVSPCA are doing. Use code "DONATEBVSPCA" and we thank YOU in advance for your support.
Check out all of the adoptable pets like O'Shay at the BVSPCA here
]]>Todd and I spend a lot of weekends at Trade Shows meeting Dog Owners and at Dog/Pet shows their awesome canine companions. In the last few years Geartac Systems has been able to develop solutions to address a lot of the problems dog owners are challenged with on a daily basis and it has been really rewarding. One of the products that we are most proud of is our line of dog harnesses. Created to help dogs walk comfortable and safely, we offer a range of sizes to fit almost any dog.
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addresses this with its' unique crisscross design. We have received a lot of positive feedback on this design and we are huge fans of the orthopedic comfort our dog, Darby, has when walking, hiking and running in her harness.
The design of the Geartac XBody Dog Harness looks and feels stylish, with unparalleled comfort as its best features. Geartac Systems has engineered this dog walking harness to fit in such a way that it will not impede upon the natural leg movement of your dog. Studies show that a poorly designed or poor-fitting dog harness can cause nerve damage, muscle strain, and cause your dog to walk irregularly. Many front pull harnesses affect a dogs natural walking gait and though it may decrease pulling it is at the expense of your dogs health and comfort.
Our adjustable dog harness design fits so well it will not roll or cause a misfit on your dog. The "XBody" design also makes this dog harness virtually "escape proof" the crisscross webbing design prevents the dog from backing out of the harness. The spine of the XBody dog harness allows for greater separation between the front and the rear allowing the front legs to move in a completely unrestricted action.
One of the best features of the Geartac XBody Dog Harness in my opinion is that it sports a convenient handle incorporated onto the back section of the harness. I love the control it gives me when walking Darby or especially when I have to help her jump up into the car or help her stay calm and secure at the veterinarians' office.
Many of the owners we have had the pleasure of working with also love that the Geartac XBody Harness is super easy to put on. Many dogs do not like having devices fitted over their head. Our design allows for two points of entry. We love seeing how amazed people are that it goes on so fast and without a struggle
Another innovative feature of the dog harness is the front leg bumper pads located on the XBody webbing situated behind the front legs of your dog. This feature is made up of a padded foam bumper coated in waterproof plastic that stays free of moisture and prevents chaffing and soars behind your dog’s front legs. Some of our best customers stories have been from owners of Dock Dog Diving competitors and outdoor enthusiasts who love that their adventurous water loving pups are comfortable, safe and without chafing after being in the water. The bumpers keep the webbing from staying in the crease between the front legs and the body of your dog, allowing comfort and airflow for your dog. It can also provide padding when a dog crosses over an obstacle acting as a bumper between the dog and the object he or she is crossing.
Included in this post are some links to our harness page and an article from PetMD that truly addresses why we feel that the Geartac XBody Dog Harness is the best dog harness on the market today.
Visit us online or feel free to drop a comment, pic of your dog or any questions you might have , we always love to hear from you!
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Anyone who knows me understands that Fall is my favorite season. The crisp morning air, Halloween, hoodies, hot coffee and the beautiful palette of color that Mother Nature paints for us every year..it is the best. It is also the best time to get out with your dog and get active. No matter where you reside, there are opportunities to participate in activities that not only benefit you and your pup but in many instances support charity. What a winning combo. It could be a 5k for Veterans, a Walk for kids causes or a competitive event but having a good walking system makes a huge difference in your ability to enjoy these great activities. For instance, running belts are simply not ideal. The orthopedic strain they place on your spine and the probability of getting injured are greatly increased with the unpredictability of anchoring a dog to your waist. If your beloved pet sees a squirrel or even decides to head in a different direction, it can cause a host of issues, all of which end up in injury for you. The Geartac K9 hands free walking device is a great option for any outdoor activity. Having your dog attached, following leash laws and your hands free to manage it all is something you have to experience. It is a game changer. For runs however, we have added a running belt that secures the Geartac K9 in a more fixed position while retaining the orthopedic advantage of a cross body system. In the event that your dog pulls, your spine, hips and lower back are still protected. The runners in the picture featured here are a perfect example of this.
In the background of this image notice how the womans' hips and spine are twisted when her dog pulls. It is just so bad for your alignment. Our Geartac K9 running package is available now. Charity walks, 5ks, Canicross, Dog Friendly Obstacle Course Races, Hiking, Running Clubs etc., if you want to do it it's there for you and the Geartac product line was created with you and your dogs health and safety in mind. Below is a link for just some of the events happening soon in PA and there is a link on the bottom of that page for events wherever you may be I truly hope you take advantage of these events and the awesomeness that is Autumn. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or with pics of you and your Dog enjoying the outdoors.
https://www.bringfido.com/event/city/pottstown_pa_us/
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https://www.dogingtonpost.com/back-to-school/
I also suggest taking this opportunity to establish an exercise routine for your Dog and kids. Simply walking together can be a great bonding opportunity for kids and dogs, as well as a way for each to get some exercise.
School is starting again soon, that means everyone in your household will need to adjust to a new schedule - including your pets.
As your family gets used to a different schedule, now may be the perfect time to establish a new exercise routine that both your child and pet can enjoy.
Exercise is a great way for children to bond with their dogs while keeping them both healthy.
Here at Geartac Systems we are all about walking your dog every chance you can. Taking the dog with you to the bus stop is a great way to include your pet in your new school day routine. The GeartacK9 is an awesome way to do this. Imagine being able to manage your kids, dog, coffee, phone, and whatever else you may need in a way that makes it easy and keeps your kids and dog safe while waiting for the bus to arrive or return each day.
Why it's beneficial
Dogs enjoy a regular routine and can be stressed when the family's typical activities change.
"It's not just about being alone," says Mary Majchrowski, a certified professional dog trainer, certified dog behavior consultant and owner of Bravo Dog Training in Oregon.
"It's about having something to do with their day. Dogs can't watch TV or read the paper. There are limited ways to keep them busy."
Plus, the more bored a dog is, the more likely he is to have behavior problems.
Meanwhile, obesity is a growing epidemic in kids due to reduced physical education and stationary activities like playing video games and working on the computer.
Exercise strengthens muscles, increases bone density, maintains a healthy weight and helps prevent injury.
Kids need exercise to stay healthy and so do your dogs.
Establishing exercise routines can build confidence and encourage kids to feel more comfortable being active. Adding a pet to the mix can make it feel more like play.
The Geartac K9 and our walking packages are great for the entire family. Be sure to take advantage of our Back To School Special starting 8/22 and running through next week and good luck everyone.
]]>Those especially at risk during extremely hot weather are very young children, the elderly, people with chronic medical conditions, and those taking certain medications...and your PETS!!
In the city, in my case Philadelphia, Code Red means all dogs must have shade to protect them from the sun. If you do not provide your dog shade, you could face a fine of $500 or more. To report a dog left outdoors in very hot weather, call the Animal Care & Control Team (ACCTPhilly) at (267) 385-3800.
Some advice for you to prepare for the Heat courtesy of the Chester County Health Dept.:
I am also providing a link to an article with some tips about helping your dog beat the heat. and remember if you are hot, your dog is hotter. Be aware and hope you have fun despite the heat.
Geartac Systems features a sleeve on it its GeartacK9 that can be used to hold a Nalgene (or similar) water bottle or you can add a Geartrek pouch. Our brand new Gearpak also has not one but two possible water sleeves attached and plenty of room to carry items that make a walk in the heat safer and easy. Check it out!
Our Darby loves her daily walks and doesn't understand anything about Meteorology so Todd waited until after 8 last night to walk her and she was appreciative. It was a short walk but he made sure he had plenty of water and was super aware of how she was doing. Don't give up your walk because it's hot, just be smarter about it.
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https://6abc.com/pets-animals/keep-your-dog-safe-during-fireworks/2159344/
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https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/care/planning-a-road-trip-with-your-dog/
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