Pet parents are a clever bunch, and our vets in Northampton have heard some truly brilliant tips shared over the years. So, we’ve gathered a few of our favourites from pet owners to help make your day-to-day pet care easier, cleaner and a bit more fun!

Need more support with your pet? Our team at Northlands are here to help – just contact us and we’ll get you the advice you need.

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Pet care life hacks from local pet parents

From sticky fur to sneaky pills, here’s a round-up of life hacks we’ve heard from pet owners at Northlands, that are definitely worth trying:

1. Save the sofa with lint rollers on-tap

If your pet’s fur seems to magically find its way into every nook and cranny, you’re not alone. One pet owner in Moulton Park swears by keeping a lint roller in every room (and even in the car!). Another clever idea? Drape a washable piece of fabric or a removable armrest cover over your sofa arms to catch loose hair before it sticks. It’s easy to clean and saves your upholstery from becoming a fur magnet.

2. Freezing fun for hot days

For dogs and even curious cats, freezing low-sodium stock in an ice cube tray makes a fun and cooling treat in the warmer months. You can also stuff a treat-dispensing toy with soaked kibble and freeze it – it keeps dogs busy and helps beat boredom too.

3. Wrap it up: The peanut butter pill trick

Need to give tablets subscribed by our vets in Northampton? Several dog owners told us they swear by the “peanut butter wrap” i.e. hiding the tablet in a small blob of xylitol-free peanut butter. Cats? Try a tiny ball of cream cheese or even tuna paste, and they may not even notice the meds!

4. DIY slow feeders

Got a speedy eater? One clever trick is using a muffin tin to spread out food portions and slow your pet down. Some owners hide biscuits in rolled-up tea towels or cardboard tubes for a quick, homemade snuffle game.

5. Turn toy tidying-up into a fun game

Here’s one our veterinary team at Northlands love! Turn clean-up time into a game by teaching your dog to fetch and drop toys into a basket – here’s how: Start by rewarding them for picking up a toy, then gradually guide them to the basket and give treats when they drop it in. Choose a hamper that fits your decor to keep things stylish, and safe so it won’t hurt your dog if it tips up and let your clever companion handle the mess!

6. Make bath time a breeze

One dog owner in Abington shared this genius idea: stick a lick mat (spread with xylitol-free peanut butter or plain yoghurt) to the bath or shower wall during bath time. It keeps wriggly pups occupied and turns grooming into a positive experience!

Got a life hack of your own?

We love hearing how our pet parents make life easier with their furry companions. If you’ve discovered a tip or trick that’s made your routine smoother, why not share it with our team at Northlands at your next visit?

Need advice or support? Whether it’s nutrition, behaviour or grooming, our friendly vets in Northampton are here to help. Just call us on 01604 637175 or book an appointment.

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