May 2008 Archives

It is that time of year when dogs are losing their winter coat and getting there summer coat. The first little heat spell and it is coming out all over. To help minimize the shedding the best weapon depends on the type of coat your dog has. For the small dogs that are on the fluffier side I like to use a slicker brush and then go over them with a fine tooth comb. For very short haired dog like Boxers, Dobermans or Bulldogs I suggest a shed blade and a Kong Zoom Groom . For dogs with a little more hair like Labs, Shepherds, and Akitas I would suggest using an undercoat rake and then Kong Zoom Groom to get the topcoat. For the long and thick coats of a Chow Chow, Golden Retriever or Australian Shepherd I use the same tools listed above but like to add a coat breaker to the heavy areas. I have also had great success with the Furminator. It usually works best on a clean dry coat. If you came into the Paw Spa we could show you the right tools and even let you try them out. Happy brushing!!!!

Did you know that your dogs and cats need to have their teeth cleaned? Not only does it help with bad breath but it can also help them to live longer healthier lives. Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common conditions seen in pets today. The problem begins when plaque and tartar are allowed to build up on your pet's teeth. Plaque harbors the bacteria, which can infect gum tissue and the roots of teeth resulting in disease and tooth loss. Besides the negative impact on the oral health, bacteria can enter the blood stream through the large blood vessels located near the gums and teeth. At this stage, the organs with the highest blood flow are most susceptible to infections: lungs, heart, kidneys, liver and even the brain. Damage to these organs caused by infection can shorten the lives of our pets. It is not necessary for (most) pets to have anesthesia in order to do the teeth cleaning. But, it should always be done under a veterinarian's supervision. Make sure you ask questions before you have this or any procedure preformed on you pet. At The Paw Spa, when we offer anesthesia-free doggie dental, the vet will examine your pet before and after, to insure everything is being done and that you are informed. He will answer any questions you may have. We strive to make all parts of your pet beautiful and clean.

I know that washing your dog seams like such a big chore, but it shouldn't have to be. It is recommended that most dogs be washed every 4-6 weeks. I have a little Yorkie guy that seams to need it at least once a week. As long as you use a mild dog shampoo it is okay to do this. At The Paw Spa, you can bring in your dog on a leash and we can provide everything else. Along with the professional tubs that have warm water, we give you the proper brushes and other tools you will need to get your dog clean. We offer a variety of all natural shampoos and conditions and we gladly offer our help. We even have you give your dog a blueberry facial. I know that most people are afraid of washing their dogs face for fear of getting soap in their eyes. But, Southbark's Blueberry facial is a soap free wash that is gentle on the eyes and has a great scent. When you are all done with the rubbin and scrubbin, it is very important that you rinse very well. Any shampoo left can make the dog dry and itchy. Next you can towel dry your dog, clean the ears and cut the nails. If you are too afraid to cut the nails we will gladly do it for a small fee. It is important that the dog's nails be trimmed on a monthly basis. Now it is time for the blow dryer. Most dogs need a little coaxing and a lot of patience. Go slow and avoid the face. We even give you a big selection of doggie colognes to choose from. If you don't think you can handle all of this, we do offer full service where we will do all the above plus more. I have a really cute blonde groomer that is one of the best groomers in town!

It is that time of year again. Your dog is itching and scratching, biting and chewing. Is it just the change in weather? Or, is it something worse? Flea season is here. As the weather warms up you can expect to see these little insects on you pets. With the rainy weather we had you can expect ticks as well.

We will treat the dog with a nice flea bath first to kill all of the live fleas on the dog and suggest a good once a month spot on treatment like Frontline Plus or Advantage. Both of these work to kill the fleas in all stages of life. Killing 100% of adult fleas on your pet within 18 hours and 100% of all ticks within 48 hours, Frontline Plus contains an insect growth regulator, S-methoprene, which kills flea eggs and larvae. Advantage works in the same way but it only kills fleas and not ticks. I am not a big fan of flea collars. They are a pesticide collar that is worn around your pets neck. You need to make sure that wash your hands after you touch your pet. There are also oral medications that help control fleas, ticks and worms that can be given on a monthly basis. Your dog must be tested for heartworms before starting any medication that kills heartworms.

Discuss these options with your vet or dog care professional and they can help you choose which one will be best for you.