Valley Vet Supply

Natural Stride for Dogs Giveaway

Have you noticed lately that your four legged friend is slower moving when trying to get up? Sitting back and watching them age probably hurts you just as much as it hurts them.

Natural Stride can help bring back and maintain the spring in their step. Loaded with cetyl myristoleate, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid and more, you can maximize hip strength and joint movement, providing the best opportunity for your pet to live a long and healthy life.

To help you get started, Natural Solutions is going to provide 12 lucky winners with one packet each of Natural Stride.

 

TO ENTER:

1. Answer one of the following questions in the comments section of this post:

 

What do you currently do to help your pet with their aging process? or

If you currently use Natural Stride, what have your results been?

 

and

 

2. Tweet or Like the post 

 

THE RULES:
One entry per person, please. (Note: if you don't see your entry right away, please don't enter a second time. It will show up shortly!

No entries after 8:00 am Central Time Thursday, June 20, 2013.

Twelve winners will be selected at random and announced Friday, June 21, 2013. Each winner will receive one packet of Natural Stride.

Good Luck!

Live Chat

Valley Vet Supply is proud to introduce a new feature on our website this week. We are now offering Live Chat to all web customers. This feature allows all of our customers (or future customers) the option to chat with our Live Chat technicians. They are trained to answer most questions, and can aid in placing an order via the internet. Clicking on the icon to the right of the page that looks like: will send you directly to an agent for help. Live Chat is easy and fast. This feature is available Tuesday through Friday 8-5. Rachael

How Important My Dog’s Teeth Should Be

The first thing I do in the morning after I drag myself out of bed is brush my teeth. Dental hygiene is very important to me and my family.  So I got to thinking about how important my teeth are, and how important my dog’s teeth should be.

I was outside sitting in the backyard watching my 3 year old swing on his swing set. Out of nowhere, my two Basset Hounds come running up to me and start licking my face (gross). I really don’t like when they do this anyway, but that day both of them had bad breath that was worse than normal. So I looked around the yard to see if they had caught something and were eating it. The search was unsuccessful, until I looked in both of their mouths and they had some plaque and food build up along their gums.

This made me think about the last two years I have had my dogs, and why I have never taken their teeth into consideration other that the food I feed them. This bad breath situation needed to come to a stop, and I needed to do something to take better care of their teeth. So I went to my trusty Valley Vet Supply Direct Pet Super Store catalog, and found several items that could help with my situation.

In the catalog there were several Items that caught my eye. The one that I tried first was the Petrodex Combo Kit. This kit included a toothbrush with two heads, a finger brush, and toothpaste. This was a very interesting experience. After just one brushing I could see a difference in the plaque. This was a good way to get rid of some of the food build up they had, also. The toothpaste is poultry flavored so it was easy to get them to open their mouths to brush.

There was another product that I tried, and it was the Advanced Oral Care Liquid Tartar Remover made by Nylabone. This was so much easier to use when brushing was not an option.  This could help with that stubborn dog that will not let you brush.  It is a liquid that you pour into their water and as they drink it, it helps wash out the tartar and food build up. I also noticed, after using this product, that my dog’s breath was much better.  The Basset Hounds really didn't mind it in their water, and they drank every last drop.

The third product that I tried, and would have to say was the Bassets’ favorites, was the Greenies. These come in several different kinds for all types of dogs. They think it’s a treat, and I know its helping to keep their teeth clean. I give them one several times a week. This is so simple, and they have a great taste. When your dog chews on them, their teeth sink in, and this action helps clean the plaque off of their teeth. I love this way of cleaning for the simple fact that it is easy, and my dogs love the taste.

Who would have thought that doggie dental had so many options? I now know that my dogs need clean teeth just as much as I do. Valley Vet Supply has a wide variety of options to help keep your dog’s teeth clean. Good luck!  Rachael

Pet Radio Fencing

About a year ago I was thinking how sad it was to have my dogs on tethers in the back yard. They could only go about 25 feet and then they would stop. The poor girls could not play together for fear of getting them tangled together, and something bad happening.

I took my options into consideration, and since I rent my home, nothing could be permanent. So I thought about getting a pen that was already put together. I found that they don’t provide shade. I needed something so my dogs would not dig in the yard, and could find shade. The next option was the in-ground pet fences here at Valley Vet Supply. I really liked the concept of them being able to roam the whole back yard. The dogs are free to find shade, less chance of them knocking over there water, and could finally play together. This was also portable so if I move it goes with me.

The fence I decided to purchase was Stubborn Dog In Ground Fence. This was fairly easy to install. All I had to do was take a sidewalk edger, and run it along the perimeter of my yard. The best part about this was I got to choose where the fence went and where my dogs could not go. After the perimeter was lined out you just lay the fence wire in the 1/2" hole the edger made, and cover it. How easy is that? All there was left is to connect the wires to the box in the house and plug it in.

The next step was to introduce the dogs to their boundaries. I walked one at a time around the perimeter letting them hear the beeping from the collars, letting them associate the beeping as a warning they were too close to the boundary. My Bassets really picked the concept up fast. Every dog is different so read the directions for installation so your dog will be accepting to this wonderful change.

I love this fence and my dogs appreciate it too. My three year old loves that he can go play with the dogs and they won't wrap there tethers around his legs and trip him. I love it in the summer and winter so they can get out of the elements. I look at this as an investment for 2011-2012. They are a little pricey, but there is no maintenance other than replacing the batteries every 6 months or so. The electricity it uses is next to nothing, I didn’t even see a change in my next month’s bill. Not to mention my landlord is happy with my yard looking healthier and no holes from digging. Rachael

Holiday Pet Travel

Many of us travel during the holidays, whether it is down the block or across the country. Many of us have problems leaving a pet that is in the house. We have some simple solutions to making sure your pet is cared for even if you are not home.

Valley Vet Supply offers several different waters that are designed to keep fresh and de-iced water for your pet while you are away. The Fresh Flow Pet Fountain works to keep the water you give your pet fresh and clean by constantly cycling the water. Your pet can go a day or two with fresh water while you are away.

If you are worried that your pet will spill its water everywhere and be out while you are gone, there is the Fresh Flow Bowl. This bowl is designed with a “lip” to hold water in the bowl even when drinking. I know when I leave home for a day or two I worry whether my dogs will have water. These bowls are very affordable and easy to use.

There are also solutions for dispensing food. For most people they have to find someone to stop by and feed their pet or board them. The Pet Mate C3000 Automatic Dry Food Feeder is a great way to ensure your pet has food while you are away. This neat little feeder is on a pre-set timer. You can set this feeder to different times of the day or a day at a time to ensure the feeding schedule they are on when you are home.

This is just a few ways to ensure your pets are cared for when you are away enjoying your holiday and you cannot take them with you. I know my mind is at ease when my pets are in their own environment when I am away. Rachael

Gift Giving

The holidays are just around the corner. The smell of fall is in the air, and cooler weather is upon us. Some of us are just now starting our holiday shopping. I do most of my shopping at Valley Vet Supply. If you’re like me and are a late shopper, Valley Vet Supply has hundreds of gifts available.

Every year in our family we get new boots. It doesn’t matter if they are cowboy boots or muck boots, they are a hit. My three year old looks forward to opening that box with his new cowboy boots in it. Valley Vet Supply is my favorite place to get his boots not just because I work here, but because it is so easy to either shop the store or place an order for them. The selection is great and there are many brands to choose from. Tony Lama, Justin, and Ariat are just a couple of the brands we carry. Muck and Norcrosse are some great mud boot brands that we carry. Muck is a huge hit at our house, and in the last few years I have not heard complaining of cold or wet feet.

For the stubborn gift receivers I like to purchase gifts they use everyday. My dad happens to be one of those people. For Christmas, the best gift for him is clothes. Jeans and button down shirts are the only way to go. The catalog and web are full of great options for jeans. Valley Vet Supply carries several great brands such as Ariat, Levi’s, and my favorite, Wrangler. There are also updated styles for the younger guys, too, like the Wrangler Retro line. I was actually told the other day by a customer that we have the best size selection around. Her husband was an off size in length like a 33”, and we were the only company she could find that carries that size. Shirts are the same way. The selection is wonderful for all shapes and sizes.

The other aspect of my gift giving is for our furry friends. I have two Basset hounds, and they love gifts almost as much as my 3 year old. Some gift ideas for them would be the jolly egg which looks like an egg but hard so there medium sized breed can easily push around and chew on it without destroying it. Valley Vet Supply also carries a treat dispenser called a Kong. These can have several uses, not just a treat dispenser, but also as a durable chew toy or retrieving toy.

Here at Valley Vet Supply we also have some gift ideas for your larger pets, too. Horses are a huge part of many of our lives, and they deserve a treat for all their hard work they do for us throughout the year. One gift that I personally love to see those big guys play with is the Jolly Ball. They are used to keep a horse entertained and are a great training tool. Mrs. Pastures Christmas stockings are also a hit. They come in a cute stocking filled with these delicious horse cookies made by Mrs. Pastures. Valley Vet Supply also carries these treats in larger quantities for the multiple horse owner.

I love the smell of fall in the air, and the excitement of the holidays approaching fast. It’s the time of year when giving can be rewarding, and family is most important. Happy Holidays, Rachael

Holiday Shopping

Are you always looking for a bargain, and especially happy to get $$$ off and/or free shipping? Well, who wouldn’t want that, and especially at this time of year?

I had been hoarding a couple of gift cards from my birthday late this summer. It was such a decision to find what I wanted. The holidays, and the colder weather, helped me decide on sweaters and a new coat. With holiday cyber sales, I ended up paying only a few dollars and also got free shipping. I felt so successful!

Have you signed up for our "Secret Weekly Sales" emails on our website yet? While you are there, and you aren’t sure what would be the best gift, you too may want to send a gift card. We can email it to the lucky recipient and also mail a beautiful packet with the regular card. Included are catalogs for them to browse just in case they don’t have email. These are also great for the hard to buy for and the “wow, time has gone by so fast” last minute shopper. They also might want to hold on to a gift card and shop later, waiting for a sale if they haven’t quite figured out what it is they want to buy.

Our free shipping is every day of the year, so you don’t need to wait for that. We can check colors and measure items from our warehouse, see what is currently in stock, and much more. Just call us during normal hours at 800-419-9524. That helps so much when you have a specific question.

While you are checking out our exceptional item selection, don’t forget to shop for yourself! We are thankful for each of our customers and we wish you all a Safe and Blessed Christmas Season and New Year, Rachel

Winter is Fast Approaching

Winter is fast approaching. Are you ready? This is the perfect time of year to prepare for what winter is going to bring. So you may be asking yourself, “Where do I start, and what does Valley Vet Supply has to offer for winter weatherization?” Here are a few ideas to get you started.

In our Valley Vet Direct Pet edition, we have several items to keep your furry friend warm and comfortable during the up and coming cold months. The first thing that I am going to purchase is an electric heat pad. There are several available, ranging in watts and dimension. Most are waterproof, and they are all very durable.

The next item that is a great seller is our dog blankets, for the stubborn dog that won’t go outside in freezing weather. A blanket is a great way to keep you animal warm and dry while outside. Direct Pet Super Store has them in a variety of colors, deniers, and sizes. Most are water proof and easy to keep clean.

Valley Vet Supply has products for bigger animals, too, with everything from horse blankets to water deicers to keep your livestock watered, even in freezing conditions. Valley Vet Supply also has a variety of items in stock to help ensure the safety of your animal.

The Deicer that will really come in handy this winter is the Submergible Tank De-Icer. This de-icer can be used in any tank and only runs when needed. I personally hate having wet gloves and freezing hands after breaking ice in the tank. No more having to worry that your livestock won’t have water because of ice.

Valley Vet Supply has hundreds of items to help you get through the winter months. If there is something else you need and can not find it, our wonderful staff is always willing to help you. Feel free to call with any questions. Rachael

Are Holiday Plants Dangerous to Our Pets?

In general, many holiday plants and decorations pose some degree of risk for both dogs and cats. The good news is that it’s likely to take more than a few curious nibbles before ill effects are seen. Still, it’s good to be mindful of the signs and symptoms…..just in case!

Poinsettias are often thought to be extremely deadly. In reality, their danger is highly exaggerated. Frankly, most pets won’t ingest enough to become ill. Poinsettias don’t taste very good! Excessive drooling and mild stomach upset are the most common problem in pets that nibble on this plant.

Holly and mistletoe, on the other hand, pose a much higher degree of danger. Consumption of large amounts of holly can result in stomach upset along with depression of the central nervous system. Mistletoe can actually cause cardiovascular problems. If your pet exhibits unusual symptoms, don’t take any chances.

If you have a live Christmas tree in your home, avoid adding preservatives to the tree’s water. When a pet discovers a large bowl of fresh water in the living room, they are certain to take a drink….even if there is a Christmas tree inside. Stagnant water in the tree stand is potentially a breeding ground for bacteria, as well. In either case, stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea could occur.

Lilies, although more popular at Easter, offer serious risk to cats. A single leaf or even just the pollen of most lilies can send a cat into kidney failure. Be extremely careful with these plants!

Hopefully, your holiday celebration will be merry and without any pet problems.
Lori H

Curious Pets Love Holiday Decorations

Holidays and the traditions that surround them make this time of year especially festive. From decorating a tree to hanging mistletoe, we invest a lot of time and thought into creating the perfect holiday atmosphere. Have you ever wondered if any of your traditions might lead to a holiday pet emergency? A decorated Christmas trees is beautiful, but some ornaments and decorations can pose risks to dogs and cats. Have you ever known a cat who could resist the shiny glass ornaments hanging off of the branches? They are irresistible! A few playful bats and suddenly the festively colored globe shatters on the floor. Glass fragments can cut sensitive paws and noses ,and inevitably end up in our bare feet! Tinsel, ribbons and even lights can be dangerous for cats, and sometimes for dogs too. The string-like consistency of these decorations can be very problematic if a pet swallows the material. The string can lodge in the pet’s intestines and actually generate a saw-like motion, which could lead to perforation and eventually to peritonitis. Veterinarians refer to this as a “linear foreign body” and the outcome can be deadly. It’s not something we’d normally think about, but curious pets often wonder what’s wrapped inside of those gifts under the tree. Presents that contain any sort of food can be sniffed out and irresistible to some pets! Sometimes mere curiosity can lead an enthusiastic pet to eat ribbon, bows or wrapping paper. When giving your pets their presents, be sure to monitor them with their new toys or chews. The excitement of the season can lead to overeating and stomach upset for every member of the family!