Contact: Kelly Nelson
kelly@citruspr.com

Arlington, TX (June 18, 2012) – To make the most of the summer season, Petmate offers products and advice that will keep pets safe and make the warmer months a time of freedom and fun.

Playing and Exercising in the Heat

Play and exercise in the morning and evening, the coolest times of the day. The temperature of asphalt and tar can soar far above 100 degrees in the summer, so walk pets on grass or dirt whenever possible. Petmate’s new Palm Retractable leash fits neatly and comfortably in the palm of your hand, with reflective stitched webbing for added visibility on nighttime walks. A padded wrist strap and strong thumb brake provide extra security for pet parents. Three sizes and colors (red, smoke and blue) are available to fit dogs up to 66 lbs, and prices range from $21.99 – $29.99.

For the dogs that live to catch high-flying objects, the BOODA® Sonic Disc™ brings the fun. The soft tubing around the disc edge helps make the Sonic Disc gentle on pups’ mouths. Available in two sizes to appeal to any size of pooch, retail prices are $16.99 and $18.99.

Be aware of heat stress and heatstroke. If your pet shows any signs of heat stress or heatstroke, let them lick ice cubes or cold water and move them to a cool area. Get them to a veterinarian as soon as you can. Pets love the sun, but won’t always let their guardians know when they’ve had enough. With a little extra planning, pet parents can ensure that they and their pets enjoy the weather while avoiding the dangers that heat can pose for pets.

Ready Access to Water

You drink more water on a hot day, and so does your pet. Portable watering products make it easier to hydrate your pet when you’re out and about. The Porta LeBistro® Waterer is a hand-held water dispenser that conveniently provides refreshment to pets on the go. Offered in two sizes, it easily attaches to a belt or backpack with clip, or can hang around the neck for hands free refreshment on the run. The small (128 ounces) is priced at $16.99 and the medium (352 ounces) is $29.99.

Animals with Special Needs

Some pets – young, elderly, overweight and those with short noses – are more vulnerable to the heat than others. And, of course, dogs with dark-colored or thick, winter-loving coats, are better off with limited time in the sun. Using grooming tools helps keep heavy coats and shedding at bay. The Bamboo® Adjustable Size Shedding Blade is a 3-in-1 tool that is ideal for removing large volumes of dead hair and helps reduce shedding. The unique looped blade features coarse and fine teeth, and conveniently slides in and out of the handle to adjust for large or tight grooming areas – separate the handles to use it as a straight blade hair removal tool! The adjustable-size shedding blade retails for $12.99.

Car and Travel Safety

Keeping pets safe and happy during car travel is easy – and could save their lives.

Don’t leave pets in parked cars, even when car windows are left open a couple of inches. The risks are too high and the damage can happen in as little as ten minutes.

Make sure pets ride safe. Pets are safest when they ride inside the car with restraining devices or in crates. The Vari Kennel® Ultra features sturdy construction that will help ensure ultimate safety, comfort and convenience. Available in a variety of colors and sizes, the Vari Kennel Ultra line accommodates pets up to 90 lbs, and ranges in price from $30.99 to $189.99. Unlike most strap seatbelts, the American Kennel Club® seatbelt harness’ design features a full chest plate to act as a restraint, helping to ensure dogs stay in place and reducing the risk of injury to both the pet and pet parent. A soft, padded high-pile fleece lining offers the ultimate comfort for pets. Available in a variety of sizes, prices range from $24.99 – $35.99.

Committed to the wellbeing of pets and the world they live in, Petmate is the trusted authority in smart solutions for devoted pet parents and discerning retailers alike. Sound advice and high quality products that are innovative, safe, practical and fun are Petmate hallmarks, as shown in our complete lines of: kennels, dog houses, bedding, litter maintenance, feeding and watering solutions, toys, collars and leads, and pet accessories. At Petmate, we are driven to create a healthy, happy life for your pets and ours. Petmate products can be found at pet supply stores nationwide. Call 1-877-PETMATE or visit www.petmate.com for more information.