Fashionable pet owners who want to have their dogs look as cool at the pool as they do might want to include a pair of Doggles in their beach bags this summer.
The name is almost as cute (and effective) as the product. Doggles are protective goggles for dogs of all shapes and sizes. They have been around since 1997 and sell for about $30.
The idea for the protective and stylish sunglasses for dogs came from a pet owner whose own pooch kept missing the Frisbee during games of catch on bright sunny days. What started off as a crude creation of store-bought goggles, straps and foam perched on the face of a Lab-collie mix evolved into a million dollar company that now creates sunglass molds for individual dogs.
You might have seen Doggles on various news programs shortly after the 9/11 disaster. The doggie sunglasses gained attention when search-and-rescue teams sent to the World Trade Center site outfitted their dogs with Doggles to keep dust and debris out of their eyes.
The anti-UVA Doggles are approved by veterinary ophthalmologists and retail from $22 to $32. They come in a wide range of sizes to accommodate every dog from a Pekingese to a Great Dane.
According to the founder of Doggles, more than 60,000 dogs around the world have been fitted with the protective goggles. One memorable customer was a Maltese, who had developed an infection after sand got in his eye. The dog’s owner says she swears by Doggles and now her four-legged friend doesn’t go to the beach without them.
Now that you know what to pack for your pooch don’t forget to stock up on your own must-have beach items—-starting with a stylish beach bag.
Whether you are headed to the sand and surf or are going to catch some rays at the pool you want a tote that is durable, lightweight, oversized and one that can withstand spills (from sunscreen to soda). You also want a bag that is comfortable to carry especially if you are lugging kids, toys, beach chairs and a surfboard. The utimate bag doesn’t have to be a budget buster, bargain stores like Old Navy and Wal-Mart have stylish and affordable selections. Target even has a Cynthia Rowley line out right now that is under 20 bucks.
A must have item for the beach or the pool is sunscreen. Look for a brand that contains zinc oxide, the best guard against burning and signs of premature aging. And make sure your sunscreen is sweatproof and waterproof.
A big floppy hat is also a great addition to your beach bag. Not only can a great hat protect your face from the sun’s glaring rays, it can also keep wind-blown hair out of your eyes and mouth. If you can’t stand the way you look in a hat opt for a fashionable headband. Most are cheap, but stylish and are an easy solution to frizzy beach hair. And the best part—-you can wear them in the water.
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