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Walking the dog can be quite a pleasant experience but can also be quite exhausting especially if your dog tends to pull on their leash constantly. This is quite strenuous and might even cause injuries to both you and your dog.
Fortunately, there is already a solution to your dog walking maladies which comes in the form of ‘anti-pull’ dog harnesses.
No-pull dog harnesses are designed to alleviate the strain from your arm as well as the dog’s neck. These harnesses are designed so that you get optimum control on your mutt and makes it easier to train them to refrain from pulling on the leash.
Choosing the best anti-pull dog harness is, as expected, not as simple as you would expect.
There are literally dozens to hundreds of choices available and it can be quite overwhelming to dive into this cavalcade of options without having a good grasp of what you need to look for.
There are actually a couple of important factors to look for in a dog harness. Dog size, type of harness, and the quality of the product should all be considered before committing to a purchase.
To help you narrow down your choices, I have created a simple easy to follow the guide below that you can apply when looking for the best no-pull dog harness. Afterward, I will be giving you some top recommendations for anti-pull dog harness that you should definitely check out.
First, you need to determine what type of harness will suit you and your dog best. How do you determine which harness is for your dog? Let me explain in further detail…
The most common type of dog harness is actually not ideal when training your dog not to pull. The leash is attached to the back, unfortunately, dogs enjoy the sensation of pulling from the back. Although this is a good option if your dog is nursing an injury or if you want to alleviate the pressure from their neck when walking them outside.
The best type of harness to train your dog not to pull. This offers you absolute control when walking your dog.
The leash attachment is located at the front, around the middle part of the dog’s chest. Pulling will cause the dog to turn towards you and will give you better control of your dog’s movement.
This type of harness is great for training or if you want to take your dog for a nice walk. However, it is not a good choice if you plan to take your dog jogging.
This is another viable option if you wish to train your dog not to pull on their leash. As the name suggests, this is placed around your dog’s head with the attachment located under their chin.
Similar to the front attachment harness, whenever the dog pulls it will cause them to face you. The only downside to this harness is that it will take some time for the dog to be comfortable wearing it, especially if you start using this once they are already an adult.
Now, there are key factors that you should look for when picking the best no-pull dog harness:
Once you have checked all this list you will find yourself with a handful of choices. From here, it is all about your personal preference.
If you are still unsure what anti-pull harness to choose from, don’t fret. Below is a list of the best rated and highly recommended anti-pull dog harness that you can buy right now.
The PetSafe Easy Walk Harness is a simple yet durable harness that offers the basics of what you require in a no-pull harness. The leash attachment is located at the front which is an essential feature if you wish to train your dog to stop pulling.
The harness is also designed to be worn on the body. The attachment point is positioned over the dog’s collarbone so there is no risk of the harness choking them.
The harness is also color coded so you won’t get confused as to which side is up or down. This is a more common complaint than you would expect. As stated earlier, this harness has a pretty standard design.
Simple and practical with no bells and whistles. This might not make it attractive for dog owners who love to dress up their dog though.
The harness is quite tough even though it is pretty lightweight. It is also quite easy to clean. Since it covers only a minimum part of the dog’s body it is also ideal to use during summer or for swimming. Since this is pretty much a basic anti-pull harness it doesn’t have any extra features like reflectors.
Overall, the Easy Walk is a good choice for those who desire practicality and simplicity with their dog no-pull harness. It is also quite affordable considering the quality of the harness. Of course, if you prefer something flashy then you might need to look elsewhere.
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A no-pull harness designed for large dogs, the Big Dog Soft Reflective No Pull Harness offers reliability and comfort when it comes to training your dog outside.
As this is designed for larger dog breeds you can expect it to be well-made and quite durable. The harness is easy to put on and remove. It also fits quite snug and will not cause any strain or chaffing.
As for additional features, the Big Dog uses reflective strips to make walking at night safer both you and your dog. I did find the lack of padding on the front side of the harness counterproductive.
While the back is well padded, the front part of the harness is not. This might cause some dogs with sensitive skin to chafe if the harness is put on a little tight.
The thick padding on the back, while improves durability, might cause your dog to overheat faster during summer. I would recommend this to dog owners who live in regions that have a colder climate.
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The Julius K-9 Power Harness is designed to provide comfort and safety to the dog while giving owners optimum control.
The K-9 Power Harness is actually started out as a harness designed for police and rescue dogs. They have taken a lot of the features from specially made dog harness and implemented them into their consumer dog harness series.
The Julius K-9 is adjustable and comes in different sizes to fit all dog breeds. You are guaranteed to find one that will fit your dog like a glove. It also takes a different approach in its design as it features a lower-neck strap that attaches behind the forelegs.
This helps prevent it from chafing even the wildest dog. Putting it on your dog is also simple and easy thanks to the wide opening of the front part of the harness.
The leash attachment is located at the back though so keep that in mind as this is not exactly designed to stop your dog from pulling. However, the overall design and durability of this harness can give you maximum control when walking your dog. In time, you still can train your dog to behave when walking outside.
It manages to offer this level of control to the dog owner due to the nylon handle that is located at the back of the harness. You can easily grab hold of your dog and prevent them from running around even without a leash.
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Dogs can be quite a handful to walk outside. Their curiosity usually gets the better of them which makes them pull and tug on their leash. If you use a dog collar when walking your dog this can lead to neck injuries.
Using an anti-pull harness is the best way to train them how to behave properly outside. With patience, proper training, and the right no pull harness, you will be able to walk your dog without the need to play tug of war.
We all want to look cool and trendy, don’t we? Fashion is embedded deep within our DNA. Some even say that’s what makes us human!
But as much as we want to make fashion exclusively for us, bipedal creatures, we aren’t the only ones who can deal with fashion.
Who says dogs can’t go fashionista as well? Singapore Dog Groomers are always finding new ways to enhance that new look of your furry friend.
Dogs, just like us humans, can also look fashionable. Dress them up with a belly-button shirt, or perhaps give them a pair of teeny-weeny socks. Not only will this make them look cuter, but they’ll also feel good about it especially if it’s cold outside!
The way the dog looks will also depict what the owner is like. You might be a gym-head and you want your dog looking all-macho with a sleeveless tee. Or perhaps you’re a bit of the girly-type and you want to splice in some pink madness to your pooch.
Well, that’s what this article is all about. So read on if you’re in for some stylish treat for your pet dog!
Here are some of the hottest dog fashion trends in 2019:
Gingham prints are one of the hottest trends last year, but it shows no sign of fading a year after. In fact, most dog owners still incorporate this fashion to their pooch. What’s great about ginhgams is that they’re simple but at the same time, sophisticated. It gives a level of depth to your dog’s looks that make them more interesting to look at.
The famous black and white combo make it a quick head-turner especially if you’re regularly walking your dog in the park. Small dog breeds such as corgis, chihuahuas, pugs, and French bulldogs are the ones best suited for this trend.
This is perfect if you’re living in a cold place, preferably if you’re up north and it always rains or snow. These are also ideal for winter. You surely don’t want to bring your dog outside and wear some plain shirt, or worse, none!
Sweater vests feature a thick knit cloth that’ll keep your pooch cozy and warm. They won’t feel anxious and you don’t have to worry about pulling them! They’ll be more than happy walking beside you, especially that they feel and look good.
Shirts might be the most common fashion statement you can have on your dog. But these aren’t any more your normal tees as most now have graphic prints on them.
It can be an image of a skull, sun, some flowers, or perhaps the nationalistic stars-and-stripes that we’re all familiar of. Put a statement on your dog’s looks and make them stand out. You want your dog to stand out from the crowd. Well, you can do that by letting them wear these.
If you’re planning for a vacation holiday on a beach, enjoying cocktails and feeling the fresh breeze of air, then it’s best that you dress accordingly. Your dog isn’t exempted from that, either! Give your doggo a fresh and cool look by putting on a hippie floral shirt on their cutie patootie body.
Its cloth is thin and has a cool feel to it, making this ideal for a warm day under the sun. We recommend floral shirts with a shade of blue or a bit of turquoise to make your dog look even funkier.
A new trend that recently popped up are the metallic-styled shirts that bring your doggo’s looks to a whole new level. Not only does this make them more badass, but it also gives them a bit of elegance and class. Gold metallic tops work best, especially that it’ll make your dog sparkle while walking them down your local park.
However, these aren’t limited to shirts, as there are also metallic raincoats, vests, pants, and even collars sold in the market. But don’t overdo it. You don’t want to hurt your dog’s feelings by making them a laughing stock by passersby!
Rain coats are your best bet if it’s raining outside, and for some reason, you want to bring your dog with you for a walk. It makes most sense to have these if your dog isn’t that fond of rain or if they easily get cold! Most raincoats are transparent. But there are also those that have different kinds of prints. Who says rain coats ruin your fashion trend?
We all know how this will turn out — your dog walking in hilariously weird and awkward ways. But kidding aside, footwear do have a practical function for your dog. Though dogs might be naturally adapted to walking barefoot, there are also times when it’ll help if they wear a pair of shoes.
This is especially true if you’re out walking them on a hot and sunny day. Or if the paved roads are too cold because it’s winter. A pair of summer boots will also do if you think the hot summer sand will be too much for them to handle if you’re on the beach. Giving them an extra layer of protection isn’t bad, right? And don’t worry if they’ll walk like a funny clown, because they’ll get used to it later on!
Collars are our best friend when it comes to walking our doggos outside. It’s where we tie up our leash, right? But they don’t have to be ordinary. Collars come in different shapes and sizes. Pour in some style to it to make your dog look more interesting. Perhaps a black leather collar with shiny silver spikes is enough to make your pooch look intimidating and enough to drive thieves away.
Dogs are man’s best friend. So, why not make them look like one? Dress them up the way you like and be on-trend with the latest fashion looks of this year. Match that with a regular dose of pet grooming and you’ve got an even more adorable doggo.
Grooming isn’t a luxury for your pets, but a necessity. It also doesn’t have to be expensive. Not only does pet grooming make them look and smell good, but this also makes them healthier.
And if you’re considering grooming your pet, you probably have two options in mind. Either you’re going to bring it to a pet salon, or you’ll hire a dog grooming service. Both options are good.
But how do you know which one’s right for you? Well, that’s what we’re going to talk about here as we’ll weigh their pros and cons mobile pet grooming vs salon grooming.
The first thing that comes to mind when grooming your dog is a pet salon. They’re specifically designed to cater to your pet’s grooming needs. This is also the most popular option because this has been the norm since the industry’s early days. But what are its pros and cons?
Pet salons are more affordable than home service pet grooming because they can take in more pets daily, compared to a mobile groomer. They can bring their prices lower because they can take in more customers. Salons also usually offer discounts, coupons, and promotions.
Salons have more than one person to handle your pet. This is important if you have a large pet, especially if you want your dog to have their nails trimmed. Cats also need an extra pair of hands, knowing that they can easily slip out of your grasp.
Salon grooming is for you if you’re on a hectic schedule. You don’t have to conform to your groomer’s time because salons are open eight hours a day, and usually from Mondays to Saturdays.
Pet salons take in multiple customers simultaneously, making it hard for them to keep an eye on your pet especially if they’re still on queue. This is a big turn-down especially if you’ve got a pet who always seeks attention and close supervision.
This is one of the most popular reasons why most prefer mobile pet grooming. Bringing your pet with you all the way to the salon can eat up a lot of your time especially if you’re stuck in traffic. You also have to deal with all the fur that’ll stick on your car seat. Not to mention the chances of your dog vomiting and messing up your squeaky-clean interiors!
Most pet grooming salons don’t offer kennel-free grooming. This means that your pet is most likely to stay locked up on a kennel for an extended amount of time before and after their grooming turn, thus making them anxious.
Grooming salons have noisy environments because of the number of pets inside. Barking dogs, clients coming in and out, and ringing phones can stress up your dog and make them anxious.
Home service pet grooming, which also comes by the name mobile pet grooming service, is one of the fastest-growing trends in the pet industry. It’s all about getting a personal grooming experience instead of going to a brick-and-mortar shop and dealing with all the other pets waiting in line to get groomed. Here are its pros and cons to give you an in-depth idea of what it is.
This is the biggest advantage of mobile dog groomers. You don’t have to bring them all the way to the salon, or spend money on gas and deal with a likely traffic jam in downtown. Just wait for the mobile groomer to come, let them do their thing, and you’re done!
Your pet is less likely to be stressed because they don’t have to leave your house. They’re inside their safe haven — a place where they are familiar and comfortable to stay.
You don’t have to worry about your pet getting anxious because there are fewer distractions when you hire a mobile groomer. First off, your pet gets to stay in your house. Second, is that there are no other pets around that they aren’t familiar with. This is important especially if you’ve got an aggressive dog.
Your pet doesn’t have to be placed in a kennel because they don’t have to wait in line to get groomed. They’re also set free as soon as they’re done grooming.
One of the best things about home dog grooming services is that you get to choose who handles your pet. This is necessary especially if you’ve got a dog who isn’t comfortable with new people. You also get to know the person who handles your pet and what process they do. It’s always better to have a familiar face groom your pooch, instead of someone you’ve just known.
Another huge benefit of home service grooming is the faster grooming time. You don’t have to wait for hours for your pet to be finished grooming because there are less distractions and the groomer is focused only on your pet. No more answering of phones and attending on other client’s queries. It’s all about grooming your pet, and that’s all. Mobile dog groomers speak of efficiency and quality performance.
Hiring mobile groomers are a bit more expensive than going to a pet salon. It’s because they have to travel all the way to your house and bring along all their equipment. Consider the gas expenses, travel time, and other costs that come with it. Nonetheless, that’s not much of a problem if you think about the convenience and other factors that benefit you.
Knowing that mobile pet groomers have to travel usually long-distances to travel to your house and bring with them much equipment, it cannot be denied that there’s a chance of them having mechanical breakdowns. It can be a broken car engine, flat tire, or a malfunctioning blow dryer.
So, which is better, pet home service or salon grooming? Obviously, the two have their own advantages and disadvantages. But it isn’t hard to see that mobile dog groomers are the better choice, knowing that they’re more convenient.
You can also expect your pet to receive the best care possible because the groomer is only focused on them. Plus, you get to save time and energy as you only stay at home and the grooming process is done faster and more efficiently. It might come at a higher price, but it’s just worth it considering its many benefits.
Taking care of your beloved canine companion means making sure they eat healthily, get the proper amount of exercise per day, and being groomed regularly. Grooming your dog not only ensures they maintain a lush and beautiful fur, but it can also help improve their immunity from diseases as well as prevent parasite infestation.
Dog grooming is also relatively easy and simple to do. I will be giving you some pointers on how to properly groom your pet like a professional dog groomer as well as essential grooming tools and products that will help optimize your dog/s hygiene.
Some dog owners tend to jump directly into bathing their dog without proper prep time. This is quite a common mistake to make as I have also done this before learning the importance of brushing your dog first before bathing them.
Brushing your dog thoroughly will help remove excess loose fur from their body. Too many loose hairs actually dampen the effectiveness of the dog shampoo. By removing as much loose hair as possible, we can greatly improve the benefits of the shampoo.
One key aspect of brushing your dog is knowing what brush to use. Dog breeds will have varying levels of fur with some having longer coat while others have shorter.
Combs – This one is ideal for short-haired dogs as it can help easily remove dead and loose hair. It can also help massage their skin and can untangle matted hair.
Bristle Brush – This type of brush also comes in different types. If your dog has long coats it is best to choose a bristle brush that has wider spaced bristles. If your dog has a coarse or rough fur then you need a brush with stiffer bristles.
Wire-Pin Brush – There are two types of wire-pin brush, you have ones that come with a rubber tip on all of the bristles and ones that don’t. Either will do just fine although you might want to get the rubber tip ones if your dog’s skin is sensitive. This type of brush is best used with gods with medium to long thick and curly fur.
Slick Brush – This type of brush has the finest bristles and is a good choice for removing tangles and mats on your dog’s fur.
Brushing your dog to remove excess loose hair is quite simple. I do recommend you first use a detangling grooming spray to help make this process faster and easier. You will want to start at the head and work your way brushing down to their tails using long strokes. Be gentle as to avoid scratching their skin. If you encounter tangles you should gently try to remove it. Don’t forcibly untangle knots on their coat as this can hurt your pet.
You can bathe your dog anywhere you feel is most convenient as long as you make sure that the water is not too cold. Bathing water should be lukewarm as having it too cold will lower the effectiveness of the shampoo.
You can use an ophthalmic ointment to protect their eyes when washing their face. You can also place a cotton ball on their ears to prevent water from entering into their ear canals. Choosing the correct shampoo will boil down to the type of coat your dog has as well as their skin condition. You can ask your veterinarian for the best specific shampoo for your pet. Just remember never to use human shampoo on your dog as it contains harsher chemicals that might upset or cause skin irritations on your dog.
Soak your dog first and start from the neck to the tail. Be thorough when massaging the shampoo to ensure it manages to reach the skin. As for the face, you can use a wet clean cloth with a tiny amount of shampoo. Again, make sure you don’t allow the shampoo to get into the eyes of your dog.
Make sure you clean the groin, armpits, and in between the toes. Wash thoroughly with plain water or use a conditioner to give them a shinier coat.
You can use either a clipper or a traditional scissor when cutting your dog’s hair. It is important to invest in a high-quality clipper. Don’t always go for the cheapest ones as these are usually less reliable. It is important to know where to start cutting through. You should always go for the hind legs and loin area and then move the rest of the body, preferably in the next, then chest, forepaws, and belly (in that order).
You should take your time when cutting your dog’s hair. Don’t move from one spot to another randomly, that’s a good way to make a mess of things. Once you have shortened the length of your dog’s hair you can use an electric razor to make sure everything is evenly cut. Always move the razor on the direction of the coat.
You don’t always need a razor though. If you are strictly using a scissor then just make sure that you cut the fur evenly. This will take longer though. I also advise that you don’t do anything that will excite your dog. Stay calm so that your dog stays calm during this process as well.
The important aspect of shaving your dog is getting the correct equipment for the job. You can’t just use whatever clipper is lying around your home. It must be designed specifically to be used with your pet. You should go to your local pet store to find clippers designed for dogs. Secondly, choose a clipper designed to handle the type of coat your dog has.
Additional tools you will need in regards to clippers will be lubricants to make sure it runs smoothly. You should also get the right type of brush. The guide a listed above will point you in the right direction when choosing the best brush.
When choosing the right clipper there are several factors you will need to consider before making a purchase. For example, is the clipper too loud? Loud clippers might make your dog anxious making it difficult for them to stay put.
You should also think about getting an E comb. This is a clipper accessory that is attached to the head of the clipper and ensures you get an even 1-inch length of hair.
Bathe your dog first before going through with shaving. This ensures that there will be minimal to no tangles on their fur. Follow the brushing and bathing guideline above and dry their coat thoroughly. This will pretty much ensure you won’t come across any problems in regards to unruly fur during the shave. If you find a tangle or mat even after bathing then you can try and use baby oil to gently untangle and remove these pesky mats.
Unless your dog gets easily restless, you can shave them on your own. On the other hand, dogs that do get restless easily will require two persons to conduct the shaving. One to hold and keep them relaxed and the other to perform the shaving.
Sometimes putting a leash on them is enough to keep them still. Just make sure they don’t feel suffocated when using a restraint.
You should always start shaving those hard to reach areas. Most dog breeds are impatient and will be constantly shuffling around. Getting through the difficult to reach areas first when they are still well-behaved will make things a lot easier during the course of the shaving process.
Trimming your dog’s toenails is another important part of dog grooming. Letting your dog’s nails grow too long might affect their posture and put pressure on their toes. If your dog is quite active then their nails will most likely be naturally filed down.
Trimming your dog’s nails can be quite an ordeal, especially if you introduce it late in their lives. In order to help make this process run smoothly, here are a couple of tips I can give you that should help make trimming your dog’s nails easier and quicker.
To answer this question, you will need to consider the type of coat your dog has.
In order to determine how often your dog needs to bathe you will need to ask the following questions:
If you have an indoor dog then you might want to bathe them once a week or twice a month. This should prevent them spreading dirt and grime around the house, on your sofa, and in the bed. The downside here is that this will usually leave your dog with a dry looking coat.
If your dog breed has a coarse coat then they are known to stay cleaner longer compared to dogs with long and soft coats. If your dog has short coarse coat then you can bathe them once or twice a month. Long and soft coated dogs will require a weekly bathe.
If you live with someone who is allergic to dogs then I suggest you bathe and groom your dog as often as possible. This should help lower the amount of dander that builds up in their fur. Bathing your dog once or twice a week should be enough to stop someone’s dog allergies from acting up.
You can buy specially formulated eye droppers and ear canal rinse products. Ask your vet what to use when it comes to choosing the right product for cleaning your dog’s eyes and ears. Your dog will also need a hair trim on their ears, you should only let a professional do this.
You will need to buy a specially designed toothbrush for dogs as well as pet toothpaste. I recommend you assist your dog to get used to the sensation of brushing their teeth first. Start by using a clean cloth dabbed in pet toothpaste. Gently rub it on the outside of your dog’s teeth to avoid getting accidentally bitten.
Once your dog is comfortable enough, you can switch to a dog toothbrush. Just remember to be extremely gentle when brushing their teeth. Some dog breeds have sensitive gums that bleed easily.
Dog grooming is an essential part of being a dog owner. While they can groom themselves to some extent, it never hurts to give your canine companion a helping hand. Hopefully, this article has helped you in learning the proper way to groom your dog on your own. Certain cases, as pointed throughout this article, will require a skilled professional help. If you are not that confident in certain aspects of dog grooming don’t shy away from asking for professional help. Remember, a clean dog is a happy dog.
The skin and coat/hair of your pet cat offers a highly accurate indication of their health. A cat that has a fine sheen of coat usually means good health. On the flipside, if your cat exhibits a flaxy and unkempt coat this might mean that there is an underlying health problem to be concerned with. Veterinarians will actually use your cat’s current skin and coat appearance as the initial factor to consider when determining your pet’s health.
You should also consider some key benefits your pet will gain from having a healthy-looking fur and skin. Some benefits of keeping your cat’s skin and coat healthy are listed below:
One of the key factors that affect your pet’s skin and the coat is their diet. You should always opt for foods that offer high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and an assortment of vitamins and minerals. If your pet appears to have excessively dry skin then you should increase their linoleic acid intake.
Linoleic acid can be found in corn, flaxseed, soy, and nuts. Zinc is important for maintaining your cat’s lush coat and it also helps maintain moisture in the body. To help ensure your cat’s metabolism is optimized, you might want to include a healthy dose of B vitamins and biotin.
You can find these in food but also in several pet care products such as cat shampoo. However, as you would expect, cats do not require to be bathed as much as dogs. Now then, let us head into further detail about bathing your pet cat, shall we?
While popular belief dictates otherwise, cats will greatly benefit from bathing every once in a while. However, determining how often you need to bathe your cat will require you to consider several factors first. Before you decide how frequent you need to bathe your cat, you must first ask the following questions:
If you have a cat that tends to wander about outdoors a lot then they will need to bathe more often compared to a strictly indoor cat. For obvious reasons, these cats are more susceptible to the dirt and grime outside. Outdoor cats also tend to ‘relieve’ themselves more often than indoor cats. If you have noticed your cat starting to have an unpleasant smell or is starting to look dirty, you can bathe them then.
Similar to us humans, cats who are more physically active will need to bathe more often than cats who tend to lounge around most of the time. Physical activity will increase the total accumulated dirt and grease found in your cats’ skin and fur. Hence, the need for bathing more often.
A cat’s coat length will also factor in when it comes to the frequency of bathe they need. Cats who have longer coats will need more maintenance than felines with shorter coats. Cats with long coats are more susceptible to tangles and getting matted. However, before you decide on bathing your cat you should first try to see if you can fix these tangles and matting by brushing.
Not all cats groom themselves the same way or as effective as others. For example, cats who are on the heavyset side are more likely to find it difficult to reach specific parts of their bod. The rear end also tends to be often overlooked by your cat during cleaning.
If your cat has fleas or has a skin irritation then you might be required to bathe them often during a set period of time. Of course, this will be with the recommendation of a veterinarian. Don’t decide to bathe your cat daily if it is not specifically instructed by an expert as you might exacerbate or cause a different health issue for your cat in the future.
Of course, bathing your cat a couple of times a week is not recommended. If your cat tends to be a bit messy, you can use dry cat shampoo and wipes as alternatives to clean their skin and coat.
Veterinarians agree that it is actually unnecessary to bathe your cat as regular as you would a dog. While bathing them occasionally will help keep them healthy, unless instructed by your vet you should never bathe your cat weekly or a couple of times per week. You might do more harm than good with this mindset.
Basically, cats are naturally good groomers and will rarely require any outside help to keep themselves clean. Bathing your cat too often might cause important minerals to deteriorate from their fur. Cats are also known to be not big fans of water.
While some cats do enjoy splashing around in the water, like the Bengal cat, most will try to avoid getting wet as their life depended on it. Bathing cats who are stressed out by water might cause them to accidentally lash out with their claws which can cause injuries to their owners. They might also panic and injure themselves in the process.
If you plan on bathing your cat for the first time, I highly suggest you take it as slow as possible and let them settle into the sensation of getting wet at their own pace. The best age to introduce your cat to bathing will be when they are about 3 months old as this is the time they would have gotten all the necessary vaccinations already.
Cat breeds with shorter hair are also unlikely to suffer from excessive loose hair problems. These types of cat breeds will usually do fine with the occasional brushing from their owner. They will also require bathing only if they are showing visible signs of dirt on their coat.
This is actually a big no-no for any cat owner. While you might think this will lead to a cleaner and healthier cat, bathing them every day can lead to some serious health concerns down the line. For one, bathing your cat will essentially cause the nutrients in their fur to decrease. By the time you notice it, your cat’s coat will look dry and flaky.
Some cats are also highly stressed out around water. Stress can be a silent killer for pets which is why it is important not to put them in a highly stressful environment. If your cat is not used to bathing then expect them to become quite hostile during the process.
Unlike their canine counterparts, cats are extremely good at grooming themselves. They normally won’t need any help in this aspect, unlike dogs who tend to enjoy playing around in the dirt. Basically, cats are like those finicky individuals who are often described as clean freaks.
While dogs might require bathing twice a week, cats should only be considered for a trip to the bathroom once every 2 months. Especially, if they are indoor cats. The only time your cat will require an increase in frequency when it comes to bathing is when they are nursing an injury, old, or obese.
Cats will get, without a doubt, some benefits from bathing, especially outdoors and long coat breeds. However, don’t expect them to behave as much as dogs during these occasions. The decision about deciding how often you will need to bathe your cat will boil down to the specifics we discussed earlier. You should also keep in mind the recommended frequency of cat bathing is once every month and a half. At the end of the day, it is best to follow the instructions of your vet regarding this process.
If you notice flakes of dead and dry skin on your cat’s fur it is important to take necessary precautions. Dry skin in cats can be caused by a variety of reason; from over-bathing, malnutrition, to diseases. If your cat does have a dry skin problem then you can use the following products designed to treat this health issue.
Of course, I still highly suggest you consult with your vet first to make sure this isn’t caused by a disease. Now then, let us go and take a look at the highest rated and most recommended treatment for cat dry skin. We will also discuss causes and other preventive measures you can take to ensure that your cat won’t be experiencing dry skin problems again in the future.
Burt’s Bee Cat Dander Reducing Spray is a mild yet highly effective dry skin treatment for cats. The product consists of about 99.7% all-natural ingredients that include Aloe Vera (a great skin care nutrient) as well as oatmeal.
Burt’s Bees is designed specifically for use with our feline friends so you can sleep easy knowing that it does not contain anything that can cause skin irritations. The product is completely free of any artificial ingredients with no color dyes. It is also pH balanced for cats to help give your cat a healthier skin and a lusher coat.
DEchra Miconhex is a shampoo that is formulated to fight off bacterial skin and fungal infections. This is a highly recommended medical shampoo by veterinarians. It can be used not only on your pet cat but also dogs and even horses.
This shampoo also moisturizes your pet’s skin which helps prevent future cases of dander problems. This shampoo also contains ceramides which act as a moisturizer and helps speed up skin regeneration. The ingredients on the shampoo also remain active even after bathing to ensure your pet will get a quick and full recovery from their dry skin problems.
Oster All-Natural Oatmeal shampoo is formulated to help keep your cat’s coat and skin in tip-top shape. It consists of 100% oatmeal extract to help soothe any skin irritation while also acting as a conditioner and detangles the fur of long-haired cat breeds.
The shampoo also utilizes surfactants and a refreshing Vanilla scent that can last for quite a long time. The shampoo is also pH balanced for cats. It uses biodegradable all-natural ingredients with no colorants and alcohol. You are pretty much guaranteed that it won’t be causing any allergic reactions to your cat while solving their dander problems.
Another entry that utilizes natural ingredients, Honey Dew Natural Pet Spray is designed to work on both dogs and cats. It not only helps maintain moisture on your pet’s skin, but it also acts as a conditioner on their fur and eliminates odors at the same time.
It uses a refreshing lavender scent that removes pet odor while also soothing skin irritations. It uses all-natural formula so you don’t need to worry about it causing any skin irritations. Honey Dew also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee which is a good safety net for first-time buyers.
For those whose cats are extremely difficult or not used to taking a bath, using waterless shampoos are your next best bet. Vet’s Best No-Rinse Shampoo does not require you to soak your cat in water to work its magic. Just apply the solution to your cat’s coat and dry affected areas.
The formula helps offer relief from itchiness and moisturizes the dried skin. No-Rinse Cat Shampoo also utilizes natural ingredients such as Aloe Vera, Oatmeal extract, neem oil, and Vitamin E. These ingredients not only solve dry skin problems, it also acts as a coat maintenance. This waterless cat shampoo is safe to use for kittens 12 weeks and older and can be used with tick and flea repellants.
Another great alternative for cats who are simply not a big fan of bathing. The Vet Recommended Waterless Cat Shampoo does not, you guessed it, require any water. You just spray it a bit on dry skin areas on your cat and massage thoroughly.
This uses natural ingredients to help moisturize skin while also keeping the coat soft and lush. This dry shampoo also contains no alcohol ingredients to ensure it won’t cause any skin irritations on your pet cat. It features a mild surfactant solution that will greatly help in removing cat dander. It also has a sweet strawberry scent for those who enjoy snuggling with their cat.
Pet MD Oatmeal Cat Shampoo is a good choice for cats who do not only have dander problems but also suffer from excessive itchiness daily. The oatmeal extract helps soothe the skin irritation while moisturizing and speeding up the healing process of the skin.
This cat shampoo does not contain any alcohol and uses a special blend of essential skin care ingredients such as Aloe Vera, oatmeal extract, wheat germ oil, and several vitamins. Pet MD Oatmeal Cat Shampoo might be a good choice if your cat is suffering from skin irritations as well as dandruff.
An alternative to waterless shampoos would be wet wipes. Earthbath All-natural cat Wipes is one such example of an easier way to clean and groom your cat without the need of using water. Each ply of wet wipes is extra thick and is infused with all-natural ingredients that should help treat the dry skin while acting as a conditioner for their coat.
This cat wipe is lanolin-free and is hypoallergenic to ensure your cat won’t experience any side effects. All in all, Earthbath is one of the easiest ways to help clean and treat dry skin on your cat.
This is a fast-acting skin treatment solution designed for cats, dogs, and horses. If you want to cover all possible bases when it comes to skin care treatment for your feline friend then Dermagic just might be the thing you were looking for.
It is formulated to treat skin conditions such as yeast infections, scaly skin, allergies, dermatitis, black skin disease, hot spots, and dandruff. It uses Aloe Vera and vitamin E which helps speed up recovery. It also contains sulfur which targets dandruff causing bacteria and also acts to offer relief from severe itchiness.
As you would expect, cats who usually stay outdoors a lot will be more susceptible to dry skin/dandruff problems. This is because bacteria, fungi, and parasites are the topmost reasons that cause this skin problem in cats.
Other possible causes of dry skin in cats include injuries (getting into a fight with another cat, for example), getting exposed to harsh chemicals, overexposure to sunlight, eating dead rats or prey. Because of this, I would highly recommend you keep your pet cat indoors and only let them go outside under your supervision.
Of course, the most obvious symptom here would be dander and a dull coat. But sometimes it can be rather difficult to spot these two major symptoms of dry skin in cats at first glance. There are other dry skin symptoms that can help you determine whether your cat is going through this skin problem. Below are other symptoms you need to be wary of if you have a pet cat:
Besides the treatment products I listed above, there are other simpler home remedies that you can include to help speed up the recovery process. Below are dry skin treatments that you can apply with simple items you can find at home or at your local grocery.
If the main cause of dry skin on your cats is fleas then using a combination of 50% apple cider vinegar and 50% warm water can help remove these pesky parasites. You can either bathe your cat on this mixture or use a spray and apply the apple cider with water directly to the affected areas. Just make sure to rinse it thoroughly after a couple of minutes.
Another effective way to treat dry skin is with coconut oil. Massage a healthy dose of coconut oil to the patches of dry or scaly skin daily. You can also mix in a spoonful of coconut oil into their daily food but unless your cat does not get the proper daily nutrients, I suggest you stick to using coconut as a topical treatment as it is packed with calories.
Having a DHA and EPA deficiency can lead to several skin problems which is why adding omega-3 fatty acid rich foods in your cat’s diet might help improve their skin health. You can get omega-3 fatty acid from a fish oil. Just remember that cats cannot properly process ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) into DHA and EPA that came from plants like flaxseed oil. I suggest you go with actual fish oil and meat for their primary source of omega-3.
Cat dry skin is more prevalent with cats who stay outdoors. While there are times wherein you just can’t stop them from venturing outside, taking precautionary steps such as proper grooming and a healthy diet can help lower the risk of this skin problem. Take everything you have learned in this article and apply it to your cuddly feline to make sure they won’t have to suffer through this skin health issue.
Ticks on your dog can become more than a nuisance if left unchecked. In fact, it can lead to some serious health risks. It can also be infuriating to completely remove once it has found its way on your dog’s skin.
One of the best ways to combat this annoying parasite is by making all the necessary steps to ensure it won’t even have the chance to settle in on your beloved canine companion.
One of the professional dog groomer’s best ways to prevent ticks from getting all cozy on your dog’s body is by using the best tick repellent for dogs.
To help guide you in this dog care category, I’ll be first giving you a list of the top products around in regards to tick repellents. Afterward, we will be discussing some key factors to further help you make sure that ticks, as well as their eggs, won’t be overstaying their welcome. Actually, they weren’t even welcome in the first place.
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First up, we have Nature Chemistry’s De Flea Pet and Bedding Spray. This tick repellent is designed to kill ticks on contact. It is also designed to be used on dogs of all ages meaning you can also use it on puppies without worrying about side effects.
You can also spray this directly on your dog’s bedding or carpets where they tend to lounge around. You can also spray this around your home where insects like ticks and fleas are most likely to hang around.
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HARTZ Ultraguard is formulated to eliminate not only adult ticks and fleas but also the eggs and larvae. This helps increase the chances that you will be able to completely rid your dog of these parasites in a short amount of time.
HARTZ Ultraguard also has odor eliminating properties which are a nice inclusion to help keep your dog’s bedding smelling fresh. However, you should note that this spray is not for use directly on your pet’s skin. You should only apply the spray around your home where ticks and fleas have nested. The powerful pesticide formula should also prevent any chance of re-infestation in the future if used properly.
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Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Spray repellent take a different approach when it comes to solving tick and flea pet infestation. This repellent uses all-natural ingredients to formulate a pesticide that is safe to use around pets and humans. Vets Best can be sprayed on furniture and pet beddings as it does not leave any stains on fabrics.
This is an affordable tick and flea repellent spray that also contains no toxic or harmful ingredients. Well, it is only harmful to those pesky fleas and ticks anyway. If you are looking for a tick and flea repellent that can be used daily then you might want to check Vet’s Best.
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Another all-natural tick and flea repellent spray entry, the Tropiclean Natural Flea and Tick Home Spray use a mixture of various essential oils known for killing fleas and ticks. The formula is also designed to target eggs and larvae to ensure that re-infestation is prevented.
Tropiclean Natural Flea and Tick Home Spray are also safe to use around your pets as it does not contain any pyrethrin. The spray can also be used around your home where your pet tends to stay like carpets and their beddings.
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Sentry Home is a powerful flea and tick repellent designed to eliminate these pesky parasites in all their life stages. This is also an ideal long-term tick and flea deterrent as it is designed to prevent re-infestation in an area for up to 210 days.
Sentry Home is also formulated to eliminate pet odors which should help keep your pet beddings smelling fresh. However, it is recommended to keep pets and children away from areas that you have sprayed for up to an hour.
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Bug Protector offers pet owners another safe and natural tick repellent spray that should solve tick and flea infestations quickly. It uses natural ingredients which, in theory, should make it safe to use around humans and pets. It also does not contain any petroleum-based ingredients so you needn’t worry about it leaving stains on certain fabrics.
The Bug Protector All-Natural Tick Repellent Spray is also designed to keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay. I also like the fresh and mild scent that it uses. Not too overpowering for your pet’s sensitive nose.
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The Ben’s Deet Tick and Insect Repellent Spray offer protection not just from ticks and fleas but also a wide variety of nippy little critters. The formula used can offer up to 10 hours of protection on a single spray. If your dog enjoys frolicking outdoors then a quick little spray on their coat should prevent fleas and ticks from hitching a ride.
The good news is that this uses an odorless mixture which will not cause any discomfort with your pet’s sensitive sense of smell. It can also be used by humans so if you plan on going up a trail with your furry friend then you can use this bug repellent as well.
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Natural Care Flea and Tick Spray for Dogs uses natural herbal ingredients to keep ticks and fleas away from your furry canine friend. It uses herbal ingredients like peppermint oil and clove extracts which are known to deter fleas and ticks as well as mosquitoes.
The formula is also designed to kill ticks, fleas, eggs, and larvae upon contact making this a fast-acting natural tick and flea repellent. The ingredients also do not leave any stains on fabrics such as blankets, beddings, and even upholstery. The natural ingredients make this safe to use around pets (12 weeks and older) and children.
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As we have already stated earlier, ticks can become quite a nuisance for both you and your dog. Fortunately, the list of the best tick repellent products above will significantly help in ridding your pet of these pesky parasites.
Of course, we all know that it is better to prevent this infestation in the first place rather than treating it. With that in mind, here are some important guidelines on how to prevent tick infestation on your dogs and other pets.
Ticks and fleas thrive in heavily wooded or vegetative areas. Shrubs, meadows, and grass are just some of the places you will most likely encounter ticks. If you and your dog enjoy a good hike, I suggest you stick to the trail and avoid going through wooded areas.
If you have a garden in your yard or if you are near wooded areas, I advise you check the spots that have a lot of plants and shade. Ticks also tend to go for habitats like this. Make sure you remove decaying leaves from your yard. You should also make sure that you keep your trash bag perfectly sealed. Pests like rats and raccoons can bring ticks into your own backyard as well.
It is important to check your dog’s coat after taking him out for a walk. It only takes one tick to create a problem so make sure they won’t even have a chance to settle down on your dog’s skin. Using a tick repellent before taking your dog for a walk is a great way to reduce this risk. Check between your dog’s toes and armpits as well. You can also take them to a grooming service every once in a while, for a thorough cleaning.
Tick infestation is one of the most common problems that can affect our pets, dogs especially. But that does not mean that we can’t do anything to prevent it. By using the best tick and flea repellents in the market, as well as applying some preventive measures, we can help make sure that our furry best friend will maintain a comfortable and happy everyday life.
Having a pet can really pep up your home and your day. Our furry friends can be extremely loyal and fun to have by your side. Not many downsides, really. However, there is one thing that can temporarily stop the fun you have together by a tiny bit. This is, of course, stains and odors left behind by your beloved furry companion.
While grooming and bathing can effectively prevent pet odors from lingering within your home, sometimes you just can’t avoid this little nuisance. Fortunately, there are several solutions you can take to fix this issue. Pet odor and stain removers can be bought at your local pet shop and can help prevent pet stains and odors from making their presence known.
The difference between the two is quite distinct. Anyone who owns a cat knows just how overpowering the smell of cat pee is. This is because cat urine contains significantly higher levels of ammonia than dog urine. However, this strong ammonia smell can also indicate that your cat is not drinking enough water.
On the canine’s side, their urine consists mostly of water; 95%, in fact. The remaining 5% usually contains various water-soluble materials. Dog urine and human urine are quite similar, not surprising considering human and dog urinary system features comparable characteristics.
As you can see, the smell is how you can differentiate between cat urine and dog urine. That being said, both smells can be quite difficult to eliminate from your home without the proper tools.
Choosing the best pet stain remover for carpets will require you to look at specific factors. As long as you consider the following when choosing a carpet stain remover then you are golden:
Cleaning Strength – Obviously, this is the most important factor you would need to look for. How reliable is it when cleaning different types of stains? It must be able to handle and remove grime, urine, feces, and even blood stains from the carpet.
Odor Elimination – Dog and, especially, cat urine can linger for days if you don’t apply the correct cleaning chemical on your carpet. Look for a carpet cleaning solution that can effectively neutralize any odor quickly and efficiently.
Fast Acting Cleaning Solution – Do you prefer a carpet cleaning solution that can act in less than a minute? There are cleaning solutions available that can help eliminate and remove stains in a matter of seconds while there are others that take a couple of minutes. As you might have guessed, the fast-acting ones contain powerful detergents that may cause damage on certain fabrics over time.
Contains Enzymatic Ingredients – If you want the most reliable carpet cleaning solution then choosing one that utilizes enzymatic ingredients is a safe bet. These are quite popular among pet owners as it can pretty much eliminate lingering odors on carpets completely and quickly.
Go for Mild and Unscented – If you find that the cleaning solution has a considerably powerful smell then chances are it is just masking the pet odor and not eliminating it. Personally, I always go for ones that have a mild scent as I am confident that it actually eliminates the odor and not just overpowering it.
Carpet/Fabric Safe – Of course, you must make sure that the cleaning solution will not cause any damage or deterioration on your carpet. It should also be safe to use around pets and children.
It is always best if you apply the cleaning solution as soon as possible. Basically, the quicker you apply it the easier you will get the stain out. For those who have pet stains on their carpets for years, removing it will need a few extra steps.
Personally, I prefer using the vinegar, baking soda, and peroxide mixture when removing old stains on carpets.:
Step 1: Mix in equal parts of vinegar and water and use a soft cloth to apply the mixture to the stain. Press it hard against the carpet to ensure that the solution is absorbed as much as possible.
Step 2: Carefully pour the remaining mixture over the stain while avoiding the unaffected areas of the carpet.
Step 3: Use a brush and scrub the area thoroughly.
Step 4: Use a paper towel to dry the area.
Step 5: Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the stain.
Step 6: Mix ½ cup of peroxide with 1 tsp. of dishwasher soap. Mix the two thoroughly.
Step 7: Pour the solution carefully over the stain and use your brush to scrub it diligently.
Step 8: Dry the area using a paper towel once again. You can also run a vacuum cleaner on it afterward to ensure that the solution is completely removed from the fabric.
Step 9: There you go. The stain should be removed by now, it if isn’t just repeated the process again.
Old pet urine can be a headache to remove. This is because bacteria have most likely developed over that spot and a simple cleaning solution simply won’t be enough to do the job. To help you with this problem, I will be listing 5 of the best carpet cleaning products designed to eliminate old pet stains.
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Easy to use and affordable. The Bissel Stomp Carpet Cleaning solution only needs to be dabbed over the stain. Leave it there for about half an hour to let it work its magic. This is a powerful oxy stain removal solution designed to also remove old stains from carpets. You don’t need to scrub or use your hands when using this solution. Just lay it down the affected area and press on it with your foot.
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This is a pro-enzymatic cleaning solution that continues to work on the carpet for up to 24 hours after application. This is specifically designed for use with carpets and rugs and eliminates pet stains and odors quite well. While the solution appears to be more concentrated, it is non-toxic which makes it safe to use around kids and pets. If you have pet stains on carpets and upholstery then you might want to check this product out.
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If you prefer a cleaning solution designed not only for carpet but also floors and other surfaces then the Genesis 950 is the first choice to try. This all-purpose cleaning solution is also quite safe and non-toxic. You can use around children and other pets as well as appliances, surfaces, and floors without worrying about leaving harmful chemicals.
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Skout’s Honor is one of the more popular cleaning solutions specifically designed for eliminating pet odors. It is also powerful enough to eliminate cat urine and is non-toxic making it an environmentally friendly option for cleaning pet odor and stains. This product also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee when purchased directly from the manufacturer.
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Nature’s Miracle is another bio-enzymatic formula based cleaner. This means it will continue to be active even after you are done cleaning the affected area. It is also designed to eliminate even the most overpowering pet odors and can remove old stains as well. The formula is designed to be used in cleaning not only carpets but also floors, clothing, upholstery, etc.
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Enzymatic solutions are fast acting cleaning products that are ideal in eliminating odors and stains and making sure it won’t return afterward. This type of cleaning solutions is highly recommended if you have indoor pets. Here are the best pro enzymatic cleaning solutions that you can buy today:
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If you are worried that the cleaning solution might be too harsh on your carpet then you should check out this product. It is effective in eliminating stains and odors but at the same time is surprisingly gentle. It is perfectly safe around pets and children and is also quite gentle on the carpet itself. The cleaning solution is also applicable to tiles, upholstery, pet crates, and household furniture.
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Bubba’s Super Strength Commercial Enzyme Cleaner is not only used for eliminating stains and odors on carpets, but it also acts as a good carpet shampoo. While a little pricier than most products in this list, it earns its keep by being a reliable carpet maintenance shampoo as well. It can also be used on upholstery and can deliver a clean and fresh smell in your home.
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I personally enjoy this pet odor cleaning product due to its environment-friendly formula and its refreshing spring mint scent. It is mild enough so that it won’t damage the carpet while also being strong enough to completely eliminate all traces of pet stain and odor. It is also formulated to work nicely on tiles and other fabrics.
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Nature Miracle Advanced Formula is designed for taking care pesky stains that normal cleaning solutions just can handle. It has a deep cleaning formula that targets the cause of the stain and odor. It is also fast drying which means you won’t need to wait for a couple of minutes to let children or pets enter the room. It can also eliminate the pheromones left by the dog or cat to dissuade them from urinating on the spot again.
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Looking for a cleaning solution that does not contain a trace of artificial chemicals? You might want to check what TriNova has to offer. This pet odor eliminator uses 100% natural ingredient. This completely eliminates any worries you might have of using a cleaning solution that contains chemicals. If you have children at home besides your beloved pets, TriNova might be the best all-natural cleaning solution for pet stains and odors you can get your hands on today.
If you looked closely at the products listed above, you will notice how most of it is specifically designed for either cats or dogs. What about if you have both at home? What pet odor remover would be the smartest choice for you? Don’t fret, we got you covered.
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NonScents Pet Odor Spray utilizes a special enzyme ingredient called zeolite. This enzyme targets the bacteria found in the feces and urine of your pet and eliminates it rather than simply covering its smell. It works at a molecular level to eliminate odors and is biodegradable and safe to use around children and pets.
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This is another all-natural pet odor eliminator that also utilizes enzymes to eliminate odor-causing bacteria left behind by your pet. It can remove odors and stains on both carpets and upholstery. It is also safe to use around children and pets. This odor remover also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the results, you can ask for a refund as long as you bought it from the manufacturer and have the receipt on hand.
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If you love the smell of lavender then Emmy’s Pet Odor Remover will be right up your alley. Not only does it help eliminate odor and stains, but it can also prevent your pet from making a habit of re-soiling the same spot as it also targets the pheromones. This pet odor remover also comes with a money back guarantee which is always a welcome inclusion in any product.
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Simple Solution pet odor remover uses natural enzymes combined with non-pathogenic bacteria that target the cause of odors and erases stains. It comes with a 3-in-1 sprayer which helps you control how much of the cleaning solution is applied to a certain area. The Extreme Pet Stain and Odor Remover are also designed to be used on various surfaces, not just on carpets.
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Angry Orange comes with, you guessed it, a nice citrus scent. The citrus scent actually acts as a deterrent for your pets to re-soil the area. Angry Orange is also designed to be used on both indoors and outdoors. You will need to mix this with water as it is highly concentrated. 8 ounce of this cleaning solution is recommended to be diluted in about a gallon of water. It is also not harmful and is safe to use even with children and pets in the vicinity.
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As you can see, there are dozens of options available to solve any of your pet stain and odor problems. Depending on what you need it to do, you have to pay close attention to each cleaning solution to ensure they will do the job without any hitch. Hopefully, this article has helped you figure out which pet odor cleaning solution will deliver the best results.
One of the most common and, at times, most dangerous health problems that can affect man’s best friend all stems from flea and tick infestation. This pesky parasite can bring with it a smorgasbord of diseases that can range from being a simple nuisance to serious health concerns. Because of this, it is vital for dog owners to ensure that their parasite-free.
Dog Groomers recommend regular baths and maintaining a clean environment are the best way to prevent tick and flea infestation on your furry friend. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to improve on this with the help of the best flea collar for dogs. Flea collars act as a deterrent against fleas and parasites. While it is not a “be all, end all” flea problem solution, including it in your overall prevention plan should help increase the chances of infestation on your mutt.
With that in mind, I will be giving you some of the highest rated and most recommended flea collar for dogs that you can purchase right now. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Plus, your dog will greatly appreciate it as well.
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Bayer Seresto Flea and Tick Collar are one of the most highly recommended brands when it comes to flea prevention for your dog. It comes in a variety of sizes designed for small breeds to larger ones. The Bayer Seresto Flea Collar can kill fleas and ticks on contact and each collar can remain active for quite some time thanks to the slow and steady release of ingredients.
The Bayer Seresto can effectively deter fleas from your dog for up to 8 months which is quite impressive. It is odorless and does not produce any greasy residue that can ruin your dog’s coat. It is also designed to be worn along with a leash collar without giving your dog any discomfort.
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Rolf Club 3D Flea Collar is designed to be a fast-acting flea and tick deterrent from your pet pooch. It uses a brand-new German flea collar technology which lasts up to 6 months but is, as claimed by the manufacturer, fast enough to send ticks and fleas running within 24 hours. This technology is also designed to repel mosquitoes which is good if you live in an area with these pesky pests flying around.
Rolf Club 3D uses non-toxic chemicals which means it should be perfectly safe for your dog and children around the house as well. It is also environment-friendly which is always a nice feature to have in today’s products.
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The Direct Protect Plus Flea Collar has a rather mixed review online but based on my personal experience with this brand it still manages to provide a noteworthy solution for your flea and tick problems. It can repel and kill adult ticks and fleas, prevent eggs from hatching, and repel mosquitoes as well.
The flea collar is designed to be odorless and will not leave any type of residue on your dog’s coat. Each box contains about 2 flea collars for a year’s worth of protection and is rather cheap compared to other brands.
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If you are looking for an all-natural flea collar for your dog then you should check out the Ublerb flea and tick control collar. This might be an ideal alternative for dogs who have exceptionally more sensitive skin.
The flea collar can remain active for up to 8 months. It is fast acting so you should see results of decreased flea and tick infestation in about a day or two. It uses essential oils that have been tested to keep ticks and fleas away. However, since this is not water-resistant you might need to change the collar more often if you bathe your dog regularly.
Since this uses natural ingredients, I would still recommend you consult with your vet before using it on your dog just to be safe.
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Another all-natural flea collar for those who have dogs with extra sensitive skin and coat. The Jmxus New Furry FIDO Flea and Tick Collar is waterproof and designed to repel fleas and ticks for up to 8 months.
It has an environment-friendly formula and is safe for both your pets and children at home. The collar comes in at 25 inches in length making it compatible with pretty much all dog breeds from small to larger ones. The Jmxus FIDO Flea Collar also comes with a money back guarantee that covers the first 90 days after receiving the product.
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Sentas Flea and Tick Prevention Collar are designed to fit all dog breeds. However, you will be required to cut the collar in order to get the best fit. This means you won’t be able to go back once you have adjusted it to a shorter length.
The formula used here is designed to prevent any allergic reaction to dogs. It is also waterproof so you don’t need to worry about reduced effectivity after a couple of baths. The collar is designed to remain active for about 8 months.
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GORAUL Dog Flea Collar also utilizes a formula that consists of all-natural ingredients. This helps reduce the risk of allergic reactions to dogs significantly. The collar measures around 25 inches so you are guaranteed it will fit even the considerably larger dog breeds. You will need to cut it down to its appropriate size for smaller dogs though.
The collar will remain active for about 8 months and is water resistant. It consists of natural essential oils that are known to repel ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes. The collar is also odorless which is a plus for dogs with extra sensitive smell.
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Another all-natural flea collar alternative for owners who have extra sensitive dogs at home. The GetOff Natural Flea Collar utilizes essential oils that have been proven to repel parasites like tick and fleas. It is hypoallergenic which means there is an incredibly low chance of it causing any sort of skin irritation on your dog.
As for its construction, this is a one size fits all collar and can last up to 8 months. It is also water resistant which further solidifies its ‘8 month’ active duration. The essential oils do have a faint smell but nothing overpowering. It also won’t leave any residue even when soaked in water.
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The ONMOG Dog Flea Collar is another affordable yet effective way to reduce the risk of your dog from getting flea and tick infestation. It uses herbal ingredients that not only repels parasites but are also mild enough that it won’t cause your furry friend any discomfort or irritations.
This flea collar is water resistant and is designed to remain active for up to 8 months. It also contains natural essential oils that are non-toxic and does not leave any greasy residue on the dog’s coat. This is a one size fits all collar as it comes with a default measurement of 25 inches.
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Flea collars work using a two-step process. First, it acts as a repellant. It does so by releasing substances that deter or kill fleas and ticks while being perfectly safe for dogs. This substance is released by the collar steadily over the course of a few months. This helps reduce the chances of new ticks and fleas attaching itself to your dog whenever they are outdoors.
The second step is its pesticide properties. Not only can a flea collar repel ticks and fleas, but the substance it releases will also affect parasites that have already latch to your dog. There are 2 types of pesticides used in flea collars. The first one needs to be absorbed by dog’s skin which will then kill off any tick or flea that bites them. Of course, this means you will need the flea or tick to actually bite your dog first.
The second type spreads through the dog’s coat. This type of pesticide kills fleas and ticks on contact. They won’t even need to bite your furry friend making this a better option.
Flea collars are designed specifically to be safe for use with dogs. The ingredients used are tested and proven effective with our canine friend. However, some of the ingredients used can be a cause of concern for humans. For example, organophosphates are a pesticide that is considered to be carcinogenic. It is best to scrutinize the ingredients used to make sure that it is safe for both your dog and other people at home.
I would also refrain the use of flea collars on puppies. Puppies have yet to fully develop their immune system. What is practically safe for an adult dog might cause problems for puppies.
Before you use a flea collar on your pet dog, here are some pointers that you need to consider first:
For puppies – Puppies that are less than 8 weeks old should not use flea collars.
For older dogs – Similar to puppies, older dogs’ immune system will be not as reliable as they used to be. You should consult with a vet first if you plan on using a flea collar on a senior dog.
For pregnant and nursing dogs – Ask any vet and they will all recommend that you don’t use flea collars if your dog is pregnant or nursing puppies.
Before buying a flea collar for your dog, consider the following factors to ensure you will be getting the best possible one:
If your dog loves heading outdoors and frolicking on the ground then I highly suggest you use a flea collar. While not full-proof, it does help reduce the risk of fleas and ticks from attaching themselves on your canine BFF. Of course, you should always consider the safety of your dog when choosing flea collars. Always check to see if the ingredients are all proven safe and effective when it comes to flea and tick prevention for dogs. Also, proper hygiene with your dog will further improve their defense from parasite infestation.
Dogs can acquire allergic reactions from a variety of environmental factors. While most cases are caused by tick and flea bites, other factors include the food they ate to dust and pollen from their surroundings. Allergic reactions due to foodborne allergens are the easiest to prevent and determine.
Some dog breeds are also known to be quite allergic to several ingredients. If your dog is one such case, it would be safest to give them the best dog food for allergies.
To help you figure out what especially made dog food is best for your canine companion, I will be giving you a list of the best dog foods for allergies that you can buy at your local market or pet shop today.
Check out the list below and afterward, we will be discussing food allergens and additional steps you can take to prevent this health concern from developing.
Overview
One effective way to greatly reduce and even eliminate the risk of allergic reactions to dogs is by giving them a controlled or single ingredient diet. Boulder Dog Food Company Chicken Bits uses chicken as its main and only ingredient. This is an all-natural dog food that has been prepared using slow oven roasting to help seal in the nutrients while keeping it as flavorful as possible.
Boulder Dog Good Company prepares and ships their products straight from their bakery. They also use cage-free chickens if you are worried about animal welfare. This has also been one of the select dog foods that I can give my seal of approval to. It is perfectly safe and healthy for dogs which is the most important quality we are looking for in this list.
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For those who prefer to give their pooch a more diverse yet controlled diet, Hill’s Prescription Diet is one of the better options. This dog food features a balanced list of nutrients mixed in with fiber for better digestion. It also utilizes easy to digest fat and protein ingredients which helps improve skin repair.
Another beneficial addition here is the antioxidants which are designed to improve your dog’s cell oxidation control. If your pet dog has undergone a surgery or is currently nursing an injury, this highly nutritious and safe dog food might be a good choice to promote faster and better healing.
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FirstMate delivers a highly controlled ingredient dog food designed to prevent allergic reactions to a wide variety of dog breeds. This dog food is specifically formulated to skirt around any ingredients that can trigger an allergic reaction while offering optimum nutrients to your dog. It is also jam-packed with antioxidants which helps improve overall health and moderate free radicals in their body. FirstMate is also grain-free.
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Another limited ingredient dog food entry comes from the well-known Blue Buffalo brand. This brand is known for catering to dogs with an exceptionally sensitive digestive system. The Basic Limited Ingredients Dog Food Diet consists of specially chosen ingredients that are known to be allergen-free while packing each bit with as much nutrition as possible.
If you are looking for a brand that manufactures allergy safe dog foods then you can’t go wrong with Blue Buffalo. They’ve been around for quite a long time and has already developed a solid reputation with dog owners/lovers.
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Some dogs are allergic to wheat and grain, one good alternative you can pick that offers all-natural ingredients but is completely grain free would be Tender and True Dry Dog Food. Tender and True Organic Turkey and Liver is completely grain free. It is also processed without any antibiotics or hormones.
It contains 100% healthy farm raised turkey. The proprietary blend also includes all the essential vitamins and mineral to ensure your dog remains healthy and happy.
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Adding omega-3 in your dog’s diet can be extremely beneficial to them down the line. AvoDerm utilizes ingredients such as salmon, avocado, and potato to deliver the proper amount of omega-3 in their diet. It also contains high amounts of antioxidant which helps improve your four-legged furry friend’s immune system.
AvoDerm Dry Dog Food does not contain any wheat, soy, or corn. Omega-3 is great in strengthening your dog’s joints, important as they grow older. It can also help prevent heart disease in dogs. The inclusion of avocado in its ingredients can help dogs with sensitive skin as well.
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This is a specially formulated allergy care dog food that utilizes an advanced formula to deliver all essential nutrients, and then some, without increasing the risk of allergic reaction. It utilizes 90% and above of the protein from animal sources making sure your dog will get their proper fill of protein daily.
It also contains digestive enzymes that help promote digestion. I would also like to add that while it does state to contain the chicken ingredient, it is chicken fat only. You can check their official website for any specific questions you might have about this allergy care dog food.
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CANIDAE is known for its flavorful real meat taste. This grain-free dog food is formulated to accommodate mutts that have extra sensitive tummies. Ingredients contain whole foods that are easily digestible. Most dog foods designed to prevent allergies will sometimes fall short in regards to taste. CANIDAE circumvents that problem with its meaty flavor thanks to its use of bison meat.
This dog food uses a rather simple recipe which is specifically formulated for sensitive dogs. While it does not have any advanced formulas implemented, it does what it is made to do; which is deliver all essential nutrients to an allergy prone dog.
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This beef flavored dry dog food contains high amounts of protein to help develop leaner muscles on an active dog. It contains no artificial flavoring and uses all-natural ingredients only. It contains antioxidants to boost immunity and omega fatty acids derived from chia seed extract, coconut, and fish to deliver a shinier coat.
Diamond Naturals also incorporate their own proprietary probiotic blend that helps improve your dog’s digestive system while also boosting their immunity. It also contains glucosamine which should help strengthen joints and prevent arthritis once your dog hits a certain age.
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Dogswell Nutrisca uses 100% real lamb as its main ingredient. It also contains no grains, corn, soy, wheat, and potato for dogs who have extra sensitive tummies for these ingredients. It does use chickpeas as its main source of fiber which is known to be quite safe for dogs.
You can expect your dog to enjoy this as lambs tend to entice most dog breeds I know. If your dog is an extremely picky eater, try lamb-based dog foods as it is universally liked by our canine friends. If you are looking for food to serve sensitive and picky dogs then I recommend you try Dogswell Nutrisca.
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Determining if your dog is suffering from an allergic reaction can be done quickly as long as you know what to look for. I will be running down the most common dog food allergy symptoms that dogs exhibit to help you make the necessary next step and nip this health issue from the bud.
This allergic reaction is the most noticeable. It is usually caused by either environmental allergens or food allergies. Another possible cause here would be the type of shampoo you are using on your pet dog. Try a milder one, if symptoms persist then you will need to go through their daily diet as well as environmental factors such as pollen.
Check their ear to see if there are any black or brown residue build-up. Your dog will also tend to scratch their head/ear almost constantly as if they are trying to remove something lodge inside their ears. This type of allergy is mostly caused by the food they eat. It can also be caused by ear mites but you will instantly distinguish this at first glance. Try changing their diet and clean their ears using a 50/50 mixture of pure apple cider and water.
A dog’s nail normally has a white with a pinkish hue. If your dog has a darker shade of reddish brown then there is a high chance, they are experiencing an allergic reaction. This allergy is commonly caused by food allergens but can also be caused by foot trauma or injury.
This symptom is easier to detect with dogs that have a white coat. Basically, this is an inflammation normally caused by yeast infections or food allergens. You can help treat this allergy with the water plus apple cider home remedy.
Visible discharge around the eyes is another common sign of an allergic reaction. This can be caused by environmental and food allergens but can also be caused by eye trauma. If your dog is experiencing excess tear duct discharge you should clean the area using a clean cloth dabbed in lukewarm water every day.
Below is a list of the most common ingredients that causes an allergic reaction for dogs. If your dog started exhibiting symptoms you should check the ingredients in their food and start a process of elimination to determine the trigger.
Your dog’s breed will also be a factor as some breeds are more susceptible to food allergens like German Shepherds, Shar-Pei, Collies, and Dalmatians to name a few.
When it comes to choosing the right dog food you just need to remember a couple of these golden rules:
Food allergy is quite common for dogs sometimes causes mild inconveniences. Of course, we still want to avoid this as it will cause discomfort for our pet. By being more meticulous with their diet, we can effectively avoid food allergens altogether. Keeping the environment clean will also help reduce environmental allergens. If you are having trouble with choosing the safest dog food to give to your pet, check the list above. That list is compiled using my own personal experience as well as overall customer feedback.
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