Pet Grooming Orange County

Hand Sanitizer and Your Pet

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In the time of COVID-19, we have seen a major increase in hand sanitizer use. Many pet owners have become concerned about the various effects hand sanitizer may have on their pets. With proper sanitation being necessary, it is important to know the truth about hand sanitizer and its ingredients.

Ethylene Glycol Rumors

Recently, there has been a spike in cautionary social media posts about ethanol hand sanitizer. These posts warn pet owners that hand sanitizer contains ethylene glycol, which is used in antifreeze. They call pet owners to ditch their hand sanitizer or avoid petting their animals after using hand sanitizer. However, other sources are calling pet owners to rethink these claims. The chemical ethylene glycol is in fact very poisonous to animals, but it is not actually used in hand sanitizer.

The most common active ingredients in alcohol hand sanitizers are ethyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol. While alcohol is toxic to dogs and cats, evaporated hand sanitizer on their owners’ hands will not be enough to harm them at all. However, you should always wait for your hand sanitizer to dry before touching an animal.

What About Natural Hand Sanitizers?

Because hand sanitizer is becoming scarce in stores and online, many people are turning to natural alternatives or making their own. These sanitizers use many of the same products as more mainstream options and are therefore very similar. However, many of these alternatives utilize essential oils, many of which are toxic to animals. Avoid spraying or using products with essential oils around your pets, especially cats. If you choose to make them yourself at home, keep all essential oils far from your animals’ reach.

Whatever you use to keep clean, always read the ingredients and keep bottles far from pets and children. Remember that washing your hands with a good soap is always more effective than using hand sanitizer!

Claws N Paws Day Spa provides professional grooming services to both dogs and cats in Fountain Valley, California. We will be reopening for these services on June 2. See our blog about reopening to review our new social distancing measures in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, you can call us at 714-962-1005.

Our Grand Reopening

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After a long wait, Claws N Paws is finally reopening its doors to customers! However, we also recognize that COVID-19 is still a major concern right now. We care deeply about the safety of our customers and employees. To ensure a safe grand reopening, we have implemented new protective measures.

Social Distancing

As part of our reopening, we at Claws N Paws have designated a reception area at the front of the shop. Walls, a door, and a window now separate this reception area from the main shop. Only one client will be allowed in the reception area at a time. This will ensure minimal contact between individuals, in order to maintain social distancing and stop the spread of COVID-19.

Scheduling Appointments

Because we are practicing extreme caution at this time, we are not currently accepting walk-in appointments. Walk-in appointments make social distancing in the reception area much more difficult to manage. All appointments must be scheduled over the phone well in advance. Due to high volumes of clients, we ask that you plan ahead and schedule your appointment about a week in advance.

As a precaution, please do not make an appointment at Claws N Paws if you or anyone in your household has been sick recently. Additionally, make sure to organize your time with respect for our social distancing measures. You must be right on time to drop off and pick up your pet.

Your Pet’s Belongings

Before you walk inside, make sure to remove all items from your pet including collars or clothing. While pets do not typically carry the virus, coronavirus can last on surfaces such as cloth and stainless steel for long periods of time. That being said, we will also be regularly cleaning and sanitizing our equipment.

Claws N Paws Day Spa in Fountain Valley, California will be open for grooming appointments for both cats and dogs on June 2. At Claws N Paws, we care deeply about you and your pets’ health and safety. We are currently working hard to keep your family safe, as well as ours. We appreciate your patience and understanding during these confusing times, and we hope to see you in our reception area soon! For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at 714-962-1005.

Foxtails and Your Dog

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As the weather grows warmer, you and your dog may be enjoying longer walks around the neighborhood. Certain plants are also enjoying the seasonal changes. Unfortunately, with summer comes foxtail plants, which can prove dangerous to your dog. To ensure a safe and enjoyable walk, you should know how to identify foxtails.

What Are Foxtails?

Foxtails grow from the tops of grasses. Therefore they can grow anywhere that grass does, including in open fields, along sidewalks, and even in your own backyard. Foxtails have been spotted in every state west of the Mississippi and are gradually spreading across the entire United States. As the name suggests, they look like fox’s tails; they contain hairy appendages covered in sharp, sticky barbs. These barbs latch onto skin or fur and will eventually migrate inward, towards the internal organs.

How to Spot a Foxtail on Your Dog

Foxtails can burrow anywhere on your dog, but there are a few common places owners have found foxtails. Mainly, foxtails are found near or in openings such as the ears, eyelids, nose, or genitals. Dogs often also pick foxtails up with their feet. Watch to see if any of these areas are irritated. Is your dog pulling at their ears or licking their feet? Are they sneezing or coughing frequently? Watch for any unusual behavior, especially following a walk.

Foxtail wounds may also become infected, regardless of where on your dog they are embedded. Check for sores or visible discomfort. Dogs with an infected wound may also emit an unpleasant odor.

It is best to find foxtails as soon as possible. Always check your dog’s skin and coat all over immediately after every walk. A good way to do this is to give your dog a good brushing. This permeates the thick outer layers and can find anything hidden within your dog’s fur coat.

What to Do If You Find a Foxtail

Try to brush or pick the foxtail out. Foxtails in the coat have not yet embedded themselves in skin and thus have not yet caused a problem. If it will not budge, it may be embedded in the skin. This will require veterinary treatment as soon as possible. Foxtails often require surgery to remove. If they are not removed, it can lead to serious complications or even death.

Sometimes owners do not find the foxtail, but their dogs still require veterinary attention. If your dog has been acting strange or exhibiting symptoms associated with foxtails, call your vet.

Claws N Paws Day Spa owns and operates a full-service grooming salon in Fountain Valley, California. Although Claws N Paws is currently closed to observe social distancing, we are constantly preparing for a grand (and safe) reopening. For more information and regular updates, you can follow our Facebook at Claws N Paws Day Spa or our Instagram @clawsnpawsdayspa_.

Litter Box Training Your Cat

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Cats are known for being clean animals. However, unlike with self-grooming, they are not born knowing how to use a litter box. Luckily, litter box training can be surprisingly easy. Follow these tips for a successful and easy process.

The Best Box

Make sure your cat can get in and out of their box comfortably. Kittens cannot climb into tall boxes, and short boxes may feel cramped for larger kitties. You will need many different litter boxes throughout your cat’s life. Most cats and owners prefer a box with a hood. They provide extra privacy for your cat, and they confine unwanted odors.

Pick a Good Spot for the Box

It is important to put your cat’s litter box in an optimal spot. If they dislike the spot, they will not use the box. Like humans, most cats like privacy for their restroom needs. Pick a place that humans or other animals rarely visit, such as the laundry room or a secluded bathroom. Ensure that your cat has access to their box at all times; you never know when they will need it. If you have more than one cat, strive to have one box for every cat, plus one. It is best for them to have options, especially when starting out.

Litter Box Upkeep

The best cat litter depends on your cat’s specific needs. Clumping litter, though often more expensive than granulated, conceals more odor and is easier to clean. Many cats dislike scented litter, but it can mask what many owners lovingly call the “cat smell.” Oftentimes, choosing a litter is a trial and error process. If your cat is refusing to use their box, you may want to try a new type of litter.

Because cats are so clean, they will not use a dirty box. You should scoop litter boxes once or twice a week, switching out the litter about once a week. Plastic litter boxes do not last forever; once they start to smell (despite regular scooping and cleaning), you should replace them. Your cat (and your nose) will thank you.

Be Patient

While cats are very clean, they are also very stubborn. Don’t get too disheartened if your cat is not using their box. Keep switching their box’s location and litter type as needed. Stressed cats are less likely to use a box. If your cat is consistently pottying outside of their box or their urine/feces looks abnormal, contact your vet.

Claws N Paws owns and operates a full-service professional grooming salon and cats-only boarding facility in Fountain Valley, California. Although we are currently closed to observe social distancing, we are actively updating our social media. For more information and regular updates, follow us on Facebook at Claws N Paws Day Spa or Instagram @clawsnpawsdayspa_.

Exercising With Your Dog at Home

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If you have a dog, you are probably used to exercising outside. However, in the time of COVID-19, that allotted daily walk may not feel like enough. You have probably noticed that, come midday, you and your dog have far more energy than usual. Luckily, there are many ways to observe social distancing and get a great workout for both you and your furry friend.

Using Your Space

Certain features of your house may lend themselves to exercise. For example, stairs can be a great workout! Put your dog on their leash and take them up and down the stairs. This can be an intense workout, so make sure you and your dog are both equipped for the task. Don’t go too fast, and make sure your stairs are not too slippery (carpeted stairs are best).

If you have a backyard, now is the perfect time to use it! You can play the usual games—like fetch, tug of war, etc.—or try something new! Blow some bubbles and watch your dog chase them. Play some loud music and dance around with your pup. Bury treats in the dirt and encourage them to dig (this one can be quite messy, but rewarding). If you have a pool, you and your dog can swim together. This is a great exercise for both of you; just make sure your dog is safe, comfortable, and supervised at all times. Especially small dogs (such as puppies) can even swim in the bathtub.

Thinking Outside the Box

If your home does not have these features, don’t worry! There are still plenty of ways to exercise with your pup. Grab your dog’s favorite toy and play tug of war. Not only does this game take up very little space, it is a great way to have fun and exercise your arms. Many owners also find dog yoga a fun way to exercise and relax. All it takes is doing yoga in the same room as your pup—chances are, they will join in!

There are also ways to spice your daily walk. Instead of strolling, try running or cycling with your dog. Taking a quicker pace will tire your furry friend out, and you will get a great exercise in the meantime! Always make sure your dog is up for the challenge before taking on a more strenuous routine.

At Claws N Paws Day Spa, you and your pet’s needs are always our first priority. Our full-service grooming facility and cats-only boarding facility are currently closed due to the COVID-19 lockdown, but we look forward to safe and comfortable reopening. For more information and regular updates, you can follow us on Facebook at Claws N Paws Day Spa or on Instagram @clawsnpawsdayspa_.

Anxiety in Dogs

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Like humans, dogs can experience high levels of stress and anxiety. Every dog experiences and reacts to anxiety differently. Luckily for us and our furry friends, there are many ways to ease an anxious dog.

Do I Have An Anxious Dog?

Anxiety is defined as the fear of unknown or imagined dangers. Every person (and dog) experiences feelings of anxiety, but in severe cases it can become habitual or chronic. Dogs with anxiety may exhibit the following physiological symptoms:

  • Restlessness
  • Aggression
  • Compulsive or repetitive behaviors
  • Pacing 
  • Depression or lethargy
  • Excessive barking
  • Panting 
  • Inability to control urine or defecation
  • Destructive behavior

These symptoms can stem from a number of causes. Some dogs develop anxiety from a traumatic or fearful life experience. Even aging can cause anxiety; older dogs are more likely to react negatively to anxiety triggers. However, perhaps the most common form of canine anxiety is separation anxiety; many dogs experience stress and anxiety when their families leave home. 

How Can I Ease My Dog’s Anxiety?

Dogs thrive from a daily routine. Inconsistencies in their feeding and walking schedules might be causing their anxiety. This is particularly true for dogs with separation anxiety. Furthermore, allotting a certain amount of time will ensure that your dog gets the right amount of exercise. Excess energy may also cause anxiety.

An anxious dog will benefit from some basic pampering. Without regular physical contact, dogs may become stressed out. Go one step further and give your dog a massage. This is especially helpful in stressful situations like the vet’s office. Still, always exercise caution when dealing with an anxious dog. They may want to be alone during an anxiety or panic episode, and unwanted physical contact can lead to further aggression. If you need to keep a safe distance from your anxious dog, try putting on some calming music. Studies have shown that reggae, soft rock, and classical music can actually lower dogs’ heart rates. 

There are some products that may be helpful for your dog’s anxiety. Weighted dog blankets and compression wraps apply pressure, which can be calming for many dogs. Make sure that these products are dog-specific, as normal weighted blankets may be too heavy for your furry friend. Furthermore, many dog owners have found success with CBD oil for pets. Not only can CBD calm down your anxious dog, it has a wide variety of health benefits such as reducing seizures.

Claws N Paws Day Spa in Fountain Valley, California provides professional grooming services to both cats and dogs. Although we are currently closed to observe social distancing, we look forward to a safe reopening. For more information and updates, follow us on Facebook at Claws N Paws Day Spa or Instagram at @clawsnpawsdayspa_.