If you’re a pet owner, you’ve probably seen or heard of pet water fountains, which circulate and filter water for dogs and cats. While they may seem like a bougie luxury, pet water fountains are an underutilized tool for pet health, according to veterinarians that HuffPost has previously interviewed.
Just like humans, pets would rather drink cold, fresh water than water that’s been sitting out in a bowl for hours, which can end up being a breeding ground for bacteria – and when your pet is well-hydrated, it lowers their risk of kidney disease, urinary tract infections and other health issues.
Here’s the problem: Pet water fountains tend to be an eyesore. It’s why pet owners are obsessed with this gorgeous one from Drew Barrymore’s Walmart-exclusive Beautiful line of home goods. It has a 4.3-star rating and is selling out fast – and it’s actually just restocked after being completely sold out earlier in the summer.
Made for both dogs and cats, this pet water fountain has its own filtration system so the water it sprouts is always fresh and cool — without your having to worry about your water usage. Thanks to an internal filter, it removes any impurities so that your pet is drinking the cleanest water possible. Whether you have a big dog or a tiny kitten, they’ll be able to drink from the fountain easily.
One shopper with the username Brandywine who left a review said that the water fountain is helpful because it provides her two dogs with fresh water while they are at work during the day. “It’s really easy to set up, use and clean. Quiet too!” they shared.
“My senior kitty suffers from stage 3 kidney disease, so I know how important hydration is for cats,” wrote a customer with the username Cal29. “To ensure my other three cats remain healthy and that my sweet senior is getting the hydration he needs, I purchased this drinking fountain. It is amazing and all of my cats are drinking so much more water than they used to! It’s easy to clean, keeps the water fresh since it is constantly circulating, and it is quiet.”
Other shoppers left reviews rave about how stunning the fountain is and how easy it is to clean. It’s gotten the seal of approval from both dogs and cats.
Still not convinced you need it? Here are some other reviews from customers who bought it:
“I got this water fountain for my dogs and it has been working really well. It holds plenty of water, stays clean, and is very quiet. The design is simple and looks nice in the house. It is also easy to clean. I would definitely buy it again.” — LLee206
“I have two cats who drink a lot of water. We don’t have a ton of space so I was looking for a fountain we didn’t have to refill daily. I love the look of this one and it’s big enough to hold a good amount of water!” — ALO0031
“This drinking fountain has been amazing for my kitty! She has been enjoying getting her fresh water at any time and what I like the most is the height and depth of the fountain. The removable faucet is also pretty neat as it helps with keeping the filtration system clean at all times.” — YolaA.
“I pet sit and have a Great Pyrenees myself. I was constantly filling the water dish. This has been a game-changer. It’s easy to set up, use and clean. Highly recommend.” — Radscribe
We all have our homes set up to a tee for our pets, but if you’re traveling with your fur baby, we have a bunch of top-rated road trip pet essentials:
A velvet booster seat
Give your pup a comfy boost with this plush memory foam car seat. It straps into the front or back seat, doubles as a travel bed, and has side pockets for treats and toys. The velvet cover is removable and washable, making cleanup a snap. Available in six colors to match your ride.
Promising review: “Used it for an 8 hour road trip with our 17 lb chihuahua mix. He loved it as he can see through the windows and windshield. He stayed in there the whole time while the car is running.” – Mr. and Mrs. George A.
A cozy reversible blanket
Make napping better with this soft, reversible blanket perfect for car rides. Plush sherpa and fleece provide cozy comfort while protecting your seats from fur, dirt, and spills. It is lightweight, machine washable, and available in multiple colors and sizes.
Promising review: “Good quality and washes up nicely without loosing a lot of "fluff". I got a medium but works fine for my golden retrievers. Provides a soft spot on the carpet for them to sleep on, especially in areas where a dog bed does not fit.” – Shelley E
Fish-shaped catnip toys
Add some fun to the trip with these cute catnip fish toys made for snuggling, chewing, and kicking. They help relieve boredom and encourage natural hunting instincts. Bright colors make them easy to spot and hard to resist.
Promising review: “Just opened the package and it's a good thing it's a three pack, because all of my boys are nutty for them. Instant favorite. Good size for adult cats to kick and seem sturdy enough to handle hours of play. My cats rate 5/5.” – Kristina Hubbard
An interactive giggle ball
Spark playtime anywhere with the Wobble Wag Giggle ball. It makes silly sounds when rolled or shaken and has easy grip pockets. Great for indoor or outdoor fun, this toy helps pets stay curious, playful, and active.
Promising review: “I couldn't tell you how many of these I have bought over the years. Out of 3 dogs, these are easily all 3 dogs favorite toys. They toy its self it fairly durable and hold up to my labs. They bite it, slam it on the concrete, sink it in the pool and it keeps squeaking. It provides endless entertainment and a must have for anyone with an active dog.” – Justin Sedlacek
Soft calming chews
Help your pooch stay calm with these daily chews made with natural ingredients like ashwagandha, chamomile, and L-theanine. They come in a tasty chicken flavor and may help dogs manage stress. While experts have previously recommended L-theanine for help with canine anxiety, consult with your vet before using these.
Promising review: “This really takes the edge off my hyperactive dog without making him drowsy or lethargic. We tried another brand when these were out of stock and the difference was immediate and not in a good way. I’ll be ordering extra to be sure we don’t run out again.” – Scrapbookgirl71
An adjustable seat belt
Secure your pup with peace of mind using this durable seat belt that clicks right into your car’s seatbelt buckle. Made from strong nylon with an aluminum carabiner, it adjusts to let your pet sit, stand, or lie down without tangling. Pair it with your favorite harness and you’re ready to roll.
Promising review: “We used these for a cross-country move for our babies and they worked exactly as we hoped. They’re sturdy and your dog isn’t going anywhere with them properly attached to a seat and a harness. So worth it for the peace of mind for their safety in case of an accident and avoiding an escape attempt while far from home.” – Lidlax
A durable carseat cover
Protect your seats and pamper your pets with this waterproof, wearproof cover that doubles as a hammock. Side flaps shield car doors and zippers allow for easy in and out. It has a non-slip back, adjustable anchors, and no harsh smells for a comfortable ride.
Promising review: “I ordered this seat cover for my husband's truck. When we take our chocolate lab with us on trips, his claws were scratching the leather seats. This cover completely covers the seats and makes an enclosed area to keep him contained to the back seat. The non-slip surface seemed to make him feel more secure when riding down the road. My husband liked how easy it was to secure it to the seats and the zippered sides makes it easy to load and unload our lab. We would recommend this seat cover to a friend.” – Kindle Customer
A handy first aid kit
Be ready for anything with this pet first aid kit made for travel. It includes essentials like a thermometer, tick remover, muzzle, and flashlight. A helpful care guide walks you through everything from minor scrapes to emergencies.
Promising review: “Good to have for pets and people! I bought this for my dad when he goes camping as he likes to take his dog and lost his camping first aid kit. While it's aimed towards pets, it can come in handy if needed for people as well. Things are well labeled, easy to use and it's a nice size to store it away. Also easy to replenish the items tat you use and possibly add your own if you have things that you prefer to use. As I mentioned, I got it for my dad for his camping trips, so it's great for travel too!” – Mikaela
A roll-top food storage bag
Store kibble with less mess in this roll-top bag that seals in freshness and shrinks down as you go. It folds flat when empty and is made from water-resistant, food-safe materials. The clip works as a handle or hooks to your gear.
Promising review: “This is a must have if you travel with pets. We travel with 2 large [100lb plus] dogs and fill this bag with their d0g food and scooper. It keeps their food fresh and doesn't spill. The bag itself is sturdy, tear proof, water proof and closed well!” – Shanell
A set of two collapsible pet bowls
Feed and hydrate your pet anywhere with these collapsible silicone bowls. They’re lightweight, BPA-free, and clip easily to a leash or backpack. Each bowl holds up to 2.5 cups and rinses or dishwashes clean in seconds.
Promising review: “We use these when we go to the beach and travel with our pup. They are great quality, I love that they fold flat and have a clip. I can fold it up and clip it to the side of his bag. They are perfect size to hold enough but not to big to get in the way.” – Jordan Marshall
A stainless steel water bottle
Hydrate on the move with this stainless steel water bottle and attached silicone cup. The cup flips up for sipping and folds flat when finished. Holds 27 ounces and is made from food-safe, odor-free materials for quenching thirst anywhere.
Promising review: “Friends that I went on a day trip with had this for the dog they brought along. I was impressed and got one for my son. We often take his two dogs on hikes. I don't like letting them drink from community dishes because of the risk of diseases like parvo. It works very well.” – Catherine Sepam
Disposable litter boxes
Make litter box cleanup simple with these disposable trays made from recycled cardboard. They reduce odor, keep litter drier longer, and are leak-resistant. Use them on their own or as liners, then toss and replace with no scrubbing required.
Promising review: “Very useful when we travel and place the liter in the trunk of our small SUV. Plus, when we go to visitors, we bring the portable litters.” – Emma
No brushing dental spray
Freshen up the car ride with this no-brush dental spray. Just spritz onto your pet’s teeth or in their water bowl. It is odorless, tasteless and made with safe, gentle ingredients. According to Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, “dental sprays don’t eliminate the need for brushing,” so just remember that this isn’t a replacement for correct oral hygiene.
Promising review: “I was very skeptical that this would work but I’m shocked that it really does a great job. It instantly makes my dogs breath smell clean and the plaque and tarter have gone from my dogs teeth. It took about 6-8 weeks, but it’s easy to use and my dog doesn’t mind it at all. Amazing product.” – Roxy
Refreshing pet wipes
Clean up fast with these gentle grooming wipes safe for dogs and cats. Infused with aloe vera, vitamin E, and natural deodorizers, they’re thick, soft, and kind to sensitive spots like paws and faces.
Promising review: “These wipes are perfect for our little guy, cleans his little rear end and helps his body stay clean between baths. Has a very nice scent but not overwhelming. We have a pack in our car, our kitchen and by the TV.” – Moonshine
A magnetic waste bin
Tame the stink with this magnetic silicone dumpster that holds waste bags until you find a trash can. It attaches to the back of your vehicle, rinses clean easily, and detaches in seconds. A smart solution for handling bathroom breaks on the road.
Promising review: “Love love love this product. Super easy to use. Magnets attach it to your vehicle. We often go hiking with our dogs. We hate the smell of "it" in the car. I have seen people hang the dogs poop bag from their back window windshield wiper and it looks GROSS. This is sturdy, stays tight and works great. Would highly recommend.” – Deb Limo