How The Blazer Automatic Dog Feeder™ Empowers People with Disabilities and Their Service Dogs

For many people with disabilities, service dogs provide invaluable assistance, offering not just physical support but also companionship and a sense of independence. These highly trained service animals perform tasks that can range from retrieving dropped items and opening doors to guiding the visually and hearing impaired, and helping their handlers navigate daily life with greater ease.

However, caring for a service dog, including the routine of feeding them, can present challenges for individuals with certain disabilities. This is where the Blazer Automated Dog Feeder can be a game-changer, offering a solution that makes the feeding process seamless and stress-free.

"We were using a plastic storage bin and a scoop to feed our dog twice a day”. Says Chris Wilson who lives with his wife Peggy and their dog Bebe. “Now, with the Blazer, we just pour the entire bag of dog food in there when we get home from the store. We set it to dispense the portions that her vet recommends twice a day, once in the morning and again in the evening – so she never misses mealtime or has a late meal when we’re away. We can now work late or meet friends for dinner and don’t have to worry if Bebe is being feed on time. A 20 lb. bag lasts about a month, it’s very convenient” he added.

Chris Wilson and his Lab Husky Mix, Bebe

Designed with Accessibility in Mind

Thoughtfully crafted with accessibility in mind and designed and built in America, the feeder was engineered by SimplePets™, a division of PRADCO Outdoor Brands based in Birmingham, Alabama. The new line of automatic dog feeders marks the beginning of PRADCO’s commitment to providing a full line of innovative products that enhance the lives of pet parents through innovative, practical solutions. 

Chris Blood, General Manager of SimplePets™, draws from personal experience, stating, “My father was a paralyzed veteran and my stepmother had Lou Gehrig’s Disease [MLS], so I grew up around people with physical challenges. We had two dogs, and an automated dog feeder would have been a great addition to our home. My background in many ways was an inspiration for the design of this incredible product to not only help people with disabilities, but all pet parents by eliminating the daily grind of scooping and filling bowls and eliminating the handling of large bags of dog food. With the Blazer, you fill it once and it takes care of the rest. With both of my parents facing mobility challenges, I understand the value and convenience that an automatic pet feeder can provide. The Blazer feeder simplifies daily tasks for all those who have pets, especially those with disabilities.”, Blood added.  

The Critical Role of Service Dogs

Service dogs are more than pets; they are working partners who significantly enhance the quality of life for people with various disabilities. They provide invaluable support, from physical assistance to emotional companionship. These dogs require consistent care to maintain their health and effectiveness in their roles. Feeding is a key part of this care, and while it seems simple, it can be a complicated task for someone with limited mobility, chronic pain, or cognitive impairments.

For individuals who rely on service dogs, ensuring their canine partners receive the right nutrition at the right times is crucial. Inconsistent feeding can lead to health problems for the dog, which can, in turn, compromise their ability to assist their handler.

Automating the Feeding Process

An automated dog feeder is an invaluable tool for those who may find it difficult to keep up with regular feeding schedules. The Blazer Dog Feeder significantly eases the burden of feeding service dogs, providing numerous benefits:

1. Maintaining a Routine:  Service dogs thrive on a regular feeding schedule and consistent routine. The Blazer's customizable feeding schedule ensures that meals are dispensed at precise intervals up to 9 times per day which is particularly beneficial for handlers with cognitive disabilities who may struggle with memory or time management challenges while providing the consistency that dogs need
2. Reducing Physical Strain: For people with limited mobility, bending down to scoop food, opening or carrying heavy bags of dog food, or even just remembering to feed their dog on time can be physically taxing. Designed with a large 40 lb. capacity hopper, the Blazer is easy to fill and holds an entire bag of dog food, doubling as a food storage container. Its lock-tight lid ensures the food stays fresh, and the non-slip adjustable footpads keep the feeder securely in place. The large, dishwasher-safe stainless-steel bowl accommodates even the largest appetites. These features are particularly useful as the programmable dog feeder eliminates challenges of physical activities by dispensing food without the need for the handler to lift a finger.
3. Minimizing Anxiety: Many people with disabilities face anxiety over their ability to properly care for their service dogs. The worry that their dog might miss a meal or be fed inconsistently can add to the daily stress they already experience. With an automatic dog feeder, they can rest assured that their service dog’s nutritional needs are met consistently, even if they’re having a particularly challenging day.
4. “Slow Feed” Capability: With its proprietary EZ Set Digital Timer backed by a 5-year warranty, the Blazer can be programmed to dispense smaller portions over time to improve digestion and prevent gulping that’s common among some dogs who tend to ‘inhale’ their feed when it’s placed in front of them. This feature can be crucial for maintaining the health of service dogs, ensuring they can continue to perform their duties effectively.
5. Peace of Mind: The Blazer automated dog feeder offers peace of mind with its patent-pending feeding system, designed to feed all sizes of dog food without having to make any adjustments - ensuring reliable operation every time. Additionally, the clear feed level sight gauge designed into the front of the feeder allows easy monitoring of the food supply at a glance.
6. Place it anywhere: The Blazer operates on a 12-volt rechargeable battery, allowing it to be placed anywhere, indoors or outdoors, without the need for a power outlet. A built-in battery tester on the timer tells when the battery is getting low and optional accessories include a battery charger for quick re-charging of the battery every few months when in indoor use, and a solar charger for outdoor settings that keeps the battery fully charged year-round.

Service Dogs Make Life Better

Service dogs are there to make life easier for their handlers, and the Blazer automatic dog feeder ensures that these incredible animals are cared for with the same dedication they provide. The Blazer significantly enhances the lives of people with disabilities by easing the process of feeding their service dogs. It's a small change that can have a big impact and create a partnership where both the handler and the service dog can thrive - leading to more independent lives together.

Say ‘Goodbye’ to scooping and filling bowls, and ‘Hello’ to pure convenience with the Blazer Dog Feeder™. The Blazer ships anywhere via UPS Ground and features an optional personalized stainless-steel name plate, laser engraved with the dog’s name. For more information, including videos and product details check out the Blazer here.