Summertime… Beach stays, trips abroad, hikes in Yorkshire… It is a great opportunity to take a break with your family and keep daily stress at bay. You book a lovely hotel with your other half, you read a map with your children asking them where they want to go, you pack your suitcases, you… Wait! Aren’t you forgetting someone? “Babe, what about the cat? Is he coming with us?!”
Most pet owners tend to forget about it: having a pet means new responsibilities and taking care of them when you go on holidays is one of them. Unfortunately, too many people still ignore it: although the Animal Welfare Act 2006 states abandonment as a criminal offence, the RSCPA received 1 call every 6 minutes to report an abandoned animal last summer. The months of June, July and August are critical since many people seem to struggle when it comes to taking care of their pets while also going on holiday. Read our tips below to make sure your pets will have a great time this summer, just like you!
CHICKENS
You might be an adventurous Frenchman aiming to sail around the world with your hen (https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-36475672). However, in all other cases, we recommend that you do not take your chickens on holidays with you. The best thing to do is to ask some friends or neighbours to take care of them while you are away, offering them to help themselves to eggs. If you are lucky enough to have an Eglu Cube on wheels, you can even move your coop directly into your neighbour’s garden!
HAMSTERS, GUINEA PIGS AND RABBITS
Just like with chickens, it is better to leave your hamster, rabbit or guinea pig at home and ask a friend, ideally someone they already know, to come and look after them. If you still decide to take them with you, or if you don’t have any other choice, be very careful with temperature change. These smaller pets are extremely sensitive to it and a sudden temperature change could be fatal. While in the car, make sure that they are neither too hot (do not leave them next to a window or in a parked car) or too cold (do not put them in front of the air con). You also want to check that nothing is at risk of falling and hurting them in the cage: take away the bottle and the feeder and stop regularly to give them some water and food. Remember that rodents and rabbits are very shy animals that like to have their own routine and tend to struggle with change.
CATS
You can definitely take them with you, but in most cases you don’t have to: cats are independent animals that can take care of themselves for a few days. Fill their bowls with food and water before leaving. If you are away for less than 10 days, ask a friend to come and check on them (one or two short visits a day should do).
If you are away for more than 10 days, it is better to leave your cat with some relatives, preferably people who already know your cat and who don’t have any animals that the cat won’t get along with. You can also put your cat in a boarding kennel. However, keep in mind that this can be risky since your cat could feel abandoned (new place, new faces…) and get depressed. Before taking them to the cattery you can give them some soft and natural tranquillizer, like Bach flower, to help them adjust.
DOGS
Dogs are probably the most complicated animal to deal with when going on holidays. You can’t just leave them at home with food and water. This is not only bad for your dog, but could also lead you to be accused of animal cruelty under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 (punishable by a £20,000 fine and a 51-week jail term). The best option is definitely to book a seat for your dog in your car and help them pack their suitcase!
Why should I take my dog with me?
Of course you can leave your dog with your friends or family (preferably someone they already know). However, keep in mind that dogs are very social animals and thrive on their owner’s company. For them, holidays will be a fantastic opportunity to spend some quality time with their favourite humans. Moreover, since you are on holidays, you will have more free time and will be able to spend entire days with your dog, which will make them extremely happy. No more long and boring days waiting for you at home! No doubt that you and your family will also be delighted to spend the whole day playing and exercising with your dog. They can also help you to interact with fellow holiday makers: many people won’t be able to resist giving them some attention!
How to organize a trip with a dog
Here is a list of what you can do to make sure your dog is ready for the holidays and everything goes fine while you two are away from home:
- Before going, make sure your dog is used to travelling in a car. Some dogs can be car sick and it is good to prepare them, especially if you’re planning on a road trip and are spending a lot of time in the car!
- Make sure your dog knows some basic commands such as heel and sit. If they are able to go on a walk without pulling on the lead, it is even better!
- Check that their vaccinations are up to date, and if you’re going abroad, double check what the requirements are far in advance.
- Bring everything they may need: food, of course, but also a first-aid kit, their health record book, the lead, the food and water bowls, the crate, their favourite toys, some poo bags… It is very important to take your dog’s food with you if you are going abroad since you can’t make sure you’ll find their favourite brand in the country you’re visiting.
- While travelling, put your dog in their cage in the boot of the car.
- Before visiting a place, make sure they accept pets. Never go to a hotel before checking it. Likewise, you will easily find on the Internet a list of dog friendly beaches in the UK.
- Check that your dog is not too hot. If you’re going on a walk, don’t forget to bring a bowl and a good amoutn of water.
- When settling your dog somewhere, do it properly: make sure they have some food, some water, some shadow… Even if it is just for an hour!
- If you think it is necessary, you can fit your dog with a GPS collar. This can be useful when you go hiking in the wild. You can also download various apps on your mobile to help you locate a lost dog, find a vets near you or keep record of your dog’s health.
- https://www.fleatickrisk.com/ is a very helpful website that will tell you if your dog is at risk of pest infections in the city you’re visiting. Check the website before going and take the necessary equipment with you.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
In the UK, you can travel for free with your pet on most public transport: buses, taxis, trains and ferries. However, to make sure everything goes smoothly, always check that that is the case before you board. Be aware that coach companies generally do not accept pets except for assistance dogs. Remember that passengers can complain about your animal’s behaviour so try and make sure your pet will be able to behave themselves while travelling.
When travelling abroad, make sure you can go on public transport with your pet since this can vary according to the country (in some places you will have to book a ticket for your animal).
If you’re travelling by plane, mention that you have an animal when booking and check that your animal’s vaccination is up to date. On the day of the departure, make sure to arrive early. Cats and small dogs will generally be allowed to fly with you in the cabin. However, bigger dogs will have to travel in a heated and pressurized part of the cargo hold. Birds, rabbits and hamsters are often forbidden but some airlines may accept them.
This entry was posted in Pets
We all know that pets are not just animals, they’re members of our family. So for the pet parents who are also human parents, why not foster an even stronger bond between your children and four-legged friends by engaging them in exciting activities that promote laughter, joy, and unforgettable memories? Get ready to unleash the fun with this treasure trove of ideas that will ignite imaginations and provide endless hours of entertainment of engaging activities for your kids and pets to do together.
Bake treats for your pets
Kids love to help in the kitchen! And when they know their culinary efforts will end in a delicious delight for their favourite furry family member, they’ll be sure to raise their helping hands. Just make sure the recipe you choose for your pet is safe for them to eat, and abide by the same rule used with kids – treats are to be enjoyed on a limited basis.
Have a hamster in the house? Grab some of your pantry staples to make these yummy honey homemade hamster treats. For a tail-wagging breakfast, let your kids break the eggs and blend the bananas to make these dog-friendly pancakes. The best part of this activity is that every member of the family can taste the treats.
Find new games to play with your cat
When the cat’s away, the mice will play. But when kids and cats are together, play is even better! Most cats love to play games because it mimics their natural instincts to pounce and bat with their paws. So before allowing your child to play closely with any pet, make sure they understand how to handle them safely.
An interactive game of chase with feathers, cat toys, or scarves makes for a fun-filled time for both kids and cats alike. Want to take the fun outside? Let your littles roam free together in a safely enclosed Catio while chasing bubbles all around. And for the senior cats who may find the chase games too much, encourage your child to stretch alongside their favourite feline on a sturdy cat scratching post.
Teach your dog a new trick
They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but that’s simply just not true. With the right encouragement, some patience, and lots of love, your dog can learn new things at any age in life. And what better way for your kids and canine to spend some quality time together than with a fun new trick?
Summer is a great time to let your kids get involved in teaching Fido how to fetch a stick or even learn a new command like “sit and shake”. Make sure your child keeps plenty of dog treats in their pocket to give as a reward for the newly learned behaviour. And because new tricks require lots of mental stimulation, make sure you have a comfortable and supportive dog bed where your furry friend can rest after all their hard work. By the time summer is over, your kids and dog will impress the whole family with all they have both learned.
Pocket money
Chores are a great way to teach your kids the importance of responsibility, but they’re also a great way to let your child earn some spending cash. And learning the value of work at a young age will always pay off later. So in an effort to get your kids and pets more time together while also completing needed work around the house, why not have them clean out the chicken coop to earn a bit of extra pocket money?
The Eglu chicken coops are so easy to clean that anyone tall enough to reach in and touch a hen will be able to get it spotless with ease. With a little bit of pet-safe disinfectant and water, your chickens’ home will be sparkly clean and hygienically healthy in no time. Plus, what kid doesn’t like to use a water hose? This simple chore of cleaning and collecting eggs not only allows your child more interaction with the hens, but it makes one less task for you to do. Win-win for everyone!
Homemade toys for rabbits
When it comes to fun for rabbits, Omlet has you covered. But if you’re looking for activities for your child and rabbit to enjoy together, look no further than your own garden. One of the best ways to get everyone outside and having fun is to go on a garden scavenger hunt. Have your kids locate a willow tree and collect some twigs to weave into a ball or a wreath. Your rabbits will love playing with their new toys as well as nibbling on the nutritious wood, and your kids will feel accomplished in creating a new rabbit masterpiece.
But the floppy-eared fun doesn’t stop there! If you’ve got an old towel or a ripped pair of jeans you’re getting rid of you can make a rag doll for your rabbits. Have your kids use their creativity to make something beautiful. Even just tying a knot in the middle of a strip of sturdy fabric will provide hours of fun for rabbits to tear apart in their outdoor rabbit run. Just make sure to take it away before they’ve ruined it completely – you don’t want them to ingest too much fabric.
Build an obstacle course for your hamster
Hamsters are the curious and energetic pets of the animal world. So engage both your child’s and hamster’s love of running, jumping, and climbing by helping your kids build an obstacle course for your hamster. Start by finding a safe area in your house where the hamster can be let out, away from open doors and other pets. You might want to build the course inside a playpen or create a barrier using books or other heavy objects. Just make sure they can’t fall over and hurt the hamster.
Have a LEGO-loving kid in your house? Get them to use their brick-building creativity to make the outline of the obstacle course. LEGO pieces will also make great jumps and steps for your hamster to navigate. Use clean popsicle sticks to build a ladder or a ramp for the hamster to climb up on, and build tunnels and hiding places with toilet paper rolls and cardboard boxes. Glue them together to create a hamster maze within the obstacle course and have your kids hide treats to encourage your hamster to explore.
Photoshoot
Capturing the bond between children and their furry companions in photos creates cherished memories that can be treasured for years to come. During a photoshoot, kids and pets can engage in various poses and interactions that showcase their special relationship. This activity not only allows kids and pets to have fun together but also encourages their creativity and self-expression. It’s also a great opportunity to teach children about patience, empathy, and respect for animals. Have fun with different locations and colourful outfits (if your pet obliges!) and make the photos as creative as you want. Here are our best tips for taking better photos of your pets.
Abstract paw art
If you have children, you likely have several crayon drawings hanging on your fridge. Why not add to the gallery with some abstract paw art made by your favourite furry child? Let your dog’s creative juices flow by helping your child work with your pup to create a beautiful piece of art.
Get some toxic-free, water-based paint and gently put your dog’s paws in it. With the help of some dog treats, guide your dog to a blank canvas and let them walk all over it, creating an abstract paw-print painting. You can even have your kids get in on the fun by adding their handprints as well! Be sure to have water on hand to clean everyone’s paws and best to do this activity outside to avoid the risk of paw prints on carpets and furniture.
Omlet brings kids and pets together
At Omlet, we know the bond between kids and their pets is a truly special one. Engaging in activities together not only strengthens their connection but also offers countless benefits for both of them. With our personal pet experience and ingenious expert designs, we create products for dogs, cats, chickens, rabbits, and more, that will bring out the best in everyone in the family. So try out one of these shared experiences with your kids and pets and create a lifelong friendship that will leave pawprints on their hearts forever.
This entry was posted in Pets
January is historically the month to set yourself some achievable goals for the year ahead. We’ve put together some ideas for creating New Year Resolutions for you and your pet!
Get fit
No more quick walks around the block after dinner. 2019 is all about getting fit with your pet. Both you and your pet will reap the rewards both physically and mentally. On an average 30 minute dog walk you can burn between 100 and 200 calories.
Try a new activity with your pet
From hiking to kayaking, hitting the waves to joining a pet exercise class, it’s easier than ever for people to incorporate their pet into a new pastime. These new activities will help you burn lots of calories! A 30 minute walk on the beach will burn approximately 150 calories and you could expect to burn 220 calories on a 30 minute hike.
Incorporate more playtime into your routine
Dogs love to play games and Cats love the thrill of chasing a toy; let’s just not tell them it’s exercise! Enjoy spending more time playing with your pets this year. A fun 20 minute tug of war would see you burn 50 calories.
Groom your pet every day
Brushing your pet helps to remove excess fur from their coat which reduces the amount you find on your clothes and furniture. It also helps distribute oils from the skin to the fur, to keep their coat healthy and shiny. Grooming an average sized dog burns 200 calories.
Teach an old dog a new trick
Studies show that mental stimulation can help reduce cognitive deterioration in older animals. By keeping your senior pet’s brain active, it can actually make it healthier.
Update your pet’s ID info
Over the course of a year, a lot can change — people move, get new phone numbers, and forget to update their pet’s tags. Don’t wait — update their tags and microchips now.
Make new friends
Visit your park and get to know other pet owners! It’s easier that you think!
Maintain a healthy diet
Lead a healthy life with a balanced diet and not too many treats.
Most of all; enjoy spending time with your wonderful pets!
This entry was posted in Pets
As any pet owner can tell you, animals have a wonderful way of weaving their way into our lives, bringing an abundance of joy, comfort, and a dash of adorable chaos. Owning a pet is more than just having furry, scaly, or feathered companions. Pets are the keepers of our secrets, the bringers of laughter, and the silent healers of our hearts. At Omlet, we think beyond the innovation of pet products and celebrate the remarkable bond that fosters people and pets. We recognise the benefits of owning a pet and know they are more than just a companion – they are an integral part of our lives, enriching them in countless ways.
Top 10 benefits of owning a pet
The decision to bring a pet into your life transcends companionship; it unlocks a myriad of benefits that enrich your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. From fostering responsibility to alleviating stress, the advantages of owning a pet are diverse and impactful.
Let’s delve into the top ten benefits of owning a pet:
1. Companionship and emotional support
The unwavering loyalty and unconditional love pets offer can alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide profound emotional support. Whether you are 2 or 92, pets offer comfort to our lives by giving us a sense of purpose and meaning.
Add fun products to your pet’s environment like a dome-shaped bird cage or a cat scratcher with lights and see how quickly your bond together strengthens. With wagging tails, furry coats or flocked feathers, pets become confidants, giving us comfort during difficult times, companionship through loneliness and a celebration of highs, making each day brighter.
2. Physical health improvement
Pet ownership often translates to increased physical activity. Whether it’s a dog needing walks or playing with an energetic cat, the regular exercise associated with pet care is tremendous. With increased exercise comes lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease and a boost in overall fitness.
And don’t forget all the benefits your pet receives with movement as well as the increased bond they are getting with you. As a pet owner, you have your companion to thank for helping keep your health in check and happy.
3. Stress reduction
Have you ever had a stressful day only to come home, sit on the couch, start petting your dog and begin to feel more at ease? That’s because the mere presence of pets has been proven to reduce stress levels. There’s a reason pets are used as ‘calming mechanisms’ in hospitals, schools and nursing homes.
The simple act of petting a cat or dog triggers the release of oxytocin, or the “feel-good” hormone, in our brains which, in turn, promotes relaxation and decreases cortisol levels. And bonus – your dog or cat receives just as much happiness and satisfaction from being pet by you.
4. Enhanced social connections
Want more friends in your life? Get a pet. Pets serve as wonderful catalysts, easing social interactions among their owners. Whether it’s meeting fellow pet lovers at the park or engaging in conversations with neighbours during walks, pets act as the perfect icebreakers. Fostering new connections with pet owners is easy because they all have one thing in common – they love their pets like family.
5. Mental health benefits
The companionship of pets contributes significantly to mental health. They offer a sense of purpose, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and provide a constant source of joy and entertainment, uplifting spirits during challenging times.
When feelings of depression or sadness abound, establishing new routines can be very beneficial in bringing about a general sense of well-being. With pets, routines are inevitable. Whether it’s the daily routine of walking your dog, scheduled feeding times or regular grooming schedules, having set plans for you and your pet makes mental health better.
6. Teaching responsibility
For families, owning a pet is an excellent way to teach children responsibility. Caring for a living being instil values within children like empathy, compassion, and accountability. By giving your child the responsibility of nurturing a pet, you will in turn be nurturing well-rounded individuals.
7. Improved immunity in children
While many people, and children, are allergic to certain animals, a lot of research has been conducted to suggest that early exposure to pets can actually bolster a child’s immune system. Pet hair and dander allergies are certainly real, however, the earlier a child is exposed to an animal, the greater the chance of reducing the risk of allergies and asthma.
In fact, growing up with pets introduces a variety of microbes to a child that they would not otherwise come in contact with and, as such, strengthens their immune system’s resilience. Always consult your doctor if medical conditions persist, but having a childhood pet is not just a memory maker, but an immunity booster as well.
8. Therapeutic benefits
The therapeutic benefits that pets offer to people are countless. From assisting in physical rehabilitation to providing comfort in emotional therapy, the presence of a pet can dramatically accelerate the healing process. While some pets are trained for specific service roles such as sight-seeing dogs, almost all pets can provide emotional support to their people just merely through their presence.
9. Sense of security
If you live alone or in a place where your sense of security feels weak, having a pet can make all the difference. Pets, especially dogs, offer a feeling of safety as they are another being in your house that can protect and provide reassurance. Dogs have keen senses and protective instincts, making owners feel safer and more secure with them around.
10. Unconditional love
There’s a quote by George Eliot that says, “Animals are such agreeable friends. They ask no questions; they pass no criticisms.” We would add that they are also one of the few beings that will love you more than you love yourself.
The joyous moments shared with pets leads to a profound sense of happiness and fulfilment. Through their antics, playful demeanour, and unwavering loyalty, pets offer us humans unconditional love and companionship that’s incredibly special and mutually beneficial.
Omlet and your pets
The relationship between pets and people extends far beyond the surface. Omlet acknowledges and cherishes this profound connection, recognising the multitude of ways in which pets enhance our lives. That’s why we make products like the Geo Bird Cage and the Switch Cat Scratcher to enhance the unbreakable bond that is between a person and pet. Owning a pet is an enriching experience that contributes to holistic well-being, companionship, and happiness in immeasurable ways and Omlet is proud to be a partner in the care of your pet.
This entry was posted in Pets
Christmas is a wonderful time of year, and we’re all looking forward to celebrating together with our loved ones, including our pets! It’s therefore important to consider what effect all the festive fun is having on our furry friends, and to make sure they’re also having a great time. Here are some of our top tips for keeping your pets safe and happy this Christmas!
Limit treats
We know it’s much more difficult to resist feeding scraps to your pets over Christmas, but in most cases, it’s really not good for them, and can even be harmful. Instead, we suggest that you spend this special occasion making the most of plenty of quality time with your pets. They’ll without a doubt prefer your company to treats or presents! For a guide of what you can feed your dogs this Christmas, take a read of our blog Happy Howlidays: Food Do’s and Don’ts for Dogs This Christmas.
Keep routines
Try to stick to the normal schedule as much as possible over the holidays, especially when it comes to mealtimes. Our pets don’t understand that we have got lots to do during this time after all, and a disruption of their routines will add to a possibly already stressful time. Let your chickens out at the same time as usual, walk your dog as you would normally and give your cat their daily play time.
Give your pets a safe space
Christmas can get hectic, so make sure your pet has somewhere to go to get away from all hustle and bustle, preferably in a different, quieter, room. If you’ve got guests coming over, let them know what to do, and what not to do, around your pets. It’s important that everyone knows what doors, windows and gates need to be kept closed, what the pets are allowed to do and eat, and when they are to be left alone.
Going away
If you’re spending Christmas somewhere else, you need to take your pets into consideration. Don’t leave them alone for longer than they are used to, and make sure they’ve got what they need while you’re away. If you’re taking them with you, bring something that will remind them of home, like a cat blanket, dog toy, or their hamster cage. If you can’t take them with you, you will need to find an alternative solution.
Make sure you plan the journey and be aware of the fact that traffic can be busy around Christmas. Your pet must have access to food and water at all times, and depending on your what pet you’ve got, there might be a need for toilet breaks.
Christmas trees and plants
Make sure your Christmas tree if safely secured, as cats tend to try and climb them. It might also be a good idea to hang especially intriguing and tantalising decorations higher up in the tree where pets can’t reach them as easily. This minimises the risk of cats getting tangled and the tree falling over.
Hoover under and around the tree regularly to get rid of fallen pine needles. The needles can get stuck in mouths or between toes, which can be very painful.
Lots of our most common Christmas plants, including poinsettias, mistletoe and amaryllis, are poisonous to a lot of pets, so make sure you stay clear of them, or keep them out of reach.
Decorations and presents
Choose non-toxic Christmas decorations and keep cables from lights and other decorations out of reach. Should your pet try to nibble through them, this can cause damage to both cable and pet.
Don’t leave presents containing eatable things (chocolate in particular!) under the tree. It will soon be sniffed out, and it won’t take a couple of greedy paws long to get into a wrapped present.
Once the gifts have been opened, clear away the wrapping paper straight away. Not only will you avoid having paper all over the room once your pets get to it, but coloured paper and string should also not be ingested by pets.
This entry was posted in Pets
Animals can either be social or solitary, which you’ll find information on below. But which category does your pet fall under, and do they have their own friend already?
Social animals
An animal that exhibits a high degree of sociality is called a social animal. This means they need contact with their own kind. Being kept on their own causes these animals to experience boredom, frustration and fear. Unless you have plenty of time to socialise with them, it is recommended these pets have a buddy.
Solitary animals
Solitary animals on the other hand spend a majority of their lives without others of their species, with possible exceptions for mating and raising their young. They are often territorial and do not like the company of another animal, especially an animal of their own kind. Some solitary animals will even start fighting when kept together, which can harm or even kill one or both animals.
Does my rabbit need a friend?
Wild rabbits spend their lives as part of a large group, known as a warren. Rabbits are very sociable animals and need to be kept with at least one other rabbit. It is easiest if rabbits are kept together from birth, but rabbits less than 3 months old will usually live together happily. The best combination is a neutered male and a neutered female. Two litter brothers or two litter sisters will also get on well, but to prevent fighting it is important that they are both neutered.
Does my hamster need a friend?
Syrian (and sometimes Chinese) hamsters must be kept alone. If kept together, these hamsters will get very stressed, even if they are housed in a large enclosure. For owners who want to keep two or more hamsters together, Dwarf hamsters are recommended (such as Roborovskis or Winter Whites). These species can be kept in pairs or groups as long as they are given adequate space.
Does my guinea pig need a friend?
In the wild guinea pigs live in groups of 10 or more, they are social creatures, and like company. As pets they are usually kept in pairs; two females (sows) will live happily together, as will two males (boars), particularly if they are brothers. Two boars of different ages will usually live together, as long as there are no females around. If a female and male live together the male should be castrated.
Does my gerbil need a friend?
Due to their social nature gerbils need the company of their own kind, the exception being Fat-Tailed gerbils. It is always advisable to get a pair of gerbils because it can be difficult to introduce two gerbils to each other when they are adults (around 16 weeks old). You can keep either two males or two females. Whilst gerbils are social and can live in groups, unless you have a very big area to keep them in, it’s better to keep no more than 2-4.
Does my dog need a friend?
Dogs love nothing more than attention and affection, whether it be from you (their owner) or their fellow dog friends. They can be perfectly happy with just the attention from their owner and family, which means getting another dog is not essential. It is often thought that adopting another dog will instantly solve all problems associated with your first dog’s separation anxiety, but unfortunately this isn’t always the case. When adopting a second dog you must consider a number of different variables, including gender, temperament, energy requirements and size. You can find out more about setting your furry friend up on a successful doggy playdate in this previous blog for some more tips!
Does my cat need a friend?
It is thought that cats don’t actually crave companionship from one of their own. Often they are perfectly happy being the only cat in the house. Cats are indeed a solitary species but they can and do live in groups. But an extra cat friend (or partner in crime) does provides extra mental and physical stimulation. The major benefit to getting two cats is that they will keep each other company whilst you are away. Getting kittens from the same litter of cats is always the best choice.
Does my chicken need a friend?
Free-ranging chickens are social animals. Hens and chicks are the core, while roosters live independently. Because chickens are social animals they prefer to live in a flock. Furthermore, a chicken without a buddy will get lonely and stressed out. When you have a group of chickens or add new chickens to your existing flock, they will have to establish the pecking order and you might start to wonder if they are social animals after all. Read the guide on our website for more information on how to introduce chickens to an existing flock.
For more information on what else you need to know about getting a new pet, have a read of the Omlet Pet Guides. You can also shop everything you need for your furry or feathered friend on the Omlet shop!
This entry was posted in Pets
This entry was posted in Pets
If you’re looking to get some great shots of your furry or feathered friends, follow these tips so that you can master the art of the perfect pet pic!
Patience
The first thing to remember is that pet photography requires patience. It doesn’t matter if you want a posed photo of your rabbit or an action shot of your dog, you’re probably going to get rather frustrated when your models are not behaving in the way you want them to. So arm yourself with patience, and never force your pet into doing something they don’t like.
Get help
If you have a family member or a friend at hand, it’s always useful to ask them to assist you. They can use toys or treats to get the attention of the pet and direct their gaze while you focus on getting a great photo. If you’re by yourself you’re going to have to find other ways. Sometimes making a sudden noise can get the attention of the pet, but probably only for a second or two, so make sure you’re ready. Depending on the type of photo you’re after it might be easier to have the photo session after you’re played together for a while and the pet is less excited and bouncy.
Use natural light
If you’re not a professional photographer with access to different lenses and flashes, you’re probably going to want to take advantage of the natural light. Try starting outdoors, or if you’re indoors, by a window. The light will make the photo look better, and will give you more freedom to experiment. We would suggest going somewhere where both you and your pet feel comfortable, maybe a place that means a lot to you and where you have created lots of memories together. Try to choose a place with a relatively clear backdrop, like a while wall or a grassy field, as a messy background can be distracting.
Try to focus on the eyes
If the eyes are blurry or out of focus the photo will look slightly off. The camera will automatically focus on what is closest to the lens, which in most cases will be the nose of your pet rather than the eyes. This is especially important when you’re taking close ups.
Get down to their level
This might mean you have to crouch down in the mud or crawl on the floor, but in return your photos will be significantly more unique and interesting. Try taking photos from different angles: from above, below, in front of your pet, behind it. You’ll get to see your pet from all sides, and sometimes the photos from the weirdest of angles are the ones you will love the most.
Have their personalities in mind
The whole point of taking photographs of your pets is to try and capture their personalities, so try to make sure that their characters are showing in the photo. If you cat is the lazy ruler of the house you probably want to capture it yawning in their favourite spot on the sofa, and if you have a dog that bounces around the house and is impossible to tire, you probably want to capture its liveliness in the middle of a jump or running towards you in the park.
Quantity is key
The more photos you take, at different times and locations, the more likely you are to get that one amazing shot. This will also mean that you get loads of photos of your pet in different places, moods and positions. Get used to taking photos when you’re out on walks, playing in the garden, or just relaxing at home, and try to spy on your pet to catch what they’re doing when you’re not around. And remember to always take 20 photos instead of just one.
Use treats
If you’re trying to have a properly arranged photo shoot, try using treats. Depending on what pet you have, and their personalities, offering treats can make them sit still and look at the camera. Others will just walk up to you to get the treat, or ignore the treat completely, but it’s worth trying. Make sure that you reward your model throughout the shoot.
Include props
Props go a long way when getting a great picture of your pet. Not only are they a great way to make your shoot more fun, but they can make your pet look even cuter! Why not feature some of their favourite pet toys and accessories in the background of some of your shots, or you can even smarten fido up with a fun dog bow-tie and adorable dog fleece (or high-vis jacket for your chickens!). Of course, it again goes without saying that if your pet doesn’t feel comfortable with any props you’re using, then stop using them. Remember – no one likes a pushy petographer!
Add humans to the photo
Having family members in the photos with your pet makes the pictures even more special, and they are the ones that you will come back to and look at. A photo of your child playing with your dog or feeding the chickens will capture their characters in a way that a posed photo very rarely does.
This entry was posted in Pets
This entry was posted in Pets
This entry was posted in Pets
This entry was posted in Pets
For Valentine’s Day we asked our lovely followers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to share their pictures of #UnlikelyLove. We wanted to celebrate the unlikely pairings of animals who you wouldn’t normally expect to be friends and we were overwhelmed with entries. It was very hard to pick a winner but in the end we came to a unanimous decision at Omlet HQ that the winning due was Henry and Lexi the springer spaniel leopard gecko entered by Julie Barrett on Facebook.
This entry was posted in Pets
We just wanted to say a very Merry Christmas to all of our Omlet customers across the world. We hope Santa is good to you this year and that you and your pets get everything you were hoping for.
If you have purchased any products from us this past year, we would like to thank you and if you are thinking about joining the Omlet community then we look forward to helping you find the perfect house or accessory for you and your pet.
Keep your eyes and ears peeled in the New Year as we have some very exciting products launching, make sure you subscribe to our newsletter to be the first ones to find out when these new products are released.
In the meantime, as the January temperatures continue to drop it might be a good idea to invest in one of our Extreme Temperature Jackets to ensure your pets are extra toasty this Winter.
All that’s left to say from us is EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY.
Many thanks,
Barbara & The Omlet Team.
This entry was posted in Pets
It’s that time of year, Christmas is just around the corner and preparations are in full swing! As the temperatures start to drop and the smell of mulled wine fills the air it is easy to start panicking about the festivities you need to get ready for. To help with this mad rush, here at Omlet we have compiled a selection of products we believe will reduce some of that stress.
First of all the Christmas shop….there’s nothing worse than getting to the supermarket trolley park and realising you don’t have a pound coin to put in the trolley. Then you have to make the decision between using a basket in the style of the Incredible Hulk or having the faff of asking someone for change. FEAR NOT, Omlet is here to save the day! Get your hands on one of our Trolley Key Coins and you will never have this problem again. Top tip: why not attach it to your bags for life then you won’t ever forget it.
As you start all your cooking prep and baking, it’s very easy to catch yourself on a hot pan or a handle resting on the hob. Make sure you get through this festive season scot free with one of our stylish range of oven gloves. Not only do they look great in the kitchen but they keep your hands safe and burn free, win win.
And don’t forget about keeping all your lovely clothes in nice condition for the holidays. We have a fantastic offer on our Vintage Doris Apron, only £15!
This entry was posted in Pets
The Victoria and Albert Museum houses the largest collection of art and design in the world, across 145 galleries and 13 acres of space in the centre of London. Home to priceless pieces by Faberge, Michaelangelo, Charles Renee Macintosh and Frank Lloyd Wright to name a few it’s not exactly the kind of place you would expect to find a couple of chickens wandering around. But that’s exactly what you would have found if you went to the Late Nights series in August which the V&A puts on every last friday in the month. In August the focus was on Urban Grow Your Own and as well as hydroponics, a seed exchange and disco soup, Omlet were invited to display an Eglu and chickens in the amazing surroundings of the John Madjeski garden. A beautiful summers evening meant that the garden was packed and plenty of people did a double take as we set up the Eglu and produced two real live chickens who promptly did real live droppings much to all the kids delight. We answered loads of questions from people all over the world who were visiting and it was great to meet so many chicken fans. It’s not the first time the Eglu has been in the V&A though, you may remember that the Eglu Classic was picked to represent great british design alongside the E-Type jaguar and Concorde during an exhibtion that ran alongside the London Olympics in 2012.
This entry was posted in Pets
Would you like to WIN a New Eglu Cube? All you need to do is download the Barbara Colouring Sheet here and then get your children to colour it in.
Once complete, please take a picture or a scan of the drawing and post it to our Facebook page or Tweet us @Omlet.
Barbara Colouring Sheet PDF Download.
Competition ends midday 30th September 2016.
This entry was posted in Offers and promotions
As the pollen count in the UK has begun to rise in the recent weeks, us humans are not the only ones suffering from hay fever. Your pets can also struggle with the allergy so here are some top tips to reduce the side effects.
If your dog likes to run through fields and flowerbeds or roll about in the grass, you might want to think about keeping him or her on a lead for your walks.
Keep your pets well groomed throughout the pollen season. This includes keeping their coats short and giving them weekly baths to make sure there’s no pollen lingering.
Don’t forget to wash their beds as well, too often people concentrate on the animal and not on its habitat. We would suggest a weekly deep clean of all bedding and comforts to remove any excess pollen.
This entry was posted in Dogs
Check out all the amazing entries we had for our latest competition #MyOmletEmpire. We asked our Facebook and Twitter followers to share pictures of their impressive Omlet setups and we had some fantastic images sent to us, take a look!
The lucky winner was Sarah Gale with her clever double Eglu Cube and Walk In Run Connection, congratulations!
This entry was posted in Chickens
Omlet Newsletter January 14th 2016
How Eggstraordinary!
Keeping your own chickens is fun and fascinating, especially when you never know what you’re going to find in the nesting box! Eglu Owner Emma Postlethwaite recently had quite a surprise when she went to collect her eggs in the morning; her Light Sussex hen, Wendy, had laid a whopper. Weighing in at 5.9oz, Emma knew it was going to make for a cracking breakfast but she was not eggspecting what happened next. Breaking open the shell she discovered something sp’egg’tacular – an egg within an egg. Watch a video of the eggstraordinary reveal here!
Have you found any weird and wonderful eggs in your Eglu? Let us know your story and send us a pic if you can!
Is your coop looking worse for wear? It’s time for an upgrade!
Treat your Hens to a New Coop and Save over 10%!
This month we have a very special offer on some of our best-selling pet houses – save over 10% on Eglu Gos, Eglu Go UPs and Eglu Go Hutches! There’s no better eggscuse to treat your pets to a stylish new home and you’ll love being able to look out to the garden to something bright and colourful on a cold winter’s day.
Don’t have a chicken coop or rabbit hutch to upgrade? Don’t worry, this offer is open to new pet owners too – just use our special promo codes below to redeem your secret discount.
Eglu Go Chicken Coop code: UKUPGRADEGO / Eglu Go UP Chicken Coop code: UKUPGRADEGOUP
Eglu Go Guinea Pig Hutch code: UKUPGRADEGH / Eglu Go Rabbit Hutch code: UKUPGRADERH
Keeping your Hens Happy this Winter
Following a mild but wet December it’s time to say hello to the big freeze again. Brrr! You may not be welcoming it with open arms but you can at least be prepared with our top tips for winter chicken care. And don’t panic, your hens are hardier than you think!
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Always shut your hens in the Eglu when it gets dark and open again in the morning. The twin-walled insulation will keep them nice and cosy.
- Invest in a spare drinker or two to have on hand for frosty mornings – simply swap their frozen water for fresh! Alternatively try using a water heater to avoid your hens having to drink slush puppies.
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Move your Eglu to as sheltered a spot as possible and add a suitable run cover to allow your hens to roam around without being rained on.
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More poop in the chicken coop? This could be down to your hens eating more regularly to stay warm. Pick up the frozen droppings every couple of days and clean your Eglu more often than usual.
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Thought porridge was just for bears? Chickens love it too. Use feed pellets instead of oats, add boiling water, stir and allow to cool before adding a touch of poultry spice. Perfect for a warming evening snack.
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An Eglu will keep your hens warm enough whatever the weather but you can always add an Extreme Temperature Jacket for eggstra protection on freezing nights.
A Very Happy Cube Customer!
What’s better than having an Eglu in your garden? Having three! Jenny Evans loves our chicken coops so much she now has a rainbow of Cubes for her feathered friends. She sent us this email to let us know how happy she is with her products.
“I just wanted to let you know how pleased we & our feathered family members are with their new living accommodation! It makes such easy work of keeping them, they are very well designed & thought out.”
To find out more about the cracking coops we have on offer, visit the website. And don’t forget our Eglu Gos and Go UPs are on special offer this month!
Today is National Best Dressed Pet Day
Today is National Dress Up Your Pet Day and we are eggcited to see our High-Vis Chicken Jackets in Inc’s ’13 coolest outfits’ list. Now, we agree, these jackets are cool, but they are functional too. Not only do they make your chickens easy to spot in the dark, which is great if you feel like you end up playing hide and seek every evening, but they also give protection to hens that are a little on the bald side. They offer comfort and warmth in cold weather and they have been designed for ease of use and manoeuvrability. Please note, your hen may take a few days to get used to her new garment and it should be removed at night so she doesn’t get too warm.
Make sure you check out our Camo Chicken Jackets too, or, if you’re a dog owner pick up one of our stylish tweed numbers.
December’s Competition Winners
Thanks to everyone that entered December’s terrific competitions. Wendy Jackson was the winner of our Personalised Pet Painting competition and she is soon going to be the proud owner of a piece of unique artwork by artist Nicola Metcalfe. You can see Wendy and her pals above and we will share the painting when it’s complete.
The lucky winners of the Your Chickens Magazine competition were Rosalind Cunliffe, Susan Moffat, Keith David, Alison Botting and Monica Bagley. They will each receive a year’s subscription to this perfect poultry publication.
Winter Warmers
Water Bottle Covers – A nifty cover to help prevent your rabbit’s water from freezing! – £4.95 each
Drinker Heater – Ensure your hens’ water doesn’t freeze with this drinker heater. Two sizes,
from £24.99
Snugglesafe Heatpad – A microwaveable heatpad that can be popped in the Eglu on cold nights. – only £17.25
This entry was posted in Pets
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