Fun With The Dog Archives | Page 9 of 9 | Splash and Dash For Dogs

Pet Look-A-Like Contest Sponsored by Splash and Dash

Working in an office does not always have to be boring. Some companies are trying to make the office more exciting for employees. This is one of the reasons why Splash and Dash sponsored a Pet Look Alike Contest for the employees.

What it Entailed

Employees were notified about this contest and were told to submit a photo of them with their pet. These would then be judged to determine a first place winner along with runners up. The winner of the contest received a gift basket with dog treats and toys from Splash and Dash as well as a $50 gift card. The first runner up received a $100 gift card and the second runner up received a $50 gift card.

Who Won?

After the judging ended there were several good attempts and the winners were selected. These were the top three for the contest:

Winner

While this pup named Daisy does not have on glasses, it is easy to see the similarities here. The golden color of the pups face and ears is a perfect match for Kelli’s golden hair- the wave in the hair is also perfect!

First Runner Up

This pit bull named Kratos shares a distinctly serious facial expression with his pet parent Antonio. It is easy to see the love between the two as well.

Second Runner Up

We’re not sure who looks more like who in this side by side picture. Hollie the dog shares the same expression as her owner Paul. While it may not be as close a match as the other two it is adorably funny!

About Splash and Dash and the Contest

Splash and Dash is a fun company that has the vision of making pet ownership easier and more fun while also improving the lives of dogs the world over. If your company is interested in having a contest sponsored by Splash and Dash, give us a call today. For those that do not own their own company but think this would be fun for their office, talk with your boss and have them give us a call. We love to get involved in the community. Those interested in opening their own pet franchise can feel free to contact us as well. There are plenty of opportunities to expand your desire and love for pets.

October 17, 2014/by Dan J. Barton

Easy Trick or Treating Tips to Get the Best Dog Food

For many, Halloween is the best day of the year. You get to dress up as your favorite character and go for a walk to get delicious treats. More and more people are involving their pets in the Halloween festivities. If you are planning on doing this, then there are some tips you will want to keep in mind from dog food to costumes and everything in between.

Tips for the Costume

The first thing you will want to think about is whether or not your dog is comfortable wearing a costume. There are many dogs who like to be au natural, which is perfectly fine. You do not want to force a dog who does not want to wear a costume to do so as this will cause undue stress which is never healthy for a dog (or person).

If you do choose to put your pup in a costume, make sure it fits them properly. Restrictive costumes can injure your dog when worn for long periods of time just as costumes that are too big can cause a tripping hazard for the dog. Be sure that their tags are on even with the costume in the event that they get loose. It is also helpful to have your dog wear the costume several times before the big night so they are comfortable in it.

Staying at Home

If you plan to stay at home with your pet and hand out candy you can still dress your dog up. Trick or treaters love to see your dog all dressed up as this is part of the fun with the holiday. Here are a few tips to consider:

Put down dog food before people start showing up. Eating the dog food beforehand can help to make your dog more calm.
Also, take your dog outside before as well so this is not an issue.
If you have pumpkins, be sure to use flameless candles in them to keep your dog from knocking them over.
Some people find it helpful to start working with their dog a few days before by continually knocking on the door or ringing the bell so the dog is not too stressed when the day arrives.
For dogs that are easily stressed out, create a calm space for them or even invest in a thundershirt.

Going Around the Neighborhood

When you go trick or treating, it can be a lot of fun to take your dog with you. While your dog cannot eat candy- especially the chocolate kind- this does not mean that they cannot enjoy the night themselves. Many pet parents choose to make small healthy treats for their dog. This dog food gives them something they can give to people who want to feed their dog during the night.

It is also a good idea to have someone go with you. This way there is one person watching the children and one watching the dogs. You want to make sure you are aware of your surroundings which is hard in the dark and two sets of eyes are better than one. Also, make sure you have doggie bags in the event that your pup has to potty while out.
Finally, having a well trained dog is imperative to creating a safe and fun environment on Halloween. Your dog should know basic commands, such as leave it in the event that they come across candy or other items they should not have. With the right dog food and attention to detail you can have a fun and safe night on Halloween.

All images in the blog are from our Pinterest board.

October 8, 2014/by Dan J. Barton

Fun With The Dog

8 Dogs Who Don’t Want to Share Their Dog Food

Dogs are known for their amazing personalities. Just as they can be sweet and endearing, there are some dogs who simply do not want to share. This may be with dog food, a favorite toy or something else. Here are the best videos we have found of these dogs.

Yorkie Refuses to Share with Cat

These happen to be the pets of Splash and Dash founder and CEO Dan J. Barton. Mercedes the Yorkie is seen here eating food off a plate. When Moxy the cat tries to share in the food, hilarity ensues.

This video even sparked this adorable dog shaming picture:

The Ice Cream Hog

In this dog’s defense, who doesn’t have a sweet tooth? Maybe he was hot and in need of something cold and creamy. Either way it is adorable the way he gobbles up this ice cream cone in one bite.

A Pug on a Rug

Not all dogs are possessive when it comes to dog food. This pug for instance has a square of carpet that must be his best friend. Not even people can touch it without him taking offense.

The Tiny Terrorizer

This video shows that size doesn’t determine whether you want to share or not. This puppy is only a fraction of the size of the other dog, yet the way he defends his dog food scares the bigger one!

Pug Won’t Share With the Baby

In all fairness, this pug is very well behaved with the baby. However, when the baby goes for the pug, things get silly. Maybe he doesn’t like to share or maybe he simply doesn’t think the little tyke can properly gum the cookie. Either way it is a cuteness overload.

Brave Dog Defends His Water Bowl

On one hand, we have to hand it to this dog for having the guts to stand up to a tiger, especially a baby tiger whose paws are about the size of the dogs head. On the other hand, the poor tiger cub just wants a little water and tries to get creative.

Dog with a Bone

This is a tale as old as time. Everyone knows that dogs love bones which is probably why this dog has no desire to share. It sounds like this dog is trying to tell him to get lost while defending his bone from his pet parents.

The Happy Ending

This video starts off with a dog that will not share its huge dog chew. He even jumps up next to the other dog to flaunt it in his face. At the end of the video the other dog has a piece of the chew. Whether the dog decided to share or the pet parents made him share is unknown, but yay for sharing!

October 4, 2014/by Dan J. Barton

Fun With The Dog

Advanced Tricks Your Dog Can Learn

Once your dog has mastered the basic commands, such as sit and stay, they are able to move on to learning tricks. While there are basic tricks such as roll over, it can be more impressive to teach your dog more advanced tricks. As long as you and your dog know the basics these tricks can be taught with time and patience with good rewards you can pick up at the pet store.

Close the Door

This is a fun trick for dogs that can also impress your guests. It is also perfect for homes with babies and toddlers you do not want going into the different rooms of your house. There are many videos out there on teaching this trick, but we have found this one to be the most helpful.

Get You a Drink

The name of this video tutorial may be get me a beer, you can send your dog to the fridge to get you the beverage of your choice. Just as with closing the door, you will have to train your dog in steps to master this trick. You will also need to have a tool they can use to open the fridge since they do not have thumbs.

Bang Trick

This is the classic fun dog trick. It involves telling your dog to stick ‘em up with your hand in the shape of a gun, then saying bang which is when your dog falls to ground and plays dead. This can take months to teach your dog. Once you have taught your dog this trick you can teach them to writhe around while “dying”, be shot multiple times and even bark when they have been shot.

Where’s Your Bum

This is a fun trick to teach your dog. It is perfect if you want to get a laugh while you are out with your dog, such as at the pet store. In order to learn this trick you will need to teach your dog commands such as look at me, bow and spin which are great to know and found in this video tutorial.

Cover Your Eyes

This is a trick that is simple to master but can only be worked on for short periods of time simply because it can be annoying for your dog. Due to the annoyance they will feel with scotch tape on their nose, make sure you visit the pet store to get them high value treats.

Clean Your Paws

Not only do pet parents want their pets to have good manners, but they want to minimize dirt in the house. This is the perfect trick for accomplishing this. It is a fun trick that is sure to impress anyone, especially when you are at your local pet store.

These are just a few of the tricks you can teach your dog and show off when you are at the pet store, dog park or even just have company over. They keep your dog’s mind working which helps keep them healthy. This is only the beginning of possibilities for training as long as you are patient with your pup.

August 27, 2014/by Dan J. Barton

Fun With The Dog, Pet Store

5 Ideas for a Fun Weekend with Your Dog

As a pet parent you know it is important to spend quality time with your dog. While walks and just going to the pet store are fun, there are other ways that you can have a fun day this weekend with your pet. Here are a few activities away from the pet store to keep your pet active.

1. Have a Scavenger Hunt

This one is a creative way to work your dog’s mind in a fun way. To start, go to your local pet store and pick up high value treats for your dog. You can even pick up a few toys if you want as well. Then place them around your backyard while your dog is inside. Then bring your dog out and let them hunt. You may want to help point them in the right direction if they are new to this game.

2. Go for a Swim

Most dogs love water. If you have a pool, then make it a day at the pool with your pooch. If not, then you can always find other water sources for your dog. There are many dog beaches where you can take your pet. Even if your dog does not like the pool, it could be due to the chlorine and you will find they love the natural water. This is a great exercise for everyone!

3. Go for a Hike

It is no secret that dogs love new smells. Take your dog to an area that you have never been to before. This will give them the chance to find new scents and sights while getting some exercise. Just make sure you have the proper supplies, such as plenty of water for your dog. You can pick up a portable water bowl from your pet store.

4. Find a Meetup

There are many breeds that do meetups in different areas. This can be a fun way to let your dog socialize and play with other dogs that are their size. If there isn’t one in your area, start one! Even if it is not breed specific it can be fun to get together with your friends and their dogs at the dog park for an afternoon of playing and hanging out.

5. Work on Training

Training is essential for your dog to be a good canine citizen. Even if your pet has mastered basic commands, there are fun tricks you can teach them. This can be anything from how to close a door to completing an obstacle course. While you should not expect them to learn the new trick in one weekend, this can be a fun way to introduce a new trick and bond with your pet. After training your pet it never hurts to find a great place to take them to get cleaned up. Splash and Dash is a wonderful option. If you are interested in owning your own pet store franchise check out our Affordable Franchise in Texas opportunities.

July 31, 2014/by Dan J. Barton

Fun With The Dog, Pet Safety

Scared Dog Alert! Minimize Dog’s Fear of Fireworks

Many dogs are afraid of booming flashing light in the sky and pet parents forget about how this can remove dog safety from the situation. Dogs are as sensitive as a recently dumped fourteen year old boy. Dogs feel, hear, and smell everything exponentially better than humans. If a surprise firework makes you jump, imagine what it does to a poor dog’s heart. It’s not a shock that dogs are afraid of fireworks, but there are ways to ease the phobia out of the pet so you can both enjoy Fourth of July and dog safety this year.

It all boils down to desensitizing or preventing exposure to your dog. Between the amplified loud sounds and the gun powder, it’s generally not good for dog safety if you bring your dog to a fireworks show. If you’re planning to surround yourself with fireworks and festivities this weekend and your dog will be nearby, consider the following dog safety tips:

Plan Ahead for Dog Safety

Prepare your plan for activities ahead of time and when they will happen. This way you can better prepare your dog by moving him away from the loud noise. Before you shoot off fireworks, you should know how your dog responds to them and to others. If your dog becomes very nervous, it will be better to get her away from people to prevent accidental biting or nervous responses. Never force a dog to be in a situation they don’t want to be. This can be dangerous for you and your pet.

Build a Hideaway

Build your dog a safe space in your home or wherever you are. Prior to festivities, make sure your dog knows that space is theirs. If you’re at home, note where your dog tends to run to when you have guests or when she is stressed:

Look for the area that makes your dog the happiest. Is it behind the sofa? Next to the radiator? Choose the place your dog is most comfortable being.
Pad the area with comfortable and safe bedding. Add extra padding to reduce vibrations from the fireworks.
Keep the room darker.
Place your pets favorite toys nearby.

Remain Calm

It is important to maintain a calm behavior around the dog to not strengthen the dog’s phobia on Fourth of July or other firework holidays. However, you don’t want to baby your dog. Don’t react to fireworks yourself either. Fireworks can make you as jumpy as you dog is. Resist the temptation to jump out of your skin or tense up for dog safety. Dogs can read your body language and would understand if there is a reason to be scared.
Again, you should never force your dog to be in a situation that is uncomfortable and unnecessary. A scared dog might become an aggressive dog and put human and dog safety at risk. We hope this helps you and your family have a great Fourth of July! Happy Independence Day!

June 26, 2014/by Dan J. Barton

Fun With The Dog

Halloween Costume Ideas for Your Dog

Halloween is a great holiday that just about everyone loves. There’s the excitement of choosing the right costume and the fun of going out in your costume. If you are lucky you may even get in a few scares during the holiday. It is natural to want to include your dog in the festivities and there is no better way to do this than getting them in costume.

Choosing the Right Dog Costume at the Pet Store

When you go to the pet store you may find isles of dog costumes and you can find countless pages of costumes online. So which one do you go with? This is the age old question of pet parents. The simple answer: keep it fun. Here are a few of our favorites that can help you to get a better idea for this Halloween.

Chia Pet Costume

Your dog is your pet so this really is a no brainer. It is fun and clever.

Martini Costume

Just because your pup is in a cone doesn’t mean they have to be excluded! With a little ingenuity and a trip to the craft store, you can create a fun and tasteful look for your dog.

Freddy Krueger Dog

Hey, it’s Halloween. Don’t be scared to pick up this costume at the pet store.

Ewok Dog

If you have a small dog with a lot of facial hair and love Star Wars there is no better choice- unless you have a goldendoodle and then Chewbacca is the only option.

Pirate dog

This is the infamous optical illusion costume that makes it look like there are two people or dogs in one. There will be jokes all night long about how you’re looking for treasure while trick or treating.

Batman Costume

If you are a fan of the dark knight, either on screen or in the comics, this is the perfect way to dress up your pooch. This is also a great costume if you want to coordinate with other family members.

Ghost dog

This is proof that if you have a white sheet, black marker and scissors, your dog can still have an adorable costume! Great when you forget a costume while you’re at the pet store.

Marilyn Monroe dog

Does your dog love fashion? Then they will look great as this iconic lady. If nothing else people will get a kick out of your dogs plastic breasts.

Mr. T

This is the perfect costume if you want to walk around all night saying great lines such as “I pity a fo’”

Elvis Dog

There are many options for Elvis costumes out there and who wouldn’t want want their pet dressed as the King. However, some costumes are poor quality so be careful when buying.

January 1, 2000/by Dan J. Barton

Pet Look-A-Like Contest Sponsored by Splash and Dash