You toss it, the dog brings it back; you toss it again, the dog brings it back again—throwing and retrieving—on and on. The game of Fetch dates back to prehistory when dogs retrieved a hunter’s game. Besides providing exercise and fostering bonding, fetch gives pets a chance to use their predatory instincts, and the mental stimulation can be a mood booster.
Recognizing its benefits, the third Thursday in October, this year October 19, has been designated “Fetch Day.” Besides spending some extra quality time with your pet, it’s promoted as a good opportunity to shop at a pet store. We’ve rounded up some items that can enhance the celebration.
Chuckit Launchers
Fetch Day was launched by Chuckit, the company whose dog ball Launchers revolutionized pet retrieval. Flexible springs propel balls farther than mere tosses, and then grip the retrieved ball for relaunching which saves the tosser from having to grab onto the wet sphere. Launchers come in assorted colors, styles, and compatible toys which include a luminescent Air Glow Ball which shows up in the dark, enabling owners and their furry friends to play fetch long after the sun has set.
Brain Teaser Treat Puzzle
Less strenuous than fetch, but mentally stimulating, the Brain Teaser Treat Puzzle challenges pets to slide, twist, manuever eight moveable shapes to uncover the treats hidden underneath. Besides teaching pets to earn their snacks, the easy-clean puzzle doubles as a slow feeder, requiring fast eaters to observe a healthier pace.
I’m Pollen For You
Designed for interactive play, the Pollen for You toy has a loud bee squeaker, and crinkle paper petals and body to create a “buzz.” The blossom slides up and down the tuggable rope, and the unusual shape adds variety to games of fetch.
Tuffy Funny Food Corn Toy
For pets who like to toss and tug their toys around, Tuffy soft dog toys are “built to last.” Created multiple layers of material—typically a soft fleece outside encloses 1-2 layers of industrial grade luggage material which are wrapped around an inner layer of plastic coating. All joined with up to seven rows of cross and linear stitching, the toys are designed to take maximum nonchew-able abuse.
Dog ID Collar 2
In lieu of loose jangling tags, an engraved plate fits onto the Dog ID Collar 2 with a durable screw closure. A raised edge on the plate protects the engraving and there is a patented rabies tag silencer. The snag-free collars come in seven colors, three sizes, and the plates are slate or graphite. A portion of purchases benefits 4Paws for Ability.
Sunnies
Glasses to shield pets’ eyes on sunny days, Pose Pets Sunnies are fashionable as well as protective. A specially designed shape, adjustable sides, back, and strap ensure comfortable fit. Scratch and UV resistant, three different sizes are sold in three different styles and two colorways—ensuring a stylish fit for canine companions.
Oogiebear Fingerbrush and Tongue Scraper
Oogiebear’s mini tooth brush and tongue scraper slip on to protect fingers while you perform the dental hygiene which helps keep a pet fresher and less prone to disease. Originally designed for babies, the high quality silicone devices are washable and reusable.
Paint Your Photo
Even amateur artists can create personalized pet portraits with a Paintable Pictures kit. A tech tool transforms a favorite photo into a paint-by-numbers format onto canvas which is provided along with brushes and paint in 48 specialty pet colors. Following the numbers results in a one-of-a-kind masterpiece which fits into the 8’ x 10” frame provided.
Roleplay Vet’s Bag
For children who love animals, a veterinarian play set is a learning toy. Drawn from the “Vita the Vet” television show, the little bag includes an electronic stethoscope, thermometer, reflex hammer as well as a plush toy, and a patient chart and a sticker sheet that helps kids practice pretend care for their dolls and puppies.
End the day with a game of fetching, using Chuckit Air Glow Ball.
Photos courtesy of their respective product firms
