Pet Grooming Orange County

Social Distancing… With Company!

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Due to current conditions, people around the world are feeling lonely. The social quarantine makes it impossible to see friends and family who do not live with you. While human contact is scarce, you may find another solution at your local animal shelter.

The Company of an Animal

If you are feeling lonely, having a pet can help tremendously. Animals provide a unique and unconditional love that cannot be replicated. By adopting a pet, you have a companion for the rest of their life. Pets are also a great remedy for boredom. Having a pet introduces routine into your life; they must be fed and cleaned up after at certain times in the day. Even children can get involved in this routine, eliminating boredom and instilling responsibility.

Adopt, Don’t Shop!

There are many advantages to adopting rather than buying your pet. Buying a pet from a pet store or advertisement supports mass breeding facilities (commonly referred to as “puppy or kitty mills”). These mass breeding facilities promote horrible living conditions and cruelty towards animals. Meanwhile, when you adopt, your money goes directly into saving more lives. Adopting a pet saves their life and prevents shelter overcrowding. Plus, you can ensure that your pet has received love and care that they would not receive from a mass breeder.

Shelters in Need

Animal shelters are currently asking for help from the public. Many are closing permanently in light of COVID-19; pets at these shelters will be euthanized if not adopted. Check to see if any shelters near you will be closing their doors forever.

Other shelters are still holding adoptions while observing social distancing. If you are located nearby, Orange County Animal Care is holding adoptions and pet redemptions by appointment only. Browse the website of adoptable pets, then set up an appointment over the phone.

If you are not looking to adopt, yet still want a temporary animal fix, consider fostering. Fostering young animals requires time and dedication, but it is an experience you will never forget. Shelters and rescue organizations are constantly looking for foster families. Research local fostering options in your area.

Claws N Paws Day Spa provides professional grooming services to both cats and dogs. To observe social distancing, Claws N Paws Day Spa and Cat Boarding are currently closed. For regular updates and more information on our various services, follow our Facebook at Claws N Paws Day Spa or our Instagram @clawsnpawsdayspa_.

Kennel Cough in Dogs

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Like us, our furry friends can fall under the weather. The canine form of the “common cold” is kennel cough, and many dogs will experience it at some point in their life. Knowing the signs of kennel cough will help you ensure that your dog is safe and comfortable.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD) or Bordetella, is a contagious affliction of the upper respiratory tract. A dog with kennel cough will have an inflamed trachea and bronchial tubes. In this sense, it is similar to the common cold in humans.

Dogs catch kennel cough when they inhale certain bacteria. The most common of these are Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria, parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus, and mycoplasma. Combinations of these and/or less common viruses lead to the more serious cases of kennel cough. Dogs are most likely to contract it in shelters or canine boarding facilities when they are in close, enclosed proximity with other dogs. Other factors such as cold weather or travel-induced stress may increase a dog’s susceptibility to kennel cough.

What Are the Symptoms of Kennel Cough?

Look out for a persistent, dry cough. Many pet owners note that the “kennel” cough sounds like a goose honk. In some cases, this severe cough can lead to retching. They may also show signs of illness such as sneezing, a runny nose, discharge from the eyes, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

How Is Kennel Cough Diagnosed?

If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, take them to the vet immediately. The diagnosis is fairly simple; your vet will assess your dog’s symptoms and exposure and use these to make the diagnosis. Potential tests include blood chemistry tests, a complete blood cell count, a urinalysis, fecal exams, and chest X-rays. In more serious cases, your vet may test for pneumonia using a radiograph.

How Can You Treat Kennel Cough?

Uncomplicated cases of kennel cough will go away without medical treatment. Rather, your doctor may prescribe general supportive care like rest and good nutrition. Severe kennel cough, on the other hand, may require antibiotics. This is because kennel cough can become pneumonia, which poses a much more serious threat to your dog.

We at Claws N Paws care about you and your pets. At our location in Orange County, CA, we provide a wide variety of professional bathing and grooming services to both cats and dogs. For more information or to book an appointment, contact us at 714-962-1005 or stop by today!

Feline Dental Care

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February is National Cat Health Awareness Month! This February, why not focus on the little things? Cats rely heavily on their teeth, which are much more delicate than they appear. Feline dental care is an important, but often forgotten, part of owning a cat.

Dental Problems in Cats

Feline periodontal disease affects approximately 70% of cats by their third birthday. Unchecked plaque build-up solidifies and becomes tartar over time. Eventually, this tartar will dig into and under the gums. This introduces harmful bacteria to the gums, triggering continued infection and damage to the surrounding teeth. Affected teeth may fall out. Furthermore, periodontal disease can cause organ damage to the kidneys, liver, heart, and nervous system.

It can be extremely difficult to detect dental disease in cats. The most common giveaway is their breath. Cats with dental disease will often have foul-smelling breath. There are a few more signs, including:

  • Visible tartar on the teeth
  • Drooling
  • Difficulty eating or refusal to eat
  • Missing or loose teeth
  • Pawing at the mouth
  • Red or swollen gums (gingivitis)
  • Weight loss

These signs are often subtle and therefore very easy to miss. It is important to keep a close eye on your cat if you think they might have dental complications.

Dental Care

Feline dental care begins with good nutrition. Some foods are better for your cat’s teeth than others. Some pet owners find that dry food scrapes teeth clean, while wet food remains in the mouth for longer periods of time. However, good ingredients and a balanced diet are the most important factors in preventing dental disease.

It is also important to establish a teeth cleaning routine. This is easiest to do when your cat is still young. Cats cannot use human toothpaste, but there are special formulas made specifically for your feline friend. Use your finger (and perhaps a bit of gauze) the first few times to get them used to the process. Eventually, you can switch to a bristled finger brush or other cats-only toothbrush. Feline teeth should be brushed once daily, or at least twice a week.

Cats should have a dental checkup at least once a year. Veterinarians are trained to detect the subtle signs we tend to miss. Talk to your veterinarian about proper dental care at home; they may recommend specific foods or treats for additional care.

Claws N Paws Day Spa provides professional grooming services to your cat or dog. Contact us today at 714-962-1005, or stop by our location in Fountain Valley, California!

Skip the Rawhide

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We take it as one of the facts of life—dogs love bones. Children often watch cartoon puppies lugging around huge rawhide bones, gnawing on them and burying them deep in the yard. However, veterinarians are urging pet owners to rethink this association. It turns out that rawhide bones can be quite dangerous for your furry friend.

What is Rawhide, Actually?

Despite the name, rawhide bones are not real bones. They are made of the inner soft hide or skin of an animal. Usually, this animal is a cow, but rawhide production is not well-regulated, so it may contain any variety of livestock products. The “bone” is not the only form; rawhide is used to make a variety of shaped chews.

Rawhide is meant to satisfy a dog’s need to chew. Not only does this keep your dog entertained, it keeps your shoes and table legs safe. They can also serve as treats; many chews contain extra flavoring.

The Dangers of Rawhide

Perhaps the most common danger of rawhide is choking. Strong chewers (usually larger breeds such as Rottweilers) are more likely to dislodge large pieces from their rawhide treats. If inhaled, these can cause choking or blockages. Blockages may require invasive abdominal surgery to remove. On the other hand, weaker chewers (usually smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas) are at risk of shattering their teeth on rawhide chews.

Another common danger associated with rawhide is contamination. During processing, rawhide may come into contact with a variety of toxic chemicals such as bleach, hydrogen peroxide, arsenic, and formaldehyde. Rawhide may also become contaminated with harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli. Not only do these harm your furry friend, people in your home can also become sick from handling contaminated rawhide.

Rawhide chews may also cause your dog some digestive distress. Added flavors or other ingredients can cause gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting or diarrhea. For these reasons, many pet owners are turning to alternative chews and treats.

Claws N Paws offers a wide variety of professional grooming services to your cat or dog. To set up an appointment or for more information, contact us at 714-962-1005 or visit our location in sunny Fountain Valley, California!

Detecting Ringworm in Pets

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Ringworm is an extremely contagious fungal infection that can affect cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, and even humans. Having pets may increase your chances of introducing ringworm into your home. Therefore, it is important to know the signs and treatments of ringworm in order to limit potential damage.

What is Ringworm?

Despite its name, ringworm does not include any squiggly insects. Rather, it is a fungal infection that appears as a red ring on the skin. It can be difficult to spot, especially under a full coat of fur. It thrives in humid conditions, and therefore it is most common in hot climates and on sweatier parts of the body.

There are varying levels of ringworm. Pets with a mild condition may not show symptoms. However, in more serious cases, you may notice dandruff-like flaking, discolored or crusty skin, hair loss in patches, and/or itching. In some cases, you may find the typical red “ring” lesion, usually on the head, tail, or back. However, these can be incredibly hard to spot.

Ringworm is mainly dangerous for its contagious nature. Ringworm fungi can survive for up to 18 months on surfaces such as bedding and dishes. If you have reason to believe that your pet has been exposed to ringworm, you should contact your veterinarian.

Diagnosis

Other ailments such as spider bites and eczema can appear like ringworm. These have different treatments, so it is important to properly diagnose your pet’s infection. A vet can do this with a variety of diagnostic tests. These may include observation, a Wood’s (or ultraviolet) lamp, a microscope, or fungal culturing.

Treatment

Treating ringworm can take several weeks, and there are many different methods vets use to treat ringworm. Topical treatments include antifungal creams, ointments, and shampoos. Depending on the severity of the infection, you may apply treatments to one specific spot or over your pet’s entire body. Oral medications are used in more serious cases. An infected pet should always be kept separate from other pets and people in the home during the treatment period.

It is also important to rid the home of any lingering fungi. Anything your pet may have come into contact with should be vacuumed, washed, or otherwise sanitized. This will ensure that ringworm will not persist in your home.

At Claws N Paws Day Spa, we provide professional grooming services to both cats and dogs. For more information or to set up an appointment, contact us at 714-962-1005 or stop by our location in Fountain Valley today!

Your Dog Will Go Coco-Nuts for Coconut Oil

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You have probably heard of the seemingly magical benefits of coconut oil. But did you know that your furry friend can also join in the trend? Coconut oil can get your dog looking and feeling great, in one of the most natural ways.

Why Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil is extracted from mature coconut meat. It consists mainly of saturated fats, which may seem counterintuitive. However, coconut oil derives its fat content from medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are classified as a good fat. These are usually associated with energy production, but coconut oil has many hidden health benefits as well.

The Natural Remedy

There are a wide variety of health benefits your pup can get from eating coconut oil. MCTs are known to help digestive processes and boost your older dog’s mental functions. Lauric acid has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Coconut oil can also reduce coughing and eliminate undesirable odors. It can smoothen your dog’s hair and eliminate undesirable odors.

All of these health benefits come from eating coconut oil. However, it can also be applied topically! Applying coconut oil to problem areas (wounds, bites, stings, etc.) can help them heal faster. Some purchasable products have utilized coconut oil for its positive properties. You can buy coconut oil shampoo for soft fur or certain paw balms to help heal hotspots or blisters.

How to Give Coconut Oil to Your Dog

Coconut oil is safe for dogs to eat, and the best way to do this is to mix it into their food. Always buy unrefined (or virgin) coconut oil, preferably if it is “cold pressed.” Your dog may have specific tastes, so try out a couple brands and types! Small dogs should start with ¼ teaspoon with meals, while big dogs can start with 1 teaspoon. Eventually, you can build this amount up to 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds.

However, it is important to keep in mind that coconut oil is not for every dog. If your dog is overweight or has pancreatitis, it might be best to avoid using it. Some dogs may also be allergic to coconut oil, so make sure to monitor their behavior for a little while after the first taste.

Claws N Paws Day Spa can provide professional grooming services to your cat or dog. For more information, contact us at 714-962-1005 or visit our location in sunny Fountain Valley, California!