Pet Grooming Orange County

Caring For Disabled Pets

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Caring For Disabled Pets

Caring for a disabled pet can be extremely challenging. Special needs pets require extra help doing the things that most of us take for granted. They must be handled carefully and require lots of patience and care.

Grooming a special needs pet can be difficult. Many disabled pets have a hard time standing on their own, let alone jumping in and out of a standard bathtub. These pets may become frightened from the hose or the other sensations they experience while being groomed. Grooming these pets at home is usually not an option.

Finding A Groomer

When choosing a groomer, it’s extremely important that you take the time and effort needed to find a grooming salon that is able to properly care for your pet. In addition to having experience working with disabled pets, they should be kind and caring towards the animals they work with.

Before making an appointment, ask the groomer if they would mind if you looked around their facility and watched them interact with other pets. Make sure you ask them about their experience with special needs and disabled pets. This will help you determine their ability to properly care for your pet.

Check out the grooming facility. Look to see if they have a low tub and ask if they are able to groom on the floor. Make sure the salon has adequate space for your pet without having to put them in a crate or kennel.

Orange County Grooming Salon

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers professional grooming for special needs pets. We have experience working with a wide range of conditions and disabilities and understand the special care that your pet requires.

We have a low tub and are able to bathe and groom on the floor. We have areas where your pet can be kept outside of a kennel and we provide the option of waiting with your pet while they are being groomed.

Please stop by our grooming salon to take a look at our facility. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about grooming your pet.

Are Natural Flea Treatments Safe or Effective?

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Are Natural Flea Treatments Safe or Effective?

Fleas are tiny insects that live on the fur and skin of animals. Fleas feed off blood and their bites can cause intense itching and discomfort. Over time, animals can develop an allergic reaction to fleas. At the very least, fleas are a nuisance and can be extremely difficult to get rid of.

Treatment involves treating the pet as well as their environment. Fleas can hide in grass, carpeting, bedding, furniture, and other areas. These pests lie dormant, waiting for a host where they can feed and lay their eggs.

The Problem With Fleas

Fleas can feed off any animal, even humans. Their bites can cause itchy bumps on the skin, typically in runs as they hop, bite, hop, bite, etc. Affected pets may lick or scratch incessantly, causing fur loss, sores, and even infections to develop.

When your pet has fleas, you’ll likely do whatever it takes to ease their discomfort. There are several flea products available for this purpose. It’s important to note, that not all flea treatments are created equal.

Over time, fleas can become resistant to certain chemicals, making them ineffective. Products such as Advantage and Frontline are no longer able to effectively eliminate or prevent fleas.

Popular Flea Treatments

Over the counter treatments such as flea collars, spot treatments, flea dips, and shampoos have been known to cause serious, life-threatening reactions in pets. These products should never be used.

Newer treatment options available through your vet have been proven to be both safe and effective for moderate to severe flea infestations. Comfortis is one such treatment. These chewable tablets are given monthly and begin working immediately to kill fleas and prevent re-infestation.

Natural Flea Treatments

More and more people today are turning towards more natural options for themselves and their pets. A quick Internet search will provide you with several “natural” flea treatments. It’s extremely important to keep in mind that natural does not necessarily mean safe. Several natural remedies are toxic for pets and can cause serious reactions. Always check with your veterinarian before applying anything to your pet’s skin or fur.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a safe, effective option for mild to moderate flea infestations. This powder can be applied to carpets, floors, bedding, furniture, and pets. Although DE is non-toxic, it can cause irritation to the respiratory tract.

If you are considering trying this method, it’s crucial that you use only pet-safe Diatomaceous Earth. Do not ever use “pool grade”.

Essential Oils

Many natural treatments involve the use of essential oils. These oils can be toxic and should never be used around pets, especially cats.

Claws N Paws Day Spa recommends the use of Comfortis. We also offer Seresto collars, another safe and effective treatment for fleas. Please check with your veterinarian for additional advice.

 

 

Recognizing and Treating Ear Infections in Dogs

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Recognizing and Treating Ear Infections in Dogs

Regular ear care is extremely important for dogs of all ages. Cleaning your dog’s ears helps keep them free from debris and helps you spot ear infections sooner. Regular cleaning also helps prevent infections from happening in the first place.

Causes of Ear Infection

Ear infections are common. They are caused by buildup of yeast and bacteria in the ear canal. They can also be caused from water trapped in the ears. This is why regular cleaning, especially after swimming and bathing, is important. Cleaning the ears helps remove wax buildup, yeast, dirt and bacteria from the ears. It also helps dry any water that is left after swimming.

Ear Infection Symptoms

Spotting an ear infection can be tricky. Dogs cannot tell us when their ears are bothering them. It’s important to look for any changes in behavior. Excessive head shaking or ear scratching are possible signs of a problem. Foul smelling ears typically indicate an infection. Your dog’s ears might also become red, swollen and sensitive to the touch.

If your dog exhibits any or all of these symptoms, it’s crucial that you contact your vet. Ear infections are painful and can become worse over time.

Treating Ear Infections

A quick trip to the vet can help you determine whether or not your dog is suffering from an ear infection. Veterinarians often use a swab to test to determine the exact cause of the infection. This is a quick and easy procedure.

Depending on the severity and cause of the infection, you might be given eardrops, oral antibiotics or medicated ear wash. Sometimes, all of these treatments are prescribed at the same time. It’s crucial that you follow your veterinarian’s recommendations and use all of the medication prescribed for your pet. Stopping a medication too early can cause the infection to come back.

Preventing Ear Infections

Although some dogs are more prone to ear infections than others, regular ear cleaning can help prevent infections from returning. This also helps you spot the signs of an ear infection early, when they are easier to treat.

Claws N Paws Day Spa can help keep your dogs ears clean. Ear cleaning is included in our basic groom and bath service. Please call 714-962-1005 to set up a grooming appointment for your dog.

 

 

Apple Cider Vinegar – For Your Dog

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Apple Cider Vinegar – For Your Dog

When your dog is uncomfortable, you’ll likely do anything you can to make them feel better. While it’s always a good idea to visit your vet if you are concerned about a symptom your dog is experiencing, there are a few things you can do at home to ease their discomfort.

Apple cider vinegar is an effective solution for a variety of problems. Apple cider vinegar is cost-effective, easy to obtain and probably already in your home. Apple cider vinegar has been used to treat a number of problems in both pets and people. For use on pets, you’ll want to only use organic, raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar.

Itchy Skin

Apple cider vinegar can be used to relieve itchy skin caused by poison ivy and yeast. Add equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water to a spray bottle. Spray the affected area liberally. Be very careful not to spray this solution on open sores, as the vinegar will cause discomfort.

Keep in mind that a trip to the vet is a good idea if dry skin is excessive or your dog has sores or missing fur.

Ear Cleaner

Dogs that are prone to ear infections often have itchy ears. Apple cider vinegar helps clean the ears, reduce irritation and prevent recurrent ear infections. Combine equal parts apple cider vinegar and distilled water. Clean the ears with cotton balls soaked in this solution. For the best results, repeat this process daily.

Fleas and Ticks

The acidity in apple cider vinegar naturally repels fleas and ticks. During flea and tick season, spray your dog with a 50/50 solution of apple cider vinegar and water. For additional protection, add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s food or water.

Tear Stains

Tear stains are unsightly and often smell unpleasant. Treat and prevent tear stains by adding 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water daily. This works by increasing the acidity of your dog’s body pH.

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers dog and cat grooming in Orange County, California. Please call 714-962-1005 to set up a 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.

 

Cat Boarding for the Holidays

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Cat Boarding for the Holidays

The weather has officially started to cool down in Southern California. The days are getting shorter and the shops are already stocked full of holiday decorations. This is the time of year when many of us start to plan our holiday vacations.

Maybe you’ll be visiting (or avoiding) friends and family for the holidays, or you’re just looking to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of Orange County life. Whatever the reason, winter is an excellent time to take a trip.

If you have cats at home, you might find it difficult to find someone to care for them while you’re away. Many of your neighbors are probably also going out of town. It’s important to find someone that you can trust to properly care for your cat.

Cats Only Boarding in Orange County

Claws N Paws offers affordable cats-only boarding from our quiet, cage-free facility in Fountain Valley. We treat our feline visitors as if they were are own. Cats are given fresh food, water and litter daily. They spend time interacting and exercising with our fully trained employees. Everyone you encounter at Claws N Paws is a cat lover. We understand how to care for cats and we strive to make them as happy and comfortable as possible while you are away.

Cage-Free Environment

Our feline guests are never kept in cages. Their condos are comfortable, climate-controlled and provide your cat with plenty of room to move around. Rooms are available in two sizes to accommodate one or more cats.

All of our guests are provided with toys, blankets and scratching posts. Our skilled employees are well trained to give your cat medication and special diets as needed.

Cat Grooming & Boarding in Southern California

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers dog and cat grooming from our grooming salon in Orange County. Claws N Paws Cat Boarding is just steps away from our full service salon. Our holiday appointments are booking up fast. Please call 714-962-1005 for more information about cat boarding or to set up your next grooming appointment.