Spaw Day for Your Dog May 17th, 2012
Are yo
u starting to notice that your dog is a wee bit smelly? Then it is time to treat your best friend to one bark worthy “spaw” day! Everyone loves those nice relaxing spa days and your dog is no different. Here at PawLux we’ve put together some simple steps for making one dogtastic “spaw” day!
The “Spaw” Day Guide
- Aromatherapy Time- Start by spraying some Happytails Aromatic Spritzer from their Celebrity Collection for soothing scents that will create a calming environment. Simply crushing up some lavender and placing it in hot water works as well. Just remember, dogs have extremely powerful noses so don’t overdo it on the spray.
- Doggie Tunes- Putting some music will also help set a nice mood for you and your dog. There is even music out there specifically for your dog. It’s just a quick internet search away. We suggest a more classical variety that won’t have your dog howling along to it.
- OohLaLa Massage Your dog will certainly enjoy a nice massage while being shampooed and will love all the attention from his favorite friend! PawLux offers a variety of all natural shampoos for you to choose from, like Cain & Able Lavender Shampoo.
- De-tangle Those Knots! Get rid of all those tangles and give a healthy shine to your dog’s coat by massaging conditioner into his coat. Look at PawLux.com for some great smelling and all natural conditioners. like Fuzz Yard’s Organic Conditioner.
- Towel Time- Time to towel dry! Have a towel on hand throughout the “spaw” time since dogs like to show their appreciation by shaking all the water from their fur. The towel is a great way to embrace his ‘thanks’. Once your dog is all dry brush his fur until there is a nice smooth shine.
Happytails Sparkle & Shine Shimmering Mist
- Hassle free bath option!- If you don’t want the hassle of a full shampoo and condition, use Cain & Able Between Bath Spray to keep your pet clean and healthy. It also helps repel those pesky insects your dog hates!
- Star Treatment- We know Fido needs to see everyone who stops to admire him, so take a few minutes to trim extra hair away from your dog’s face.
- Paw-dicure- Keeping your dog’s nails trim is important to keep him (and your floors) happy. Check out our blog about Paw-dicures to learn more.
- Shining Star!- For an extra bit of sparkle and shine add a bit of glitz with the Happytails Shimmering Mist!
Now your dog is all ready to show off. So go for a nice walk to show off your shiny and clean dog. Just watch out for all those big fun mud puddles dogs are great at finding. Or just curl up beside your happy and good smelling dog and relax the rest of the night!
Flea & Tick Prevention: What You May Not Know April 20th, 2012
As the winter fades and the spring months envelope us in warmth, we look to spend more time outdoors with our family, friends and of course, our dogs. However, we must not forget there are pests lurking in the grass and weeds and they’re looking for our dogs. Yes, Paw Lux is talking about fleas and ticks. Those nasty little pests that can cause owners and pets a lot of grief.
We could go through the whole “preventative” speech, but we want to talk to you readers about something a little more in-depth. We do want to reiterate how important it is to treat your dog for fleas and ticks, but do you know what’s in that liquid your putting on your dog’s back? There may be some chemicals in that clear liquid that could be harmful to your pup.
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) keeps tabs on which preventative are good and bad for your dog. The first thing they point out is that not all over the counter flea and tick medications are bad for our dogs, but it’s important to pay attention to those ingredient lists.
Some flea and tick preventatives could have a hazardous ingredients, namely organophosphate insecticides (OPs), carbamates, pyrethroids, or synthetic pyrethrins, tetrachlorvinphos and propoxur are all toxic chemicals you must look for. All of these have been found to be potentially harmful to the nervous systems of your pets and your children. Some have even been known to be carcinogens.
The NRDC has compiled an extremely helpful list of preventatives that can help you decide which to use. Visit the list here: GreenPaws Flea and Tick Products Directory.
The Steps You Should Take to prevent Fleas & Ticks:
1. Talk to your vet about newer flea and tick preventatives. They will be able to give you a good idea about what is good for your pet specific to your region as well as free of toxins.
2. Never use dog preventatives on your cat or cat preventatives on your dog. This can have very detrimental effects.
3. Brush your pet very often. A flea comb might be useful as well.
4. Wash your bedding and your dog’s bedding in hot soapy water and often.
5. Vacuum your home—rugs, carpets, furniture, etc.
6. Use all-natural pet shampoos, essential oils and spray from Paw Lux. We carry a wide variety of all-natural products that can keep fleas and ticks off the natural way. Lemongrass, cedarwood, peppermint, rosemary and thyme have all been proven to be natural products which help ward off nasty fleas and ticks.
Imagine being left stranded in the wilderness jungle, on a deserted island, or in the bone chilling Arctic to fend with no food, shelter, water or tools for 7 days with nothing more than a Swiss Army Knife or box of matches. What would you do? Well, lucky for you & your dog, life doesn’t have to be a spoof of an episode of the Discovery Channels suspenseful series Survivor Man (in your dog’s case Survivor Doggy)
But it is important for you and your dog to always be prepared for anything. So we have decided to do a 3 part blog series on hiking with your adventurous pups. So, before you venture out on the fun filled trails & treacherous, yet exciting mountain tops. Here are some tips to keep you, your dog, and other hikers safe.
1. Health First:
Dogs are no different than people and just like you must be in shape before undertaking strenuous hike. If you’re not sure about your dog’s fitness level, start off small and then work up to longer hikes. But prior to the training & hiking make sure your dog gets the vet health seal of approval, especially older dogs. Make sure that all of your dog’s vaccinations and medications are current, including rabies, bordatella, and heartworm. If you’re hiking in an area with Lyme disease, ask your vet about vaccinations. Condition your dog and his or paws for physical activity on the trails. With its mountainous terrain, rocky patches & high elevation you both are going to need to develop some hiking stamina.
2. Bring Portable GPS system:
Because you can’t always rely on your dogs snout for direction. Maps & compasses are the original GPS system so you don’t get lost. They can be your life saver if you & your dog happens to go off the beaten path, so learn how to use them. Especially, if your dog happens to run after a critter in the woods. If you do get lost don’t panic just stop to get your bearings. If all as fails just stay on the trail, look for signs and guys don’t be ashamed to ask for directions.
3. Follow the Golden Rules:
Check a head with campgrounds to make sure dogs are allowed and the rules. Always have your dog in plain sight and bring a leash. Some hiking trails & parks require your dogs on a leash at all times.
5. Bring Appropriate Gear:
Spring and summer hiking means pesky visits from biting bugs and insects. Be sure to include some insect repellent and UV protection for both you and your dog, because dogs can burn too. One great product for your four legged hiking buddy is Happytails Flea the Scene with sunscreen, works wonders! Also, bring doggy life jackets if swimming, medications for your dogs special needs, some healthy organic munchies for the hike to boost energy and lots of water. Don’t forget to wear proper clothing for the weather in which you are hiking & camping. Regardless if the forecast says clear skies it may start raining cats & dogs and get chilly, so be ready.
6. ” Its Lions, Tigers & Bears Oh, my”:
Remember, that while you are making the woods your home for the week, their are animals that live here on a daily basis. So, beware of snakes, porcupines, raccoons, bears, mountain lions, and coyotes. If you start smelling a not so pleasant odor and a critter with a white streak don’t just sit there run, it is not wanting to say hi. If you haven’t guessed by the smell of it, you have a skunk. All this wildlife can be a problem with a pet on the loose and can cause serious injury. Besides, you and your dog wouldn’t want to pack up your canteen & hiking gear early to spend week in a tomato bath, not my idea of day at the “spaw”. So make sure your pet stays in close proximity to where you are hiking. One great tip is to bring along a toy which will help keep your dogs attention span on you & not on the wildlife.
So all you survivor dogs, go ahead have fun! Enjoy the crackling fire, roasting marshmallows and howling camp-fire songs with the family. Don’t forget to stay tuned & subscribe to our blog for more tips in our 3 part hiking series. We look forward to sending you and your dog safely off on the trails & the great beyond. Your adventure awaits!!
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Don’t forget to shop www.pawlux.com for your Doggie Playdate staples. We offer eco-friendly, all natural and organic goodies for your deserving furry family member. We carry a great selection of Odor Free Bully Sticks / Dog Treats / and Dog Toys !
