From licking tears away to nipping at heels, our four-legged buddies bring out our best qualities, expanding hearts, inspiring activity and oftentimes teaching us the value of patience. Whatever size, shape or age, dogs are undeniably a force of love, integral members of our families. In honor of the American Humane Society’s Adopt-a-Dog Month, we’ve compiled a bounty of pup-approved products that will make your dog wiggle and wag with delight.
Outward Hound
For the explorer in your pooch, outfit them with this Quick Release Backpack, featuring detachable saddlebag compartments, a lightweight vest with durable grip handle and bright, high-visibility colors. Your hound can carry her own treats, water and perhaps a few tennis balls while bounding over hiking trails, lolling a tongue in the wind while boating or zooming in a motorcycle sidecar.
Holistic for Pets, 5411 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, 941-378-4367.
Pampered Pooch
Coconut oil has been booming with humans for years. Now it’s available for canines; add to your dog’s food for noticeably improved thyroid function, balanced hormones, minimized ear infections, tear stains, skin irritations and obesity, not to mention a luxurious, silky coat. Coconut Clean’s Canine Cocolicious is simply 100-percent cold-pressed, raw, organic, extra virgin coconut oil. And organic suds from SheaPet boast cruelty-free and environmentally conscious ingredients, using fair trade shea butter and the highest quality botanical oils. The super-rich oatmeal and awapuhi extract shampoo formula tends to itchy, dry skin, cleaning and deodorizing even the most mud-lovin’ mutt.
Woof Gang Bakery, 28 South Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota, 941-203-8334.
Francophile Fido
Treat your furry friend to a munch above the rest, an “extra yummy” and gourmet snack fit for your king or queen. Bocce’s Bakery Beef Bourguignon all-natural dog biscuits are made in small batches with organic, local and healthy ingredients. All treats are human-grade—no chemicals, no watered-down broths, no wheat, preservatives, by-products, corn or hormones. Just hearty, healthy real food.
Holistic for Pets, 5411 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, (941) 378-4367.
Dapper Doggy
Show off your pup’s Florida sensibilities with a nautical-themed collar by Grace’s Closet. Made in Sarasota, artist Mary Alice handcrafts stylish and durable collars and leashes with detailed beading and embellishments. Each collar has an extra layer of material sewn into the back for long-lasting wearability. Custom orders are accepted if you prefer pink roses or sports paraphernalia to seashells and starfish.
Bark and Bath, 2061 Siesta Dr., Sarasota, 941-312-5233.
Moving Mammal
Never leave your dog at home again. Bark n Bag created a line of bags that easily allow you to tote your dog anywhere and everywhere without missing out on style. The Postage Stamp Monaco Tote features nostalgic imagery of stamps from around the world, perfectly pairing with your dog’s globetrotter attitude. Made from recycled plastic bottles, the eco-friendly bag was the winner of the Pet Age Green Spirit Award.
Wet Noses, 1465 Main St., Sarasota, 941-388-3647.
Mighty Mutt
Riding the perfect line between outfit and drab three-strap harness, this cool and lightweight mesh T-shirt harness combo gives your doggie a sartorial style all his own. Personalized with bright colors and a tiny octopus or fish, it comes with a matching leash included as a package. Keep the harness on even when your pup takes a soothing dip in the pool or ocean.
Wet Noses, 1465 Main St., Sarasota, 941-388-3647.
