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Best Haircuts for Dogs: Summer Styles are in!

Responsible Pet Grooming Can Cool Down your Dog for the Summer with the Best Haircuts for Dogs

The summer months are full of vacations, barbecues, and the blazing heat of the sun that has us all shedding into swimsuits and cranking up the air conditioning. If us human are stripping the winter layers, doesn’t it make sense for our panting dogs to cool off too? Yeah, Fido could probably use a trim down to contend with the oppressive heat. What are the best haircuts for dogs this summer?

First a word of caution. Many pet experts advise against shaving your pet. Shaving down to the skin can be harmful to dogs and downright useless for cats. Depending on the breed, shaving can damage their coat irreparably. Both dogs and cats have a natural temperature regulation system built into their coat. So when it comes to the best haircuts for dogs, it’s better to let professionals give your dog a cooling trim before shaving them down.

Brushing is one of the most important things you can do for your dog. It removes dead fur from their undercoat. This helps circulate the air flow to their skin. Brushing also prevents matting—tense knots of interlocked hair. A daily brush and having a professional trim your dog’s hair will be a lot less expensive than a trip to the veterinarian.

Responsible Grooming: Dangers of Shaving

For the last 15,000 years of doggie domestication, humans have been breeding dogs to develop thicker coats than other breeds. Northern breeds like the Husky, Samoyed, Chow Chow, American Eskimo and their lap dog counterpart—the Pomeranian—have double coats. These dogs still need dog grooming, but shaving them can begin a condition called clipper alopecia.

This condition develops when the hair follicles of the outer coat are damaged. When the outer coat, or guard hairs, are damaged the coat will never grow back the same. Most owners of Northern breeds that are not ‘lap dogs’ do not want this to happen. These double coated breeds need the second layer of fur to insulate their heat during the cold months. Coats also grow back patchy, thinning, and balding spots are more prevalent after shaving. During the summer a regularly brushed coat will ‘loft’ as the dog walks, circulating air to the skin to cool him down. Northern breed dogs only need light trimming and have their hygienic areas tended. This will leave them comfortable without possibly endangering them.

Shaving a pet down to the skin also leaves them vulnerable to sunburn. Always leave at least one inch of fur as a protective barrier from the sun’s rays. Clippers need to be well lubricated to keep cool. If a clipper gets too hot, take a break and let it cool down before continuing the groom. Pet parents can talk to their groomers about the best haircuts for dogs that ‘choose humanity over vanity.’

If you have a Pomeranian and want to have the stylistic ‘teddy bear look,’ make sure you’re content to keep this style for life. If done properly, this trim will not be harmful to a dog. There are various techniques to pull of these popular haircuts without full shaving. Sculpting with a #7 blade combined with scissoring is the most common methods for the ‘teddy bear’ or ‘puppy cut.’

Summer Haircuts

The difference between shaving and a trim is the extent of hair that is removed. Professionals groomers have the training and experience to know how much fur to take off.

Breeds like the Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Cocker Spaniel must be trimmed. These breeds have hair that grows constantly and needs regular attention. The best haircuts for dogs like these are the bikini clip, continental clip, standard puppy clip, or standard kennel clip. Because dog grooming is so individualized, most groomers refer to general haircuts as puppy clips or kennel clips.

A kennel clip is most common for poodles but can be applied to all dog breeds with the same fur texture. It involves trimming the face, feet, and tail with a scissored topknot and poofy tail pompon. The kennel clip got its name from use hunting dogs. During the offseason, most dogs were ‘kenneled’ and needed a short cut with less maintenance. Thus, the kennel cut was born. The kennel cut is one of the best haircuts for dogs during the grueling heat of the summer.

Dogs that need to meet breed standards like Schnauzer, Wirehaired Fox Terrier, and West Highland Terriers are going to need expert trimming. These dogs have a harsh wire coat that needs stripping to fit the aesthetic criteria for a show.  Stripping will make hair threads more wirey. This is ideal for pet owners who want to have their dog look as close to the breed standard as possible. If your dog isn’t a show dog, you can have their groomer clip them for the summer. Clipping the coat makes fur soft and silky.

Your dog’s summer cut depends on your vision and dog’s needs.

Safety Tips for the Heat

Never leave your dog in the car. Even if you’re just running into the store with the windows cracked, a parked car’s heat can swelter in just a few minutes. The temperatures can reach deadly numbers quick. The last thing you want to do is injure or threaten your pup’s life to save a few minutes.

Keep him hydrated. All our pets need to have access to clean and cool water. If your dog is a fan of ice cubes, by all means, add a few ice cubes to their dog bowl to encourage hydration.

Chill in the shade. Instead of sweating, dogs pant to regulate their body temperature. They draw air over their tongue which cools from the moisture. This panting process is nature’s air conditioning. Dogs have an easier time panting when they are under shade.Shady place’s air temperature is much cooler without direct sunlight.

Don’t leave your pets outside. Most dogs keep a core body temperature in the range of 100 to 103 Fahrenheit. When it’s baking outside, it is much harder for dogs to maintain this temperature. Don’t leave your dog outside for too long. The hot concrete can also burn your dog’s paws when the sun’s rays are concentrated on the street for hours.

Know the symptoms of dogs overheating. Heatstroke can be deadly, This is what it looks like:

  • Heavy Panting
  • Excessive Thirst
  • Glazed Eyes
  • Vomiting
  • Bloody Diarrhea
  • Bright or Dark Tongue & Gums
  • Staggering Posture
  • Fatigue
  • Seizures
  • Excessive Drooling
  • Unconsciousness

If you suspect your dog of overheating, get them to a veterinarian! Acting fast can save your dog’s life!

We at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique hope you and your dogs can look cool, and stay cool, with the best dog haircuts and making informed decisions!

Play Dirty! Live Clean!

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Dogs are Going Green Too: Eco Friendly Dog Shampoo and Other Green Products

Pet owners tend to be more conscious about the Earth. We are people who care for animals and most likely your pet dog is the bridge between the wild and your living room. Dogs remind us that we’re all in this together. We all can play a part in reducing our carbon footprint on the world! Caring for the environment goes hand-in-hand with caring for a dog as more products like Eco Friendly dog shampoo become widely available.

This has not always been the case. Traditional pet products have typically been toys made from synthetic materials, dog food and treats are comprised of byproducts or fillers, and shampoos made with chemicals that seep into the environment. Not until recently have pet parents had more conscious options. What’s even worse, is that many of these products are inferior to sustainable products. A dog toy made cheaply will break quickly and need to be thrown away and replaced. Food with fillers contain no nutritional value. These foods will get eaten faster without filling your dog up with protein,vitamins, and minerals.

Rather than wasting money on products that hurt the environment and don’t last, why not get your dog green products?

Why Eco Friendly Dog Shampoo Can Be Better

Dogs have a stronger sense of smell than humans. Dogs have about 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses versus the six million in humans. This means their sniffers are 4,900% stronger than ours! Shampoos with artificial fragrances and chemicals can leave your dog with a monster headache.

Dog’s skin can is also hypersensitive. Skin is their largest organ and it takes delicate balance to stay healthy. Many traditional dog shampoos are packed full of chemicals that disrupt your dog’s natural pH balance. A dog’s skin can become overly dry or irritated when this happens. Eco Friendly dog shampoo offers a healthier alternative.

If the harshness of these chemicals are dangerous for your dog, they’re also dangerous for the Earth. The manufacturing process is tricky. Even seemingly benign ingredients can contain harmful byproducts. It is more expensive for dog shampoo manufacturers to synthesize formulations themselves. So instead of buying coconut oil and synthesizing it down to develop sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), they purchase the chemical and mix it with other chemicals for the final product.  If SLS wasn’t purged of contaminants it can be dangerous for your dog and the environment. If the manufacturers used ethical processes, then SLS can easily biodegrade into nontoxic components.

Read labels carefully and speak with your Veterinarian or dog groomer about what shampoos to use.

Avoid these Ingredients:

  • Artificial Fragrance
  • Phthalates
  • Formaldehyde Preservatives
  • Isothiazolinone Preservatives
  • Paraben Preservatives
  • Cocamide-MEA
  • SD Alcohol 40
  • Polyethylene Glycol(PEG)

 

Most Eco Friendly dog shampoos steer clear of these toxic and sometimes even carcinogenic ingredients. Your dog can still have that vibrant and shiny coat that works in harmony with their own natural oils with Eco friendly shampoo. Ingredients like Vitamin E, aloe vera, and rosemary extract make for a more soothing bath experience for your dog. You won’t have to worry when your dog licks their skin after a bath now!

These ingredients are also more gentle on the environment. The ingredients of Eco Friendly dog shampoos should be biodegradable—break down naturally after bath time. Once shampoo is rinsed away, it flows down the drain and into wastewater systems. Biodegradable ingredients are eliminated naturally in the water cycle, while pollutants add to carbon emissions in acid rain. Natural ingredients biodegrade without polluting.

But pet owners should still be wary. As environmentalism popularizes a movement called Greenwashing is happening. Greenwashing is when products are marketed as ‘natural’ even when they contain contaminated source ingredients. Take the time to read the label and watch out for words you cannot pronounce.

Green Products

Plastic has a questionable half-life. Depending on the source, it could take up to 1,000 years for plastic to break down in the environment. The scientific community is split. Plastic bags have only been around for around 50 years so no one is quite sure how long it will take those things to decompose in a landfill. Some say as little as 450 years others theorize 800. The longest theory is an entire millennium for plastic to decompose and some believe it never will.

One thing is certain, it will take organic cotton much less time to decompose than plastic. Let’s keep our landfills manageable!

Manufactured materials like plastic, rubber, and synthetic cloth also contain harmful ingredients.  Chemicals like Bisphenol-A,  phthalates, lead, and other heavy metal contaminants are all found in dog chew toys. How do dog toy makers get away with this? Many fetch toys, tennis balls, and plush toys aren’t sold as chew toys, but let’s face it, our dogs are going to chew on them.  What is scary is that these chemicals are in our dogs’ mouth. Even if they don’t ingest a piece of the plastic, the harmful contaminants are still secreting into your dog’s body.

Many pet owners prefer plastic chew toys. They are sometimes less malodorous than the natural counterpart. Natural chews like rawhide, bully sticks, bones, and antlers will be gnawed away until gone, but a little smell is better than intestinal blockage from contamination of rubber and plastic toys.

Recycled Products

Cycle Dog is an Earth friendly pet company that hand sews their products in the U.S. The company makes dog collars from recycled bike tubes that would otherwise be crowding up landfills. The collars are bacteria resistant and are less smelly than traditional collars. The company has evolved their Eco Friendly product line into beds, toys, travel bowls, and other pet accessories.

Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique are proud to offer Cycle Dog products in our stores and hope it’s one step closer to a cleaner planet!

 

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A Reflective Dog Collar Can Actually Save Your Pet’s Life

When it comes to dogs, our pup-inspired imagination has no bounds. There is no shortage of awesomely cute products that can keep your pet stylish and more importantly safe! One of the coolest of these is reflective dog collars. A collar is a versatile tool and accessory—with it, you can lead your dog by a leash, attach their name tag, and keep them safe on roadways. Not to mention reflective dog collars are quite the fashion statement at the dog park!

Why Reflective Dog Collars Will Keep Your Dog Safe

A report from 25 New England schools shows that a staggering 1.2 million dogs and 5.4 million cats are sadly run over each year. Car crashes account for deaths of wildlife too. The Humane Society of the United States reports that 475 million animals are run over a year. Meaning 15 animals are run over every second. This is tragic. The unfortunate truth is that most of these deaths could have been prevented.

One of the easiest ways for you to protect your pet is to use a reflective collar. At night, a car’s headlights turning onto the road will bounce off your dog’s collar. The reflective material will help your dog shine brightly. The material used picks up car headlights, streetlights, and any other lighting. Reflective collars for dogs are perfect for night runs or strolls to watch the sunset. Dogs that bolt because of a lightning storm will also have the added protection if they get lost at night. The added protection will also help you retrieve them because it will be much easier to spot them while you search.

Reflective dog collars can be used in combination with the primary colors already popular on dog collars to maximize your dog’s visibility and safeguard their overall safety. Using a reflective collar will help your dog avoid a deadly car accident and could mean the difference between a painful accident and one lucky dog.

Which Reflective Dog Collar is Right for Your Pup?

There are a wide range of reflective collars on the market and pet experts advise getting one that is durable and won’t slip off. If it does, that defeats the whole purpose. Different collars are made from different materials and not every collar is the same. You will want to get your dog a collar that will last longer and is stitched with a reflective material that allows you to see them from long distances. Of course, you’ll also want them to look snazzy.

There are are a lot of different styles and materials to pick from so we’ll break down our favorites.

3M Scotchlite

These collars were constructed by a Great Dane owner who made the collars for his own dog out of necessity. The collars are affordable and made with a sturdy 500-denier double folded nylon. The collar is designed to ride low on the neck—good for dogs with tapered snouts.

StuntPuppy

These collars embrace that classic minimalist look coming in six different colors that all look great. The collars are made with Biothane, claimed to be virtually indestructible, waterproof, and flexible.

Bahoolie

These collars come in various chic patterns and designs like Henna, 1960s Circle, and the British Flag. Also made with Biothane these collars are durable and bring out the fashionista in your pup!

Blueberry Pet

This brand is the Patagonia for dogs. Made with genuine leather with 3M reflective threads stitched into a polyester webbing. The buckle is made with Eco-friendly plastic too! The line comes in various neck sizes and does not stretch.

Max & Neo MAX Reflective

The main reason we love this collars is not only is it made with double nylon with reflective stitching but for every collar purchased, the company donates a dog collar to a rescue. Love this!

Orvis

These collars are made with a reflective nylon and come with a personalized embroidery. Instead of a tag, you can put your dog’s name and information right on the collar just in case he gets lost. These come in a variety of sizes and colors.

Night Runs & Hunting Dogs

Athletes that like to take their dogs out for a nightly run will definitely want to get a reflective collar. At night, even with proper street lighting, darkness impairs our vision. This is not secret. Just like you wear reflective gear, it’s important for your dog too!

Dog owners that like to bring their dog hunting will also want to use brightly colored reflective dog collars to keep them safe from any precarious happenings.

Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique loves all dogs wants to keep them safe and happy for a long, long, time!

 

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Pet Safety: Is a Harness or a Collar Better for my Pup?

A popular pet safety question pet parents are asking these days is, which is better for my pup—a harness or a collar? This is an important question concerning pet safety.

Many pet owners walk their dogs unaware they are using the wrong equipment  which can possibly be harming their dog.  Dogs with breathing complications or behavioral issues like pulling and lunging will need specific equipment that addresses their needs.

So which is better, a harness or a collar? The answer depends on your pup. Your dog’s body type and size, training goals, and medical conditions all affect whether you will want to use a harness or a collar. Assess the needs of your dog to make a decision of whether to use a collar or a harness. Keep pet safety in mind!

Pet Safety Features of the Harness

Harnesses are an increasingly popular choice for pet owners these days. The reason their popularity is growing is because of misinformation on collars and more awareness of the harm dogs can self-inflict while pulling and lunging on a leash.

Harnesses are the best choice for dogs that excessively pull at their leash or have a tendency to jerk forward suddenly. This strains their throat and neck area. Tracheal problems can occur if this strain is constant over time. Using a harness will neutralize the strain on a dog’s neck by balancing out pressure from a taut leash.

Toy breeds like Chihuahuas, Poodles, and French Bulldogs are also great candidates for harnesses. Dogs like these are more delicate because of their size and the pull of a collar could damage their neck. Even when leading a dog gently on a leash many pet owners are unaware of the pressure they are putting on their dog. This makes harnesses a good pet safety choice for the toy breeds.

Also, owners of dogs with breathing complications like Pugs or Shar Peis might want to consider using a harness. Dogs like these have loose folds of skin and wrinkles that make these breeds more susceptible to breathing complications from airway obstructions. The less pressure accrued around the dog’s neck area, the easier time they will have breathing. A harness places pressure evenly throughout the chest which will not obstruct a dog’s airways.

Pet Safety Features of the Collar

Collars are traditionally the pet supply of choice when it comes to clipping a leash around your dog. The most popular of collars is the necklace style collar, but collars also come in martingale styles and metal choke collars, which we do not recommend using. Choke collars can be dangerous and harmful to dogs, especially if they are prone to pulling.

Dogs that are trained securely to walk on a leash without pulling will love their traditional collars. Pet owners do not need to worry about pet safety issues like tracheal damage or suffocation. The only time a collar is not recommended is if a dog has respiratory problems. Otherwise, go ahead and feel confident in putting a collar on your dog.

There are a few popular styles of collars. The ‘greyhound’ collar, or martingale, is used for dogs with elongated snouts and necks like the Greyhound and other sighthounds like Whippets or Afghan Hounds who often ‘slip out’ of regular collars.  Dogs that also have short necks and round heads like French Bulldogs and Pit Bulls might need a martingale. Because these dogs body type regular collars can slip off easily.  

The martingale collar gently closes around the neck if a dog pulls or backs up. This keeps the collar flush with the neck lessening the chances of the collar falling off. Its function makes it a great option for pet owners and their dogs.

Hybrid Options for Dog Training

Despite training programs and good habits, some dogs continue to pull on the leash. Bloodhounds and other sniffers are especially known for pulling because their heads are low to the ground sniffing out the scents of their walk. If you have an adult dog that you have tried relentlessly to train against pulling, you may want to consider using a head halter. These collars are designed to restrain pulling as a tool to use for behavioral correction.

The collar attaches to the back of the head and then around the snout. The head halter does not act as a muzzle because a dog can still open its mouth with the head halter on. A head halter is a good option for pet safety and humane choice for dogs that need restraint when being walked. The collar is also called brand names like ‘gentle leader’ or ‘promise collar.’

When a dog pulls on their leash the collar’s design will gently pull a dog’s nose down and their head toward you making it difficult for them to continue pulling. This discourages the behavior of pulling with a pet’s safety and comfort in mind.

 

Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique offers selections for responsible pet owners every need. Come visit a shop and find out!

 

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Humane Society’s Amazing Pet Care for Overseas Rescue

The Aftermath of Human Society’s Pet Care Rescue

Rescue stories are always at the center of the Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique’s pathos. We believe that the senseless suffering of animals big and small is something that we and others can stop. Our shop owners participate in rescue events and work with local pet care and rescue organizations to get animals off the streets. We continue to share pet news of dogs needing a home and triumphs of the pet care world.

Over 70 million animals are stray, vulnerable to the streets in the U.S. with only ten percent that enter a shelter being spayed or neutered. We can all take part in bringing these sad numbers down. This video introduces us to a dog named Kat. Kat was rescued from a meat market shut down by The Humane Society. The video shows the first pet care Kat has ever been given. She has never slept in a dog bed or played with dog toys. These are her first steps into a new life!

Kat is anxious to step out of the kennel, hesitant of the new more loving and less harsh world around her. She sniffs around finding her path. A soft bed, clean food, and plush dog toys are all new experiences for this poor dog. Kat was one of 200 dogs rescued in the Humane Society’s pet care campaign to end the dog-meat trade.

This lucky dog gets a second chance to live in a loving home!

We at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique are so happy to see this dog make it and wonder what’s in store for her next.

 

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Is it Safe to Give my Dog Benadryl?

Many pet owners are tempted to use human medications from their medicine cabinet to treat their dogs at home.  During the springtime allergy season, this becomes an important issue.  This is a huge pet safety concern. Without knowing the side effects, or if this medication is even safe to give to your dogs in the first place, pet owners can unknowingly harm their dogs.

 

It’s true that veterinarians will administer Benadryl to dogs to treat anxiety, allergies, and motion sickness. However, Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique urges you to consult with a pet expert before administering Benadryl for dogs! The FDA has not approved Benadryl for veterinary use even though it is still commonly used by vets in the U.S.

 

Humans and dogs react very differently to prescription and over-the-counter medication, so please know the pet safety facts first.

 

This article discusses pet safety and what you need to know about giving your dog Benadryl. Benadryl for dogs can be very helpful, however you need to be aware of the dangers as well as the benefits when giving your dog Benadryl. 

What is Benadryl and How Does Work on Humans?

The common name Benadryl is actually a brand name for the active ingredient diphenhydramine which is a “first-generation ethanolamine-derivative antihistamine.” In other words, Benadryl is classified as an antihistamine that can cross the blood-brain barrier making the drug very effective.

 

Diphenhydramine acts as a receptor antagonist to received histamines in the body. Symptoms of springtime allergies like sneezing, itchiness, and hives are relieved once histamines are blocked.

 

The body is still producing histamines but the receptor antagonist stops the receptor from registering histamines. It’s kind of like trying to leave a voicemail on a full mailbox.

benadryl for dogs

Pet Safety: How does Benadryl Work on Dogs?

The same clinical functions Benadryl has in humans is also active in dogs. Keeping pet safety and your vets advice in mind, Benadryl for dogs can work to treat seasonal allergies, food allergies, or skin allergies.

 

Allergy Symptoms Include:

  • Itching
  • Hives
  • Swelling and inflammation
  • Redness
  • Runny nose and eyes
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Anaphylactic reaction

 

A side effect of Benadryl is drowsiness, which can help anxious dogs during a thunderstorm when holistic methods like aromatherapy need clinical administration.

 

If your pet experiences anxiety during travel, use of Benadryl can also be effective. Keeping extra Benadryl tablets in your pet safety first aid kit might be a good idea for traveling with your pets, once approved by your vet.

 

Veterinary manuals use the drug to treat symptoms of mild to moderate motion sickness. Veterinarians also use Benadryl during heartworm treatment therapy. Benadryl can counteract symptoms of allergic reactions caused by the treatment.

Be Aware of the Side Effects

The reason pet owners need to exercise pet safety techniques and talk to their vet first before giving dogs medication, is because it might worsen a preexisting condition or work adversely with other medication.

 

The following conditions do not interact well with Benadryl in dogs:

  • Angle-closure glaucoma
  • Severe heart failure
  • Prostatic hypertrophy
  • Bladder neck obstruction
  • Seizure disorders
  • Hypertension
  • Allergic lung disease
  • Pregnancy
  • Dosage and Avoiding Overdose

 

Veterinary journals recommend giving dogs 1 mg of Benadryl per pound of body weight two to three times a day. Most drug store diphenhydramine tablets are 25 mg, which is the size used for a 25 pound dog.

 

Always double check the dosage before giving an over the counter medication. In addition, many formulations are combined with other medications such as Tylenol so make sure Benadryl tablets contain only diphenhydramine.

 

If you opt to use liquid Benadryl for your dog, use the children’s’ formula which does not contain alcohol. Be wary that children’s liquid formula has different dosage levels than the typical drug.

 

Never use time capsule release pill tablets! Capsules are absorbed differently in humans than dogs and can also rupture in a dog’s mouth delivering all the medication instantly. This can lead to an overdose—a pet safety issue that is easily avoided and can lead to a vet hospital visit or even death.

 

A sign of an overdose is the hyper-excitability of the central nervous system and can be fatal.

 

benadryl for dogsOther symptoms include:

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Dilated pupils
  • Agitation
  • Constipation
  • Seizures

 

If you believe your dog might be experiencing a medication overdose contact your veterinarian and visit an emergency veterinary hospital immediately!

Is Benadryl Relatively Safe for Dogs?

With proper pet safety instructions, the right dosage, and chaperoning from your veterinarian—yes Benadryl can be safe for dogs.

 

With all medications, please observe your dog’s behavior while first trial drug usage. Make sure your dog does not react abnormally to the medication before proceeding. Please read all pet safety instructions and monitor expiration dates.

 

Using an antihistamine medication might be an answer to your dog’s allergies in the spring, but make sure you’re doing this properly for your pet’s safety and health.

When Should I Contact a Vet?

Oral Benadryl is considered a mild to moderately effective antihistamine. If your pet is having an acute allergic reaction with facial swelling or difficulty breathing, skip the oral medications and go straight to the vet.

 

Many allergic diseases require a combination of medications and treatment of underlying infections; if your pet is not responding well to the medication, talk to your vet for other options.

 

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A Wolf Rescue was Walking Down the Streets of L.A.

Amazing Rescue Dog Story: Julia the Wolf

 

Well, she’s actually a wolf-hybrid, at least that’s what the employees at Hope for Paws think about the breeding of this curious dog rescue.

 

It all started when Hope for Paws received a text stating that there was a wolf walking down the streets of Los Angeles. Dog rescue workers including Lisa Chiarelli, a public figure in the dog rescue community, drove down to investigate.

 

They immediately spotted the dog they later named Julia. The poor little doggie made it easy for the dog rescue workers by immediately walking into a yard with a gate on it. Chiarelli closed the door, blocking off Julia until they could get a leash on her. The workers fed her hamburger scraps and spoke soothingly with her to earn the dog’s trust.

 

Once they were able to get closer they could see that Julia was suffering. The rescue dog had infected paws with overly grown nails and mange—a skin diseased caused by mites. Dog rescue staff, with Chiarelli, were able to get Julia into the car and take her to a local veterinary care center.  Veterinarians treated Julia for mange, multiple bacterial infections, and malnutrition.  

 

A week after the dog rescue mission, Julia was living at a foster home where she was able to get all the loving, food, and socialization she needed to be adopted. Julia’s story has a happy ending.

 

At the time of writing, ART N’ Paws dog rescue found Julia a loving home, and we at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique are so glad!

 

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6 Tips to Travel Safe with Your Pets

January 2nd is National Pet Travel Safety Day and Splash and Dash is celebrating with 5 Pet Safety Tips for Pet Parents to Have Fun and Be Safe while Traveling on the Road

As pet parents who love their animals as their own four-legged children, many are strapping up for road trips and car rides with our pet companions, and want use pet safety tips to keep everyone in the car protected.

 

The roads can be a dangerous place for humans and animals alike. Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique believes in being proactive about these dangers, that way, if an accident ever happened, you and your pets would be safe.

 

Taking your pets with you in the car for errands or road trips can initially be very stressful on a dog or cat.

 

Many dogs find car rides an emotionally distressing time and might behave erratically while in the car. Keeping your dog off your lap and secured is the safest route to keep you from being distracted and your pets out of harm’s way. There is no question that dogs love to hang their heads out the window to get a blast of the wind in their face, but debris flying into their eyes can be very harmful. Never leave your pets alone inside a car. Heat insulation can easily turn your car into a furnace in a matter of minutes, and in cold weather can freeze your pet.

 

This pet safety article aims to bring awareness to National Pet Travel Safety Day so we can all ride safely.

Acclimating Pets to the Car

The first few weeks of introducing a new animal to your lifestyle and getting them structured is very important. An adopted rescue dog may need more accommodation depending on their circumstance. Also, part of socializing a puppy is getting them used to car rides.

It is important for dogs to know car rides are safe because they will need to go for rides whenever they visit the groomer or veterinarian.

 

They will need to accustom their footing for the instability of the car ride when going over speed bumps and potholes. The sound of the engine and radio is also foreign to a dog and could cause unnecessary stress. Lastly, a dog could experience motion sickness while being in a mobile environment they are not used to.

 

When you first bring your dog home on the ride, bring another person to hold them for their first ride. This will curb their anxiety level and tell them everything will be alright. After the first ride home, use treats to create a positive association with the car whenever they go for a trip.

 

Cats will usually need to be crated for car rides and depending upon your cat’s demeanor, usually have an easier time in cars. If your cat is a frequent visitor of the groomers or veterinarians you will want to get them adapted to being in the car too. This will make things easier for future car rides.

Securing Your Dog and Cat

The most important pet safety provision is to use a travel crate, harness, or booster seat when riding with your pet.

 

A travel crate is a great way to get dogs comfortable in the car and provide pet safety. Many “nesting” dogs actually prefer the dome-like environment of the car, and having a crate inside the car makes them feel even more secure. Place your dog or cat’s favorite toy and bedding in the crate with them to familiarize the whole experience.

 

The size of the crate is important. Make sure your pet can sit, stand, turn around fully, and lie down inside their crate comfortably.

 

Another option for dogs is using a dog travel harness. This is like a seatbelt for dogs. The harness straps around your dog and buckles into your car’s seat belt. Most harnesses on the market are easy to use and universally compatible with all car buckles.

 

Booster seats are great for small dogs that enjoy being elevated in a comfortable position. The booster seat is strapped into your car and small dogs are able to observe everything that is happening making them feel safe.

 

Dog seat covers are also available to keep your pet from sliding on leather car seats. They also keep your car protected from nails and a dirty dogs.

 

Restraining your pet in the car is important for their pet safety. In the event of a crash just at only 10 M.P.H., a dog could slam through a windshield, into the back of the seat, or into the dashboard. At the very least they would suffer minor cuts, bruises, or broken bones. The best pet safety practice that ensures this doesn’t happen is to secure our pets.

 

You buckle up, so should your animals.

Travel Kits

Whether you are planning a lengthy road trip, or just running a short errand, it is always a good idea to have your car loaded with any pet safety items you might need.

 

This includes:

  • Travel Paperwork (pet’s rabies and vaccination record)
    • Some state interstate crossings require this.
  • Pet Food
  • Bowls
  • Leash
  • Waste Bags/Scoops
  • Grooming Supplies
  • Medication
  • First Aid Kit
  • Favorite Toy
  • Soft Bedding
  • Treats
  • Water!

 

For pet safety, and road safety, it is always a good idea to bring a few extra gallons of water when on road trips. If your car ever broke down in a hot climate all passengers need to stay hydrated. Also having a windshield shade will help keep everyone cool while awaiting a tow truck or car services.

Heads Outside the Window

It is an iconic image.

 

The window rolled down, doggie’s head outside, their tongue flapping in the wind. It is no secret. Dog’s do love having the breeze in their face, but it is not always the safest.

 

Many pet experts advise against letting your dog have their head outside the window at all. Debris from the road like gravel, merging traffic, and low hanging branches could all collide with your dog’s face. For pet safety, the best way to prevent this from happening is to keep the windows rolled up.

 

However, if you do decide to let your dog catch some wind, please monitor your speed. The same pebbles that can cause a crack in your windshield will be hitting your dog’s face so please be aware of your traveling speed, especially with your windows down. Even slow speeds can be dangerous.

 

Additionally, it is also not a good idea to let your pet ride in your lap while you drive. This will distract you as a driver, and if the car comes to a sudden stop, or collision, you could possibly crush your pet against the steering wheel.

Car Sickness

Many times rescue dogs can be very prone to anxiety in the car. Motion sickness or car sickness happens when a dog is visually overstimulated, or not used to the foreign feeling of not being able to remain balanced in a moving vehicle.

 

Take your dog for a long walk before getting them into the car. This will help a dog to relax. If they are sufficiently exercised prior to riding, this will draw your dog’s attention away from their fear. Also, toys with a recessed squeaker are helpful to distract your dog from the loudness and external scariness of the road.

 

Of course, when everything else fails, treats will always work.

 

If your dog is particularly nervous in the car, try taking them on a series of short car trips packed with plenty of soothing encouragement and treats. This will help familiarize the car ride to them, and also help them associate it with good things i.e. treats.

 

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5 Pet Safety Tips for New Year’s Fireworks

New Years is a great time to party and make resolutions but just like July 4th your dog may hate the holiday. As the ball drops in Time Square and firework shows launch into the lengthy finale, your dog might hate the holiday as much as July 4th. Pet safety experts from the Veterinary Clinics of North America estimate that as many as 40 percent of dogs experience noise anxiety from thunderstorms, fireworks, and other loud like construction or music.

 

Put yourself into a dog’s perspective. There are inexplicable lights and explosions erupting from the sky. Many dogs pace, cower, scratch at the door, or even defecate inside because of the overstimulation of noise. Many dogs behave erratically and will crash through windows and run out into traffic due to their flight response to deal with their anxiety. July 5th is the reported to be the busiest time for shelters rushing to accommodate dogs that bolted on the 4th.

 

Animal behaviorists describe anxiety caused by noise as a very serious panic disorder complete with a flight response. As firework shows get louder, longer, and more extravagant, responsible pet parents will want to know helpful pet safety tips to ensure their dog’s comfort during the New Year festivities.

 

Remain Calm and Consistent

 

Not only does your body behavior need to be calm, but your dog’s environment does too—positive conditioning. This is important for pet safety. When a dog begins to show symptoms of noise anxiety strategize how you can behave calmly and take proactive steps to ease their discomfort.

 

Shouting or locking your dog away makes their anxiety intensify. Shouting raises their stress level and so does locking them in a room by themselves. Comfort your dog, but not in an overwhelming manner.  If you over coddle them, this trains a dog to believe that they are in danger, and will seek comfort out every time they feel nervous. This makes pet parents lose sleep during fireworks or thunderstorms.

 

Dogs will cower next to you, hide, or incessantly bark. You need to show your dog how to cope with the loud noises. They need to know that their home is compatible with the external threat they’re sensing. Veterinarians  advise trying to play with your dogs during stressful times. This shows your dog that there is no danger and will reduce their anxiety. If they are unwilling, or too nervous, don’t force them.

 

Remain calm.

 

Your reassuring body language will express to your dog that everything will be okay.

 

Therapy Music

 

Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique are big fans of Relax My Dog—a pet safety YouTube channel that composes music designed to calm anxiety-ridden dogs. The music is designed with sweep technology that emits a high-pitch noise that only a dog’s hearing can detect. This noise works the same way a dog whistle does, it holds a dog’s attention.

 

A dog’s hearing range is both above and below the human auditory range. Fireworks are much more intense sounding to dogs and the music suppresses the intensity away from the fireworks by refocusing their attention on the music.

 

Whether your dog has owner-separation anxiety or is triggered by fireworks, this music works on many levels. For firework playlists, play at a low volume near the area your dog is getting comfortable.

“Nesting” dogs will often stay close to their crate or dog bed and use this as a comforting area. Set up speakers close to wherever your dog feels the most comfortable to induce a therapeutic environment.

 

For more pet safety information about Relax My Dog therapy music click here.

 

Pawsitively Pampered: Splash and Dash Aromatherapy

 

Many noise-aversion tactics don’t address the underlying problem. For years various remedies have sought to help curb the triggers of noise anxiety like sedatives and swaddling jackets.

 

These can be effective if used properly. In order for clinical or holistic methods to work, a dog must be conditioned to naturally relax and relate their environment to one conducive to pet safety.

 

A way to do this without medication is aromatherapy. Dogs explore the world through their noise. Formulate botanical scents have been found to promote a calming state and can indeed be relaxing. Dog’s associate the scent with feeling secure. Once dogs are conditioned to relate a scent with security, smelling this scent will act as a neurological trigger to help ease anxiety.

 

(If Pavlov’s dog could be trained to salivate, your dog can be trained to calm down with a psychosomatic tool).

 

This is why Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique released their own aromatherapy line. It helps get anxious dogs to calm down during bath time. Aromatherapy can also be useful for other stressful times like firework shows, being left alone, and a new house.

 

The line features shampoos and body mists formulated with botanicals and plants that have been used since 3,500 B.C. for their calming properties. The Relax shampoo’s ingredients include lavender which delivers a euphoric scent and chamomile which has a soothing aroma. Both plants have aromas that work as natural sedatives.

 

Use Pet Safety First Aid Kit

 

One of the best proactive pet safety methods of keeping dogs safe during New Years is by having a microchip. This is definitely something worth looking into, but in the meantime, use a dog collar with an I.D. tag, and contact information. If your dog is prone to noise anxiety and bolts this will help you find them much easier. Shelters also scan for microchips when they first pick up lost dogs to contact owners.

 

The Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique first aid kit includes an emergency I.D. collar, emergency dog tag with split ring, a pet safety guide, and just about anything else you would ever need in the event of an emergency.

 

Having a pet safety first aid kit in your car and your house is always a good idea. If you bring your pet with you to a party and need pet safety supplies like an inflatable water bowl, waste bags, or a flashlight, all these things will be at your disposal with the first aid kit.

 

Noise Aversion Medication

 

Dogs that have been diagnosed with severe noise anxiety may possibly need a clinical prescription to ease distress. Last summer an FDA-approved medication called Sileo became available.

 

The drug inhibits norepinephrine—the chemical associated with anxiety and fear. Sileo is a flavorless gel that is administered through a syringe squeezed between the gum and teeth which takes about 30 minutes to absorb.

 

There are also doggie equivalents of Prozac and Valium.

 

The best and most effective way of treating noise-anxiety as a dog phobia is to desensitize a dog early on before fears become established mentally. If you notice your dog becoming overly sensitive to fireworks, or any other event that gives them severe anxiety contact your veterinarian first before making any decisions.

 

Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique wishes you and your dog a happy and safe New Years!

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Pet Friendly Household Cleaning

Cleaning the House with These Pet Safety Tips Helps Make Your Household Safe and Fresh for Everyone

Keeping the house clean with pets running amuck after playing at the dog park is a constant battle between muddy paw prints, clean floors, and pet safety. Trying to keep a dog from digging up the backyard then not lounge on the furniture is a precarious task. Another thing to keep in mind is a pet’s health which is always concerning when using harsh chemicals to clean the house.

 

We at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique think that one of the best ways to keep a house clean is to keep the dog clean. A dirty dog on the furniture is never fun. That is why we, “Play Dirty. Live Clean.”

 

Apart from taking advantage of the Unlimited Monthly membership to get your pets bathed and groomed at your convenience, pet parents work hard to keep their house clean with pets tracking in outside debris.

 

We know a lot of pet parents are keeping extra tidy for the holidays to welcome guests and family into a hospitable home. This pet safety article will help keep pet owners informed on what common household chemicals are dangerous to animals and pet-friendly substitutes to use when cleaning.

Common Household Cleaner Chemicals that are Dangerous

Household cleaners often contain unsafe cleaning chemicals that are not designed with pets in mind. Even after drying, these chemicals can enter a dog’s body through residual concentration.

 

Dogs and cats are close to the ground and often lounge on the carpets and floors that are treated with dangerous chemicals.

 

Pets accidentally ingest chemicals after licking paws or fur that comes into contact with recently cleaned surfaces, and can also inhale cleaners that have soaked into carpets. Remember, dogs and cats are on all fours.This makes your pet extra prone to inhaling toxic chemicals without you even realizing it. Antifreeze actually tastes good to dogs and is devastatingly harmful.

Animal toxicity happens often and is easily avoided.

 

The best pet safety practices are to either buy household cleaners that are pet-safe, or to use all natural and non-harmful cleaning solutions.

 

Toxic Chemicals

  • Bleach
  • Potassium Acetate, Calcium Magnesium Acetate, Carbonyl Diamide  (De-icers)
  • Alkali (Drain Openers/Dish Detergent/Toilet Bowl Cleanser)
  • Forms of Acid (Cleaners/ Batteries/ Sanitizers)
  • Perchloroethylene (Dry-Cleaning Solution)
  • Phthalates (Air Fresheners/Wall Plug-Ins/Pesticides/Perfume)
  • Chlorine (Pool Chemicals)
  • Alcohols (Glass Cleaner/Antifreeze/Aerosols)
  • Phenols (Air Fresheners)
  • Formaldehyde (Glass Cleaner)

 

Read ingredient lists carefully. In might be necessary to solely purchase cleaning products that are pet-friendly. This will not only help with pet safety but also with small children.

 

When you are cleaning, it is always a good idea to block your pets access to the area you’re cleaning. Once surfaces are dry, then it is okay to let your pet back into the cleaned area.

All Natural Cleaners Substitutes

Trust your instincts.

 

There are many active toxic chemicals in cleaning products, but you don’t need to throw out the entire kitchen and bathroom cabinet. Pet parents should be careful to check cleaning formula ingredients to ensure there are no overtly harmful chemicals present. Look for labels that boast “eco-friendliness,”non-toxic,” or “pet safe.”

 

Chemicals used in this kind of products are generally less astringent than other dangerous chemicals. But there are all natural and antimicrobial household cleaners that you probably already have in your cabinets.

 

Baking Soda

 

Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate and makes a water soluble odor absorbent cleaner.

  • Odor Absorbent: Sprinkle generously on the carpet, let sit overnight, then vacuum. The length of time you let the baking soda sit depends on the strength of the odor.
  • Mild Abrasive: Mix baking soda with equal parts hot water and table salt that makes a great pet-friendly abrasive scrub.
  • Foaming Cleanser: Dilute baking soda with hot water and add a tablespoon of lemon juice for scent. It is great for the bathroom and kitchen.
  • Laundry Deodorizer: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda in with each load in addition, or in place of fabric softener.

 

White Vinegar

 

Vinegar has many uses because if it’s acidity, and makes a pet-safe antimicrobial that helps eliminate foodborne pathogens. The acidic liquid can also break down mineral deposits making it useful as a glass cleaner. White vinegar is the best option for cleaning.

  • All-Purpose Cleaner: Dilute 1/2 cup of white vinegar with 1 gallon of water, and add lemon juice for scent. You can place into a spray bottle or simply dab cleaner with a washcloth or paper towel.
  • Window Cleaner: Mix one cup of white vinegar with one cup of warm water. Spray liberally and wipe.
  • Carpet Stain Remover: Combine 1/2 cup of white vinegar with two tablespoons of salt until salt dissolves. Soak the stained area with the solution and scrub thoroughly.  

 

  • Laundry Stain Remover: The same ratio can be used with clothing. Use 1/2 cup of white vinegar with two tablespoons of dissolved salt which can be used on clothes. The acidity levels of white vinegar are not harmful with even on delicate clothing.

 

Mineral Oil

 

An effective furniture polish that is pet-safe is food grade mineral oil. Since it is labeled as food-grade, it is safe for ingestion by pets and humans.

 

Mix lemon juice with mineral oil and polish furniture until preferred luster is restored and wipe until the furniture is no longer greasy to the touch.

 

Borax

 

Borax, which is commonly referred to as sodium borate is a great additive for natural carpet stain cleaners.

 

Take 1/2 cup of white vinegar, two tablespoons of salt, and two tablespoons of borax and scrub stain vigorously. The same solution can be used with laundry.

Symptoms of Dog Poisoning

Dogs are curious and intelligent creatures that can and will get into things they are not supposed to. As a responsible pet parent concerned with your pet’s safety it is imperative to take as many precautions as possible to assure your dog or cats protection.

 

So much investment and effort goes into pet safety and switching to pet-friendly cleaning products is just one more way to keep your pet’s well-being optimal for a happy and long-living animal.

 

We at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique strongly encourage this.

 

However, accidents do happen.

 

It is important to know the signs of a possible pet poisoning just in case your animal accidentally ingests a  harmful chemical.

 

Pet Safety Symptoms:

  • Irregular Heart Beats
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Seizures
  • Blood in Stool
  • Kidney Failure Resulting in Infrequent or Ceased Urination
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Bruising
  • Nosebleeds

 

The pet poison helpline is open 24/7 365 and the number is 855-213-6680.

 

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