Zonli Pet Cooling Mat Review 2024: Our Expert’s Opinion

Our Final Verdict

We give Zonli Pet Cooling Mat a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Quality: 5/5
Efficacy: 4/5
Options: 3/5
Appearance: 5/5
Pet’s Opinion: 5/5
Value: 5/5

As a lifelong Florida native, I have endured many scorching subtropical summers. But undoubtedly, my dogs have suffered the most, which is why I was instantly intrigued to learn of the Pet Cooling Mat from Zonli.

This Hong Kong-based company was founded in 2016 by Claire Chen and a group of sleep enthusiasts. Their slogan, Make Sleep Better, is an unwavering mission statement demonstrated by every product they offer. These entrepreneurs realized that temperature has a massive impact on sleep quality. Whether you live in a hot or cold climate, Zonli has the perfect bedding for you. Specializing in weighted blankets, heated bedding, and cooling products that encourage quality restful sleep, the Zonli brand has recently added a Pet Cooling Mat, now making this company a go-to for both human and pet comfort.

The Zonli line of products has received high praise from such well-known publications as New York Magazine, Women’s Health, and People. Their weighted blankets have even been named the best affordable option of 2024 by Better Homes & Gardens. So how does the Zonli Pet Cooling Mat work?

Here is my overview of the Pet Cooling Mat from Zonli, a product well worth purchasing (my pets all agree!).

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About Zonli

Zonli Pet Cooling Mat - dog lying on the product

Although Zonli has been making quality affordable sleep products for the last seven years, the company didn’t develop their first cooling blanket until 2021. The drive to produce this new technology came when the one-name CEO of Zonli, Peak, sought to help his mother find comfort during chemotherapy which subsequently resulted in insomnia. As Peak’s mother was the first test client, the innovation of this ground-breaking technology was geared not only towards comfort, but safety. Creating this product out of love ensured the result would be a quality blanket that delivered what it promised. And with the overwhelming success of this prototype, the Zonli company has expanded its cooling product line into the pet field.

Within the last year, Zonli rolled out the “Pet Cooling Mat” for purchase on their website. This attractive and functional pet pad is ideal for any dog or cat that likes to stay cool. The Pet Cooling Mat boasts a 0.4 “Qmax” rating, one of the highest cooling ratings of any fabric currently being used in pet cooling pads. This makes it a great bedding option for your pet on a warm day. The dual-sided design of this item makes it useful even in cooler climates. That’s because it has both a “cool side” made of nylon and the Japanese technology of “Arc-Chill” fibers, while the other side has a slightly warmer velvety texture that pets also enjoy. The mix of breathable fabrics is quilted together over a non-toxic cotton filling, adding to the comfort, durability, and cleanliness of this pet mat.

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Overview

Zonli Pet Cooling Mat - product on the floor

What to Expect

The Pet Cooling Mat arrives shrink-wrapped and compact. As soon as you open the plastic, the product starts expanding. Care instructions are printed on an attached label and advise washing the product and air-drying prior to first use. Place this mat in an area your pets frequent, and they will likely be attracted to it – mine sure were!

At this time, the only available color choice is light gray, a neutral color that blends into most homes. The design and quality materials used make this a tasteful addition to any room of the home. The Pet Cooling Mat may be used with either side up, but the nylon side will have the best cooling effect for your pet.

Where to Use

One of the best features of the Pet Cooling Mat is its versatility. This pad can be used literally anywhere it fits, and the roll-up design allows you to transport it with ease. It can be used on top of your pet’s existing bed, on your bed, or in a crate. You can place it on a bare floor, on your sofa, or on a patio deck. You can even use it in the car, or outdoors on the ground during a picnic or camping trip. The mat is so lightweight, you can take it anywhere you take your pets.

Zonli Pet Cooling Mat - dogs lying on the product outdoor

Pricing and Value

The price of the Pet Cooling Mat on Zonli’s website is comparable to other brand’s cooling mats of the same size, with some competitor’s items costing more, and some costing less. Shipping is free from Zonli when your purchase total is over $90, and with the variety of human bedding products on their site, this threshold is not hard to reach. I would actually recommend purchasing at least two Pet Cooling Mats so your pets don’t have to compete for them, which should also allow you to take advantage of their free shipping. But honestly, because this product is so versatile and pets love it, the value becomes obvious as soon as you start using it in your home.

Shipping and Returns

These products ship out quickly and arrive within days. Currently, Zonli will readily ship to the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Their website states if you are in a country not included on their “ship to” list, you can contact them to inquire if shipping is possible.

Returns of unused products, including original packaging and with tags still attached, are allowed within 30 days of delivery but do result in a $10 restocking fee per the Zonlihome.com website. Some of their products are also available for purchase through Amazon.com – these purchases may have different return requirements.

In Summary

Pros
  • Easily portable

  • Durable materials

  • Quality construction

  • Machine washable

  • Versatile use

  • Attractive design

  • Comfortable surface

  • Cool to the touch

  • Transfers heat away from the body

  • Pets enjoy it

Cons
  • No “extra small” or “small” size available

  • Only one color option

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Key Features

Zonli Pet Cooling Mat - product strapped to the backpack

Design

Zonli’s thoughtful development of the Pet Cooling Mat is apparent straight out of the package, but the product description on their website reveals the purpose behind every detail. The nylon and Arc-Chill fibers on the “cool side” reduce body heat. The “crystal velvet fabric” on the other side is for cooler weather. The non-toxic cotton filling is a safe material that adds to the comfortability. The quilted design prevents the filling from shifting and keeps the mat in a flat position. All the materials together result in a breathable pad that will not hold heat and does not grow bacteria.

Portability

The Pet Cooling Mat easily rolls up and may be secured with a length of ribbon or large rubber band, making it compact enough to fit in small spaces. At a weight of less than 2 pounds, the mat is lightweight for easy transport in a tote or backpack. The rectangular shape makes this pad perfect for use in a dog crate or on the back seat or cargo area of your vehicle.

Appearance

The neutral gray color and quilted design of the Zonli Pet Cooling Mat give this product an elegant appearance that can fit into any home decor. The quality materials used on both sides also lend to its pleasing visual aesthetics. And since this product is machine washable, it can be kept looking great for a long time.

Zonli Pet Cooling Mat - dogs lying on the mat outdoor

Cleanliness

The surface material on either side of the Pet Cooling Mat is easy to brush off, so any dirt or debris picked up from the car or outdoors can be removed without difficulty. The fabrics used also do not attract pet hair, which should be a key feature of any dog bedding but is not always the case. And with a breathable cotton filling, this product is resistant to growing mold and bacteria.

Versatility

The dual-sided nature of the Zonli Pet Cooling Mat makes it usable in all climates. It may be used inside or out, at home or on the go. It is easily moved to new locations as needed. Both cats and dogs are attracted to it. It may be used for its cooling capabilities, as extra cushioning in a dog crate, or for training such commands as “Place”.

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Is the Zonli Pet Cooling Mat a Good Value?

The versatility of this mat meets basic bedding needs for pet parents. But Zonli expanded upon the design of typical pet mats to deliver something exceptional with a product that actively cools. Your pet no longer has to sprawl out on uncomfortable tile floors to find relief. The Zonli Pet Cooling Mat provides both cushion and coolness, making this a top-tier piece of bedding for any pet, but particularly those in warmer climates. With a price point similar to other pet cooling mats on the market, the value of the Zonli Pet Cooling Mat is unquestionable.

Zonli Pet Cooling Mat - cat lying on the product

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FAQ

What are the size options of the Pet Cooling Mat?

Zonli’s website currently offers three sizes, Medium 23” x 36”, Large 28” x 48”, and Extra Large 40” x 59”.

Is Zonli a well-established and trustworthy company?

Zonli has served over 1 million customers and has been providing quality affordable bedding for people for the last seven years. They are new to the pet market but have already created an amazing product for our furry friends.

Will my pet use this mat?

Pets seem to recognize the comfort of the Zonli Pet Cooling Mat right away. The cushion, coolness, and surface texture are attractive to dogs and cats alike.

What is the return policy?

According to the website, items may be returned within 30 days of receipt and must be in unused condition with the original tags still attached and with the original packaging. Zonli will send out a return label to ease the process, but there is a $10 restocking fee.

Zonli Pet Cooling Mat - dog sitting next to the product

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Our Experience With the Zonli Pet Cooling Mat

Recently I received a Zonli Pet Cooling Mat, size Large (28” x 48”). It arrived within days of ordering and came vacuum-sealed. I carefully opened the plastic wrap and immediately the product began to expand. I carefully inspected the attached labels, as there were no separate printed instructions included. Care instructions were printed on one label and advised washing the mat and air-drying prior to first use, which I did.

After a thorough drying overnight, I laid the mat on the ground in front of my senior 60 lb Lab mix, Turtle. Chronic illness and age have left him unable to regulate his body temperature as efficiently as he did in his younger days, so I was eager to see if he would take an interest in this new bedding. Right away he began to sniff and step on the edge of the mat. It must have passed the test because he proceeded to walk onto the mat and lie down.

Over the next several days, I tried the mat in different locations around the house. During the day I laid it in front of Turtle’s favorite spot, a floor-to-ceiling window where he can monitor the driveway. Frequently I would find him on the mat in this location, no doubt enjoying the new coolness and comfort. At night I would place the mat lengthwise on the bed between me and my spouse. Usually, Turtle tends to move around a lot at night trying to get comfortable, but since using the Zonli Pet Cooling Mat on our bed, Turtle stays on top of the pad and sleeps soundly through the night. And the large size even has space for his 20 lb “kid sister”, Rooney!

I have also experimented with this mat outside our home. One day I placed it on our pool deck, a favorite hangout spot for the dogs, and they both hopped on the Pet Cooling Mat right away. I have also found that it is the perfect width and length to cover the back seat of my car, so both dogs can ride in total comfort during road trips.

I purchased the Zonli Pet Cooling Mat specifically for my senior dog, but my younger dog loves it, too, and so does my cat. On a few occasions when I have left it on our bed during the day, I have entered our bedroom to find her sleeping soundly on it. I think I’m going to have to buy another one just for her, especially with another steamy Florida summer on the way!

Zonli Pet Cooling Mat - dog lying on the mat indoor

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Conclusion

Zonli’s Pet Cooling Mat has proven to be a valuable addition to our household and has been appreciated by all three of our furry pets. Not only does this pet pad seem to perform as advertised – helping pets stay cool in the heat – but the size, shape, and weight of the mat make it easy to use anywhere it’s needed. Whether that’s on-the-go, or at home in your pet’s favorite spot, you will be pleased every time you see your pet making use of the Pet Cooling Mat, which I promise will be a frequent sight!

The post Zonli Pet Cooling Mat Review 2024: Our Expert’s Opinion appeared first on Pet Keen.

Truly Free Cleaning Product Review 2024: Pros & Cons

Our Final Verdict

We give Truly Free products an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Effectiveness: 4.8/5
Ingredients: 4.9/5
Ease of Use: 5/5
Value:4.5/5

You go out of your way to keep your pets safe and healthy. You feed them the best food, ensure they only eat natural treats and are very selective about the toys you let them have. But you’ve realized you’ve overlooked one important aspect that could have a huge impact on your pet’s health: the cleaning products you use.

For all-natural, non-toxic cleaning options, many pet owners look to Truly Free.

This innovative home care company not only creates safe cleaning solutions for pet parents, but they’re also on a mission to reduce waste thanks to their reusable bottles and powdered refills. This means less plastic waste and an easier approach to cleaning for you.

But are Truly Free products effective enough to keep up with the messes your pet makes?

I had a chance to try a number of Truly Free products in my own home. With two senior dogs and a mischievous kitten, I had plenty of opportunities to put these cleaning products to use. Keep reading my Truly Free product review to find out what I loved about them and where they came up a little short.

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At a Glance: What We Received

Image Product Details

Our Favorite

Winner

Everyday Cleaner
Everyday Cleaner

  • Versatile

  • 6 simple ingredients

  • Unscented
  • Second place

    Odor and Stain Eliminator
    Odor and Stain Eliminator

  • Contains beneficial bacteria

  • No smell

  • Only 7 ingredients
  • Third place

    Space Freshener
    Space Freshener

  • Fabric and air freshener

  • Fresh scent and seasonal scents

  • Not overpowering

  • Floor Cleaner
    Floor Cleaner

  • Hard flooring cleaner

  • Pleasant citrus scent

  • Easy pour bottle

  • Enzyme Stain Remover
    Enzyme Stain Remover

  • Use in laundry, on carpet, on furniture

  • Perfect for sensitive skin

  • Simple, effective ingredients
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    About Truly Free

    Truly Free Home Pet Cleaning Kit

    Truly Free was started by a concerned new father after his baby’s rash led him to discover the harsh and dangerous chemicals often used in laundry detergent.

    What started out as a mission to create an effective, yet natural and gentle detergent has grown to include dozens of natural home cleaning products. Even better, these products are packaged and designed to reduce plastic use and waste.

    Who Makes Truly Free and Where is it Produced?

    Truly Free was started in 2015 by Stephen Ezell. Today, Ezell still owns the company, and the products are still made in the US at the company’s Michigan headquarters.

    All ingredients used in Truly Free products are naturally derived and have been rated safe and gentle by the Environmental Working Group.

    Which Types of Pets is Truly Free Best Suited For?

    Truly Free has a long line of cleaning products that owners of all kinds of pets will find useful. Their Everyday Cleaner is perfect for scrubbing around your cat or dog’s eating area and their dish soaps are a safe way to clean pet dishes.

    For owners dealing with carpet stains, Truly Free’s Stain and Odor Remover and Enzyme Stain Remover are incredibly helpful to have on hand. They work well for vomit stains, urine, and more.

    Whether you have sensitive birds or a dog with allergies, you can feel safe using Truly Free products around them.

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    Key Features

    Truly Free Home Pet Cleaning Kit - product bottle on the counter

    Truly Free has dozens of home cleaning products to choose from, but they all have a few things in common. Here is a closer look at the key features of Truly Free’s product line, including their ingredients, options, ordering setup, and what you can expect when you get your first shipment.

    Ingredients

    The idea behind Truly Free is simple: make home cleaning products from safe ingredients that are still effective.

    To ensure each product contains only safe and gentle ingredients, Truly Free starts by using only naturally derived options. They then reference the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) ingredient rating system to make sure each is going to be gentle for pets, children, and everyone else in the home.

    Every ingredient in these products scores a 4 or lower on the EWG safety scale. Just as important, they are very transparent about what their ingredients are, why they’re included, and how safe they are. You can see the full list of Truly Free’s ingredients here.

    Options

    With their expanded product line, you can find just about any cleaning product you’ll need with Truly Free.

    From foaming pot and pan cleaner to hand soap to dryer sheets, they have it all. Here are the categories Truly Free products cover:

    • Kitchen

    • Bathroom

    • Laundry

    • Floors

    • Furniture

    • Carpet

    • Windows

    Many of Truly Free’s products are highly versatile and can be used on various surfaces and materials.

    Truly Free Home Pet Cleaning Kit - spraying product to the carpet

    Ordering Setup

    Truly Free is set up primarily as a subscription service.

    The first time you shop on the site, you’ll fill a “box” with all the cleaning supplies you need. The more items you buy, the bigger your savings and the more free items you’ll get. For instance, if you just buy one product as a subscription item, you’ll save 15%. But if you buy five, you’ll get 40% off your order plus 2 free items.

    Your first subscription box will include all the containers that correspond to the products you purchased. After that, all autofill orders will contain only the refill pouches for the products you selected.

    If you need a replacement container, you can order those separately at any time.

    The autoship feature is super easy to adjust based on your needs. And orders can be skipped at any time. You also have the option to opt for one-time purchases if you would rather not do a subscription.

    What to Expect

    Once you get your first order, it’s time to start mixing!

    Each bottle features a “fill line” marker. Fill the bottles to this line with warm water, then add the powder and shake well.

    That’s all it takes!

    With each subsequent order, you’ll receive only the refill packs, so be sure to hold onto your bottles.

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    Our Truly Free Product Reviews

    1. Everyday Cleaner

    Truly Free Home Pet Cleaning Kit - papyrus and everyday cleaner product

    This versatile product is one every pet owner needs. You can use it to clean the cat box tray, clean around eating areas, scrub your hamster’s cage, and more.

    With just six simple ingredients, you can count on this cleaner to be gentle and safe. This means you can use it wherever your pets frequent and not have to worry about them getting it on their fur or licking their paws after walking over a surface that’s been cleaned.

    This cleaner is clear and unscented and safe to use on any hard surface. It works well as a degreaser and easily removes dirt and grime for a clean you can see.

    I use it for spot-cleaning my hard flooring after accidents and spills, for scrubbing the litter box, and as my go-to bathroom and surface cleaner.

    Pros
    • Highly versatile

    • Safe to use in pet cages and litter boxes

    • Effective for removing grime

    • Won’t discolor surfaces

    • Free of dyes and fragrances

    Cons
    • May need multiple applications for dried-on messes

    • No fresh-cleaned smell


    2. Odor and Stain Eliminator

    Truly Free Home Pet Cleaning Kit - Odor and Stain Eliminator

    No pet owner should be without this powerful stain and odor remover. The simple ingredients and dye-free formulation mean you can use it on a variety of surfaces. It’s perfect for carpets, furniture, dog beds, and more.

    The key to its odor-fighting abilities is in the beneficial bacteria included in the ingredients. These helpful microbes consume organic matter that causes many of the odors pets leave behind. And because it’s scent-free, you don’t have to worry about the smell of the spray mixing with the stench of the odor you’re trying to eliminate.

    This product is the perfect way to fully remove odors and eliminate stains without masking or hiding them. Use it as a general fabric spray or to target specific problem areas. I use it to clean up accidents on the carpet, treat stains on furniture, and to deodorize my pet beds.

    It’s worth noting that this product does not contain enzymes, which means urea may persist after the stain is cleaned. Because of this, I always use this cleaner in conjunction with Truly Free’s Enzyme Stain Remover when cleaning urine stains.

    Pros
    • Use on any soft surface or fabric

    • Works as fabric spray or targeted stain fighter

    • No added fragrances

    • Beneficial bacteria to break down organic compounds

    • No dyes

    Cons
    • Does not contain enzymes

    • Dark stains require repeat applications


    3. Space Freshener

    Truly Free Home Pet Cleaning Kit - space freshener

    For those pet-containing homes that smell like they contain pets, Truly Free offers their Space Freshener. This simple spray contains essential oils that provide a fresh, uplifting scent without the overpowering smell of synthetic fragrances. These scents help to cover odors and refresh the air and fabrics to hide those embarrassing pet odors.

    This versatile spray can be used as an air freshener or sprayed onto furniture. Like most other Truly Free products, it is free from dyes, which makes it safe to use on a variety of surfaces.

    The standard scent for this product has a light citrusy smell with notes of tea tree and bergamot. Its pleasant fragrance is one of the most talked about features of any Truly Free product. The company also offers special holiday scents from time to time.

    I use this spray after treating my pet beds and furniture with the Odor and Stain Remover. I also use it liberally around the litter box, trash can, and in rooms prone to smelling stuffy.

    Pros
    • Use in the air or on furniture

    • Wonderful fresh scent

    • Contains real essential oils

    • Not overpowering

    Cons
    • Scent doesn’t last super long

    • No odor-eliminating ingredients


    4. Floor Cleaner

    Truly Free Home Pet Cleaning Kit - Floor Cleaner

    Keeping hard floors clean when you have pets can be a challenge. This floor cleaner from Truly Free makes it a little easier.

    This cleaner contains gentle grease surfactants and detergents that help separate grime, grease, and dirt to gently lift them away. And it comes in the perfect squeeze bottle for easy use. Spray it straight on the floor when mopping or spot cleaning, or add it to your steam mop tank.

    It’s safe for hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile, sealed stone, and many other hard surfaces. It has a pleasant citrus scent and is dye-free so it won’t stain grout or baseboards.

    I use my Floor Cleaner every time I mop. I also use it when spot-cleaning muddy paw prints and accidents on my hard flooring.

    Pros
    • Use on any hard surface

    • Makes mopping a breeze

    • Pleasant citrus scent

    • Will not stain grout

    Cons
    • Not a concentrate for mop buckets

    • May need to let it sit on tough stains


    5. Enzyme Stain Remover

    Truly Free Home Pet Cleaning Kit - Enzyme Stain Remover

    This Enzyme Stain Remover is one extra cleaning supply all pet parents should have on hand. It contains four powerful enzymes that help denature biological compounds such as those found in urine, feces, and vomit.

    Use it as a stain treatment on clothing by creating a paste with a little water and applying it directly to clothing stains. You can also put a scoop in your washing machine to get clothes cleaner.

    But my favorite way to use this enzyme product is to add it directly to stains on the carpet. I treat the stains with my Odor and Stain Remover, then sprinkle a little of this enzyme powder on and scrub.

    The enzymes help eliminate urea odors that cause re-soiling while breaking down bile and other compounds that make stains difficult to remove.

    Pros
    • Use in laundry or on carpets and fabrics

    • Breaks down organic compounds

    • Helps remove stains

    • Denatures urea

    • Easy to use

    Cons
    • Need to mix with water to create stain fighter

    • Packets are small

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    Our Experience With Truly Free

    I have used Truly Free’s Laundry Detergent and Stain Stick for years. So, when I had the chance to try their bundle of products for pet owners, I jumped at the opportunity.

    I received five products to test out: Everyday Cleaner, Odor and Stain Remover, Floor Cleaner, Space Refresher, and Enzyme Stain Remover.

    Both my dogs are seniors and prone to the extra health struggles all old dogs are. Ragz, my thirteen-year-old Dalmatian mix, has issues with a sensitive stomach and loves to leave pools of bile on my carpets. And Papyrus, my fifteen-year-old Chihuahua, has been having a lot of accidents of late.

    I also have a rambunctious kitten named Makoa who has made it his mission to be as messy as possible. Beyond the general cleaning-related issues that come with a litter box, he also loves to spill everything he comes across and trail his little paw prints across every surface.

    I also have a twenty-three-year-old parrot named Mickey. While her messes are fairly confined, she, like all birds, is very sensitive to air pollutants. So, it’s always been important to me to only use natural cleaning products around the house.

    With this gaggle of pets, you can imagine that I had plenty of opportunities to test all of my Truly Free products over the last couple of weeks.

    The Everyday Cleaner is awesome. I reach for it anytime I have a mess to clean up on a hard surface. It is also now my go-to bathroom and kitchen cleaner.

    The Floor Cleaner has made mopping so much easier. Now, I just fill the mop bucket with warm water and spray the cleaner directly on my vinyl plank flooring as I go. It does a great job of removing grime and leaving a streak-free shine.

    I received the Christmas edition of the Space Freshener. I was a little bummed because the reviews on the original product just rave about how nice the scent is. But I liked this one too.

    It has an obvious but not overwhelming peppermint smell. I use it on my couch where the dogs sleep, their beds, and around the litter box. When we have company coming over, I run through the house spraying it in the air. It makes everything smell fresh and clean without being obvious.

    The Odor and Stain Eliminator probably got the most use during the test period. It works very well on stains that aren’t too dark. But I found I had to repeat treatment on bile and set-in stains. I was also disappointed that it doesn’t contain any enzymes since that is key to cleaning urine stains to avoid repeat soiling.

    Luckily, I realized that the Enzyme Stain Remover can be used in conjunction with the stain spray to provide a more thorough cleaning and to break down urea. When combined, these products worked very well to remove all the stains my pets offered up.

    Truly Free Home Pet Cleaning Kit - products and pet at home

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    Conclusion

    If you’re after safer, more effective cleaning options to clean up after your pets, I highly recommend Truly Free. This company is dedicated to making cleaning solutions that are gentle and safe while still giving you the cleaning power you need.

    I tried five of their products in my four-pet home and was not disappointed. The combination of their Odor and Stain Remover spray and Enzyme Stain Eliminator powder is my go-to for carpet stains. And I keep their Everyday Cleaner and all the other products at the ready.

    In addition to offering natural solutions, Truly Free also goes out of their way to reduce plastic use with their refill packets and reusable bottles. And with their subscription service and all the discounts that come with it, this company makes it easier than ever to safely clean up after your furry family members.

    The post Truly Free Cleaning Product Review 2024: Pros & Cons appeared first on Pet Keen.

    The Puppy Academy Review 2024: Our Expert’s Opinion

    Our Final Verdict

    We give The Puppy Academy a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. 

    Campus: 5/5
    Day School: 5/5
    Online School: 5/5
    Value: 5/5

    Welcoming a four-legged fluff ball into your home should be fun and exciting. Puppies are puppies. What’s not to love? I mean, how hard can raising a puppy really be? Said no dog owner. Ever.

    Without guidance and support, puppyhood is hard. Suddenly your life is consumed by accidents and messes, sleepless nights, and endless barking. And if you’re here, you’ve probably asked yourself how one adorable tiny fur ball could be such a terror. The good news is you’re not alone in feeling stressed and overwhelmed, and the best news is The Puppy Academy is here to help.

    The Puppy Academy is a puppy school in Hermosa Beach, California that offers puppy training programs for dogs of all breeds. The Academy works like a school, where you drop your pup off in the morning for training and pick them up at the end of each day. But training doesn’t stop at the end of the school day. It wouldn’t be school without homework and throughout the semester, you get to participate in one-on-one lessons to help you understand your puppy’s behavior and empower you with training techniques to use at home.

    Busy Schedule? Don’t live near The Puppy Academy? No problem! The Puppy Academy offers virtual training through their Online School, so you can train your puppy from the comfort of your home with a schedule that’s convenient for you. I enrolled in the Online School and have been nothing but impressed with the program. From the training videos to the online resources, The Puppy Academy supports you and your pup through every stage of puppyhood.

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    About The Puppy Academy

    The Puppy Academy Dog Training - campus

    What is The Puppy Academy?

    The Puppy Academy is a puppy training school and boutique in Hermosa Beach, CA. The school was founded by Ricci and Marco, two dog lovers who endured the struggles of puppyhood with their dog, Coconut. Just weeks after bringing Coconut home, Marco unexpectedly got stuck out of the country. Grappling with the adjustment of having a new puppy and unexpectedly becoming a single puppy parent, Ricci was stressed out and overwhelmed.

    It wasn’t until Ricci started working with a trainer that she and Coconut began to connect with one another. After realizing they weren’t alone in the puppyhood struggles, Ricci and Marco started the school they wished they’d had while raising Coconut.

    Since its opening in 2016, The Puppy Academy has been committed to making puppyhood easy by supporting puppy parents with elite in-person and online training programs.

    Who is The Puppy Academy Best Suited For?

    Puppy parents! This program is great for any puppy parent looking for support and guidance throughout puppyhood. Puppies need your full undivided attention and training a puppy can feel like a full-time job, especially when you don’t know what you’re doing. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with having a new puppy, frustrated with persistent undesirable behaviors, or simply don’t know where to start with training, The Puppy Academy is perfect for you. Not only will your furry friend get consistent training from expert puppy trainers but you will learn valuable training techniques that you can practice at home.

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    Overview

    The Puppy Academy Dog Training homepage

    You are everything to your dog and your dog is so much more than just your best friend. Despite their quirks, their messes, and even the time they mangled your favorite shoe, your pup is one family member you can’t stay mad at. They deserve the best because they are the best and with The Puppy Academy, they’ll receive some of the best training a puppy can get.

    What to Expect: Day School

    The Puppy Academy Day School is modeled after a school-like structure, where puppies are enrolled for a 12-week semester and attend school three to six days per week. This means your puppy participates in everything from homeroom and training classes to recess and lunch.

    The school day starts with you dropping off your pup in the morning for a full day of socialization and training. Spoiler alert: They’re going to have an amazing time.

    Need a ride to school? The Puppy Academy has a special Taxi Service that chauffeurs your pup to and from the campus.

    Throughout the day, your puppy will participate in the following classes:
    • Leash and Walk

    • Desensitization and Familiarization

    • Command and Obedience

    • Socialization or “Recess” for interactive playtime with the other students

    • Grooming and Handling

    After a day of working hard (and playing hard!), it’s time to go home. During pick-up, you’re given a rundown of how your pup did that day and homework assignments for you and your puppy to work on together. You’re also given a report card so you can follow your puppy’s progress throughout their time at The Puppy Academy.

    All training packages include classroom and “real world” training, one-on-one training, group training, and private one-on-one owner lessons.

    The Puppy Academy Dog Training - puppies at the school

    What to Expect: Online School

    The Puppy Academy Online School teaches you everything taught in Day School from the comfort of your own home and at a pace that’s convenient for you. It’s like homeschool for puppies!

    The Online School is organized into six subjects including:
    • Orientation

    • Homeroom

    • Library: Puppy Help Classes

    • Course: Train your Puppy in 60 Days

    • Live Q&A + Coaching

    • Resources and Bonuses

    After completing orientation and meeting your trainers in homeroom, you can hop over to the course section to start training. The course follows an eight-week program where each week is one module of training. Within each week’s module, you have access to different video lessons, activities, and downloadable homework assignments to guide you through the training process.

    If you need additional help, the Library is full of videos that deep dive into common puppyhood problems, like separation anxiety and noise desensitization. You can also attend weekly Live Q&A sessions on Zoom where you can ask questions and request one-on-one coaching sessions. Replays of the Q&A sessions can be found in the Live Q&A + Coaching section on your main dashboard. 

    Training Areas

    As an elite training program, The Puppy Academy helps you and your furry friend achieve every puppyhood milestone.

    A few things your puppy will learn include:
    • Obedience commands with hand signals (sit, down, stay, come, drop it, etc.)

    • Potty and crate training

    • Leash and walk training

    • Socialization

    • Recall training

    • Nipping and bite inhibition training

    • Distraction training

    • No jump and no bark training

    • Desensitization and familiarization training

    • Grooming, handling, and teeth brushing training

    • Rules and boundaries training

    • And so much more!

    The Puppy Academy Dog Training - main training room

    Training Methods

    The Puppy Academy uses reward-based training with positive reinforcement (lots of food work!), so make sure to stock up on all your puppy’s favorite treats. If your pup attends Day School, you’ll send them with their own food and treats each day.

    In Summary

    Pros
    • Taught by expert puppy trainers

    • Fast, long-lasting results

    • Offered in-person and online

    • Comprehensive training program

    • Training methods are backed by dog psychology and canine behavior

    • A portion of profits goes to local animal shelters and organizations

    Cons
    • The online course is limited to 1-year access

    • Day School enrollment is limited (plan ahead or you might not get a spot!)

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    Key FeaturesThe Puppy Academy Dog Training - online platforms

    Campus Boutique

    Along with being an elite puppy school, The Puppy Academy also houses a luxury-style boutique. The Campus Boutique has everything you need to care for your puppy, including high-quality toys, treats, supplies, and tools. The boutique is conveniently located inside the facility at the entrance of campus, which means you can browse the large selection of specialty items whenever you stop by the school to drop off or pick up your pup.

    Online Resources

    Whether you’re enrolled in the Day School or the Online School, The Puppy Academy has so many online resources to help support you through puppyhood. A few of their resources include their blog, free masterclass, and Puppy Help articles, which can be found on their website. They also have great information on their social media sites, like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, which are all worth checking out. 

    Ask A Puppy Trainer Show (Live!)

    The Puppy Academy’s expert trainers love your puppy (almost) as much as you do and are there to walk with you through every phase of puppyhood. One amazing way they do this is through their Ask A Puppy Trainer Show. Every Wednesday from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm PT, you can join The Puppy Academy’s free trainer Q&A sessions live on Instagram and get your puppyhood questions answered by puppy experts! If you miss a session, you can always watch replays through The Puppy Academy’s YouTube channel in their Ask A Puppy Trainer Show playlist.

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    Is The Puppy Academy a Good Value?

    The Puppy Academy is a great value. Training a puppy takes a lot of time and effort and The Puppy Academy saves you both by providing you with everything you need to train your puppy efficiently and effectively. It’s also a program that helps you and your puppy understand one another, which is invaluable when it comes to bonding with your four-legged soulmate. When looking at other training schools, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one as comprehensive as The Puppy Academy or at the caliber of this elite program.

    The Puppy Academy Dog Training - toys in campus boutique

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    FAQ

    Are there requirements for Day School?

    If your puppy is attending Day School, they must meet the following requirements:

    • Age: Eligible puppies must be between 10 weeks and 9 months old.

    • Temperament: Puppies must pass a temperament test during the free consultation to be enrolled.

    • Vaccinations: All puppies must be up-to-date on vaccinations, including DHPP, Bordetella, and Rabies. Your puppy needs at least two rounds of DHPP and one round of Bordetella to start school, but they won’t interact with other students until they’ve received their third round of shots.

    • Fecal Exam: Puppies must pass a fecal exam to ensure they’re free of parasites.

    • Health: Students must pass a daily health check before starting their school day.

    • Breed: There are no breed or size restrictions! The Puppy Academy welcomes puppies of all breeds and sizes.

    What is the cost (tuition) of the program?

    Tuition and package options for The Puppy Academy Day School are discussed with you during your complimentary consultation and package recommendations will be made based on your training goals and your puppy’s evaluation. Tuition quotes are not given over the phone or by email.

    The Puppy Academy Online School costs $299.00 for 1-year of access to the course.

    When are the next available start dates?

    The Puppy Academy has rolling admissions with new puppies starting all the time. While there isn’t one collective start date, new puppies start at the next available opening and go through the program at their own pace. Enrollment is limited and the school typically has a waitlist, so it’s best to plan ahead when you’re signing up.

    You can enroll in the Online School anytime.

    The Puppy Academy Dog Training - posters in campus boutique

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    Our Experience with The Puppy Academy

    Kindergarten for puppies? Sign me up!

    When I heard about The Puppy Academy, I was instantly intrigued. I’d never heard of a drop-off puppy training school, let alone one offering an online training course. When I got my first puppy, I felt in over my head. I had no idea raising a puppy could be so overwhelming or that training a puppy would be such a long process of trial and error (my little puppy, Chloe, was in it for the long haul and she did great). Had I known about The Puppy Academy, I would’ve signed up!

    One of the first things that stood out about The Puppy Academy was the campus. From the specialized training rooms to the hospital-grade air purifiers, the campus has everything your puppy needs to have a fun, safe, and effective training day at school. There’s even an adorable in-house dog boutique stocked with fun toys and supplies, so you can pick out something special for your pup when you drop them off or pick them up.

    If your puppy attends Day School, they’ll get the full experience of having all-inclusive interactive classes, like Grooming and Handling, which is done in a room with grooming tables and supplies. They’ll also get the chance to play with their puppy peers, giving them plenty of socialization time and physical and mental stimulation.

    Since I don’t live near Hermosa Beach, I enrolled in the Online School. The online program is well-structured and easy to navigate. The main dashboard is organized into six sections and each section has its own modules with different videos to watch and activities to follow. It also tracks your progress, so you don’t lose your spot as you move through the course.

    One of my favorite resources was The Peaceful Puppy Playlist, which is a playlist of desensitization sounds (fireworks, doorbells, dogs barking, etc.) and Alone-Time Tunes (nature sounds, white noise, Classical music, etc.). Having an entire playlist of hand-selected music and noises is such a helpful (and ingenious) resource to have.

    While going through the course, any questions I had could be answered via a blog post, a lesson video, or a supplemental resource. It also gave me peace of mind to know there were weekly Q&A sessions where I could ask questions or request a private coaching session.

    The puppy trainers are amazing too! Sparky and Bethany are the two main instructors for the program and they do a fabulous job of explaining things in a way that’s easy to understand. They’re also incredibly knowledgeable about puppy training and behavior and have extensive experience working with puppies and dogs of all kinds. Best of all, they make learning fun!

    I would highly recommend The Puppy Academy to any puppy parent looking for guidance while navigating puppyhood. As a comprehensive program taught by expert puppy trainers, this program has everything you need all in one place with so much support available for you and your pup.

    The Puppy Academy Dog Trainin - grooming training room

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    Conclusion

    Puppy training is so much more than basic commands. It’s about learning to understand your puppy so you can connect with them on a deeper level, and that’s what The Puppy Academy is all about. They streamline puppy training for you so you can train your pup and enjoy the puppy-training process. Whether you’re carpooling your puppy to school each day or enrolled in the online course, you’ll spend less time stressing about DIY training methods and more time enjoying the small moments and big milestones with your new best friend.

    The post The Puppy Academy Review 2024: Our Expert’s Opinion appeared first on Pet Keen.