Finding the Right Feeder
Depending on your needs, you will find several options for automatic feeders. If you plan to be gone for a long time (more than a few days), you'll need a different type of
feeder than if you're just taking a weekend jaunt upstate.
A good first step is to look up feeders online, or visit your local pet store to see what options are available. You can get information about the various products, and also see prices instantly.
Types of Feeders
A common type of feeder is the bowl with a rotating lid. Similar to a plastic food bowl, it contains compartments that you fill with food. A lid reveals only one portion at a time. When you program it digitally, the lid will rotate daily to give your dog a fresh meal each day. This type of feeder is good for short trips, because the bowls usually only have up to eight compartments.
For larger dogs, or for longer periods of feeding, you might want to check out the programmable dispenser jars. These look like gumball machines, and can hold much more food than the rotating-lid products can. You can still program how often the attached bowl will be filled, and with how much food at a time.
If you're not concerned with the amount of
food your dog eats, you can save some money with one of the non-programmable feeders. These are usually metal or plastic boxes that open into a bowl or feeding compartment. As the dog eats the food and the compartment empties, the food from above continues to spill into the now-empty area to keep the bowl filled at all times.
Before You Leave, Train Your Dog
Bringing a new type of feeder into your home can be a big change for your dog. Most dogs love routine, and anything outside the norm (especially when it comes to something as basic as eating) can upset them. Before you leave for your trip, make sure your dog is comfortable with the feeder and that she knows how to use it. The movements, size, or noise might confuse or frighten her at first, so she'll need some time to get used to it.
These Expert Tips - Automatic Feeders Dog can help you find the right products to keep your dog satisfied even when you're away.
