Pet Grooming Orange County

Essential Oils and Pets

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Essential Oils and Pets

Many people turn to natural options when caring for their homes and families. These options can provide an effective alternative to harsh chemicals and synthetic products. However, natural solutions might not be the safest option. In fact, many are extremely dangerous to pets. One example is essential oils.

Dangers of Essential Oils

Because essential oils come from natural sources, many people believe that they are safe. This simply is not true. Essential oils can be toxic and even deadly to pets.

These oils are highly concentrated. While the plants they are made from are often safe for pets, the large doses found in essential oils can cause serious problems. This is true for children as well. You might not realize that peppermint essential oil can slow a child’s heart rate to dangerous levels.

Since essential oils are not considered medicine, they are not required to list side effects and warnings on the bottle. It is up to the consumer to do their research to determine the risks of using these products.

Essential oils can cause harm when ingested, applied topically or inhaled. Using essential oils in the home for aromatherapy or other uses can harm your pets over time. Cats are particularly vulnerable.

Dangers of Diffusing Essential Oils

Diffusing essential oils is the most common cause of problems. Candles do not pose the same risk, as their temperature does cause the oils to reach a volatile state. Cats are not able to metabolize essential oils due to the lack of an enzyme known as glucuronyl transferase.

The effects of diffusing essential oils can occur slowly, over time. Cats can go several years without showing signs of a problem then suddenly become extremely ill without warning. Affected cats often die.

Essential Oils to Avoid

The following essential oils should never be diffused around cats:

  • Bergamot
  • Camphor
  • Clementine
  • Clove
  • Eucalyptus
  • Frankincense
  • Grapefruit
  • Juniper
  • Lavender
  • Lavendin
  • Lemon
  • Lime
  • Orange
  • Peppermint
  • Mandarin
  • Pine
  • Rosemary
  • Sage
  • Spearmint
  • Tangerine
  • Tea Tree
  • Thyme
  • Yarrow

This should not be considered a complete list as other oils can cause problems as well.

We understand how tempting it can be to turn to natural remedies and alternatives. However, it’s extremely important that you fully research the possible effects of all substances before using them around your pets.

Home Remedies for Dogs

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Home Remedies for Dogs

When your pet is not feeling well, it’s natural to want to do whatever you can to make them feel better. Home remedies can be a useful way to help relieve the symptoms of upset stomach and dry skin. However, It’s important to remember that even mild symptoms can be a sign of a much bigger problem. Always consult your veterinarian for a diagnosis. The following home remedies can be used until you can get your pet to their vet.

Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin E oil can be used to protect your dog’s skin against the harmful effects of the sun. It can also be used to moisturize dry skin and treat minor skin conditions. Break vitamin E capsules apart and apply the liquid to warts, calluses and dry spots.

Pediatric Liquid

If your pet is experiencing diarrhea, they can become dehydrated. Offer them clear, unflavored pediatric liquid to drink. Keep in mind that this is not a substitute for veterinary care. You should consult your veterinarian if the diarrhea continues.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile can help soothe your dog’s stomach. It decreases muscle spasms and cramps and reduces inflammation of the stomach and intestinal lining. Offer your dog chamomile tea in their food or water. You can also hand feed it to your dog with a needle-less syringe.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal has been used for years for it’s soothing properties. Oatmeal reduces inflammation of the skin and can be extremely beneficial to dogs suffering from itchy skin and feet. Grind oatmeal into a fine powder and add water to make a paste. Apply the paste to hot spots and other inflamed areas.

There are many things you can do to take care of your pet. Home remedies are quick, easy to use and inexpensive. However, they cannot replace the advice of your veterinarian. Check with your vet before treating your pet for severe dry skin, hot spots or upset stomach.

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers pet grooming from our full service pet salon in Fountain Valley, CA. Please call 714-962-1005 to set up a grooming appointment.

Winter Grooming for Dogs: Why It’s Important

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Winter Grooming for Dogs: Why It’s Important

Many people believe that dogs do not require regular grooming throughout the winter. However, grooming during the winter is extremely important to your dog’s health and well-being.

Dogs are more susceptible to skin and coat issues in the winter. Their skin can become extremely dry from indoor heating. This can cause excessive licking and scratching, leading to painful sores and infection.

A dog’s coat can become tangled and matted if not properly maintained. This is especially true for double-coated breeds. Matted fur is extremely painful. If it becomes wet from snow, frost or rain, it can increase your pet’s discomfort.

Regular grooming helps you spot problems with your pet’s skin and coat. This allows you to address these issues before they can become a much bigger problem. The following tips can help you take care of your dog this winter.

Keep Them Dry

When spending time outdoors, your pet’s coat can become damp from frost or rain. A damp coat can cause chills and dry, itchy skin. It’s important to properly dry your dog’s coat immediately after returning home.

Brushing

Make sure that you continue to brush your pet throughout the winter. Brushing helps prevent tangles and mats. It also helps your pet shed their winter coat. Brushing stimulates the skin to produce more oil. This helps moisturize the skin and protect it from damage caused by dry indoor heating.

Nails

You probably won’t take your dog on as many walks during the winter. Without the hard ground to wear them down, nails can quickly become too long. Long nails are prone to cracking and breaking. Make sure you trim your dog’s nails every four to six weeks.

Professional Grooming

Professional grooming is the best way to ensure your pet’s skin and coat is well maintained throughout the winter. During your pet’s grooming appointment they will receive a bath, blow dry, nail trim, ear cleaning and thorough brushing.

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers full service grooming throughout the winter. We use soothing oatmeal shampoo to protect and moisturize their skin. Please call 714-962-1005 to set up a grooming appointment.

 

Helping Your Pet Lose Weight

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Helping Your Pet Lose Weight

You might have noticed that your pet is looking a little chubbier than usual. Maybe guests are starting to mention that your pet looks quite round. Obesity in pets is extremely common. Unfortunately, pets that are overweight face a number of challenges.

Pets that are overweight are more prone to arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and other serious health problems. In fact, overweight and obese pets rarely live as long as their slimmer companions. Pet’s cannot change their diet on their own or begin an exercise plan without your help. It is up to you to help them lose weight and get in shape. The New Year is the perfect time to help your pet shed those extra pounds.

Diet

Diet plays a big role in the overall health of your pet. The food that you feed your pet affects every part of their body, from their skin and coat to their weight and energy. You can help your pet lose weight by decreasing the amount of food that you feed them. Your veterinarian can help you determine the right amount of food for your pet. For the best chance of success, you will need to stick to the guidelines provided.

Table scraps can cause weight gain and be dangerous to your pet’s health. Fatty foods can lead to life-threatening pancreatitis in dogs. Foods like onions, garlic and chocolate are toxic. It’s important to avoid giving your pet table scraps.

Exercise

Regular exercise is an important part of losing weight. Exercise is good for both your pet’s mental and physical well-being. Play with your pet and take them on walks as often as possible.

Overweight pets are more prone to arthritis and other joint problems. Extra weight can put a lot of pressure on their delicate joints. Keep exercise sessions short and watch your pet for signs of distress. You’ll be able to increase the amount of exercise as your pet begins losing weight.

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers dog and cat grooming in Orange County, California. Our full service salon is conveniently located on Brookhurst Street in Fountain Valley. Please call 714-962-1005 to set up a grooming appointment.

Spending the Holidays With Your Pet

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Spending the Holidays With Your Pet

When you think about spending the holidays with your pet, you likely consider what you’ll give them under the tree. However, there is far more to the holidays than giving gifts. This time of year presents a number of challenges for our faithful companions. It’s up to you to make sure they stay happy, healthy and stress-free throughout the holidays.

Decorations

Most of us decorate our homes for the holidays. From the tree to the tableware, there’s so much to consider. When decorating your home, make sure you think about the safety of your pets.

Twinkling lights and brightly colored ornaments are often tempting to pets. Anything that could break or pose a choking hazard should be kept far away from them. Live trees can cause an allergic reaction and respiratory distress in both pets and people. Make sure that your pet is not allergic before setting up a live tree in your home. If you still aren’t sure, it might be best to stick with an artificial tree.

Traditional holiday plants like mistletoe, holly and poinsettias are all toxic for pets. Candles pose a danger as well. Keep lit candles in an area where pets are not able to access them or knock them down.

Gifts

When choosing gifts for your pet, select toys and treats that cannot be broken into small pieces. Anything with small parts or strings should be avoided. Check the ingredients in treats to make sure they won’t cause an allergic reaction.

Avoiding Stress

The holidays can be an extremely stressful time for both people and their pets. Pets often pick-up on our emotions. If you are worried about the holidays, your pet might become anxious or upset. The hustle and bustle of the holidays might be stressful for pets as well.

Make sure you provide your pet with lots of reassurance this holiday season. Give them a quiet room to escape to if the festivities become more than they can handle.

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers holiday grooming for dogs and cats in Orange County, California. We also offer mobile grooming services. Please call 714-962-1005 to schedule a holiday grooming appointment.

Holiday Gift Ideas for Pets

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Holiday Gift Ideas for Pets

Our pets bring us so much joy all year round. They are always there when we need cheering up. Don’t forget about them this holiday season. The following holiday gift ideas can help you pick the perfect gift for your furry friend!

Holiday Treats

I’ve never met a pet that didn’t enjoy treats. Treats are an excellent option if your pet doesn’t have allergies or weight issues. The shops are full of specialty treats this time of year. You can find cookies shaped like ornaments, treats that look like candies, and more. Just keep in mind that you will need to keep treats out of your pet’s reach until it’s time for them to be enjoyed.

Toys

Most pets love to play. The holidays are an excellent excuse to get your pet some new toys. Although there are several holiday toys available, it might be best to stick with traditional options. Stock up on your pet’s favorites or offer them a variety of toys. Rotating the toys available to your pet can help keep them interested.

New Bedding

A new bed or blanket could be exactly what your pet needs this holiday season. Pet bedding keeps your pet off the ground, which can be extremely cold this time of year. Providing your pet with his or her own place to relax can also help keep fur off your furniture.

Collars and Leashes

Consider getting your pet a new collar or leash for the holidays. There are many designs available. You’re sure to find the perfect set to compliment you and your pet’s unique style. When choosing a collar, make sure that you can easily fit two fingers between the collar and your pet’s skin.

What to Avoid

There are several holiday gifts that can be dangerous to your pet. Rawhide bones and chews can cause choking and a life-threatening blockage. Avoid toys that can be easily destroyed. Stay away from anything that has strings or other items that can be removed.

Claws N Paws Day Spa wishes you and your pet a safe and happy holiday season.