Pet Grooming Orange County

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.

 

 

 

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.

Protecting Our Pets From Coyotes

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Protecting Our Pets From Coyotes

Our pets rely on us to keep them safe throughout the year. During the winter, coyotes pose the greatest threat to our pets. Coyotes are forced into our neighborhoods as we use up more and more of their land. They have just as much right to be here as you and I. While you cannot make coyotes go away, it’s up to you to do all that you can to protect your pets.

Coyote Mating Season

Coyote mating season typically lasts from late February to early March. During this time, male coyotes can become more aggressive. Coyotes can breed with unspayed and unneutered pets. Unspayed dogs will attract male coyotes when they are in season. Similarly, male dogs can be attracted to the scent of female coyotes in season. It’s not uncommon for male dogs to be lured away by the scent of a female coyote only to be killed by her male companions.

Coyote Habits

Coyotes are extremely smart. They learn the activities and schedules of people quickly and easily. If you let your dog out at the same time every evening, any coyotes in your neighborhood probably know what time that occurs. They will also know when you walk your pet, especially if your pet is walked off leash. Once they’ve become accustomed to your activities, it makes it easy for them to move in and make a meal of your pet.

Protecting Your Pets

It’s a good idea to change your schedule every now and then. Make sure that you keep your pet close and leashed at all times. Unattended pets should be kept indoors or fully enclosed, especially at night. Check your yard for wildlife before allowing pets to go outside. Do not ever feed coyotes and keep food dishes inside at all times.

If you spot a coyote, it’s important to let them know that you don’t want them near your pets. Keep noisemakers on hand or clap your hands to scare them away. If you spot coyotes in your yard, try banging pots and pans together. The more noise the better. If you find yourself in close proximity to a coyote you will need to make yourself appear as large as possible. Coyotes are generally very shy so this isn’t likely to happen.

Claws N Paws understands how important it is to keep your pets safe. We hope this information has been helpful.

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.

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.

Reducing the Pain of Arthritis During the Winter

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Reducing the Pain of Arthritis During the Winter

Both people and pets feel more pain in cold weather. Cold air causes muscles to stiffen, causing pain for even those that do not suffer from joint problems. Pets with arthritis can get extremely stiff and uncomfortable during the winter.

What is Arthritis?

Normal wear and tear on the joints causes the cartilage to wear away. This allows the bones to rub together. Arthritis can occur in any joint, but it is most common in the hips, knees and ankles of pets. Discomfort is typically mild at first, but gets worse over time.

Arthritis is common in older pets. It advances quicker in pets that are overweight, due to the extra pressure placed on the joints. Arthritis cannot be cured but there are ways to reduce the pain and slow its progress.

Weight Reduction

If your pet is overweight, it’s important to get their weight under control. This is the first step in slowing the progress of arthritis. A healthy, low-calorie diet can help your pet shed extra pounds. Speak with your veterinarian about weight loss diets and pet foods specially designed to improve joint function in older pets.

Remember to switch your pet’s diet gradually. Mix a little bit of the new food with their old food while they adjust. Slowly increase the ratio of the new food until you’ve completely eliminated the old food. This will help your pet avoid upset stomach and digestive issues.

Exercise

Regular exercise is important for joint health. However, you’ll want to make sure that the exercise isn’t placing excessive pressure on the joints. Keep activities short and watch your pet carefully for signs of distress. Swimming is an excellent, non-weight bearing activity for pets suffering from arthritis.

Keep Your Pet Warm

It’s important to keep your pet warm and comfortable throughout the winter. Provide them with a soft, padded bed in a warm location, preferably indoors. Clothing such as dog sweaters or t-shirts can help keep your pet’s joints warm.

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers full service grooming for both dogs and cats. Our groomers are specially trained to groom pets suffering from arthritis. Please call 714-962-1005 to schedule a grooming appointment.