A Look At Automatic Pet Feeders
Value Of An Automatic Pet Feeder
It goes without saying that dogs truly deserve the title ‘man’s best friend’. Whether you have a huge huskie or a pretty little spritz, you are bound to have a great time with your furry little friend. However, any dog owner will tell you that having a dog is not always all fun and games. There is a lot of responsibility involved and is not a task to be taken lightly.
Feeding time is one of those things that make having a dog a little bit more of a chore than a friendship. You might be too tired to do it, too busy or sometimes simply just not in the mood. This, my friend, is where automatic pet feeders come in super handy.
So, what is an automatic pet feeder?
They are designed to automatically release set portions of food onto your dog’s plate. Depending on the brand and design, the food is either released at specific times or when your trained pet presses some release device. Some brands even allow automatic release of water. This way, your pooch stays hydrated whether or not you are there to see to it yourself.
One of the best things about an automatic pet feeder is the fact that it allows you to monitor the amount of food you give your pet. This way, it won’t end up underfed and you also won’t have to throw away scraps that the pet leaves untouched.
With so much ease and convenience to look forward to, it goes without saying that this is something that both you and your furry friend will enjoy.
Features you need to look out for while shopping for the automatic pet feeder
Not all automatic pet feeders are the same. Each brand has something that makes it stand out and at the end of the day; it is your preferences that matter most. However, should you decide to get one, below are a few very important features you should look out for.
1. Food capacity
This refers to how much food the feeder can hold. On average, the capacity ranges from 2 to 4 found of food. If you have many dogs you want to feed from the same feeder, then a high capacity model would suit you best. The high capacity feeders also come in handy in case you are not around for a full day or even a weekend to take care of the feeding yourself.
2. Water dispenser
Your dog needs water just as much as they need food. For this reason, an automatic dog food dispenser with a water compartment earns more points than the one without. However, if the one you have your heart set on doesn’t have the water dispenser, you can compromise by buying a smaller one and using it for water.
3. Ability to accommodate non-dry food
This is an especially important feature to consider when you have puppies. This is because they cannot survive solely on dry dog food. A good dispenser will accommodate their semisolid formulas without clogging or any other inconveniences.
4. Release modes
With this feature, your personal preferences matter most. Some food dispensers rely on timed release modes. This is where you program the device to release the food at specific times during the day. Others have a more interactive mechanism where the dog is allowed to control the release of the food themselves. This is a great way to teach your pet discipline.
Maintenance tips to ensure durability and longevity
- Clean the food tank regularly.
- Do not mix different food types.
- Do not use semi-solid food on a dispenser that doesn’t accommodate non-dry food.
- Do not put large doggie treats in the feeder. This might cause blockage of the conduit.
Bottom line
After all is said and done, there is no denying the fact that pet feeders are handy little contraptions. Whether or not you are always around to see to your pet’s feeding needs, it is something definitely worth looking into. Just make sure to consider the four key features described above. That way, you will have something that both you and your best buddy will enjoy.