Your 2025 guide to stress-free pet parenting
May is National Pet Month—a time to celebrate the unconditional love, slobbery kisses and tail wags our animal companions bring into our lives. But let's face it: being a pet parent isn't always a walk in the park. From fur-covered furniture to unpredictable feeding schedules, it takes the right tools to keep things running smoothly. That's why we've put together the ultimate guide to pet parenting essentials. Whether you're looking for grooming must-haves, clever feeders or stylish accessories, these picks are designed to make life easier (and more fun!) for you and your four-legged, feathered or scaled sidekick.
Best pet bedding
Harry Barker Market Stripe Lounger
This isn't just a dog bed—it's a designer lounge for your pup. With plush chipped memory foam and a soft arched backrest, it's the perfect spot for curling up, stretching out or simply looking adorable while snoozing. $176.64 on Amazon
Story continues below advertisement
PAWZ Road Cat Tunnel
Part cozy cave, part play palace, this ultra-soft cat tunnel wraps your kitty in plush comfort. The donut ring doubles as a private nap spot and a hide-and-pounce playground, with a hanging ball toy for bonus entertainment. It even reconfigures into S-shapes or separates for fun in multiple rooms. $48.99 on Amazon
Anchor Hocking Goldfish Bowl
Give your child's first fish a cozy, stylish home with this all-glass bowl. The see-through design offers a full view of their new underwater friend, making it perfect for curious young pet parents. $25.99 on Amazon
Ferplast Hamsterville Hamster Habitat Cage
With several wooden levels connected by mini ladders and ramps, Hamsterville turns every day into an adventure for your little friend. This thoughtfully designed space supports healthy movement and curious play. Bonus: the liquid-resistant shelves make cleanup a breeze. $268.14 at Wayfair
Story continues below advertisement
Best pet toys
Harry Barker Rubber Bone
Built for bite-happy pups, this durable rubber toy satisfies your dog's natural urge to chew while helping keep their teeth clean and healthy. Whether they're a gentle nibbler or a determined gnawer, this toy can take it. When playtime is over, just toss it in the dishwasher or give it a quick rinse. $17.9 on Amazon
Bird Perch
Made from natural wood and metal hooks, this bird perch and swing set is designed with your feathered friend's safety in mind. Sturdy and stable, it's easy to assemble and fits perfectly in any birdcage. $16.97 on Amazon
Story continues below advertisement
Cheerble Interactive Cat Toy
No more chasing your cat's toy under the couch! The Cheerble Ball works best on wood floors, tile, low-pile carpet and even in small spaces like cardboard boxes. Plus, with its built-in intelligent motion sensor, it automatically reverses when it bumps into something. $22.99 on Amazon (was $39.99)
Prevue Hendryx Nature's Hideaway Grass Tunnel Toy
Designed to satisfy your small pet's need to dig, hide and create, this activity centre lets them engage in their natural behaviours, promoting both mental and physical well-being. It's more than just a home—it's an adventure. $13.83 on Amazon
Best pet grooming
OUAI Fur Bébé Pet Shampoo
Your pup deserves the best, and Fur Bébé is here to deliver. This dog shampoo hydrates, cleanses and adds a beautiful shine to your furry friend's coat. No more dog smell, just soft, shiny fur that's begging for attention. $43.5 on Amazon
Story continues below advertisement
Earth Rated Dog Grooming Wipes
Say goodbye to muddy paws and stinky fur. These textured dog wipes are the perfect everyday solution for keeping your dog clean and smelling amazing, thanks to a soothing lavender scent. Bonus: Earth Rated is a Canadian company! $39.99 on Amazon
Whisker City Short-Medium Hair Deshedding Cat Tool
Tired of kitty hair everywhere? The Whisker City Deshedding Tool is designed to tackle shedding by removing loose undercoat hair in no time. Get ready to keep your cat's coat sleek and tidy. $31.99 at PetSmart
Full Cheeks Small Pet Precision Nail Trimmer
If cutting your small pet's nails is scary for you, these precision nail trimmers will help make the experience a breeze. Designed for small paws and delicate nails, this trimmer ensures a precise cut every time. $8.49 at PetSmart
Story continues below advertisement
You may also like:
Crumps' Naturals Mini Trainers Freeze Dried Beef Liver – $8.99
Nature's Miracle Advanced Stain and Odour Eliminator – $11.99
Aquarium Hideaway Rock Cave – $12.99
Dog Waste Disposal System – $22.38
Vetnique Dentabliss Finger Mitt Dental Wipes – $29.99
Harry Barker Welcome Home Pet Bundle – $315
Best pet accessories
Harry Barker Cat Scratcher
Crafted with premium fleece and sturdy wicker, this scratching post offers the perfect balance of stability and comfort for your cat. It's designed to withstand all your cat's playful antics–and it'll complement the aesthetic in your home. $106.82 on Amazon
Story continues below advertisement
BABELIO Metal Dog Gate
Designed with your fur baby's safety in mind, this extra wide gate fits doorways, hallways and stairs ranging from 29 to 48 inches wide and stands at a secure 28 inches high. The double-lock mechanism allows pet parents (aka you) to unlock and lift the gate with one hand. $132.99 on Amazon
VETRESKA Dog Poop Bag Dispenser with Coffee Scented Waste Bags
These coffee scented poop bags are the ultimate way to help mask unpleasant odours while keeping you in a cheerful mood during your strolls. Now you can walk your pup without the worry of stinky situations. $13.99 on Amazon
Portable Leisure Outing Pet Bolster
Whether you're on a road trip or relaxing at home, this bed provides your dog with a cozy retreat. It's designed to offer comfort and a sense of security, no matter where you and your furry friend embark. $101.99 at Funny Fuzzy
Story continues below advertisement
Best pet feeders
Automatic Cat Feeder
With this automatic feeder, your feline friend can enjoy meals on time, whether you're home or away. No more rushing to refill their food bowl–this feeder holds up to 3L of kibble, providing up to 15 days of hassle-free feeding. $59.99 on Amazon
Elevated Dog Food Water Bowl
With a cute, modern, minimalistic aesthetic, these elevated bowls add a touch of sophistication to your canine companion's meal time. The splash-proof guard prevents spills, while the non-slip rubber feet keep the bowls steady during eating, $41.79 on Amazon (was $43.99)
Story continues below advertisement
Automatic Bird Feeder
The water dispenser can be easily attached to both external and internal cage setups without the need for tools. Plus, it's a breeze to disassemble and clean, making maintenance simple and stress-free. $29.99 on Amazon
Ycozy Automatic Fish Feeder
Set your fish feeding schedule with ease. Choose from eight, 12, or 24 hours for automatic feeding. Press the corresponding button, and the feeder will dispense food at your chosen interval. You can also manually feed your fish at any time. $31.99 on Amazon
Best pet tech
Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner
Cleaning just got easier with this ultra-light vacuum design–perfect for tackling those high-traffic areas and sneaky spills in small spaces. The removable nozzle makes rinsing and dirt removal a breeze. Plus, the 20-foot cord gives you all the freedom you need to reach those tricky spots. $119.99 on Amazon (was $139.99)
Story continues below advertisement
Motion Activated Automatic Cat Laser
This isn't just any laser toy—it's a random trajectory laser that moves unpredictably, just like the hunt in the wild. Thanks to its built-in dual motors, it keeps your feline friend on their paws, always chasing the next dot of light. $34.99 on Amazon
Sunbeam The Little Sonic Handheld Egg
Tired of the constant barking? Meet your new best friend! The Little Sonic Egg is here to help your pup stay calm and collected. With just a simple push of a button, this magical egg emits an ultrasonic sound that only your dog can hear, stopping unwanted barking in its tracks. $29.99 at PetSmart
Furbo 360° Pet Camera
The Furbo 360° Dog Camera is the perfect way to stay connected to your pet, no matter where you are. Watch, speak and reward your pup with ease, all through one amazing device. $189 on Amazon (was $264)
Story continues below advertisement
You may also like:
I'm Feline Good Cat Ceramic Bowl – $22.47
Pawfume Premium Dog Grooming Spray – $19.95
1 Pack 3 Puppy Blankets – $17.99
Boxie Unscented 30 Day Odour Control Clumping Clay – $27.99
Pet Car Seat Cover – $29.80
BestPet Black 4 Wheels Pet Stroller – $67.99
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Global News
2 days ago
- Global News
The best family-friendly activities to kick off summer
The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms. School is *almost* out, which means you have two long months of planning activities, outings, camps and other vacations with the kids. But what about those days in between, when you want them to do more than rot in front of a screen? Whether you're looking for things to do on the weekends or during the sweltering weekdays when they're not in camps, we've got you covered. As a parent to a seven and nine year old, I've been lucky to spend a good amount of summer days with the kids. Here are some of our favourite, kid-approved activities to kick off the best summer ever. Make Ice Cream Ninja Creami What's more summer than fresh ice cream? Sure, you could take a trip to your local ice cream parlour for a celebratory scoop, but there's something wholesome about making your own ice cream, too. The top rated Ninja CREAMi also doles out gelato, milkshakes, sorbet and smoothies with the touch of a button, and allows you to customize your frozen treat exactly as you like it. $169.99 on Amazon $169.99 at Canadian Tire Story continues below advertisement Water Day at Home Reusable Water Balloons Splash pads are great, but if you have access to a backyard you can easily set something up in your own space to kick off summer. Invest in a kiddie pool or mini splash pad, and don't forget to stock up on reusable water balloons. These self-closing balloons are easy to use, have received rave reviews for durability, and don't leave tiny pieces of plastic everywhere. $19.99 on Amazon (was $35.99) Backyard Camping Camping Tent with Rainfly Your family might not be ready for all-out camping, but a backyard camping trip is a great way to kick off the summer. Pitch a tent in the yard and know you've got the comfort of a flushing toilet and comfy beds just steps away. Make it extra festive with a backyard fire, barbecue or some string lights. $79.79 on Amazon (was $83.99) Story continues below advertisement Pickleball Tournament Anywhere Sports Youth Pickleball Set Looking for ways to keep the family active together? Why not teach yourself how to play one the trendiest sports around. This easy-to-assemble kit can be used indoors or out, and includes everything you need to get a game or tournament going. $87.99 at Mastermind Toys Picnic at the Park Snackle Box with Lid Picnics are a fun way to get the kids outdoors while exploring new parks, splash pads and conservation areas. Of course as any parent knows, lugging around extra items is never a good time. That's why we love these trendy snackle boxes, which hold an array of kid- and adult-friendly snacks that give you a taste of all your favourite foods in one convenient case. $36.99 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement You may also like: Coppertone Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 – $23.97 Jan & Jul Quick Dry Sun-Hat – $28.99 Toss and Catch Ball Set – $33 Start a Reading Challenge Summer Reading Challenge Journal for Kids Want to keep up your family's literacy during the summer break? Make reading fun with a challenge. Many local libraries offer these types of contests, or you could tailor one to your own kids with prizes they'll want to work for. Consider using an official journal, like this summer reading challenge one, which includes a bingo card with specific tasks and diary entries to get your kids thinking beyond the page. $8.99 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement Craft a Killer Art Project Fantastory Tempera Paint for Kids If you plan on spending a lot of time at home with the kids this summer then you will absolutely want to invest in washable paints. Pick up bird houses or inexpensive projects at the dollar store to decorate, paint rocks or stepping stones, give a plastic playhouse a backyard makeover, or just rip some paper off a roll and hang it on the fence and watch your kids get creative. $50.39 on Amazon (was $55.99) Plan a Beach Day Glymnis Beach Tent Pop Up Beach Tent You don't need to go to an all-inclusive resort or a tropical destination to enjoy the beach. Canada features many sandy beaches and gorgeous waterfronts that you can visit all summer long. Why not kick off summer with a big beach day, complete with your own shelter. This pop-up tent is perfect for when you need a little shade… or a sheltered siesta. $79.99 on Amazon (was $89.99) Story continues below advertisement Set Up A Backyard Carnival Carnival Games Outdoor Combo Set One way to get the kids outdoors (maybe even while you get some work or chores done) is to let them set up their own backyard carnival. This kit includes everything you need to set up games and challenges, or you could task the kids with making up their own obstacle courses or relay races, too. $29.99 on Amazon Plan a Movie Night VEVOR Commercial Popcorn Machine Who doesn't love a chill movie night, with stuffies, blankets and a bit of popcorn? Whether you do one inside or out, get a vibe going with string lights, air mattresses and, perhaps, your very own theatre-like popcorn machine. They're easy to use and always a hit with kids, plus you can bust them out at parties and other events in the future. We've had the Vevor for several years now and use it frequently. The vintage look adds immediate excitement, and the smell of popped kernels is irresistible. $220.99 on Amazon (was $269.99) Story continues below advertisement You may also like: Hasbro Gaming: Jenga Classic Game – $24.99 Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet – $139.99 Strider 14x Balance Bike for Kids – $299.99
Global News
2 days ago
- Global News
How to keep your pet cool all summer long
The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms. Whether your sidekick is a shaggy golden retriever or a curious tabby with a flair for sunbathing, keeping your pet cool when the temperatures soar is no small feat. With blazing sidewalks, sweltering car rides, and heatwaves that just won't quit, it's easy to feel overwhelmed trying to protect your furry friend. Luckily, we've got you covered. Read on for simple, smart ways to keep your pets chill all summer long – no ice bath required. Pecute Dog Cooling Mat A simple solution for those summer days – lay this mat down and let the magic gel do its thing while your pup lounges like royalty! $59.99 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement Floppy Dawg Just Chillin' Elevated Dog Bed It doesn't get cooler than this – literally. Crafted from durable yet ultra-comfy materials, this one-of-a-kind dog bed is the perfect shady retreat for your doggo during all your outdoor adventures. $64.99 on Amazon Canada Pooch, Freeze and Chill Cooling Pal Toy Meet your pup's new chill buddy – this blue dolphin cooling pal that's perfect for playtime snuggles on sunny days! Just soak, squeeze, and freeze for a chemical-free cool-down. $24.99 at Ren's Pets Cat Water Fountain With a 2L capacity and easy-to-clean parts, this cat fountain keeps your kitty happily hydrated for days – no constant refills needed. $39.99 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement Pet Hammock Perfect for both indoor lounging and outdoor fun, this pet hammock's smart design keeps out moisture and cold, and it folds up easily for tidy storage when not in use. $30.99 on Amazon (was $39.99) You may also like: Crumps' Naturals Mini Trainers Freeze Dried Beef Liver – $8.99 Nature's Miracle Advanced Stain and Odour Eliminator – $11.99 Aquarium Hideaway Rock Cave – $12.99 Dog Waste Disposal System – $22.38 Small Pet Electric Fan This cooling fan attaches right to your pet's cage, keeping them breezy and comfy even on the hottest days – with a super long-lasting sealed bearing design. $12.1 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement Gerrard Larriett: Aromatherapy Freshening & Shining Spray Keep them cool with this gentle, dog-safe calming spray that soothes stress with a fresh chamomile and lavender scent – no harsh chemicals. $18 on Amazon Wahl Canada Cooling Bandana Keep your pup cool on long walks or playtime with this refreshing bandana that activates in a shake and stays cool for up to 3 hours. $6.99 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement You may also like: Benebone Small 4-Pack Dog Chew Toys – $34.95 Feandrea Cat Tree – $93.49 Bissell Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner – $127.99 Vetnique Dentabliss Finger Mitt Dental Wipes – $29.99 Harry Barker Welcome Home Pet Bundle – $315
Global News
3 days ago
- Global News
Here's how to get a model-approved slick back bun
The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms. Want a model-off-duty slick back bun that even Bella Hadid would be approve of? A trend that's ever in style, the slick back bun is an art–but with the proper tools and a bit of practice, you can master it too. Not sure where to start? From a stellar wax stick to the ultimate styling brush, we've rounded up the best tools to get the sleekest slick back bun yet. Time to start practicing that runway walk… Nexxus Strong Hold Hair Wax Slick Stick Once you part your hair, it's time to get slicking. But first thing's first: you need a quality hair wax strong enough to hold your strands in place. This slick stick is just the ticket for long-lasting hold sans the sticky residue. $18 on Amazon (was $19) Story continues below advertisement Boar Bristle Hair Brush A slick back bun is only as good as the brush you're using. For the sleekest finish, reach for a boar bristle brush–it smooths flyaways with just a few strokes and with minimal effort. No sore arms here! $12.99 on Amazon Kitsch No Snag Small Elastic Hair Ties Secure that bun in place with elastics that have a strong grip, like these no-snag hair ties. Prefer a playful twist? Go for a scrunchie–but these discreet cuties are all about a polished finish. $13.99 on Amazon Three-Way Hairspray Once your bun is in place, lock it in with a spritz of this hairspray. It boasts maximum hold with little to no crunch. $33 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement You may also like: I DEW CARE Biotin Clarifying Dry Shampoo – $27.12 L'Oréal Professionnel Metal Detox Hair Mask – $55 Kérastase Genesis Hair Serum – $89 Conair Secure Hold Bobby Pins Still spotting stray hairs? Simply pin them back and go about your day. The plastic tips on these tried-and-true pins help prevent snagging–a slick back bun's worst nightmare. $2.74 on Amazon Kerasilk Flyaway Wand For stubborn flyaways around the hairline and crown, opt for this handy wand. Its easy-to-use formula tames unruly strands like a dream, with an added dose of humidity protection. Slip it in your bag for on-the-go touchups. $26 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine Spray Add a touch of shine to your bun with this argan oil-infused glimmer spray. It smells divine and delivers the perfect finishing touch to the overall polished appearance of your model-off-duty mane. $38 on Amazon DigitalAIRE Drying Wand Before the styling even starts, this powerhouse dryer sets the stage with fast, frizz-free results and a boost of shine. Three heat and speed settings plus four luxe attachments–including a ceramic straightening brush–make it the ultimate tool for sleek, sexy hair. $199 on Amazon $199.99 at Conair You may also like: Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel – $6.28 Story continues below advertisement FRAMAR Professional Wet Hair Brush – $14.96 Kitsch Microfiber Hair Towel Wrap – $27.99
