Frequently Asked Questions

A: Richard Nixon through Ronald Reagan The 70s and 80s president’s dogs saw the end of the Vietnam war, the launch of reusable shuttles to space and the worst stock market crash since the Great Depression.  There were many events that altered our way of life and set the course for our future during this time, in addition to the three previously mentioned. Among these events are the voting age was lowered to 18, Watergate, the first personal home computers and the Atari 2600 were released, the Three Mile Island incident, John Lennon was killed, a global recession, Sandra Day O’Connor was seated as the first female Supreme Court Justice, the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded and Americans awareness of world hunger, drug trafficking, missing children and drunk driving become epidemic. Between the rise of America’s technological advancements and it’s increasing global awareness, dogs remained the most popular pets in the country.   They provided loyalty and comfort amid presidential scandals and assassination attempts. In fact, Ronald Reagan (1981 – 1989) had a Bouvier des Flandres named Lucky that may have helped him pull through the attempt on his life in 1981. More interesting facts on the 70s and 80s President's dogs… The award to the president with the “most” dogs goes to Ronald Reagan with six. In addition to the Bouvier, he had a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a Golden Retriever, an Irish Setter, a Siberian Husky, and a Belgian Sheepdog. However, only the Bouvier, Lucky, and the Spaniel, Rex, lived at the White House. The rest stayed on his ranch in California. The “most popular breed” was the Golden Retriever. Gerald Ford (1974 – 1977) had two, a mother and daughter named Liberty and Misty respectively. The “most unpopular breed” was the Border Collie. Jimmy Carter’s (1977 – 1981) daughter, Amy, was given a Collie mix, Grits, by her teacher, but it was returned as it was biting visitors.  The “most presidential” dog, based on her name, was Gerald Ford’s Golden Retriever, Liberty. The “smallest dog” in the White House was Richard Nixon’s Yorkshire Terrier, Pasha. Nixon was also accompanied by a French Poodle, Vicki, and an Irish Setter, King Timahoe. Both Reagan and Ford had dogs with the name Lucky. While Reagan’s was the afore mentioned Bouvier, Ford’s dog was a mixed breed. Jimmy Carter had a very trendy breed of the time period, an Afghan Hound named Lewis Brown. During the 20 years these four presidents were in office, only 8 dogs of their dogs lived in the White House.  The 70s and 80s president’s dogs were a varied lot, ranging in size from a Yorkie to a Golden Retriever and Irish Setter. Had there been a PlexiDor Dog Door at 1600 Pennslyvania Avenue, they would have needed a large size door. Smaller dogs can use the larger door just fine. To find out more about the PlexiDor Dog Door contact us or call 888-PET-DOOR today!

A: Keeping Your Dog Calm During Fireworks on the 4th It can be difficult to keep your dog calm during fireworks on the 4th. For humans, fireworks are a fun, enjoyable part of the 4th of July. It’s a time to gather with family and friends to celebrate and have fun. Unfortunately, the revelry can be a frightening time for dogs across the country disturbed by the loud bangs and thundering booms. How To Keep Dog Calm During Fireworks on the 4th Desensitize Your Dog – To keep your dog calm, get your dog used to the sounds of fireworks. You can play a firework video on YouTube all the while playing with your dog to associate good things with the fireworks. Take it slow, don’t do too much, too fast. Be sure to give your dog a safe space to go to. This may be their crate or moving their bed against an interior wall with the shades drawn. Try turning on a noisy fan or music to drown out the noise from outside. Distract your dog with treats. Any long-lasting treat your pet enjoys works great! A rawhide bone or a KONG dog toy with frozen peanut butter inside are a wonderful, time-consuming snack. There are also some good doggie puzzle toys on the market you may try. Anxiety shirt – this is a vest that wraps around your dog’s torso making them feel safe and secure. You can purchase an anxiety shirt (there are several brands) or there are DIY versions using an ACE bandage. Anti-anxiety herbal supplements and medications – There are several over-the-counter herbal options to calm your stressed pets. Check with your vet to see what they recommend. In extreme cases, your vet may suggest a prescription medication, but this is usually reserved for extreme cases and as a last resort. Just stay home – Not the most fun option for you, but perhaps the best to keep your dog calm is simply staying home. Your dog will be happiest if their human is with them for comfort during their distress. Most importantly, Keep Your Dog In – Many dogs, in their fear, will panic and run on the night of the fourth. Plan to keep your dog inside and supervise their potty trips, just to be safe. Don’t forget to shut or block off the dog door. This task is easy with a PlexiDor dog door. They come with a security cover for just this type of situation. Also, double check the information on their tags and microchip database are up to date. The fourth of July doesn’t need to be a stressful time for your dog or for you, worrying about your dog. There are some simple solutions to making this a great holiday for everyone!

A: Some summer treats we enjoy are foods toxic for the dog. Dogs are more than just our pets, they are part of our families. As such, we want to give them the best care we can, including maintaining their health and happiness. Some foods we eat without issue can be harmful, even fatal, for our four-legged friends. Here is a list of human foods to keep away from your dog to protect them from unnecessary harm and potential health problems. Foods Toxic For the Dog Avocado, in season in summer, contains persin, a toxin generally harmless to humans. However, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs and should be avoided. Alcohol seems obvious to avoid giving to your pooch. Dogs feel the effects much more than humans and small amounts can lead to death. Onions, garlic and chives are all in the Allium family of plants and highly toxic to dogs. They cause stomach irritation and potential anemia. Onion poisoning, often, only occurs after a few days of your dog eating the vegetable. Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to dogs, although what the exact toxic component is, is unknown. Ingestion of grapes can lead to kidney failure. Ice cream, a warm weather favorite, is a problem for dogs in two ways. The dairy may be an issue if your dog is lactose intolerant and ice cream is high in sugar. Both lead to stomach upset and diarrhea. Cherries, another summer seasonal fruit, have cyanide in the skin and pit. Humans are able to avoid the pit and the levels in the skin don’t affect humans. The toxin levels are too high for dogs to consume without consequences. Salt and salty snacks are easier for dogs to get their snouts on as they drop on the ground by clumsy fingers at BBQs and parks. Unfortunately, they can cause excessive thirst and urination. Salt also may cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, elevated body temperature, seizures and even death. These foods are toxic to the dog and not safe to share with your pet. Keeping these foods away from your dog will ensure their continued health and happiness. If you’re a dog owner who likes to share with your pet, there are many human foods good for your dog. In fact, many fruits and vegetables are especially healthy for your dog. Keep an eye out for another article to explore healthy human foods for your pup! Everyone here at Plexidor Dog Doors wishes you and your pets a safe and active lifestyle!

A: Some dogs are better suited to cold climates than others. Even though equipped with long fur, many dogs aren’t prepared for artic temperatures at all. It takes more than long fur to keep out the cold. We’ve put together a list of the best dogs suited for cold weather. Here are the 10 Best Dogs for Cold Weather in Order of Most Popular in 2019… German Shepherd German Shepherds are herding, guarding and police work dogs. They are strong and agile hard workers with lots of energy and they learn quickly. This breed can suffer from hip dysplasia though, so be sure to buy from a credible breeder. The German Shepherd is ranked number 2 in overall popularity for 2019. Siberian Husky From Northeast Asia, the Siberian Husky was bred to pull sleds. They have a thicker coat than most dogs made up of a velvety, soft undercoat and a longer, coarse topcoat. They require lots of exercise to stay mentally and physically fit and are very vocal. They are intelligent, outgoing and friendly but more of a pack animal than a family pet. The Siberian Husky ranked 15th in popularity for 2019. Bernese Mountain Dog The Bernese Mountain Dog from Switzerland is a gentle, intelligent, and affectionate dog, able to carry heavy loads. They have good endurance for long walks and hikes, although they have low exercise needs. When active, they are endowed with strength, speed and agility. The Bernese Mountain Dog ranks 23rd in popularity overall. Newfoundland The Newfoundland can weigh upwards of 150 lbs. as adults. They have been used and are still used today in water rescues. Their thick fur and hefty bodies are made to handle harsh artic conditions of bone chilling water. They possess a calm nature and are great with kids. They make a wonderful family pet as they are affectionate, loyal and faithful. The Newfoundland ranked 40th in popularity overall. Shiba Inu The Shiba Inu from Japan is a muscular, sturdy dog with a double coat of thick fur. One of the six spitz breeds, they are a small, alert dog originally bred for hunting. They are known to be confident, spirited, vocal and ready to explore, often described to “romp”. They are ranked 45th on the 2019 popularity chart. Saint Bernard The Saint Bernard comes from the Swiss Alps and was long used to locate lost travelers during snowstorms. These dogs have a reputation as being one of the best dogs for cold weather and a rescue dog for avalanche victims. They make great family pets as they are known for their devotion to humans, especially children. They are very large dogs; weighing in between 120 – 200 lbs. They are super affectionate and have low activity needs. The Saint Bernard ranked 48th in overall popularity in 2019. Alaskan Malamute The Alaskan Malamute is the largest of the Alaskan sled dogs. While this dog looks similar to the Siberian Husky, it is distinctive by its longer coat and larger size. They are native to Alaska and make great pets for places with cold weather. They enjoy spending time with humans and are loyal to their owners. They were bred to haul heavy loads in a team of other dogs, run and roam. They are ranked 64th. Great Pyrenees The Great Pyrenees was used to herd livestock in France and were once referred to as the Royal Dog of France. They are big dogs, weighing in at 80-120 lbs. as adults. They love the winter and their thick double coat with a long outer coat protects them from artic climates. While their independent and hard-working nature make them wonderful working dogs, they are also good family dogs as they are affectionate, gentle and patient. They came in ranked 69th on the Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2019 list. Keeshond The Keeshond was originally bred as guard dogs for the river boats in Holland. They are a medium sized dog, very friendly and feisty. Their thick double coat, with a downy undercoat, keeps them warm in cold and damp conditions. They learn quickly and make a good family pet for an active family, as they need lots of exercise. They are ranked 88th. Norwegian Elkhound The Norwegian Elkhound is an elk hunting dog from Norway dating back to Nordic times. They are agile, with high endurance and need lots of exercise. They have a double coat with a smooth outer coat and wooly undercoat, which causes extreme shedding in the spring. They make good protection animals. The Norwegian Elkhound comes in ranked 93rd in popularity and rounds out our list. All ten of our best dogs for cold weather made the top 100 of the most popular dogs list in 2019. Some of these dogs are high energy, hunting or sledding dogs and some are lower energy and better at hauling heavy loads or locating lost travelers. One thing all of these dogs have in common is a double coat of fur which keeps them protected from artic temperatures. This makes them a good choice as a pet for cold climates. They may not be happy in a hot, dry area though, so consider carefully your living conditions when choosing a breed. PlexiDor Dog Doors has a convenient solution for access to the outdoors for any of these amazing dogs. From the Saint Bernard at upwards of 200 lbs. to the Shiba Inu at 20 lbs, we have a dog door right for your pet. Contact our Customer Service department today or call 888-PETDOOR with any questions. We are always happy to help!

A: Camping With the Dog Can Be a Blast It’s always fun to be able to go on vacation, and maybe this year your plans include camping with the dog. Our family goes every year and we look forward to including our chocolate lab in the festivities. She’s been going with us since the first year we brought her home. However, we first tested that she knew a few basic commands before we took her with us. Without these few “basics”, the trip wouldn’t be pleasant for us, the dog, or our fellow campers. In fact, most campgrounds will have specific rules around dogs visiting that require these basic commands. Your dog should be able to walk on a leash and be comfortable being on a leash during the day for their safety. Many campgrounds require dogs to be kept on leashes anyway. Also, important is for your dog to come to you when called and to be quiet when asked. Once you’ve checked that your dog can handle the leash requirement, be able to come when called and stop barking on demand, you are ready to further consider camping with your pooch. If you’re taking the dog out for the first time, try to imagine your dog camping. Do you think he would have a good time? How does she feel about being dirty? Does he have tender feet? Do unfamiliar situations stress her out? Also, call ahead and verify the campground is dog friendly. Scrambling to find a new, last-minute campsite could start your vacation off on the wrong foot. Off We Go, Camping With the Dog… It’s important to take “camping” gear specifically for your dog. The same items seem to apply whether you’re tent camping or going in an RV. Just add a few things, and you’ll be ready to take your dog along and make the trip a success for both of you. These items are inclusive for just about any dog. You may find some dogs don’t require all of these things, like a jacket and booties. Customize the list for your dog’s needs. Pet first aid kit complete with antiseptic, vet wrap, tick removal tool, and tweezers. Even if you have these items in your “people” first aid kit, it’s nice to have a separate one for the dog Vaccine records Collar with ID tags and emergency number and a harness if you like Current photo and a list of emergency contacts Sleeping pad, blanket or bed Food and water bowls and enough food/water for the trip plus a little extra Doggie treats Leash and long line or dog pen for the day Poop bags Dog brush and waterless pet wash Toys Dog friendly bug spray Jacket for cool nights and/or cooling pad for hot days Dog booties or paw wax to protect feet from the rough ground Now you’re ready to go camping with the dog! You have planned ahead and packed appropriately. Once you get to your destination you and the dog will settle into a rhythm. The dog will want to be with you during the day, either lounging at camp, hiking, boating, swimming or sightseeing. Try to plan dog-friendly activities. If you can’t take the dog with you, he can stay in the RV, provided it stays cool and comfortable. However, a tent is not a safe place for the dog to stay during the day. At night, the dog can sleep with you in the RV or in the tent. Remember to take their bed or blanket so they are comfortable and familiar with their sleeping quarters. Your pet may surprise you with their choice of sleeping arrangements in the great outdoors. Our dog always chooses to sleep outside, right next to the camper, on the ground, beside her blanket. She truly likes to “rough it” when she goes camping. Every dog has their own level of comfort. The most important tip when going camping with the dog, have fun! Remember, it’s a vacation for both of you. There are a thousand new smells and discoveries just around the corner. Although your dog may be excited to go on a “ride”, he may be a little nervous once you get there. Take it slow and you’re sure to have a great time! PlexiDor Dog Doors encourages all dog owners to get out and explore safely this year. Be adventurous and have fun!

A: Training your best friend for the dog agility course obstacles requires a close relationship and a lot of trust between yourself and your dog. Agility is a team sport. While there are specific guidelines for AKC agility course competitions, there are more laid-back ways to get involved and to compete with your pooch as well. You need not necessarily have a specific breed of dog or register with the AKC to enjoy the benefits and fun of dog agility. Dog agility is quickly growing in popularity for both participants and spectators. A dog agility course consists of 14-20 obstacles. There is a limited amount of time to complete the course and in the proper sequence of obstacles. A judge will decide which obstacles will be used in the course. The course must consist of four standard obstacles and the rest can be of the judge’s choosing. The obstacles can be in any order the judge likes. Strong non-verbal communication between the handler and the dog is essential to run the course accurately and within the allotted time. The 4 Standard Dog Agility Course Obstacles A-Frame – This obstacle is two panels placed together in a triangle shape at a standard height of 5 feet 6 inches, that the dog runs up and then down the other side. The panel is between 35 and 49 inches wide. Tunnel – The dogs may go through an open or closed tunnel. This refers to the ends of the tunnel. There are different specifications for open tunnels versus closed tunnels according to AKC regulations. Seesaw – Similar to a child’s teeter-totter, this is a 12-inch wide and 12 foot long plank on a fulcrum the dog must negotiate. The seesaw can be the scariest obstacle as it moves under their feet. It is recommended you begin to train this obstacle using something low to the ground, like a skateboard or child’s wagon. You can also create and use a balance board. A balance board is made with a piece of plywood the size of the dog’s stance and a brick or small ball that is placed underneath to make it unsteady. Weave Poles – Here dogs weave to the left and to the right between poles set up approximately two feet apart, depending on the style of course. The weave poles are the most challenging of the dog agility course obstacles to teach. There are many different approaches to teaching this skill and you will likely need expert help on the training. To get started at home you can place plant stakes in the ground 2 feet apart. Be sure your dog enters the poles between the 1st and 2nd poles from the left side. Additionally, teach your dog tricks that will enhance his flexibility. These tricks would include spins, bows and weaving figure eights. Practicing these maneuvers will get them ready for weaving through the weave poles. Other Dog Agility Course Obstacles Dog Walks, including Crossovers and Tower configurations Jump Configurations Pause Tables and Pause Boxes Sway Planks and Bridges Hoop Jumps The dog agility course obstacles described above are the most common and typically standard in an agility course. There are, of course, many more obstacles than four in any one course. Agility courses come in all types of configurations and difficulty levels. They are also built for different height and skill level dogs. PlexiDor Dog Doors encourages you to spectate an agility competition for yourself, if you have not already. See what all the fuss is about. PlexiDor manufactures standard and electronic dog doors for small to extra-large dogs. Contact our Customer Service department or call 888-PETDOOR with any questions on our products.

A: At what point do you need an extra large dog door by PlexiDor Dog Doors? When you have a “large” dog you may wonder just how large your dog door needs to be. Our standard large dog doors accommodate dogs between 40 and 100 pounds. The opening for your pet on a large dog door is 11 ¾” wide by 16” high.   Usually at about 100 pounds you will need an extra large dog door, but the real determining factor is your dog’s width and height.  So you always want to check that the opening will be comfortable for your pet. PlexiDor Large Dog Door The PlexiDor large dog door will accommodate a wide variety of breeds in many different shapes and statures including Labradors, Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Collies, Setters, Bulldogs, Pointers and Dobermans. This is not an exhaustive list, but will give you an idea of the dog types a large dog door will service. Be sure to measure your dog and be sure they can fit through the pet opening sizes shown in our sizing guide when deciding which PlexiDor Dog Door to purchase.  When in doubt, go larger.  A dog can’t use dog door too small for them, but a larger opening won’t be a problem and our saloon panel design is easy for small and extra large dogs to use.  PlexiDor Extra Large Dog Door When your canine friend weighs in above 100 pounds or is wider than 11 ¾” wide you will need an extra large dog door. This includes breeds such as Great Danes, St. Bernards, Rottweilers, Old English Sheepdogs, Newfoundlands, Irish Wolfhounds and Great Pyrenees. The extra large dog door opening is 15 ¾” wide by 23 5/8” high.  The dog door always has to be installed high enough off the ground that your dog won’t have to crouch to get through the dog door and won’t hit their back as they go through the dog door.  So, you may also need a size XL if your tall dog has problems lifting their back legs, or if you expect that to be a problem when they get older.  In that case, the taller opening of the PlexiDor XL will allow you to mount the dog door closer to the ground, making it easier for your dog to use the dog door.  Sometimes you need to get the size XL to accommodate the height differences between your dogs.  Perhaps you have a Jack Russell Terrier (low to the ground) and a Rottweiler.  You would need to get the size XL in this case to have the dog door at a height that works for the small dog and doesn’t hit the back of the large dog.  Our saloon style design makes it easy for even a small dog to use the size XL, so it works well for both of your pets. The extra large dog door is sturdy and energy efficient just like our other dog doors. The acrylic panels are lined with a high density weather seal for maximum energy efficiency. They are manufactured in the United States and come with a 90-day money back guarantee. Our PlexiDor standard dog doors have a 10 year warranty. Please contact our Customer Service Department with any questions on sizing or product or call 888-PET-DOOR. We look forward to hearing from you!

A: A dog’s tail is an extension of their spine. Some are more flexible than others. Some are particularly curly, while others are very short and straight or almost non-existent. While there are many different dogs and different tails, there are six that are more common dog tail types than others. Let us take a look at the tail types and some of the breeds that exhibit these tails. Common Dog Tail Types and Breeds with That Type Tail Bobbed Tail – Due to natural genetic mutation the tail is unusually short or missing completely. This can be seen in a number of breeds including the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Australian Shepherd, Brittany Spaniel, Jack Russell Terrier, and Schipperke. A Docked Tail is different in that it is not naturally occurring. The Docked Tail is surgically altered to be short. This is seen in Dobermans, Boxers and English Pointers. Although this practice is less popular today than it was and is seen more with working dogs for safety purposes. Ring, Curly, Corkscrew and Snap Tails – These all have one thing in common. They all have completely curled tails.  The tail may curl over the spine or off to one side like the Finnish Spitz, Keeshond, American Eskimo or a Schipperke with a tail. Some tails are short and twisted in a spiral fashion such as the French Bulldog, Pug, Bulldog and Basenji. Sickle Tail – This tail curves up over the back toward the head of the dog in a semi-circle. This is not a full curl. Dogs with this type of tail are the Affenpinscher, Akita, Chihuahua, Chow Chow, Malamute, Pomeranian, Siberian Husky, and Samoyed. Otter or Swimmer Tail – This tail is thick at the base and round and tapering toward tip. It points straight out and down. These tails are used like a rudder while swimming for the Labrador Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and Otterhound. Carrot Tail – These tails are carried stiffly straight and pointed out or down. They are like an Otter Tail, but thinner and point up. These breeds used to hunt underground prey and the farmer would pull them out of the holes by their tails. Dogs exhibiting this tail are the Bull Terrier, West Highland Terrier, and Scottish Terrier. Whip Tail – This common tail type is longer than a Carrot Tail and more flexible with a slight curve at the end. Manchester Terriers, Border Terriers, Dachshunds, Dalmatians, and English Setters all have this type tail. The above highlight the most common dog tail types. No matter what tail your pooch has, give them the freedom to come and go as they please with a PlexiDor Dog Door. They come in standard and electronic models and sizes to fit Teacup Poodles to Great Danes. Contact our Customer Service department or call 888-PETDOOR with any questions today!

A: Cats in the wild have a wide range of vocal expressions; they hiss, growl, spit, and scream. Cats meow at humans. The regular "meow" a cat gives a human is different, and some cat experts believe the sound developed partly to communicate with people. We associate it with the cry of an infant, and meowing gives results. Cats are good at varying their meows, and the cat owner learns to distinguish a meow saying "I want to go outside" from a content cuddle meow. Cats can vary the frequency, pitch, volume, tone, and length of their meows, and no two cats sound exactly the same. If your cat starts meowing obsessively or exhibits other sudden changes in behavior, you need to take him or her to a vet, just to be on the safe side. Other than that, enjoy learning the language of your cat. It's possible to learn to communicate well with them, and knowing what your furry friend wants opens a new dimension to your relationship.

A: We have departed from the days when the only treat in town for the dog is a biscuit at the local bank or pharmacy. Today truly dog friendly cities are gauged on the number of dog parks there are and restaurants serving cuisine created for dogs. Urban centers from all corners of the country are at the top of the list for catering to the canine. What makes a city dog friendly you ask? It is more than an off-leash park and a sausage specifically on the menu for the dog. These cities offer more. Criteria to make this exclusive list include considerations for your pet’s health and wellness like an ample number of veterinarians and lower average vet costs. Also reviewed are the number of dog trainers, caretakers and dog-friendly businesses in the area. There are a healthy number of pet-friendly restaurants including some indoor dining establishments indulging our four-legged friends in these top ranked cities. All types of restaurants include dog friendly items on the menu; from cafés and seafood, to breweries and ice cream shops.  Grand hotels show their pet friendliness by providing pet beds, bowls and treats to pup patrons. Outdoor dog friendliness is of equal importance to health. A dog’s outdoor life lends itself to their overall social, mental, and physical health. This includes walkability, weather and the number of parks available for outdoor recreation. Our list of cities boasts off-leash play areas, gorgeous landscaped gardens, acres of hiking trails for leashed pups, and off-leash beaches for swimming. Other less common dog friendly activities offered in these cities are kayaking, tourist attractions, yoga and seaplane tours. Top Dog Friendly Cities in America Austin, TX – A great place to try yoga with your dog! San Diego, CA – Boasts one of the first off-leash beaches in the country and great weather in Southern California! Portland, OR – Home to the most dog parks per capita in the country. Seattle, WA – Company located here offering pet-friendly seaplane tours San Francisco, CA – Most tourist attractions are pet-friendly including Fisherman’s Wharf, the Embarcadero and Golden Gate Bridge from 5PM to dusk daily. Tampa, FL – Combine the dog park with a day at the beach at an off-leash beach with swimming! Boston, MA – Furnishes pet-friendly historic tours of the city and surrounding area for dog loving tourists. Colorado Springs, CO – Stay in a 5-star hotel that provides pet beds, bowls and dog treats to your furry friends. If you’re looking to relocate or just taking a trip and the pooch is of primary importance in your plans, consider one of the above cities. They take “dog-friendly” to a new level. PlexiDor Dog Doors is located just around the bay from Tampa in Bradenton, FL and we love it! Contact us for assistance making your house more dog-friendly with a PlexiDor Dog Door at 888-PETDOOR. Our Customer Service team is knowledgeable and always happy to answer any questions.