Sling Bag Versus Hydration Pack Versus Bum Bag Which Is Best And Why?

Sling Bag Versus Hydration Pack Versus Bum Bag

Which Is Best And Why?

With a bewildering amount of products available today to help keep hydrated and healthy while pursuing outdoor activity, which option is best? We can include our pet dogs in our activities, and this adds a new dimension to the dynamic, as now you have to think of how to effectively hydrate both you, and your four legged companion. Humans and dogs need water, and it is essential to provide safe water to drink for the both of you.

It is not necessarily a good thing for a dog to drink from streams, or rivers, or irrigation water sources, or any standing water bodies, as they contain a multitude of bacteria, and algae bloom growths that can be harmful over time to your pet. Now with the hotter weather fast approaching, these grey water sources become more dangerous as the strong sunlight promotes more algae growth and blooms, making late spring, summer, and autumn water un-healthier in general for consumption without being treated. This is why fresh clean, treated drinking water is so vital to you and to your outdoor furry companion.

It is also advisable to have a separate drinking supply for you and for your dog. You should never allow your dog to drink from your bottle, and you should never drink from its bottle. So really the best way to decide which water carrying accessory is best, will really depend on the type of activity that you both are engaging in together. Let’s look at the few common ways that people can carry a water supply and the advantages or disadvantages of each way and product.

Sling Bag.

 

https://waggylife.com/collections/backpacks-and-carryalls/products/sling-backpack-waterproof-shoulder-pack

This sling bag is designed and manufactured perfectly for sports and casual use. With detachable water bottle holder, it is convenient to use in different ways according to your needs. Adopts premium nylon material, it is water repelling and wear resistant. It is great for long-term use. Great for camping, hiking, walking, or trails or travelling. Carry everything that you need for a memorable adventure with your dog. Perfectly works as shoulder pack, chest bag, cross-body backpack and travel bag and keep your hands free. High-quality material which is breathable, waterproof, anti-scratch and wear resistant.

But you will need additionally a Pop-Up-Bowl to give your dog a drink of fresh water.

Features:

• Color: Rose red, Orange, Red, Black, Purple, Blue, Green.
• Material: Nylon. Size: Approx. 17 x 4 x 36cm/ 6.7 x 1.6 x 14.2 inch (L x W x H).
• Perfectly works as shoulder pack, chest bag, cross body backpack and travel bag and keep your hands free.
• High-quality material which is breathable, waterproof, anti-scratch and wear resistant.
• With D-ring in the front for easy hanging. The strap is adjustable to meet all your needs.
• The detachable water bottle holder bag is attached for convenient using.
• Ideal for hiking, cycling, climbing, camping, walking, traveling and daily use.  

Outdoor Sports Hydration Pack

https://waggylife.com/collections/backpacks-and-carryalls/products/outdoor-sports-hydration-pack

Must Have Equipment for Outdoor Sports. Our hydration pack comes with a built-in 2L EVA replaceable bladder that will allow you to carry your water conveniently on your back, freeing up your hands. It includes a wide screw cap so you can add ice cubes for a cool drink. Great to carry your own fresh water supply when you pursue outdoor sports such as hiking, camping, climbing, biking, cycling, walking, or running. Non Toxic materials that are safe.

You will additionally have to carry a POP-UP-Bowl for your dog to drink from. But this type of carrying system does allow you to carry more water than a sling type bag. Over the years these type of hydration systems have become commonly referred to as Camel-backs or Camel-bags.

Features:

High Quality Material.

This hydration pack measures 18 in x 9 in x 2 in and weighs only 16 ounces (including bladder）. 

Made from lightweight, breathable mesh back panel and high-quality nylon fabric, designed to keep you cool and dry while on your activity.

Very attractive, comfortable and durable.

Comes in Red, Green, Orange and Blue Color

Safe non-toxic materials.

Single or Dual Bottle Bum Bag

https://waggylife.com/collections/backpacks-and-carryalls/products/running-bum-bag

A single bum belt with water bottle is great for walking, running, jogging and hiking. Always have a supply of clean drinking water on hand. Attaches comfortably around the waist. Waterproof material, and quality construction. Easy care just rinse the bottle out under warm running water. Will not leak. Comes in different colors to match your wardrobe and style. This is ideal for short runs with your dog, or short hikes or jogs. It allows a hands free operation.

You will additionally have to have a POP-UP Bowl to give your dog a drink of fresh water.

https://waggylife.com/collections/backpacks-and-carryalls/products/dual-water-bottle-running-waist-bag

A Dual Water Bottle Running Waist Belt helps you run with confidence with your furry friend in tow, knowing that you can have one bottle for you to drink, and one bottle for your pet too drink. Great for hiking, running, walking, jogging or just out and about. Go longer distances with more water. Wear around waist for a snug fit that will not ride up, or cause irritation. Carry essential items in the bag.
You will need additionally a POP-UP-Bowl to give your dog a fresh drink of water from.

Features:

• Waist mounted.
• Hands free
• Two water bottles
• Outdoor convenience
• Great for water for you and your dog

So, in conclusion;

An outdoor sports hydration pack, commonly referred to as a camelback will allow you to carry more water, so is suitable for longer runs, longer walks, and longer hikes. It has the convenience of being carried on your back, freeing up your hands. Although high water carrying capacity may be your primary concern, and this is admirable to the task, it has very little storage capacity, other than mesh pockets on either side. So this will leave you with figuring out how to carry dog stuff, and human stuff, and still enjoy the adventure and activity that you intend participating in to the fullest possible enjoyment for the both of you.

A sling bag allows you to carry one water bottle on the outside, but also designed as a carrying bag, then an extra water bottle can be carried in the storage pocket, along with dog stuff and human stuff for the activity. So a sling bag may be a better option for trail hiking, walking, and jogging than a camel-back type of hydration solution.

Single bottle bum bag, and dual bottle bum bags, are great for jogging, or running with your dog. They do have some storage capacity for cell phones, keys, dog poop bags. But do not allow you to carry a lot of items. They are hands free being carried on the waist.

Best Dog Saddlebag To Choose

Best Dog Saddlebag to Choose

Depending on where you live hiking season is fast approaching, or is already here. What better adventure than an outdoor hiking or camping trip with the family pet dog. Today there are many products that help to make a hike in a wilderness park, or a camping trip off the beaten path a much more enjoyable experience, and a safer experience for all, but which Saddlebag is best for your dog.

We have reviewed three of the most popular that are available today.

Some of the considerations in choosing a Saddlebag for your dog is:

1. What size of dog (Height of Deck).
2. Stamina / Strength of the dog.
3. Type of adventure planned…..Day Hike V Multi-day Hike.
4. Items to carry.

Size of dog or more particularly height of deck is an important consideration. Saddlebags can be of a sporty design and sit high on a dogs shoulders, but the compromise in this type of bag design is a lack of carrying capacity. Because of this design, the bag is suitable for a range of dogs from Medium on up to large. You should always consult a professional or vet when you are considering a long wilderness adventure trip with your dog, to make sure that its stamina is acceptable, and has no underlying medical issues. If most of the hiking is of a day hike nature, a few miles out a trail and a few miles back, then the larger carrying capacity saddlebags would not be the best choice, as these bags are designed with larger carrying capacity, so are suitable for longer treks and hikes. But if you need to carry a lot of items for the hike you are going on with your dog, then these Saddlebags may be the best choice.

https://waggylife.com/collections/backpacks-and-carryalls/products/backpack-saddle-bag-for-dogs

A great bag for your dog’s hiking camping, or wilderness adventures. The bag is a traditional saddle type bag, so will hand down on either side of the animal. It suits a large breed of dog, from Labradors on up, and would not be the best choice for a medium to small breed of dog. Made from a high density canvas material proven for durability in the outside environment. Comfortable for the dog to wear, the weight is evenly distributed to help the dog to not get tired or injured while on the trail. With plenty of pockets to carry all of the dogs needs on its next outdoor adventure. A practical design that has large capacity carrying.

Features:

• The straps are adjustable for a comfortable fit.
• The dog backpack can be used for outdoor travelling camping hiking walking hunting running with your dog.
• High quality canvas material comfortable and safe for your pets to wear and carry in style.
•  Very easy to clean hand or machine wash acceptable.
• There are 4 pockets 2 main zipper bags with 2 side bags 
• 4 pcs D-ring buckles for conveniently hanging dog leashes poop bags and dispenser pet toys food.

Specification:

Material: Canvas
Item Size: 46 * 29 * 7cm / 18.1 * 11.4 * 2.7in
Item Weight: 308g / 10.8oz
Package Size: 30.5 * 26 * 7cm / 12 * 10.2 * 2.7in
Package Weight: 318g / 11.2oz

https://waggylife.com/collections/backpacks-and-carryalls/products/cotton-canvas-dog-backpack

A vintage design that is efficient and time tested on the toughest trails. Great for camping or hiking with your dog. Has great pockets that are deep that can hold a multitude of items to carry on the trail. High density cotton canvas and ergonomic design distributes weight evenly so your dog will easily carry the weight and never be overly exerted or strained. Comfortable to wear for the dog. No sharp edges to dig into skin or coats. Large capacity carrying. A practical design with many pockets that can hold water bottles, pet toys, collapsible dog bowls, first aid, etc. It helps to always be prepared for any situation on the trail. Adjustable straps can fit medium to large size dog.

Features:

• Vintage in design but unique in fashionable appearance.
• High density soft cotton canvas, providing a comfortable fit for the dog.
• Features 4 D-rings leash attachment and two handles, easy to control your dog.
• Large capacity in design, two main zipper side pockets with 2 front pockets for carrying food/water bottles, poop bags, toys or other daily supplies.
• Adjustable strap, with a strap buckle to adjust the length.
• Multi-functional for use, perfect for hiking, training, outdoor activity and service dog use.

Specifications:

Color: Khaki
Material: Cotton Canvas
Structure: 2 Main Zipper Pockets, 2 Front Pockets (One Side)
Chest Size: 70-92cm / 27.6-36.2in(with adjustable strap)
Waistline: 50cm / 19.7in
Product Size: 35 * 26 * 23cm / 13.7 * 10.2 * 9in (L * W * H)
Product Weight: Approx. 610g / 21.5oz
Package Size: Approx. 35 * 26 * 4cm / 13.78 * 10.24 * 1.57in

https://waggylife.com/collections/backpacks-and-carryalls/products/saddle-bag-pet-backpack

This high-quality multi-functional outdoor dog saddle bag backpack harness is suitable for hiking, camping, going to the park, going on road trips or any outdoor activity. One of the best choices for small to medium sized dogs. It allows your pet to enjoy a more varied set of outdoor destinations that otherwise may be limited, allowing your dog to carry all of the fun stuff that they will need.

It is easy to fit and easy to carry for the dog, very convenient! With a secure padded chest and underbelly fastening system, it makes for the most secure fit on the market available today for your dog. All season and breathable material used throughout its construction with plenty of mesh area to provide adequate ventilation and keep your pet cool. Comfortable and sturdy fabric with sponge padding ensures durability and provides comfort for your pet. Adjustable straps helps you to balance weight and make it more comfortable to wear.

Now your dog can carry his own throw toys, his own water bottles, just about anything that needs to be carried, freeing you up to concentrate on your things.

Dogs can run, play, jump and leap without hindrance to their movement.

Carried items will not fall out of the secure compartments.

Does Not Interfere with The dogs Natural Movements.

Features:

• Hands free operation allows your dog to carry his stuff in style.

• Made from breathable mesh and polyester fiber, durable and comfortable.

• Allow maximum air circulation.

• Padded Breast-plate and Underbelly allows you to fit your dog comfortably.

• Release Buckles on the end of straps ensure quick installation with just one hand.

• Large breed dogs.

• Great for training.

So, in conclusion, for smaller to medium size dogs that you will not need to carry a whole lot of stuff, then the sport designed Saddlebag might be a good choice. If larger capacity and more intensive hiking camping trips are envisioned then one of the more traditional canvas Saddlebags is a better choice.

All will give the dog the ability to carry and perhaps have a better outdoor adventure.

All About Beagle

All About Beagle

The Beagle is one of man’s oldest friends.

Oppian wrote around 200-AD;

“There is a kind of dog of mighty fame,

For hunting worthier of a fairer frame,

By painted Britons brave in war they’re bred,

Are Beagles called and to the chase are led,

Their bodies’ small and if so mean a shape,

You’d think them curs that under tables gape”

Now there is some controversy about whether this is a true translation, or whether it is even accurate, as the Beagle as a particular breed was not called so until many centuries later. But what it may illustrate to us is just how long the hound that is commonly referred to as Beagle, has been around. What it also shows us is that the Beagle was and has been consistently bred as a hunting hound, and in particular bred for small prey like Hares and Rabbits.

The Beagle is of European origin, and is particularly associated with Britain. It has been a constant companion in the hunt for hare and small prey for centuries, gracing both royal packs, and common packs equally. They are bred for the foot chase.

To-day and due to changes in social attitude toward hunting and killing wild animals for sport, the Beagle has had to be more adopted to being a domestic household pet, rather than the “meat provider” for the evening meal as it was in the past. As such it is an admirable companion pet for any household.

But what characteristics and traits are particular to the breed that make it such a good all-around family pet?

Here are 20 Facts about the Beagle.

1. Good Rabbit dog.
2. Family dog par excellence.
3. Beagle size, combined with his hardiness and his short coat and his good appetite make it an easy family dog to own.
4. Good apartment dog or house dog.
5. It is amenable, good natured, loving and gentle.
6. Clean dog. Seldom needs to be bathed or brushed.
7. A toweling down after a wet romp is all it needs to look clean and healthy.
8. Splendid appetite that is non-discriminatory. If it looks like food, they will eat it with pleasure.
9. Versatile dog. Very “Outdoorsy”
10. Equally lazy and liking the “Home Comforts”
11. Do not need to be kept outside – Fallacy.
12. Do not need to be run for miles over open country – Fallacy.
13. A Beagle will prosper with exactly the same exercise as any small dog.
14. Free run of your apartment or house combined with the trips outside for toilet or walks is adequate for its exercise needs in general.
15. Do not let a Beagle off the leash. They are scent hounds by breeding and if they pick up a scent, they are on it, and will adopt “Selective Hearing” until the scent plays out.
16. As a watchdog the Beagle is alert. It will warn intruders with a deep throaty “Baroooooooooh” and are noted for having a very musical hound voice.
17. Great with kids – showing endless patience and showing a very kind nature.
18. Easy to train, and easy to train as a work dog.
19. Excel at obedience and tracking.
20. Good healthy lifespan, with few ailments particular to the breed.

Beagles range from 10” which are considered “Pocket Beagles” on up to a maximum height of 15” which are considered “Foot Beagles” The average height of a pet quality Beagle is between 10” – 13”.

The true color of a Beagle emerges around the three week mark, and can be a Tri-color, or a mottled or single color so do not be overly concerned on color, after all;

“A good horse cannot be a bad color”

How to choose a Beagle Puppy?

1. Take your time and care in picking a pup.
2. Must radiate good health and spirit.
3. Must be lively on their feet.
4. The eyes should be bright and the coat should shine.
5. The puppy should come forward eagerly to make your acquaintance.

Which Puppy should you avoid?

1. Avoid the shy “Little Darlings” that want to retreat to their bed or box.
2. The puppy that plays coy behind other puppies or people.
3. The puppy that hides its head under your arm or jacket appealing to your protective nature instinct.

As a general rule……”Pick The Puppy That Picks You” The feeling of attraction should be mutual. After all you may be together for a lot of years so make a careful considered choice.

The Basic’s That a Beagle Puppy Needs?

1. Food bowl.
2. Water bowl.
3. Bed. https://goo.gl/K91iUP
4. Leash https://goo.gl/Ub47JF
   and Harness https://goo.gl/PvbCmg
5. ID Tag.Crate for Travelling and House-training.
6. Lots of Toys https://goo.gl/pgCYPv
   ,and Chews  
7. Grooming supplies.

When your puppy gets used to its new surroundings over the first couple of days, it is now time to slowly break the puppy in. I have found through experience that a Soft Harness is better than a leash for a lot of reasons. A harness does not have the risk of choking the puppy, as it learns to walk on a leash. A good practice is to use a tie-out stake in the backyard or garden or park, and let the puppy play itself out a few times getting used to the feel of being harnessed. Then graduate to short walks. By doing it this way, you will lessen the natural resistance that the pup will have to being tethered and restrained and will find that the pup adopts very quickly to being on the leash.

It is not necessary to bathe a Beagle puppy, unless they have rolled in something, otherwise avoid bathing as it will rob the coat of natural oils which are necessary as a conditioner for skin and coat. The only grooming that the puppy will need is;

1. Brush the coat with a Hand Glove Brush about once a week to gently remove any dead hair or skin.
2. Comb the coat twice monthly with a Flea comb.
3. Cut nails about every three months.
4. Comb coat as necessary with a de-shedding brush.
5. Towel dry coat if wet.

Otherwise, enjoy what may be your best all round family pet, that is low maintenance, loyal, happy, playful, easy to raise, great with kids, clean in habit,

humorous by nature, 

good for a house, apartment, city, or country dwelling.

Is It Safe To Drink The Water

Is It Safe to Drink the Water?

Water is essential to life, all life and that’s a fact. We take it for granted in our modern society, as we do not have to give it much thought. When we need a safe cool drink of water, why for the most part we just have to turn on the faucet and out it flows, or pop into the convenience store and buy a nice cooled chilled bottle ready to drink.  

And of course this is how it should be. We have advanced far enough to know that clean healthy water for our bodies is essential to life itself.

But what about our pets, and in particular our dogs? Do we have to think about the water that they drink? After all, those of us with dogs know that they will drink just about any water they can stick their heads into (Including Toilet Water), and we as humans would never do that.

But are these bodies of water safe?

What might they harbor that can harm our dogs?

What’s in grey water sources (water not fit for human consumption)?

Is irrigation water safe?

What about the lake?

Is salty ocean water good or bad for my dog?

What about streams when I am hiking?

I suppose if there was ever a “Golden Rule” that I go by when it comes to the water that I will put into my body, then it is this;

“If it is safe for me, then it is safe for my dog”.

But of course we know as dog owners that the constitution of our pet dogs is much different than our own, and even on occasion if they slugged down some dubious water, then it probably will not harm them, and for the most part this is true. Take my own Beagle, Oakie as an example of this. He has drunk from many different sources of water, and the only adverse result that occurred maybe once or twice over the years has been a case of Diarrhea.

 

Now my Beagle loves the water, and I for one will not deny him the pleasure of frolicking around in a lake or stream or ocean, just out of concern for the mouthfuls of water he may swallow, and the possible side effects that may occur as a result. But, if the right precautions are taken, then a mild case of Diarrhea is acceptable to me.

So let’s look at the dangers that lurk in the water.

Bacteria:

The most common bacteria found in outdoor bodies of fresh water lakes and rivers are, Salmonella, Campylobacter, Escherichia Coli, and Leptospira.

If a dog drinks large amounts of water containing any of these bacteria, then Diarrhea in either a mild form, or more severe may occur, and as a pet owner you will have to deal with that. Healthy young dogs will weather this pretty well, but older dogs may have a lot more trouble and consequences. Leptospira found usually in slow moving or marshy muddy waters which is frequented by critters like, rats, raccoons, opossums, etc., if left untreated can lead to Liver and or Kidney damage in a dog.

Blue Green Algae:

Around where I live we nickname this “Glow In The Dark” as it produces energy by photosynthesis. When I was a Kid, and in the summertime when the moon was full and bright, we would go the lake at night and being the tear-aways that we were, we would pee on the Algae which would glow a luminous green color, and with our urine used to draw pictures in it, (usually happy faces and suchlike) nothing Rembrandt would have been proud of.  Not for a moment did we consider these blooms to present any danger, other than a few moments of childish mischief, but danger there is. The blooms produce ‘Toxins” such as Microsystins. If ingested by your dog in large amounts and left untreated then it could lead to liver failure, and some of the anatoxins produced could affect the dogs nervous system.

Parasites:

One of the most commonly found organisms in a body of water. Most are harmless, but for a few species like Protozoans, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium. The most common side effect is that a day after being in the water, your dog develops Diarrhea, in either a mild form, or more severe. Treat immediately to avoid any long term adverse health conditions.

Chemicals:

Run-off from tilled fields can contain pesticides and herbicides that can get into streams, rivers and lakes. The side effects of exposure to these industrially produced agents can be dramatic for human and dog alike. If at all possible I try to avoid walks over and around agricultural land for this reason. Also on boating lakes, pollution from gasoline and fuel additives can have its own dangers.

Salt:

Ocean swimming is great for a dog. A dog that takes to the ocean, and I have had a few over the years, gets to enjoy a dynamic environment unlike any other. But just like with ourselves, when you ingest too much ocean water, then the high concentration of salt can lead to vomiting, and diarrhea. In a dog these symptoms can also occur, but also in addition the dog may get dehydrated and an electrolyte imbalance may occur. Treat immediately.

Essential Items To Have With You To Avoid These Issues.

Of course in life if you have the right tools for the job, then you and your dog should never have to experience anything more than a mild case of Diarrhea, and even then, maybe never if you implement some common sense practices when out and about or near a body of water.

A Portable Drinking Water Bottle For Your Dog

https://waggylife.com/collections/feeding-bowls/products/drinking-water-cup

Extra Bottle of Fresh Drinking Water

Collapsible Or Pop-Up Bowl

https://waggylife.com/collections/feeding-bowls/products/waterproof-travel-dog-bowl-pet-collapsible-bowls-double-food-and-water

Follow some common sense rules of thumb like;

1. Clean off by hosing down or bathing your dog after it has being in a lake, river or ocean.
2. Towel dry the animal. Do not let it dry itself.
3. Clean and thoroughly dry the inside of the dog’s ears.
4. Check its fur and coat over thoroughly for any ticks etc.
5. Comb through with a metal comb to remove any sand or soil from its coat.

Watch your dog carefully for any signs that may develop over the following few days after it has been in the water, pay particular attention to Diarrhea and if it occurs treat it immediately.