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Using a dog harness incorrectly can harm your pet and make walks stressful. Many pet owners make simple mistakes that compromise their dog's comfort and safety. Here are the most common errors and how to avoid them.

1. Choosing the Wrong Size

Most pet owners guess their dog's harness size instead of measuring properly. This creates serious comfort and safety issues.

The Problem: Loose harnesses allow dogs to slip out during walks. Tight harnesses restrict breathing and cause chafing. Both scenarios create discomfort and safety issues.

The Solution: Always measure your dog's chest and neck before buying. Different breeds need different harness styles. When possible, try the harness on your dog before purchasing.

Quality equipment from A+a Pets requires proper fitting to work effectively.

2. Skipping Safety Inspections

Regular inspections prevent harness failure and keep your dog secure. However, most pet owners never check their dog's harness properly.

What to Look For:

Frayed webbing or stitching

Damaged buckles or clips

Worn attachment points

Signs of chewing or scratching damage

Inspect your dog's harness before every walk. Additionally, examine it weekly for wear patterns. Replace damaged harnesses immediately to prevent escapes.

3. Incorrect Fitting and Adjustment

Rushing through harness setup causes discomfort for your dog. Each strap serves a specific purpose and needs proper adjustment.

Proper Steps:

Start with the chest strap

Adjust neck opening next

Check belly strap last

Ensure you can fit two fingers under all straps

Never make the harness too tight. Your dog should breathe comfortably and move naturally while wearing it.

4. Using Worn-Out Equipment

Dog harnesses don't last forever, especially with active dogs. Materials wear down from regular use and washing.

Key Facts:

Most harnesses need replacement after 1-2 years

Heavy use shortens lifespan significantly

Chewing damage requires immediate replacement

Washing machines can weaken stitching over time

Check your harness regularly for signs of wear. Active dogs may need harness replacements more frequently than calm dogs.

5. Choosing the Wrong Style

Different dogs need different harness styles. Using the wrong type can cause pulling, discomfort, or behavioral issues.

Remember:

Front-clip harnesses reduce pulling

Back-clip harnesses work for trained dogs

No-pull harnesses help with training

Step-in harnesses suit anxious dogs

Choose a harness style that matches your dog's size, behavior, and training level. Consider your dog's specific needs when selecting features.

Prevention is Key

Avoiding these mistakes starts with proper education and quality equipment. Invest in well-made dog harness from trusted manufacturers.

Best Practices:

Read fitting instructions completely

Introduce harnesses gradually to puppies

Practice putting on the harness regularly

Replace worn equipment promptly

Your dog's comfort and safety depend on using harnesses correctly. Don't let simple mistakes make walks unpleasant. Take time to learn proper fitting techniques and inspect your equipment regularly.

A plus a pets' Luxurious Rain and Wind protector Raincoat for dog

Points to avoid when choosing a dog raincoat are:

Choosing a raincoat solely for fashion rather than function. Raincoats can help keep a dog more comfortable in wet weather, especially for small dogs with long fur that can get soaked.

Not considering the dog's coat type and size when selecting a raincoat. Different coat types and body shapes may require different raincoat styles for optimal fit and protection.

Failing to properly measure the dog and select a raincoat with the right fit. An ill-fitting raincoat can restrict movement or allow water to seep through.

Assuming all raincoats provide the same level of protection. Look for raincoats made of waterproof, breathable materials that will keep the dog dry without overheating.

Neglecting to acclimate the dog to wearing the raincoat gradually. Introduce the raincoat slowly and positively reinforce wearing it to help the dog feel comfortable.

For Bigger Dogs

such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Husky, Great Danes, and Saint Bernards who are more prone to issues related to joint health, colder weather adds extra ache to their bones. And it is imperative we consult our vet and take proper precautions to avoid any dire health situations later.

For Smaller Dogs

like Lhasa Apso, Shitzhu, and Pomeranian who are more prone to frequent sprains due to their shorter limbs, colder weather can increase the existing pain to many folds, healing the sprain in time, using the required bandages, heat compression wrap, etc. will help in healing the process faster.

For Younger Dogs

Preventing joint health issues as your dog ages is an ideal way to help them be healthy, hence it is never too early to start taking care of their joints. When you notice a change in their walk, limping or a sprain could be caused by simple everyday activities like jumping off the bed, and ignoring this symptom can lead to bigger ailments, a Knee Brace, Hock Joint Protective Wrap, Dog Recovery Sleeves are most recommended by veterinarians. Making sure their diet is well-rounded and packed with nutrition is a must. Exercise is the key to a healthy life not only for humans but for animals too, make sure they get enough exercise even when the weather makes us lazy.

For Adult / Older Dogs

It is a challenge to watch our furry friends grow older, but aging is inevitable and it also brings with it a variety of health issues no matter how careful we are. For instance, if your dog has developed arthritis and needs help while walking, skipping walk time and exercise will only make it worse and just supplements or medicines may not be enough, veterinarians recommend using Support Harnesses which can provide that extra support and comfort. Mobility & joint stiffness are other common problem that affects our adult / older dogs, along with supplements a veterinarian may recommend heat compression, thankfully there are Options available now that can help in providing that warmth to the joints.

Promoting your Canine Friends’ Health with A+A

At A+a Pets’ we are passionate about our furry friends’ health because we know that medicines and supplements alone are not enough and that Medical Assistance Accessories are also required to lead a healthy and stress-free life.

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'My Dog Is So Young, I Don't Need To Read This' STOP This Thought And READ!

Whether your furry friend is young, middle aged or older, they all need that extra care for their joints' during winters. Remember, precaution is better than cure. And, No, just because our furry friends are descendants of wolves and are used to being in the wild, doesn't make them less prone to bone health or any other health issue. We are also descendants of apes but now lead a different lifestyle in the urban area with different food and life choices. Mild to harsh Indian winters affect even our bones and joints, similarly it affects our furry friends too. The stress on joints during winters can cause problems like inflammation, arthritis, ACL tears, etc. Supporting your pets' joint health is essential for all ages and sizes.

For Bigger Dogs 

such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Husky, Great Danes, Saint Bernands who are more prone to issues related to joint health, colder weather adds extra ache to their bones. And it is imperative we consult our vet and take proper precautions to avoid any dire health situations later.

For Smaller Dogs 

like Lhasa Apso, Shitzhu, Pomeranian who are more prone to frequent sprains due to their shorter limbs, colder weather can increase the existing pain to many folds, healing the sprain in time, using the required bandages, heat compression wrap, etc. will help in healing the process faster.

For Younger Dogs

Preventing joint health issues as your dog’s ages is an ideal way to help them be healthy, hence it is never too early to start taking care of their joints. When you notice a change in their walk, limping or a sprain could be caused by simple everyday activities like jumping off the bed, and to ignore this symptom can lead to bigger ailments, a Knee Brace, Hock Joint Protective Wrap, Dog Recovery Sleeves are most recommended by veterinarians. Making sure their diet is well rounded and packed with nutrition is a must. Exercise is the key to a healthy life not only for humans but for animals too, make sure they get enough exercise even when the weather makes us lazy.

For Adult / Older Dogs

It is a challenge to watch our furry friends grow older, but aging is inevitable and it also brings with it a variety of health issues no matter how careful we are. For instance, if your dog has developed arthritis and needs help while walking, skipping walk time and exercise will only make it worse and just supplements or medicines may not be enough, veterinarians recommend using Support Harnesses which can provide that extra support and comfort. Mobility & joint stiffness is another common problem that affects our adult / older dogs, along with supplements a veterinarian may recommend heat compression, thankfully there are Options available now that can help in providing that warmth to the joints.

A lot of us pet parents feel overwhelmed and anxious when planning a trip with our pets. But there is absolutely no need to be stressed!

Things to do before your trip

Decide Your Holiday Spot

This may seem like Duh! Obviously! — but this one is especially important, for spontaneous travelers!

With Pets’ researching and planning a trip — with bookings in place is very important!

Doing your research beforehand will help you understand what awaits you and your pet.

You may also want to keep in mind the community dogs and cats of the place you plan to go — especially if your pet is an alpha.

For instance — Our Angel is an alpha female and almost never gels along with the community dogs and cats — so the trip is planned to keep that in mind.

Having said that, Angel has been to many places from Beaches to Mountains to Homestays, and we’ve made some amazing memories.

Read along.

Book A Pet-Friendly Accommodation

Whether you plan to homestay or live in a hotel, booking a pet-friendly accommodation will free you from any interference from the managing staff.

Mention your pets’ special needs if any — fresh food requirements for your pets should be conveyed to the hotel much before you reach there.

Mode Of Transport

Our most preferred mode of travel is by road in the comfort of our car, if the destination is closer, then road trips with your furry one are the most recommended. But if your Pet suffers from motion sickness (just like Angel) take breaks every 2 hours, and let them out of the car for a few minutes, this helps them feel refreshed and ready for the trip. Remember to always have them on a leash, to avoid any mishap on an unknown road.

If your destination is far and you need to travel by air or by train — Indian railways is also a very convenient way to travel — you just need to contact them in advance and book your reservations, with a certificate from the Vet stating all the Vaccines are in place and that my pet is keeping well for travels.

Pack Your Pets’ Essentials

When traveling with pets it’s their essentials that are essential and not yours! Jokes apart.

Basic essentials such as;

Walk Set — comfortable but sturdy collar, harness & leash (pack an extra of these)

Multifunction Travel Water bottle — a multifunction travel bottle, has space for food, water, poo bags, and a poo shovel making it perfect for everyday travels & long trips

Hygiene / Dry Shampoo — no chemical shampoo for when your pet becomes unbearably dirty while having fun, dry shampoo for a quick cleaning session and to clean paws, and a water-based deodorant (this is required for the car travels) for us and them to feel fresh, dry shampoo & deodorants also helps to keep the pesky ticks and fleas at bay.

Bowls — Duh!

Assistance accessories — if you are traveling with a senior pet, climbing in the car or out of it can be a task, A support harness will help you help them do basic actions with ease. (shop here)

Summary:-

Visit your vet before the travels, make sure vaccinations are in place, and acquire Vet’s certificate.

If your pet has a medical history, having it in your phone is recommended.

Be calm, don’t get anxious, have loads of fun, make great memories, feel a special bond, and share it all with us!

Textile Designer and Founder of A+a Pets’ Bhavna Nagrani, who has been a pet mum for over 3 decades, says ‘The most important thing that I’ve learnt is to stay calm.

Don’t get anxious when your pet is, it adds to your pet’s stress levels because they look up to us for protection and safety.

Read on to learn about the handiest and easiest ways to take care of your pets during fireworks

Shut Out The Noise

Festivals are a great way to be together, but with it comes the ear-splitting sounds of crackers!

Shut the noise out by closing the doors and windows, draw the curtains so they don’t see crackers through the windows, and keep your pet in a room where there are minimal sounds.

Create a cool and cosy environment with some soothing music, If they prefer to sit under the dining table or under the bed, let them be.

Closed spaces make them feel calm, so create that at home.

Do Not Leave Your Pets Alone

We make our pets feel safe, anxiety, stress and agitation can also be controlled by merely spending time with them.

Play with them and if they liked to be cuddled, shower them with love, try to give them treats — but don’t force them to eat

These are simple ways by which we can make them feel safe and loved.

Take Care Of Their Heart Rate

Anxiety and Stress levels increase the heart rates of not only humans but animals too.

So when our pets are hyper and anxious — holding our hand against their chest to calm them, using blankets, or making them wear a t-shirt will give them a secure feeling.

Keep them covered and cosy — this will make them feel safe and secure.

Take Care Of Dehydration In Your Pets

Constant panting and palpitations add to salivation resulting in dehydration.

But it is most likely that they will not drink or eat when the firecrackers are bursting — feed them with home-cooked wet food during the day, include buttermilk in their diet — so that they are not dehydrated during times when they are constantly panting and scared.

And always keep a fresh bowl of water available for them and see them devour it once the firecrackers stop bursting!

Keep Your Pets Away If You Are Buntings Crackers

If you are the ones busting crackers, keep your pets and the community (stray) pets as far as possible, don’t try to include them in this part of the festival.

Forcing them to be outside with you will not only make them more scared and anxious but will also retract the trust that they have in you.

They may also want to run away from home not realising the outdoors is more dangerous.

And we don’t want that!

Celebrate each and every festival with your loved ones, but also be mindful and responsible for our pets, the environment and the animals around us.

Have a blessed festive season!

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First, let us start thinking of the stray animals as part of our community and call them "community animals" rather than "stray animals."

Community animals don’t ask a lot—all they need is shelter, food, medical care, and love.

At A+A Pets', community animals are the center of everything; we have chalked down simple pointers that will help even a layman know how to care for community animals.

Shelter/Clean Place To Stay

Every living being requires a certain amount of space and clean space to live in; this is their right and, as humans, we must provide our community animals with this basic necessity.

Making just a shelter in our buildings, houses, and societies with clean surroundings is all we need to do - and do you know something Dogs and Cats strive for a clean place - have you ever seen a dog or cat pee or poop at the place where they sit or sleep often? - No! They love clean places as much as we do!

Cardboard shelter in Summer, Polythene sheets in Monsoons, and old Bedsheets in Winter can be used to create living spaces for them.

Food/Eating Time

Rotis are not only favorites and staples in our Indian homes, but most of our community animals survive on rotis! It's also their favorite!

You don’t need fancy food to feed them—roti, rice, veggies, curd, eggs, bones, and other leftovers from home is good enough for them.

Just make sure to not feed them with sweet biscuits or oily food. Timing their food intake will help maintain discipline in them and a sense of trust toward them.

Feed them from old steel bowls or newspapers.

Be mindful of always cleaning the area where they are fed-most of the time you won’t need to, because they will lick the entire bowl clean :)

Fresh water at all times is a must, and it's very easy to do too! Dogs and cats that live on the streets, or stray animals as they are called, normally scavenge for food in dustbins and dumpsters and hunt on the streets. A lot of human food is not safe for dogs and cats, and garbage consumption can lead to digestive problems and other health issues.

Vaccine

Vaccinations are a must to keep them healthy. There are many NGO and municipal organisations that create free vaccine drives for community animals. Enrol your society/area animals in them and get it done for free.

Make sure they are vaccinated with anti-rabies so they and the people around them are safe from rabies!

Deworming

Deworming is by far the easiest way to keep their intestines clean of any parasites and worms, and it is also the easiest way to feed them—simply crush the tablets and add them to their food, and voila! it is in their tummies! The right deworming medication and dosage should be checked with the local area veterinarian.

Neutering

Getting your community's dogs and cats neutered is by far the easiest and most effective way of keeping illnesses and unnecessary population control.

The community needs to be healthy rather than be unhealthy and overcrowded.

Again, get in touch with the local NGOs or municipal/government organisations and get the dogs and cats neutered for free!

You must always keep a count of the community animals sent for spaying. Using basic collars for your community animals will help you know the numbers and differentiate them from the others. Remember, your community animals must be brought back to the same place they have lived their entire lives! Territorial beings are only humans! Nah! Dogs and cats are highly territorial!

Become Aware And Raise Awareness.

Not everyone is a social activist, but then again, we are not anything at all at birth!

So don’t think when you are talking for the benefit of the community animals we become social activists-just like how we learn to become doctors, musicians, chefs, engineers, entrepreneurs, etc., same way we must become aware and create awareness for our community animals too!

Say this to people who comment on you being a so-called social activist! Also, make them aware:)

At A+A Pets’ we firmly believe no one is a social activist, we are just aware, and being aware is the greatest gift and a liberating feeling.

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