Buckle Up, Bark-istas: The Road to Safe and Stylish Adventures for Your Furry Co-Pilot!


The wind in their fur, the excitement in their eyes – it’s no secret that many dogs absolutely adore car rides. But while their wagging tails and eager expressions bring us joy, it’s crucial to prioritize their safety. Just as we buckle up for our own protection, our furry companions should also be securely restrained during car journeys. Allowing a dog to roam freely within the vehicle can create a host of safety hazards for both the driver and the dog. However, fear not! Luckily, there are simple, comfortable, and stylish solutions to this common dilemma. In this article, we will explore the importance of dog safety in the car and delve into the various options available that ensure our canine friends can enjoy their rides while remaining secure. Get ready to discover how a little precaution goes a long way in keeping our furry passengers safe and sound on the road.


It’s a familiar sight on the roads – dogs happily bounding around the car, seemingly enjoying the freedom of movement. However, this seemingly harmless scenario can quickly turn into a dangerous situation. Dogs that roam freely in the car pose risks not only to themselves but also to the driver and other passengers. The furry companions we adore so much might inadvertently jump in the way of the driver, obstructing their vision and causing potential accidents. Moreover, their playful antics can be highly distracting, diverting the driver’s attention from the road. While some dogs may be better behaved in the car than others, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. By using a proper restraint system, such as a dog car seat or harness, we can ensure the safety of our beloved canines and minimize the potential for accidents or distractions. After all, the saying “better safe than sorry” couldn’t be more relevant when it comes to our four-legged passengers on the road.

Fortunately, for those seeking a safe and stylish solution to ensure their dog’s security in the car, PetLondon comes to the rescue. One of their standout offerings is the Luxe Faux Leather Car Seat, available in sleek shades of grey and cream. Crafted from high-quality faux leather, this car seat boasts waterproof properties, making it resilient against various conditions. Attaching it to your car is a breeze, simply by pulling a regular seat belt through the two restraint straps. The seat comes complete with a safety leash that can be easily attached to your dog’s harness, keeping them securely in place during the ride. Not only does this car seat prioritize safety, but it also provides exceptional comfort for your furry companion. Combining functionality and fashion, PetLondon’s Luxe Faux Leather Car Seat ensures that your dog can travel in style and utmost comfort, turning heads on the road while maintaining their safety.

For those seeking a lightweight yet effective solution, PetLondon also offers a range of simple dog seat belts that are both practical and stylish. These seat belts come in a variety of colors and patterns (Baxter Seatbelt, Leonard Seatbelt, and Legend Seatbelt), allowing you to choose the one that best suits your dog’s personality. The concept is straightforward: one end of the seat belt attaches to your dog’s harness, while the other end easily buckles into a standard seat buckle. This ingenious design ensures that your canine companion remains securely fastened, providing peace of mind during your journey. With your dog safely restrained, you can keep your focus on the road, without worrying about any potential distractions. PetLondon’s dog seat belts are a convenient and reliable option, allowing you to prioritize your dog’s safety while maintaining a smooth and enjoyable ride.

In conclusion, when it comes to traveling with our furry friends, prioritizing pet car safety is essential. Whether it’s utilizing a luxurious faux leather car seat or opting for a lightweight and practical dog seat belt, there are stylish and reliable solutions available. By ensuring that our dogs are securely restrained during car journeys, we can minimize distractions, reduce the risk of accidents, and provide them with a comfortable and secure travel experience. So, let’s hit the road with peace of mind, knowing that we have taken the necessary precautions to keep our beloved pets safe while enjoying our adventures together.

Quenching the Canine Thirst: Mastering the Art of Keeping Your Dog Cool and Hydrated in the Sizzling Summer Heat

As summer arrives with its warm temperatures, it’s only natural to want to embark on outdoor adventures with our furry companions. However, we must be mindful of the potential dangers that excessive heat can pose to our dogs. While spending quality time together under the sun is enjoyable, it’s crucial to remember that too much heat and insufficient water can create a deadly combination for our four-legged friends. Hydration becomes paramount during these sweltering days, as dogs are more susceptible to dehydration. Being aware of the signs of dehydration and prioritizing adequate hydration throughout the day can help ensure our dogs stay safe and healthy as we navigate the summer heat.

In the summer heat, it’s vital to hydrate our dogs frequently and appropriately. Offer frequent amounts of water every 15-20 minutes when the heat is excessive. One essential rule to remember is to allow your dog to pause and stop panting before encouraging them to drink water. This helps prevent potential choking hazards. It’s crucial to be vigilant for signs of dehydration, such as unusual lethargy, dry gums, or sunken eyes. If you notice any of these signs, offer water to your dog immediately. If their condition does not improve, it is advisable to seek the guidance of a local veterinarian for a thorough examination. Summer heat and dehydration should never be taken lightly when it comes to the well-being of our beloved pets.

Fortunately, in this modern era, we have access to convenient solutions for keeping our dogs hydrated even when on the go. Carrying a bulky water bowl while out and about can be cumbersome and wasteful, especially if our furry friends don’t consume all the water poured out. Thankfully, PetLondon has available an ingenious product called the No Waste Travel Water Bottle. This innovative device allows you to store water for your journey in the base of the bottle. When your dog gets thirsty, simply squeeze the water into the attached bowl on top. Once your pup has quenched their thirst, you can drain any remaining water back into the bottle, avoiding any wastage. With this smart technology, traveling with your dog on hot summer days becomes easier, more efficient, and safer for their hydration needs.

Another excellent option for on-the-go hydration is PetLondon’s Collapsible Water Bowl. Available in a variety of adorable colors to suit your preference, this bowl offers convenience and portability. The bowl can be collapsed into a flat disc shape, allowing it to easily fit into a small bag or even your pocket. When your dog is thirsty, simply pull out the bowl and expand it to its full size. Pour water into the bowl, allowing your furry friend to quench their thirst wherever you may be. This collapsible design ensures that you always have a reliable water source for your pup, without the added bulk and hassle of carrying a traditional water bowl.


Dehydration can be a concerning issue, especially during hot summer days, but rest assured that there are several innovative solutions available to ensure your pet stays hydrated on the go. By being mindful of the signs of dehydration and taking proactive steps to keep your pup hydrated, you can navigate the summer heat with confidence. Whether it’s using products like the No Waste Travel Water Bottle or the Collapsible Water Bowl from PetLondon, these modern options make hydrating your furry friend convenient and hassle-free. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your pet’s well-being. Take necessary precautions and exercise vigilance during these scorching days, so both you and your furry companion can enjoy the warmth of summer without any worries. Stay hydrated and have a fantastic summer together!

Unleashing Comfort and Convenience: The Magic of Dog Slings

In a bustling world filled with endless adventures, our beloved canine companions often accompany us on our journeys, be it traversing the vibrant streets of London or welcoming a new puppy into our homes. However, ensuring their comfort, safety, and socialization can pose unique challenges. This is where the magical world of dog slings comes into play. These versatile accessories offer a practical solution for pet owners, allowing them to keep their furry friends close, comfortable, and out of harm’s way while navigating crowded spaces like the bustling tubes of London. Furthermore, for those who have recently welcomed a new puppy, dog slings provide a safe and secure means to introduce them to the world, allowing for socialization while adhering to the cautionary period of avoiding pavement walks. Join us as we delve into the world of dog slings, exploring their usefulness and importance in enhancing our pets’ well-being and enriching our shared experiences.

What dog sling is right for you?

When it comes to dog slings, the options are as diverse as our furry friends themselves. From stylish and fashionable designs to ergonomic and functional features, there is a wide array of choices available. Selecting the right fit for you and your canine companion is crucial to ensure both comfort and practicality. Consider factors such as size, weight capacity, adjustability, and material quality. A well-fitting dog sling will provide proper support, distribute weight evenly, and allow for easy movement while keeping your pet secure and cozy. Whether you’re looking for a sling for everyday use or specific activities like hiking or traveling, taking the time to choose the perfect match will enhance your overall experience and make outings with your pup a delightful and stress-free affair.

Kangaroo Dog Sling

The Kangaroo Dog Sling, available at PetLondon, is the epitome of comfort and style. Crafted from a lightweight and cozy material, this sling provides the perfect combination of support and relaxation for your furry friend. Available in both dark grey and light grey options, it effortlessly complements any outfit you choose for your day’s adventures. The fabric is as soft as your favorite sweatshirt, enveloping your dog in a gentle embrace that keeps them feeling snug and content. With the Kangaroo Dog Sling, you can easily carry out your daily tasks while ensuring your pet’s comfort and security. Whether you’re strolling through the park, running errands, or enjoying a cup of coffee at a local cafe, this sling allows you to keep your pup close while keeping your hands free. Say goodbye to bulky carriers and hello to a fashionable and functional accessory that will make both you and your canine companion happy.

Mesh Pet Sling

When the summer heat is at its peak, keeping our furry friends cool and comfortable becomes a top priority. That’s where the Mesh Pet Sling comes to the rescue. Designed with breathability in mind, this sling is perfect for those scorching summer days. The mesh material allows a refreshing breeze to flow right through, providing ventilation and effectively cooling off your pet. Not only does it keep them refreshed, but it also ensures their comfort during your outings. The Mesh Pet Sling may be a bit bulkier compared to other options, but the benefits are well worth it. Its airy construction and lightweight feel make it an ideal choice for both you and your pet to beat the heat while enjoying your summer adventures together. Say goodbye to overheating worries and embrace the cooling relief of the Mesh Pet Sling. Your pet will thank you for the extra comfort and breathability it provides on those hot, sunny days.

Hug Me Dog Sling Carrier

The Hug Me Dog Sling Carrier is the epitome of convenience and comfort. Designed with a lightweight and comfortable material, this sling offers a feather-light option for pet owners on the go. Its versatility shines as it can be easily folded up and tucked into your purse or day bag, making it perfect for travel or spontaneous outings. Switching from the sling to the leash is a breeze, allowing for seamless transitions as you navigate various environments. Not only is it a practical choice for you, but it also prioritizes your pet’s comfort. The Hug Me Dog Sling Carrier provides a cozy and secure space for your furry friend to relax, snuggle up, and enjoy the closeness of your company. With its lightweight design and pet-centric comfort, this sling offers a truly enjoyable and hassle-free experience for both you and your beloved pet.

Snuggle Sling

The Snuggle Sling offers yet another level of comfort and convenience for both you and your furry companion. Available in a vibrant light blue color, it adds a touch of liveliness to your outings. This sling features a thoughtful safety clip that can be attached to your pet’s harness, providing an extra layer of security for those moments when they get a little too enthusiastic about their surroundings. The Snuggle sling strikes a perfect balance with its material, not too thick nor too thin, ensuring a pleasant and cozy experience for your pet. With its comfortable design and attention to safety, the Snuggle sling becomes a reliable and enjoyable option for you and your beloved pet to explore the world together.

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In conclusion, Dog slings are a wonderful solution for pet owners seeking enhanced mobility and close companionship with their furry friends. As we have explored different options, such as the Kangaroo Dog Sling, Mesh Pet Sling, Hug Me Dog Sling Carrier, and Snuggle Sling, we find that each sling offers its own unique benefits, catering to various situations and personal preferences. Whether you prioritize lightweight materials, breathability for hot summer days, or easy portability for travel, there is a perfect sling for every pet and owner duo. These slings provide a level of convenience and closeness that surpasses traditional carriers, allowing you to keep your pet comfortably close while having your hands free for daily tasks or adventures. Whichever sling you choose, you can rest assured that you are selecting a reliable and comfortable option for your beloved pet. Embrace the world of dog slings, and embark on new adventures with your furry companion by your side.

Boredom Busters, Ideas to Try at Home to Keep Your Dog Entertained

Make your pooch’s day by creating a fun doggy scavenger hunt!

We understand that it is sometimes difficult to always keep your dog entertained, especially when living in a city! With Easter just around the corner, what better way to entertain your dog than an indoor scavenger hunt? Dogs are natural scavengers, so this fun game creates a challenge and plays on their instincts, allowing them to exercise their canine hunting skills, even when cooped up indoors!

Warm up by having your dog in sit-stay, and show him/her a healthy treat – our Coconut Chia Treats are full of chia seed goodness and work perfectly. Place the treat behind a chair and say ‘Find the treat’, or something similar and let your dog search for and retrieve their treat. Repeat as many times as necessary until your pooch gets the hang of it.

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Once your dog has grasped the game, pretend to hide treats all around the room, but in fact only hide one or two. Keep it simple for the first few times. After a while you can make things more advanced by hiding the treats in empty boxes or wrapping them in a doggy blanket to mask the smell. Empty herbal tea boxes or toilet rolls work well for this. As well as providing entertainment on a rainy day, this indoor scavenger hunt allows you to practice your commands with your furry friend. Add an extra level of fun to the game by incorporating some toys! Filling one of our Mojo Flavoured Treat Balls with a tasty treat and hiding it will create even more of a challenge once your dog sniffs it out! The oblong shape of the toy creates a random and unpredictable bounce that is sure to keep your pooch entertained for hours, with the added bonus of cleaning their teeth and maintaining their dental hygiene!

Simply begin the game with your chosen command and let your dog scour the room for the prizes. Be sure to praise your happy pooch when they find them! Happy scavenging!

Marauding around Marylebone – The Ultimate Doggy Day Out

Nestled in the heart of London, Marylebone’s village-like atmosphere is the perfect place for a day out with your dog. PetLondon has been part of this community for over ten years; our showroom is a true-to-life Aladdin’s cave for all your doggy needs. The area is bursting with a variety of dog friendly activities and we want to share all the hidden gems with you. This is the only guide you will need for the ultimate adventure with your canine companion.

Start off your morning exploring Marylebone High Street, it’s a haven for shopping, food and culture – a perfect blend of individuality and character rarely found in a city centre.  This unique vibrant high-street is warm and welcoming, with a plethora of boutiques to explore as you stroll down the pleasantly bustling avenue.  Most of the shops are super dog friendly, but the winner all round has to be Lululemon – it hands out dog treats! We love their store, not only for their excellent range of premium quality and chic sports wear but also their ‘amour-propre’ laid back manifesto to life. It’s our guilty pleasure to indulge in some new apparel for the morning run with the dog. 

John Lewis on Oxford St is an icon boosting the latest in shopping technology over six different floors. This beloved institution is now dog-friendly and we can highly recommend we give them a visit to shop to your hearts content.

After some well needed retail therapy, we implore you to grab a luscious coffee at Illy Cafe on Regent’s street, where the spacious seating outside is perfect to soak up some sunshine with your canine , and relax as the world goes by. Make sure to order their Cappuccino – it’s to die for! Don’t forget to visit us whilst walking up Wigmore Street. Our showroom is a paradise for dogs; we have a huge range of premium products, from grooming and garments to treats and toys. Just ring the buzzer of No.16,  we are on the fourth floor.

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With a new harness or lead in hand, head over to Paddington Street Gardens, located just around the corner, it’s a total hidden gem. Opened in 1886 by HRH Princess Louise, these beautiful public gardens are perfect for dogs and owners of varying energy levels to stretch their legs. This lovely secluded spot located between Marylebone and Baker Street is popular with local residents. Park dwellers  always seem to be  spotted relaxing on the deckchairs which can be hired, and these gardens are the home for the annual Marylebone’s Summer Fayre which takes place in June each year.  If you are visiting of a weekend, be sure to explore the nearby Marylebone Farmers’ Market which is filled with scrumptious goods from across the country with both locals and food enthusiasts alike sampling the best the capital has to offer.

Whenever you fancy wander onwards to Il Baretto’s; their upstairs dining area is fully dog friendly. This lesser known spot is our hidden secret gem but we wanted to share this with you.  This restaurant is an ideal spot, to rest your feet and enjoy a spot of lunch. We have got to recommend fully their scrumptious Bufala pizza. It’s classically simple and authentic menu takes culinary influences from specialty dishes and regional produce of Italy. We can also recommend 31below the restaurant which offers fabulous small plates and sharers.

Afterwards you must spend the afternoon perusing the  five floors of fashion and lifestyle goods at the globally renowned Selfridges, which is known for being extremely dog friendly. Just remember your companion has to be under-arm or alongside you in a carry bag!

With so much to do, you consider staying a few nights in the area. For those visiting from near or far, we highly recommend The Langham. This prestigious and  iconic pet-friendly hotel has been praised by many for its excellent customer service for both owners and their pets and is ideally located to explore Marylebone. To top it off,  the glamorous Artesian  Bar has been dubbed the ‘World’s Best Bar’, winning  the coveted Drinks International Best Bar award for four years in a row.

We hope you enjoyed our suggestions for a dog friendly day in our beloved neighbourhood.  We are proud to call Marylebone our home, it’s definitely the picture-perfect place to explore all year round, with plenty of fantastic shops and spaces no matter what time of year.

Dog Fashion Trends for the Summer!

It’s almost officially summer here in London. That means it’s time to catch up on hot summer trends of 2016. As Elle Magazine puts it, here are “key ways to wear neon without looking like a traffic cone.

PetLondon stays on top of seasonal trends. Our pet product lines are always updated to match current in-style fashion items for humans. This summer, neon will be a popular trendy fashion statement across the UK. We want to make sure your furry friends are hip for the summer.

PetLondon offers a variety of neon products that can be worn separately or coordinated. From harnesses, to hair bows, collars, and much more. We are confident these will be on trend for 2016 and perfect for your canine. These products are suitable for parks, vacations, and city walks. Wherever you go, passing dogs and owners will probably be super jealous of your pup.

The most recent accessories in our neon line are the Puppia Harnesses. This chic item comes in a variety of colors and sizes to fit most breeds of dog. No matter the occasion, your pooch will be looking picture perfect and fresh for the coming summer months.

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Neon RiteFit Puppia Harness in pink, orange, green, and blue.

The Puppia Neon Harness II is a RiteFit style. This means that the harness does not need to pass over your dogs head. It can be buckled up around them. This suits breeds that dislike having anything pass over their hand and also dogs with large heads relative to the size of their neck. The other bonus of this style of harness is that the shoulder straps can be adjusted, so you can make the neckline bigger if needed. This may be needed for dogs who are normally hard to fit or are in between sizes. Sturdy metal Double D rings for safety on the back, so you can clip your lead around both. The Neck has Velcro and two buckles for an exact fit! The chest belt is adjustable and fastens with a sturdy plastic buckle. Matching leads are available. They are vibrant and full of fun vibes. The inside of the harness is lined with a thin layer of breathable padding keeping your pup comfortable in this summer heat.

If you don’t want a harness, we’ve got you covered! PetLondon also offers Neon Glitter Collars. These dog collars come in a variety of colors and sizes. From a vibrant yellow to a hot pink, these collars are sure to catch eyes in the streets. They’re also great for safety reasons, keeping your pet highly visible.

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Neon Glitter Collar in blue, pink, orange, and yellow.

 

Easily adjustable and a comfortable fit, these collars will make your pup stand proud as they walk down the street.

You can’t have a collar without a leash. Don’t forget to grab yourself a matching Neon Lead.

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Neon Lead in pink.

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Neon Lead in green.

The Neon Leads come in a variety of colors and are super sturdy for both small and large dogs. Walks are good for people, but great for dogs. Make sure you keep your pup active this summer.

Accessorise your pooch! Now that your furry friend has a neon harness, collar, and lead, you’re going to want to make sure they are accessorised too. PetLondon carries a variety of accessories to beautify your canine. These Neon Hair Bows are fit for both male and female dogs.

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Neon Hair Bow in pink, orange, yellow, and green.

 

Now that you have some ideas for your pooch, make sure you get out and start shopping today! You don’t want your pup behind on the latest trends. We have everything you need here at PetLondon. The showroom is open Monday – Friday 10:00am to 6:00pm and we are pet friendly. So bring your furry family. We love making new friends.

Sunglass Style for Dogs

It may seem at first quite amusing, the thought of a dog in sunglasses! However, just as they can help humans there are ways in which they can help dogs….This can be to protect your dogs eyes from  wind, sand and the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Summer in London, well it must be coming soon ?!? Let’s not give up hope.

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Older dogs with eye conditions or age-related cataracts will especially benefit from improved vision outdoors on a sunny day if they are wearing sunglasses. Its also something to consider if your dog likes to ride on a bike or with their head out of a vehicle window because it provides some protection against blowing particles.

We have tried and tested many different models on our own office CEO, Poppy the Morkie. A frequent traveller to Florida and also a senior girl, makes her an excellent candidate for benefiting from some eye protection. She really seems to enjoy wearing them when its sunny, we think she can feel the effects. Poppy certainly seems to tolerate wearing them very well and there is a noticeable difference when she goes indoors that she knows it is time for them to come off.

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Ever the Fashionista, Poppy co-ordinates hers with a hot pink, crystal embellished hair bow

The current model that we carry is available in pink and smoke We have found this model to be the best on the market. The design has really improved in the past few years from some of the original models and its now both very lightweight and very easy to fit. These dog sunglasses are designed especially for the shape of a dogs face to have a comfortable fit. They have a wider nose bridge, offer 100% UV protection and shatterproof polycarbonate lenses. An adjustable strap goes underneath the dogs chin and around the back of their head. We *love* the added touch of the bone on each corner that acts as an adjustable touch and the pink shades have a tiny crystal heart in the corner as an added design detail.

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An Added Bonus… you can take some SERIOUSLY CUTE Selfies!

Most dogs take very well to getting used to their sunglasses. They tend to appreciate the experience more when they can actually feel the benefit so use them for the first time outdoors when its actually sunny. It may feel a little weird for them the first couple of times but build up their usage gradually over time.

Other tips for safety in the sun include;

-Keep pets inside during the hottest part of the day, from 12-2pm

-Ensure they have access to a shaded area when outdoors

-Always have cool, fresh drinking water available

-If you are going to be in the sun for extended periods, think about a pet sunscreen for you dogs delicate areas like nose and ears. Even a dog with a dark black nose, can experience long term sun damage and loss of pigment on their nose through extended exposure.

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Putting Away Toys

We have all had the feeling when cleaning up a room strewn with toys, wouldn’t it be nice if Fido could keep his own toys tidy. Well that is not impossible! Have a go with these training tips and see if you can have your dog put his/her own toys away when requested.

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  1. Give your dog a toy and encourage him to hold it in his/her mouth with the cue “Take It” As soon as they have it, click the clicker and verbally praise them.
  2. Bring the toy box right next to you
  3. Call the dog over to you, so that if he/she released the toy in their mouth it will drop straight into the toy bucket. Praise them for coming over to you when called
  4. Repeat the steps above a few times and then ask them to “Leave It” or “Release”as they are standing over the toy box
  5. Gradually replace the two cues “Take It” and “Leave It” with one cue “Toys Away”
  6. Gradually build up the number of toys being used at one time

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Adamals Top Tip: remember It will take lots of patience and practise, this is not something to be mastered in a day!

Pet Friendly Florida

More and More pets now than ever are now joining their parents on family vacations these days. Travel to and from the UK is not easy but if you have a small dog and are willing to travel via France then getting to America with your animal in the cabin with you is possible.

Poppy our founding dog and mascot in the PetLondon logo is fortunate to have spent much time in Florida where her Daddy is from and would like to share with you some of her top tips for vacationing with your pet in this sunny paradise. Here are a selection of her top five favourite things about spending time in the Sunshine State.

  1. Dog Strollers are the Norm and Dogs are Welcome to Shop

Chances are you will want to partake in some retail therapy during your trip. Our top recommendation is the Town Centre Mall in Boca Raton. Its never too crowded and has a good selection of shops. One thing you will quickly notice if you visit any mall in Florida is that if you take a second look at all those strollers rolling past you, probably about 75% of them will contain not the usual two-legged infants but some very adorable four-legged friends. It seems the general policy is that so long as the pet is being carried or is in a stroller then they are very welcome in the shops.

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Over the years, Poppy has owned a selection of strollers and here she is in her three-wheeler. The nice thing for Poppy is she can see where she is going, interact with people and then when she has had enough, there is plenty of room to curl up and go to sleep in peace and in her own private space. Its also got a handy storage space underneath to hold all the shopping and even a cup holder for your cappuccino!

Whilst strollers can of course be used in any country, if you have ever used one in the UK you are probably used to a lot of looks of surprise and shock. In the USA you will fit right in and be amongst many others using the same mode of transport for indoor shopping!

Here are a selection we saw on one shopping trip to Town Centre; A West Highland Terrier, A Cavalier King Charles and Maltese, all enjoying a day of shopping with their pet parents.

Another really useful item for shopping malls is a pet sling. If you are just quickly nipping in then this is fast and easy to use. We spotted this really cute little guy in Shaper Image. He seemed to be really chilled and is just “Hanging Out”!

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2. Dog Beaches are a blast

One of Poppy’s true zen moments in life occur when she is on the beach. There is something about the feel of sand underneath her paws and the smell of the fresh ocean breeze that seems such a far cry from pounding the urban pavements of Marylebone. Poppy who is not much of an athlete usually, will happily run and frolic in the sand for hours or enjoys just digging in and inhaling the ocean breeze.

Dogs are not allowed on all beaches in Florida so you will need to do some research but most areas have a designated patch of beach that you can use at certain times of day. Be aware of one important thing though, you may need to purchase day permit to use the beach for a day or a weekend which can normally be done at an office right next to the space.

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Poppy’s favourite spot is the Dog Beach in Boca Raton (Spanish River Park 3001 North Ocean Blvd., Between Lifeguard Towers 18 and 20). It is not as busy as you would expect and we practically had the place to ourselves on her last visit. The one thing you do need to be aware of though is that at certain times of year there can be jellyfish right by the waters edge. This is the last thing you want your dog to step on or touch, so check carefully before letting them off lead. The beach is very wide so you can easily stay above the tidal line if needed.

If your dog is the type that will enjoy a swim then stay safe and make sure you bring a dog life jacket with you too.

3. Dog Parks are a lot of fun

Florida is very pet friendly with special dog parks in most areas. A quick google search will help you to find your closest one. Normally there are separate areas for small dogs and larger breeds so that you can safely let them off the lead to interact with some new friends as long as they are well socialised.

Our recommendation is the Joseph Scavo Park in Hallandale. It has recently been renovated. Its a nice place to enjoy the fabulous Florida weather and there are lots of activities to do including a fitness path and equipment for adults and a children’s playground.

There are always plenty of dogs around, especially at sunset and a very freindly community feel. Don’t forget your pick up bags, a water bowl (it can get very hot and you need to make sure your pet stays hydrated) and make sure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations before letting them interact with others.

4. Dog Menus are available

Another great thing about Florida is that the weather is so warm that you can dine outside at most places with your dog. Some restaurants even offer dog menus. Max’s Grill in Mizner Park is one of these places. You can select from a huge choice of dishes breakfast to dinner and a great brunch on Sundays.

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Your dog can choose from the Mizner Bark Menu, which ranges from a simple snack of some biscuits to a 8oz Filet Mignon.

When you are travelling its not always easy to prepare food for you dog, so this can come in especially handy.

You can also help your pup cool off on a hot day with a frozen peanut butter pupcake.

Poppy’s favourite is the “Chasing Chicken”.

Max’s Grill is located in Mizner Park, which is a nice place to stroll around for a few hours with shops, restaurants and a very luxurious movie theatre. It is always full of dogs so there will be plenty of new friends to meet.

5. Pet Products are everywhere

There are loads of pet product shops in Florida. You cannot drive more than a few blocks without coming across one. Whether its the mass chains like Pet Supermarket, grooming salons, dog health food shops or independent boutiques, you will find a great selection of items that are not available in the UK. Our top recommendation is the Dog Bar in South Beach.

Finally, we want to leave you with a serious HEALTH TIP! Florida struggles with Heartworms, something that is not commonly a problem or treated for in the UK. Any dog owner planning a vacation or trip to Florida with their pet should discuss Heatworm prevention with their veterinarian before the trip. Its very easy to handle with the correct preventative drops or tablets during your trip but something you need to be aware of.

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Pets Alone

Three of our talented models recently took part in creating a viral video for Frontline. The brief was to recreate a scene from Home Alone but with a dog as the one left at home alone and a couple of “cat” burglars trying to break in over Christmas.

The casting process was tough and several animals were considered for the positions. In the end the lucky dog selected was Lottie, a crossbreed from Essex who has an impressive list of special skills.

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PetLondon Model Lottie

Cast alongside Lottie were siblings Birman Foxy and Maine CoonWolfie, two felines from Southend-on-Sea. This lovely duo often work together on set as they are both very talented and photogenic.

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PetLondon Models Foxie & Wolfie

The filming took place over a day and Lottie (aka “Kevin”) had to do some special practise rehearsals at home to get used to the actions required.

We were very excited to see the final video as the script sounded like a really fun storyboard and we are delighted to be able to share with you the results on here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAfxHOSARzA