Dog Owner Must Have: GULPY Water Dispenser

I'm the first to admit I spoil my dog. Truth is, I probably enjoy shopping for her just a teeny bit more than I like shopping for myself...strange, I know. Out of numerous items I've purchased over the last 10 months since she's been with us, the Gulpy pet water dispenser is by far the BEST! 

Not only do I no longer worry about not having a water dish on hand for Gigi but I also never worry about whether or not water will be accessible. It's ideal for walks, hikes, road trips, beach trips or just everyday use when you're not at home. The dispenser has a nifty little belt hook on it so you can clip it to your belt or purse and fits into any standard bike water bottle holder.

Gigi's super picky - girl won't drink out of a water dish if other dogs have used it so her Gulpy is always the first thing to get tossed in my purse when we're off to the dog park.  She even knows that's her water dispenser and will nudge at it when she's thirsty and needs me to open it for her. Smart dog.

Gulpy makes the pet water dispensers in two sizes: 10 oz (aka: Gulpy Jr - shown in pics above) and 20 oz. They're also available in various colors including blue, purple, orange, and green. I purchased her first Gulpy Jr. on Amazon but just last week purchased a back up Gulpy Jr. at Target, both under $8. Talk about a deal!

It's super easy to use, just flip it open and give it a little squeeze to fill the water reservoir and flip it back to close.

The only negative thing I've read is the fact that the dispenser does not suck the unused water back in...honestly I don't care. I just toss it and close it back up. The container is made of sturdy plastic, no breaks or cracks yet. I've tossed ours around the room and left it in my hot car and it's still in good shape. Not sure if it's recommended but I've tossed it in the dishwasher and it's still in perfect condition. It's leak proof too! I've never had an incident where I've found my purse soaked with water. 

My advice to all dog owners, get one! Every time I pull it out for Gigi we get tons of compliments and inquiries as to where they can get one.

DIY Pet First Aid Kit

You probably have a first aid kit for the humans in your household so why not have one for your furry family member? Seriously, it's important.

Whether you're going on a road trip or just taking a trip to the beach, it's important to be ready for emergencies. My advice? Buy a little extra and make two; one can stay at home and the other (maybe a bit smaller) can be stashed away in your trunk.

Remember, your first aid supplies don't have to be placed in anything special, an old backpack or small lunch box will do...however, waterproof is definitely preferable (hint hint: Ziploc bag).

Here's a list of the basics needed* for a doggy first aid kit:

• Dog first aid book (The First Aid Companion for Dogs and Cats is a pretty good one, even if it is a bit large.)
• Disposable gloves (latex or non-latex)
• Emergency documents/contact numbers (vet info, closest animal hospital, poison control number, emergency family contact info, copy of pet medical records and registration).
• Tweezers (flat slant clamp & tick removal tweezers)
• Scissors (dull ended)
• Cotton Balls
• Gauze pad, squares and roll (PawFlex bandages are great!)
• Disinfectant (such as Hibitane)
• Wound Spray - Simply spray it on to help clean and heal hot spots, bites, scratches, cuts, burns, ulcered skin and more. (such as Vetericyn)
• Saline solution (fyi - contact solution can work too, in a real emergency)
• Antihistamine - May be used to calm itchiness, swelling, and hives caused by bee stings or insect bites. (ask your vet for dosage based on your dogs size)
• Hydrogen Peroxide - while not recommended for wounds, it can be used to induce vomiting in case of accidental ingestion.
• Bulb syringe or small Turkey Baster - to flush wounds or eyes or for administering medicine.
• Antibacterial wipes or Skin soap (dish soap is also helpful in removing oil & such from dog fur)
• Skin & Paw Cream
• Rectal thermometer (a dog's average temperature is 101°F)
• Petroleum Jelly (when using the above...it's just considerate)
• Muzzle (fitted to your dog; so they don't hurt themselves or others)
• Sugar packets - For diabetic emergencies
• Small container of flour or cornstarch - To stop bleeding of nails that have been broken or cut to the quick.
• Dry dog food
• Dog treats and rawhide bones
• Blanket - Can be an old one you have laying around the house or foil emergency blanket
• Ice pack
• Pen light or flashlight
• Splints or tongue depressor
• Extra dog tag (with your contact info)
• Extra leash & harness
• Prescribed medicine
• Bach's Rescue Remedy - provides natural stress relief and works wonders for dogs that have been through a traumatic situation.

*feel free to add anything that may be specific to your dogs needs. And remember, never give your dog any human drugs or prescriptions without talking to vet first.