Cutting Edge Pets

By Kari Sutton

Gadgets and technology abound in our lives, so it’s no surprise there’s been some spillover into the world of pets. As we learn more about pet behavior, toy companies get increasingly innovative to keep our furry friends healthy and happy.

Gadgets for Slowing Down …

Animals get a little overexcited when meal time comes around. They practi- cally inhale their food, and then puke it right back up. Nobody is fond of this problem. Cue the Green Interactive Feeder, a delightful alternative to the standard dog bowl. It looks like a tray covered in stegosaurus plates, but those plates force your pet to slow down their eating. There are sizes appropriate for everyone from cats to large dogs. Want something a little more stylish? The Slo-Bowl Interactive Feeders come with stylish indented patterns to accomplish the same goal.

… Perking Up

Enrichment toys are one of the fastest, easiest ways to put a spring in your pet’s step. The general idea is to load the toy up with treats, and let Fluffy bat the toy around to knock them out a few at a time. Claudia Hogan walked me through a few of the options she stocks at Simpawtico in Denver. (4500 W. 38th Ave., simpawtico.com) Her highest recommendations are for toys like the Bob-A-Lot and the Snoop, which allow room for adjustment in how challenging it will be to knock out the treats. The more versatile the toy, the more likely it is to be a winner for keeping your pet entertained.

… And Lookin’ Good

When it comes to grooming, slicker brushes are one of the handiest tools you can have around. They work on most types of fur, though you can opt for particular features geared toward the pets you’ll be brushing. If your furry friend has particularly sensitive skin, be sure to pick up a slicker with ball tips or softer bristles. Looking for something that will work particularly well with your pet’s coat? Cordelia Raymond of The Green Dog Wash in Boulder (2525 Arapahoe Ave., Unit E34, greendogwash.com) advises asking your groomer for suggestions. They have an arsenal of tools and gadgets to try on your pet, and can give guidance from there.

The next time you’re out picking up a bag of kibble, take some time to peruse the options. You just might find the pet gadget that you never knew you needed, but can’t live without.