Surf Dogs Hit Australian Shores!

Lookout surfing world, a new breed of furry surfers are ready to steal the show as part of our sister sites VetShopAustralia.com.au Surf Dog Spectacular which will take place on March 11, 2012 at 4:30pm as a main attraction of the opening ceremony at the annual Noosa Festival of Surfing.

The VetShopAustralia.com.au Surfing Dog Spectacular, sponsored by Bayer, is tipped to be a favourite event this year for the spectators at the Noosa Festival of Surfing and is also set to make history, being the first ever official surfing dog event to be held in Australia.

After having watched the surfing dog craze take off in the US with an annual contest now held every year in California, we thought it was about time the Aussie dogs had a chance to hit the water and show everyone what they have got.

Chris De Aboitiz and Lani in action

Headlining the Surfing dog event will be former world tandem surfing champion and professional dog trainer Chris De Aboitiz who has been riding waves with his super surf dog Lani for years. Chris has also taught many other surfing dogs how to ride a wave, with a selection of them also set to show off their doggy surfing skills at the event.

Since the early beach boys started taking their dogs out in the surf with them at famous surf break, Waikiki more than 90 years ago, the sport has made stars out of some of them and can today be seen internationally as a sport some owners get very serious about.

The VetShopAustralia.com.au Dog Surf Spectacular will be an exhibition only event this year and strictly for fun, so if your in the area or live close by, come on down to see some super surf dogs carving up the waves!

Visit the Noosa Festival of Surfing Website

Join our VetShopOnline Facebook Page for event updates.

5 Quick Tips for a Winter Fit Pet!

Here is 5 quick winter tips for all pet owners to make sure you and your pet keep fit and active this winter!

ok just a few more push ups

1. Brave the Chill and get outside
   
   It might be a freezing thought, yet getting outside in winter for a walk is still important. Try to get moving for at least 20 minutes a day to give your pet a chance to exercise. Make sure you rug up and put a winter coat on your furry friend too!
   
   
2. Be Creative indoors
   If the weather is really bad, then try some indoor fun. Activities such as fetching the ball, running up and down stairs and tug of war will let your pet get rid of some energy while staying warm inside. Get your pet some fun toys and let the games begin!
    
3. Beware of the Winter Wobble
   Just like humans, winter is the perfect time for pets to put on a few extra kilos. It is important to keep an eye on your pet's eating habits to avoid them adding any extra unwanted weight during winter. 
   
   
4. Organize play dates
   Letting your dog play with other pets can be another great way for them to be active. Have a fellow four legged friend pay them a visit for some fun and games, without you having to even lift a finger.
   
   
5. Vet checks are important
   Be aware that in the colder months your pet will have a much higher chance of suffering from joint pain. The cold weather can make any stiff joints and muscles very uncomfortable, so take your pet for a visit at the vet to make sure they are in good health or purchase some joint supplements.
   

Join our VetShopOnline Facebook Page for lots of pet tips, contests and entertainment! 

Happy New Year!

From Dr Mark and all the team at VetShopOnline.com we hope you and your pets have a fantastic 2012.

VetShopOnline Photo Caption Contest #3

We all love funny pictures of cute animals, so this month we have decided to give a prize to the three people who come up with the funniest captions for this photo.

Simply post your funny caption in the comments section of this photo on our vetshoponline.com facebook page to go in the running to win a Frontline Plus Grooming Kit for your dog or cat. 

Visit our Facebook page and enter now!

Bayer 20% off Combo Promotion

The offer you have been waiting for has finally arrived! For a limited time only simply add either Kilitx, Drontal or Profender to your order when purchasing Advantage or Advantix and get a massive 20% off both products.

The savings are huge and Christmas time is certainly the time when every saving counts. Your pets will also appreciate being protected from any unwanted pests during the holiday season as well as all year round. Be quick and order today as this offer is only available until the 31st of January 2011.

Click here for the full Bayer promotion details.

Sharing the Smiles this Holiday Season

The holidays are a time for family and presents, but it's also a time for giving thanks for what we have and if we can, for helping others. Each year since we started business in 1999, VetShopOnline has made a donation to World Vision in the name of our staff and customers, as a way of showing our appreciation and also helping some of the poorest people in the planet.

By partnering with World Vision  through the "Smiles" program, our donations are given by way of farm animals which help improve the life of the recipients, and not only does World Vision provide the animals but also training in animal welfare, so we know the recipients care for their animals well.

Years ago our donations started off as just a few chickens, but now we're proud to be able to donate a whole stable each year. Comprising two donkeys, two cows, two goats, four ducks, and six chickens with chicken feed these farm animals help to fight poverty on many levels and bring great joy to those who raise them and the stable is a lovely tie in to the traditional story of Christmas.  For example, take a look at this video of Edward and his family:



We hope you all agree it's another great way that animals can bring joy and happiness in to people's lives.

Best wishes for the festive season everyone.

The Top 5 Thanksgiving Tips for Pets

Thanksgiving is a fun time for everyone with the family getting together to enjoy feasts and all types of festive fun. With all the excitement taking place it can be easy for us to forget about our pets' safety. Check out the top 5 Thanksgiving tips for pets to make sure you are aware of all the ways to make your pet's Thanksgiving safe and enjoyable.

1. Pet Treats Only

Be careful to watch what your pet is eating during Thanksgiving celebrations. Many foods that are on the table such as chocolate, nuts and fatty meats can cause harm to our pets. Best thing to do is give your dog some pet friendly treats so they can enjoy a little feast to.

2. Keep Doors and Gates Shut

Friends and family will come and go throughout the festive celebrations. Take all precautions and check that gates and doors are being closed as visitors arrive and depart to ensure our pets have no chance of escaping.

3. No Alcohol

Alcohol and pets do not mix so under no circumstances is it ok to share your drinks with your favorite furry friend. Dogs and cats are highly susceptible to the poisonous affects of alcohol due to them being much smaller in size than humans.

4. Have a Designated Pet Area

With a house full of people it can scary for pets so a good idea is to make a little area specifically for them. Put some of their toys, water and a comfortable bed in the room so they can feel relaxed.

5. Rubbish Free Zone

Be sure to dispose of any leftovers and waste to avoid your pet getting hold of anything that might be harmful. Pets are curious creatures which is why all rubbish must be put away properly so they have no chance of getting their paws into trouble.

From the entire team at VetShopOnline.com we wish everybody a safe and happy Thanksgiving.