Dog Grooming

6 Reasons Why Grooming Your Pet is Important to Their Health

by Wendy Rose Gould August 26, 2019

woman brushing dog

Just as we brush our hair and teeth, trim our toenails, and get regular skin checkups, our pets require the same attention and care. It’s not just a matter of a cute post-grooming photo op, either (though the pictures are always very adorable). Rather, grooming is important to your pet’s general health and wellbeing, and it will help them live happy, healthy, and comfortable lives. Below are the top five reasons why a consistent grooming regimen is a must.

Grooming Time Equals Bonding Time

Taking time to groom your pet — which includes everything from brushing their teeth to combing their fur to trimming their nails — helps your pet feel safe and closer to you. Make grooming time even more fun by offering treats during and after and by showing lots of affection.

Your Home Will Smell and Look Better

Grooming removes loose hair, dandruff, and any particulates in your animal’s fur. (And let’s be real, sometimes they can bring in some stinky and gross stuff.) If it’s removed from their fur, it won’t linger in the house.

Consistent grooming also helps reduce pet-related allergies. In terms of keeping your pet’s coat clean, dogs require more attention compared to cats since cats are obsessive self-cleaners. How frequently your dog is bathed depends on its size; lap dogs should be bathed once a month and larger dogs every other month. It also depends on their fur type. Wiry or coarse fur doesn’t hold onto particulates as well, whereas soft fur gets matted easily.

It Gives You a Good Chance to Inspect Their Skin and Body

In the same way humans have to keep tabs on their bodies, it’s important to regularly examine your pet’s skin and body for any abnormalities. This is a bit tricky due to all that fur, but you’ll want to be on the lookout for atypical lumps and bumps and report them to your vet immediately. These abnormalities are often benign, but can sometimes be indicators of cancer, an infection, or disease.

Trimmed Nails Prevent Painful Complications

When a cat or dog’s nails are left untrimmed things can take a turn for the worse. First, the nail can break or tear off if it gets too long, which is very painful. Second, untrimmed nails can grow so long that they curl and grow back into your pet’s paw. This is also painful and can result in split claws and many complications down the road. If you don’t feel comfortable cutting your pet’s nails, then you can take them to a grooming salon. Your vet will also be glad to help.

Grooming Reduces Their Chance of Contracting Fleas and Mites

In addition to looking good and smelling great, a clean coat means a reduced likelihood of contracting fleas and ear mites (which appear as black dots on the inner ear). These unwelcome critters can take refuge on your furry friend’s body at any time, but consistent grooming means you’ll catch them early.

Good Oral Health Can Lead to Better Health Overall

Oral health is also very important for both cats and dogs. Brushing their teeth at least once a week is recommended, and can reduce their risk of gum disease, cavities and tooth absorption, and other maladies. Better breath is also a bonus! Dogs tend to be more amicable to having their teeth brushed than cats, but both require upkeep on their dental hygiene.

The bottom line is that a consistent grooming regimen for your pet will keep them happier, healthier, and yes, prettier. It also means a cleaner environment for you and your family, a stronger bond between pet and parent, and fewer instances of tiny invaders. It’s a win for everyone!

August 26, 2019 0 comment

Dog Care Dog Grooming

What to Know About Dog Dental Care

by Stacy Painter June 25, 2019

written by Stacy Painter

You have a routine to take care of your personal dental hygiene, so why wouldn’t you do the same for your dog? Though it’s obviously easier to stay on top of your own teeth, caring for your dog’s teeth should be top of the list as a pet parent too.

If you don’t manage your dog’s dental care, then you could soon be seeing signs that it’s time to take a trip to the vet. Nobody wants avoidable trips to the vet, but you can help prevent this by following the advice we have below.

Dental Care Products for Dogs

The good news is that taking care of your dog’s teeth is easy with the right products. The right dog food will help keep your pup healthy, along with a good toothbrush and toothpaste to remove as much tartar as possible.

Toothbrushes: Using a toothbrush to brush your dog’s teeth every day will help keep tartar and plaque to a minimum as well as reduce the intensity of undesirable dog breath. When choosing a toothbrush, find one that is specifically designed for dogs with soft bristles, and choose an appropriate size based on the size of your dog.

Toothpaste: Picking a toothpaste for your pup means choosing one that not only gets the job done but also appeals to them; this will make it easier to clean their teeth with as little bother as possible. Consider your dog’s allergies when choosing a flavor.

Never use human toothpaste on dogs. Human toothpastes contain fluoride which the RSPCA has warned is poisonous to dogs. Always stick to a toothpaste that is specially formulated for our canine companions.

Gels: Dog dental gels have made it to the forefront of alternatives to help clean a dog’s teeth. The great thing about dog dental gels is that they are easy to apply and are an effective solution for combating tartar and bad breath.

After reading the label carefully, the only thing you need to bear in mind with dental gels is that your dog can’t have any food or drinks for about half an hour after they’ve had a gel or it won’t be as effective.

Common Canine Dental Problems

Dogs can suffer from a range of issues if they don’t get regular dental care.

Plaque: Plaque is a soft film of food debris and bacteria that builds up each day by sticking to the surface of your dog’s teeth. Brushing their teeth will help to easily remove plaque if maintained regularly. If not maintained on a regular basis, it will become harder to remove the plaque, putting your dog’s teeth and gums at risk.
Tartar: When plaque is left on the surfaces of the teeth, the minerals in your dog’s saliva begins to harden the plaque into tartar which firmly attaches to their teeth.
Gingivitis: As the tartar begins digging into and below the gum tissue, the gums can turn red, causing them to become irritated and inflamed, resulting in gingivitis. When the tartar makes its way into the gum line and creates gingivitis, plaque bacteria can make its way below the gum line which causes the onset of a gum infection.
Periodontitis: Plaque bacteria existing below the gum line will cause increased damage to the tissue. These bacteria, inflammation, and the resulting tissue damage can arouse your dog’s immune system. The immune system acts to send out white blood cells among other inflammatory chemicals as a form of attack to destroy the bacterial issue. The only problem with this is that the supporting soft and bony tissues of the tooth become damaged in this process. This is known as periodontitis.
Abscesses: Once periodontitis and gingivitis are present, bacteria then have access to the roots of your dog’s teeth. The root of the tooth can deteriorate, which deprives the root and tooth of its vital blood supply. Affected tissue then dies off and a vast amount of white blood cells rush to the scene causing what we see as pus or an abscess. Osteomyelitis can ensue and surgery is typically required.
Loss of teeth: When dental problems are at their most advanced, teeth can fall out or need to be removed by a veterinarian. This is because they will be loose from gum deterioration, making it hard for your dog to eat, as well as rendering them in pain a lot of the time too.

General Dental Care Tips

The three main pieces of advice we can give you on general dental care tips are as follows:

Brush daily: Making it a daily activity will help your dog get used to the process, and it will keep them in good oral health.

Diet: Take the time to speak to your vet about what the best diet/food you can use to keep your dog’s teeth in good shape.

Visit the vet: Visiting the vet for your dog’s teeth is just as important as booking your regular dental cleaning appointments. Your vet will probably advise a 6-month or annual tooth cleaning appointment for your dog.

This appointment will be the only real way to fully remove tartar buildup. Just as we cannot fully remove it ourselves, you can’t do it for your dog either. Therefore, do the best you can by brushing regularly and get those sessions booked with the vet to keep your dog as healthy as possible.

June 25, 2019 0 comment

Dog Grooming

7 Natural Solutions for Stinky Dog Breath

by Ollie March 19, 2018

written by Ollie

healthy paws ollie

When it takes a thesaurus to describe just how bad your dog’s breath is, perhaps you need to tackle this problem head-on. That odor (aside from being a big snuggle-deterrent) can be an indicator of potential health problems such as dental and kidney disease—or a sign of a nutritionally deficient diet, so it’s important to pay attention to the stench (as if you could ignore it!). In addition to regularly brushing your pup’s teeth and gums, we’ve got a handful of home remedies that can help:

Carrots & Apples

Tartar and plaque on teeth leads to smelly bacteria, but reaching that tarter—particularly on the back teeth and along the gum line—can be a tough job for a doggy toothbrush on a wiggly pup. A daily snack of crunchy carrots or apples can help clean those hard-to-reach teeth (while also serving as a healthy treat).

Mint & Parsley

Got a cute windowsill herb garden? When you harvest the mint and parsley, sprinkle some in the dog bowl too. Not only are both of these herbs natural breath deodorants, the green chlorophyll fights stinky bacteria in the mouth and in the digestive system, too.

Probiotics

Clean teeth and gums may mean overall better health, but an unhealthy gut is also a common culprit when it comes to bad breath. Probiotics are known to help the digestive system by supporting good bacteria in the body and many dog-friendly human foods are a good source: Yogurt or kefir, bananas, and honey all boast natural probiotic properties.

Apple Cider Vinegar

A half teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in your dog’s water bowl is a natural disinfectant and a great way to lap up better breath. Bonus: most dogs actually like that tangy taste!

Fresh Water

Speaking of your dog’s water bowl, it’s a breeding ground for bacteria buildup invisible to the eye. Thoroughly wash and dry your dog’s water dish every day before refilling it with clean water.

Coconut Oil

This multi-use oil is quickly becoming a favorite cure-all for humans, and now you can add “fights bad dog breath” to its list of superpowers. A spoonful of this healthy fat for your dog is a sweet treat that aids digestion and immune system function. It also makes your dog’s coat so shiny!

This article was adapted from the Ollie blog. Ollie delivers freshly made human-grade meals to dogs across the country, tailoring the recipes to their nutritional needs. Want to try it? Go to myollie.com to access a special 50% off discount on your first box.

March 19, 2018 0 comment

Dog Grooming

How To Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

by Colleen Williams March 2, 2018

written by Colleen Williams

There’s not a single pet parent out there who doesn’t feel a twinge of guilt when they think about their dog’s teeth – according to the AVMA, only 1 percent brush pets regularly. Humans brush their teeth (hopefully) twice daily, but the frequency for dogs is less clear. Some scoff at the thought of brushing their pet’s teeth – after all, no one was keeping wolves’ canines pearly white – and others are scared off by the high price of professional dog teeth cleaning.

Pet parents mostly worry about the impact brushing (or not) will have on their dogs. At first, brushing a dog’s teeth can be mildly stressful and confusing for the animal. But like anything, the more you do it, the quicker your pet will become comfortable with you cleaning his teeth. The problem is, brushing a dog’s teeth takes time, often falling at the bottom of busy pet parents’ to-do lists. Even veterinarians neglect their brushing duties, as Dr. Andy Roark writes on VetStreet. “Unfortunately, the problem with my being a real person — one with a working spouse, young children, two jobs and a few hobbies — is that what I know to be “the best thing” and what I actually do at home are occasionally not the same,” Dr. Roark confesses.

Start by getting your pet used to the brushing sensation. Use a towel or finger to rub your pet’s gums and teeth. (Flickr.com/tonyxqchen)

1. Get the good stuff.

Dog toothpaste comes in a variety of flavors, so pick your pup’s favorite! There are many different styles of dog toothbrushes as well, depending on the animal’s size and level of comfort. Some have angled heads for easier brushing, while others are rubbery and fit on a fingertip. The Veterinary Oral Health Council recommends using a dog toothbrush that has rounded bristles, to avoid irritating gums. Never use human toothpaste, as it is not designed to be swallowed, or baking powder – in addition to upsetting the stomach, its bad taste can make pets uncooperative.

2. Start off slow.

Before you stick a strange object into your dog’s mouth, it’s best to gauge his level of comfort. Start off by petting the muzzle and lips, allowing your dog to get used to the sensation of you handling the area. Work up to rubbing a towel or piece of cloth on the teeth, mimicking the brushing motion. Finally, give your pup a taste of doggy toothpaste! If your dog seems to accept both the simulated brushing and the toothpaste, it’s time to move on to the next step.

Select a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dogs to avoid irritating your pet’s gums or stomach. (Flickr.com/tonyxqchen)

3. Begin brushing!

Now introduce the dog toothbrush, applying a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Gently raise your dog’s lips out of the way – this is the part where most pets struggle. Brushing in circular motions, focus on the outside of your dog’s teeth and around the canines; these areas are hot spots for periodontal disease. For the first few sessions brushing your dog’s teeth, you won’t be able to get all his teeth. Work up to it over several weeks – even one forced brushing can make a dog anxious.

Pro Tip: If you have trouble using the traditional toothbrush, the product Bristly is worth a look. Eliminating the stress and awkwardness of brushing a dog’s teeth, Bristly harnesses their natural instincts to bite and chew, and effectively cleans their teeth easily within 5 minutes.

Most vets recommend yearly teeth cleanings for dogs, but some may require treatment more or less often. (Flickr.com/priority_pet_hospital)

How often do I brush my dog’s teeth?

So how often do you really need to brush your dog’s teeth? VCA Animal Hospitals recommend brushing your dog’s teeth as often as your own – twice daily is ideal. However, if that seems unrealistic to you, aim for biweekly brushings.

Even with regular brushing, it’s highly recommended you get a professional dog teeth cleaning. For most dogs, this happens yearly; your pet’s annual checkup is a great time to bring it up. However, because anesthesia is required for the procedure, it’s pretty pricey – and not covered by pet insurance. Consider budgeting for an annual dog teeth cleaning, especially if your pup has a history of dental problems. The cost of cleaning dogs’ teeth can be anywhere from $150 to $500 depending on your city as well as the age and weight of your dog.

What happens if I don’t brush my dog’s teeth?

The vast majority of pet parents – 99 percent, according to the AVMA – don’t brush their dog’s teeth, and this is reflected by the persistence of periodontal disease, especially in senior dogs. This category of disease includes gingivitis and periodontitis, which involves loss of bone and soft tissue surrounding teeth. The American Veterinary Dental College says the majority of adult pets suffer from this entirely preventable condition, which has few symptoms. Signs your pet might have periodontal disease include persistent bad breath (halitosis), reddened gums, loss of appetite, and excessive whining.

Treatment for periodontal disease in dogs is expensive, depending on the extent of the treatment, but around $500 on average. If left untreated, abscesses and infection may develop; in some cases, osteomyelitis – infection of the bone – can occur, or the infection may travel to other organs. Tooth extraction can run $300 to $1000; the price tag is determined by the specific tooth and several other factors.

Teeth-cleaning treats like Greenies can help keep pups’ chompers clean between brushings. (Flickr.com/jillwatson)

How else can I keep my dog’s teeth clean?

In addition to brushing your dog’s teeth, there are many other ways to maintain his dental health. Foods, treats, toys, chews, water additives, and oral sprays are all available to promote a healthy mouth. Greenies dental treats are a favorite among pet parents and dogs, and are VOHC certified. For hardcore chewers, Purina’s HeartyHide and PPVD rawhide treats fight tartar on teeth. If your pup has recurring problems, ask your vet about a prescription dog food specifically for dental health.

March 2, 2018 1 comment

Cat Grooming Dog Grooming

Pet Dental Health

by Colleen Williams July 12, 2017

written by Colleen Williams

On average, people visit their dentist every six months. But how often do you provide dental care for your dog or cat? Many of the same dental illnesses and conditions humans develop are also developed by pets. Taking care of your pet’s teeth and gums is essential to maintaining good health; and just like in humans, complications can arise from diseases left untreated.

Common Conditions

Periodontal gum disease is the biggest threat to your pet’s dental health. It develops when bacteria builds up on the animal’s gum line, forming plaque, which then hardens and calcifies, irritating the gums. Over time, the teeth begin to separate from the gums and bacteria builds up at the teeth’s roots. If left untreated, an abscess can form, causing extreme pain and inability to eat. Reddened gums and excessively bad breath are initial indicators, while receding gums are visible in the disease’s later stages. If an abscess is present, facial swelling, bad breath, and an inability to chew normally will be noticeable. Professional teeth cleaning is required to remove the plaque, and in advanced cases a gel may be used to fill gaps between gum and tooth.
Cavities are another dental issue commonly found in pets. Just as in humans, cavities result from the decaying of hard tooth tissue due to a build-up of bacteria. A cavity may be visible on your pet’s tooth, but there are no other symptoms. The hole in your pet’s tooth may be filled by a veterinary dentist, but if the tooth has decayed too much it may have to be removed via extraction.
Tissue inflammation and ulcers in the mouth are another concern for pet parents. While some pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, some immune diseases, hypothyroidism, and lupus can cause these injuries, there are also many other causes. Malnutrition, an electrical shock injury, or trauma to the mouth can all cause mouth inflammation and formation of ulcers. Symptoms include chronic bad breath, swollen gums, “ropey” saliva, and loss of appetite. Veterinary care depends on the underlying cause, but most often drugs will be prescribed to reduce inflammation along with topical ointments and anesthetics for the ulcers.

Visiting Your Vet

If you notice any unusual changes in your pet’s eating habits, including loss of appetite and inability to chew, seek veterinary care. Any visible malformations of your cat or dog’s gums, cheeks, tongue, or teeth should also be reasons to make an appointment. If you have a puppy or kitten, pay close attention to your pet’s teeth as they develop; crowded teeth can also cause inflammation and pain as well as structural anomalies that may require treatment to correct.

Preventing Dental Issues

It is recommended that your pet visit a vet for a professional teeth cleaning once a year. This is a multistep procedure that can ensure your pet’s continued health.

Physical exam.
Because teeth cleaning requires your pet to be put under anesthesia, an exam is required to ensure he or she is healthy enough to undergo the procedure. Blood and urine tests may be run as well as x-rays, depending on your pet’s medical history, age, and other factors. An exam will also be performed specifically on the mouth and face area to diagnose any abnormalities and target specific areas for cleaning.
Exam under anesthesia.
Your dog or cat will be temporarily put to sleep with the help of anesthesia. A veterinary technician will closely monitor your pet’s condition throughout the procedure and keep an eye on vital signs, including heartbeat and body temperature. A more intense exam will be conducted by the vet to further look for dental conditions such as cavities, periodontal disease, and ulcers.
Tooth cleaning.
Ultrasonic cleaning tools along with hand instruments will be used to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth, especially along the gum line and roots of the teeth. During this step, any rough tooth surfaces will be filed down by hand.
Tooth polishing.
With a high-speed hand tool, the vet will smooth and even out the surface of your dog or cat’s teeth.
Fluoride.
This liquid is brushed onto your pet’s teeth for around four minutes and works to harden enamel and reduce any pain or discomfort resulting from the cleaning.
Post-cleaning exam.
If any new abnormalities have been discovered, x-rays may be taken to further explore the condition. Your vet will note the procedure’s course and your pet’s physical health at this time.

Of course, pet parents should continue to care for their pet’s dental health at home with regular tooth brushings.

What Pet Insurance Covers

Healthy Paws Pet Insurance covers accidental injury to your dog or cat’s teeth, including extractions and reconstructions. Routine dental care, such as the professional cleanings described above, is considered preventative and is not covered. Taking care of your dog or cat’s dental health is essential to keeping a healthy pet. With preventative at-home and professional cleanings, you can ensure no dental abnormalities or illnesses will develop.

July 12, 2017 0 comment

Dog Grooming

How to Bathe Your Dog Without Dog Shampoo

by Cuteness Team June 22, 2017

written by Cuteness Team

Got a smelly pup but no dog shampoo to clean him with? Not to worry — everything you need is probably already in your kitchen cabinet. Here’s what you need to know to make homemade dog shampoo.

Why You Shouldn’t Use Human Shampoos

Skin provides a barrier against bacteria, viruses and other contaminants normally present in the environment. When you alter the skin’s pH, you affect this barrier and may make your dog vulnerable to infection. The normal pH of your dog’s skin is in the range of 5.5 to 7.5, while humans have a skin pH from 5.2 to 6.2. This means that using shampoos designed for humans may cause problems for your dog, especially if he gets a small cut or scrape. Bathing him with shampoo designed for people can cause him to smell worse than he did before his bath, due to the presence of large numbers of bacteria.

Make Your Own Homemade Dog Shampoo

If your dog is in serious need of a bath and you don’t have any suitable shampoo on hand, it’s possible to make your own with just two simple ingredients. Mix equal amounts of non-toxic soap (like Dr. Bronner’s unscented castile soap) and apple cider vinegar, and use in place of shampoo. It is a safe solution that will leave him smelling fresh, and it has the added benefit of killing fleas. As with any shampoo, keep the mixture out of your dog’s eyes and ears. Rinse him thoroughly to remove all traces of the detergent to complete the job.

Dry Baths

To freshen your dog without water, try rubbing baking soda into his coat and brushing it out. Not only will it remove dirt and other contaminants, it will help him to smell clean. Cornstarch can be used the same way on an oily coat, but doesn’t deodorize as well as baking soda. Mix it half and half with baby powder to add a pleasant scent. Another option for quick cleanups is to wipe him down with doggy wipes, which are helpful between baths and to clean a dog who doesn’t like the water.

Interested in more dog washing tips? Check out How To Wash Your Dog’s Face, Can I Wash A Puppy With Baby Shampoo?, and How To Make Homemade Dog Shampoo on Cuteness.com!

This article is provided by Cuteness—the go to destination for passionate pet parents. Cuteness has answers to all of your health, training, and behavior questions – as well as the cutest, funniest, and most inspiring pet stories from all over the world.

June 22, 2017 0 comment

Cat Grooming Cat Health Dog Grooming Dog Health

Smile! It’s National Pet Dental Health Month

by Colleen Williams February 2, 2017

written by Colleen Williams

For February, vets want you to remember to take care of your pet’s teeth! From stinky breath to painful complications, dental issues in pets can be serious business. Both cats and dogs can suffer from dental diseases and conditions that can drastically reduce their quality of life, or be a sign of something wrong internally. At the very least, dental problems can lead to chronic pain and difficulty eating.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats will have some kind of oral disease by the age of three. You can prevent problems by simply going to the vet, who is also your pet’s dentist, and committing to healthy teeth and gums for the whole (furry) family.

Be on the lookout for dental disease warning signs:
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Tartar buildup
- Excessive drooling
- Avoiding certain foods or chewing tenderly
Eat right: Malnutrition can affect your pet’s gums and teeth. Getting the proper chow is integral to overall wellness, but vets say it’s important for a healthy mouth too.
Prevention methods are the same as for humans: Use a toothbrush! A soft toothbrush should be used daily to remove food debris, tartar, plaque… the entire spiel you receive from your own Find specialty cat and dog toothpaste at your local pet store.
Let the pros clean: Your vet may recommend a professional teeth cleaning once or twice a year, usually with general anesthesia. They’ll remove tartar and plaque, and recommend further dental procedures if needed.

Your pet’s dental health is more important than you may realize. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and keeping their chompers clean, the AVMA suggests that you can add up to five years to your pet’s life.

February 2, 2017 0 comment

Cat Grooming Dog Grooming

4 Really Good Reasons to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

by Colleen Williams June 14, 2016

written by Colleen Williams

In between brushings give your pup a dental treat like Greenies! (Flickr.com/jillwatson)

While brushing your dog or cat’s teeth can seem like a daunting task, it’s much simpler than it looks. The process is rarely dangerous, but getting acclimated does requires trust and patience on the part of both animals and pet parents. Never force a dog or cat to do anything! Some pets are skittish or stubborn about their personal space; in that case, turn to the professionals for help. Many veterinary clinics are more than happy to help out, for a small fee of course.

You can also make dental care fun by substituting traditional chew toys for dog dental treats. Canines’ wild forerunners took care of their chompers by gnawing on bones and sticks; simulate this behavior by providing your pup with plenty of (safe) chew toys and treats. The act of chewing scrubs food particles off the surface of teeth – maybe dogs do have it figured out after all!

Dental health is inextricably tied to your pet’s overall wellbeing. Inflammation and infections that originate in the mouth have symptoms that affect the whole body, like fever and loss of appetite. If left untreated, painful periodontal disease can lead to depression and destroy an animal’s ability to eat. Wellness care, as preventative practices like toothbrushing and vaccination are known, has enormous benefits for a pet’s future, but is not covered by traditional pet insurance policies.

Learn how failing to brush your pet’s teeth can have dangerous – and expensive! – consequences for his or her health.

Really Bad Breath

If Fluffy’s breath sends you running for cover, it may be time to visit the vet! (Flickr.com/janpapas)

Let’s start with an innocuous side effect of neglecting pets’ pearly whites: halitosis, or chronic bad breath. Over time, both dogs and cats build up plaque and tarter on teeth. Sticky surfaces attract bacteria, which then breeds in the mouth and is responsible for the foul stench. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease. Weirdly enough, the specific odor of your pet’s breath is important to diagnosis; a sweet or urine-like scent is indicative of kidney or liver disease rather than dental problems. Abscesses, a painful pocket of pus accompanying an infected tooth, can also be to blame.

In a perfect world, pet parents would bust out the toothbrush after every meal, but we know you’re busy. (Fluffy and Fido aren’t complaining!) Aim to brush your pets’ teeth two to three times per week, incorporating it into your daily routine. Eventually oral hygiene will be as standard to your pet as claw clipping and brushing. If the problem persists even after regular toothbrushing, visit your vet!

Gum Irritation

Regularly inspect your canine’s gums for signs of inflammation, like swelling and bleeding. (Flickr.com/matlock-photo)

Gingivitis is a type of periodontal disease that primarily affects the gum line. The condition is caused by an accumulation of plaque onto which bacteria latch, secreting inflammatory toxins that damage gum tissue. Symptoms of gingivitis in pets include reddened and swollen gums, drooling, and bad breath.

Grade I and II gingivitis, known as Early and Advanced, is reversible with proper treatment. This can be extensive; x-rays are first taken to assess the extent of the inflammation. Professional dental cleaning is typically required, which can cost thousands of dollars depending on the size and age of the animal. Because gingivitis is entirely preventable, treatment for the condition is excluded by most pet insurance companies. Prescription toothpaste, food and mouth rinse are required to prevent the disease from progressing.

Reduced Immune Effectiveness

Shirking your dental duties can impact your pet’s overall health and have whole-body effects. “The bacteria in plaque does a lot of things,” says Dr. Brett Beckman, a veterinary dentist. “But one thing it does both in pets and humans is to cause our immune system to recognize it as foreign.” If it’s already distracted by the presence of plaque and tartar, the immune system might let lesser invaders like the common cold or mites slip through the cracks. Pets suffering from a chronic illness like diabetes may find their condition worsened; the American Veterinary Dental College cites research that has found periodontal disease causes detectable changes in the heart, liver and kidneys.

The first step is to start brushing your pet’s teeth! Inspect the tongue, teeth, and inside of the mouth during brush sessions to keep an eye on the status of your pet’s dental health. At yearly checkups – biannual for senior pets! – be sure the vet checks out the teeth and mouth area. If your pet has already developed periodontal disease and is suffering from impaired immune function, ask about supplements and other dietary changes you can make. Many superfoods have the same immune-boosting benefits for cats and dogs as they do for humans!

Bone and Tissue Loss

Constantly pawing at the mouth is a sign of pain in the mouth area. Pay attention to subtle signs – pets can’t tell us what’s wrong! (Thinkstock)

If gingivitis is left untreated, the corrosive bacteria will progress to deeper tissues and bone. Bleeding gums, loss of appetite, drooling, and whining or pawing at the mouth are all symptoms of advanced periodontal disease in pets. It can even impact behavior, causing depression or irritability due to chronic pain. At this stage, known as Early or Established Periodontitis (Grade III and IV), the damage has been done. Depending on the disease’s severity, loss of bone can be 10 to 30 percent. The secondary effects of supportive tissue disintegration include fracture, deformity, and severe infection leading to death.

Extraction of abscessed or damaged teeth is almost always required. Any surgery requires anesthesia; senior pets or those with a chronic medical condition require extra monitoring that adds to costs. A variety of advanced surgical and teeth-cleaning techniques may be employed in an effort to save existing teeth. Antibiotics are typically prescribed as part of the aftercare routine to banish any lingering bacterial infections. Work with your veterinarian to develop a diet and dental plan that prevents your pet’s condition from progressing.

June 14, 2016 0 comment

Cat Grooming Dog Grooming

How to Clean Your Pet’s Ears

by Colleen Williams February 14, 2016

written by Colleen Williams

Proper grooming of your pets is essential; it can help prevent health issues and keeps your home fur-free. The ears are a sensitive part of your pet’s body, and can be difficult to clean. Without the proper knowledge, you can injure your cat or dog or cause the animal pain. Here are three simple steps to effortless ear cleaning in your cat or dog.

Tools and Supplies

Pet ear wash solution
Cotton balls or pads
Q-tips
Treats

1. Restraining Your Pet

Most animals don’t like having their ears cleaned and may wriggle around, making the job difficult. Calmly restraining your pet while still maintaining the animal’s comfort is important for both their safety and your own.

For cats and small dogs, place the animal in your lap on its stomach. Place your left forearm securely over the animal’s body, firmly grasping the jaw and head in your left hand. Gently pin the ear flap to the top of the head with your left thumb, leaving the ear canal open and visible.

Larger dogs should be laid on a table or raised surface on their stomach. You should stand on the side of the table opposite to the ear you will be cleaning, with your upper body firmly placed over the dog. Wrap your left arm around the dog’s neck and use your left hand to expose the ear canal. With your right arm lying on the dog’s shoulder, clean with your right hand. Laying your dog on his or her side may also work for squirmy pets; lay your left arm over your dog’s neck, grasping the elbow closest to the table to restrain the dog. You can then pull back the ear with your right hand and begin the cleaning process.

It may be helpful and easier to have another person with you to calm the animal or help you restrain larger pets. Try to keep your cat or dog calm at all times, praising them and petting them after every cleaned ear. Giving your pet treats after the ordeal may help cheer them up. It’s essential that cleaning your pet’s ears not be a traumatic or stressful procedure; this will make further grooming sessions more difficult.

2. Observing the Ear

One purpose of grooming your pet is to inspect the animal’s skin and fur for any abnormalities such as redness, sores, or lesions. The outside of the ear should be completely covered with fur; patchy fur or irritated skin at the base of the ear or on the tip indicate excessive itching. After you pull back the ear flap, inspect the inside of the cat or dog’s ear. The skin should be a pale to medium shade of pink with none of the following:

Black wax – This is an indicator of ear mites, small parasites that cause excessive scratching and head shaking in both dogs and cats.
Swelling accompanied by warmth – If your pet has been over-itching the inside of their ear, an aural hematoma can result from the trauma. Minor surgery is typically required to relieve the swelling and reduce chance of infection.
Foul-smelling discharge – Infections of the outer and inner ear are relatively common among pets. The discharge can be yellow or reddish-brown. Ear infections require antibiotics (either in oral or topical form), medicated ear washes, or possibly minor surgery; only your vet can give you the proper care.

3. Cleaning the Ears

Squeeze a few drops of ear wash onto the inside of the ear flap. Gently move the tip of the wash bottle a few millimeters into the ear canal and squeeze another few drops into the canal. Your pet may shake its head immediately after you do this, removing some of the wash. Massage the base of the ear to distribute the ear wash throughout the ear canal – most cats and dogs enjoy this part! Use cotton balls or pads to remove ear discharge from the ear flap. You can use q-tips to get into the ear’s crevices, but never stick a q-tip into your pet’s ear further than you can see. Just as in humans, excessive or too deep q-tip use can pack wax in the ear or even rupture the ear drum.

How Often to Clean

Groomers recommend you clean your pet’s ears at least once a month. Dog breeds with longer ears, such as spaniels and basset hounds, should have their ears inspected and cleaned bi-weekly, as they are more prone to contracting ear-related health conditions. If you feel uncomfortable cleaning your cat or dog’s ears, take them to a professional groomer.

Cleaning your pet’s ears is essential to prevent ear infections and parasites. The cleaning process can be painless if done properly; the important thing is to keep your pet calm and reward them after the procedure is over. If your dog or cat proves extremely resistant to having their ears cleaned, don’t force the issue and visit a professional groomer.

February 14, 2016 0 comment

Dog Grooming

How to Cure Crazy Bad Dog Breath

by Colleen Williams August 6, 2015

written by Colleen Williams

You love your dog, but you don’t love his terribly stinky breath. Dogs’ noxious breath is so notorious that it’s an insult – you might say “Get lost, dog breath!” to a bad date – but lucky for pet parents, it’s relatively easy to cure. But first, you have to get to the root of the cause.

What’s causing your dog’s bad breath?

(Flickr.com/priority_pet_hospital)

The number one cause of bad breath in dogs, also called halitosis, is poor dental hygiene. A whopping 99 percent of pet parents say they don’t brush their dog’s teeth regularly – and yes, you’re supposed to! There are a variety of reasons pet parents neglect to brush a dog’s teeth – we’re not judging! – including time, aggression, lack of knowledge, or their dog just plain refuses. We admit that brushing a dog’s teeth takes some know-how, skill and patience, but it can pay off big time.

About 80 percent of pets over three years old have periodontal disease, a fancy word for gingivitis, which is another fancy word for inflammatory gum disease. When you don’t brush your dog’s teeth – or your own – plaque collect, attracting bacteria who are responsible for the bad smells. Advanced teeth cleaning can run from $300 to $900, depending on your dog’s size, age and the severity of periodontal disease. Other oral diseases, tumors and abscessed teeth can also lead to bad breath in dogs. If the stench is bad enough to literally make you gag, run – don’t walk – your pup to the vet!

When is bad breath in dogs normal?

(Flickr.com/JillWatson)

Believe it or not, there are some times when it’s perfectly normal for a dog to have bad breath. Teething puppies tend to collect bad-smelling bacteria along their gum lines as new teeth crowd in. Again, this problem is easily cured and fairly temporary. Another culprit behind dogs’ bad breath can be burps, which are usually caused by a gastrointestinal issue. Medical conditions that cause bloating are usually accompanied by noxious burps; examples include gastric dilatation volvulus, peritonitis, and intestinal obstructions. As always, if you notice any sudden, unusual changes in your dog’s behavior or appearance, see your vet immediately.

What if there’s no reason my dog’s breath stinks?

You lucky dog – no vet bills for you, although hopefully you have pet insurance! There are a few at-home bad breath remedies for dogs:

Get the good stuff. Even if your vet determines no underlying cause behind your dog’s bad breath, she may still be able to give you prescription-strength food, treats, oral sprays, or water additives to freshen the problem. If not, you can easily purchase prescription dog food and other products online.
Give him something to chew on. Greenies for Dogs are the best-known dog dental treats, but other flavors and styles may be more to your pet’s liking. Even providing old-fashioned chew toys or rawhide treats is a great way to maintain your dog’s dental health. Never give your dog cooked bones, which can splinter and severely damage the stomach and intestines.
Try switching to dry food. Wet dog food can get stuck between teeth and is more smelly to begin with. In addition to being cheaper, dry dog food works in the same manner as chew toys to dislodge “snacks for later.”
Make all-natural dog breath mints. Give your pup some parsley to chew on, which works to freshen breath. Carrots are another dog-approved veggie that can work to remove plaque and tartar on teeth, which cause dogs’ bad breath.

How can I prevent bad dog breath?

(Flickr.com/TonyxqChen)

We’re just going to say it one more time – brush your dog’s teeth! Ideally daily, but we propose pet parents start by brushing their dog’s teeth weekly and building it into the routine. Start incorporating the above treatments into your dog’s daily life and bad breath will never be an issue. Feed your dog a dry diet balanced in meats, grains and veggies while providing plenty of chew toys or other dental care products. At yearly vet appointments, make sure the vet checks your dog’s teeth and consider getting an estimate for a teeth cleaning procedure – often they require saving up for, and purely cosmetic cleanings are not covered by pet insurance.

(Featured image via Flickr.com/frodefjeld)

August 6, 2015 0 comment

Dog Care Dog Grooming

Mobile Dog Grooming Cuts Time and Fur

by Colleen Williams June 10, 2015

written by Colleen Williams

As Americans increasingly rely on the convenience of delivery companies like Uber, Amazon Fresh, and a host of other start-ups, pet parents have been searching for a service of their own. While pet food and supplies can be delivered same-day in most major cities – thanks to the ubiquity of companies like Delivery.com and Zipments – services for pets have been left out.

Until now! Mobile dog grooming units have sprung up across the country in cities big and small. The service is perfect for pets nervous in the grooming environment or for pet parents unable to reach a traditional groomer. Many mobile dog groomers make house calls, while others have full-service pet salons in a customized van.

If mobile dog grooming is right for you, check out the groomers below! We’ve rounded up the best of the best from coast to coast for your pup’s grooming pleasure.

New York

A before and after from Good Dog! Private Pet Grooming, a mobile dog grooming unit in Manhattan. (gooddoggrooming.com)

Good Dog! Private Pet Grooming is a mobile dog grooming company servicing the neighborhoods of Manhattan. Owned by certified groomer Maria, the company has received rave reviews on Yelp. Baths are conducted with all-natural shampoo – or the suds of your choice – and a high-velocity doggie dryer makes for speedy grooming. “I can give your dog a show cut or a pet cut, a breed standard cut or something unusual – just ask,” says Maria on the Good Dog! website – just don’t ask her to do the dreaded “cube head,” attributed to the recent Minecraft craze.

As with all mobile dog grooming, services can run a little higher than traditional groomers – the price of convenience – with a full groom costing $125 and a bath $95. Good Dog! serves over a dozen Manhattan neighborhoods, including Gramercy Park, the Upper East Side, West Harlem, and Washington Heights.

Los Angeles

Barkhaus Pet Spa’s full-service mobile dog grooming offers Mini and Full Spa packages to pups in its air-conditioned van. (barkhauspetspa.com)

Barkhaus Pet Spa has a solid 5-star rating from reviewers, who heap praise on owner and groomer Ken. The Barkhaus trailer’s sleek interior looks more like a spaceship than a mobile dog grooming unit, a self-contained unit ready to clean up your pup. Unlike traditional groomers, your pet receives individual attention – there’s no wait, which means no yappy pups causing stress. After each appointment the Barkhaus is sanitized, reducing exposure to skin diseases or parasites.

Services offered by the Barkhaus Pet Spa go above and beyond typical mobile dog grooming. The “Mini Spa” includes a hydromassage bath, coat-brightening facial, paw moisturizer, breath freshener, and your choice of bow or bandana in addition to typical services like nail clip, shampoo, dry and trim. The “Full Spa” offers the same services, plus a full haircut and style; a hot oil treatment or doggie manicure will cost you extra. For an estimate of your pet’s grooming costs – no pups over 80lbs are accepted – contact Barkhaus.

Purrfurred Pet Styling grooms dogs – and cats! – of all shapes and sizes in their mobile dog grooming unit. (purrfurredpetstyling.com)

Chicago

Serving West and Southwest Chicagoland, Purrfurred Pet Styling is mobile dog grooming at its finest. With an easy to use website, scheduling appointments is a breeze – the biggest complaint most pet parents have with the service. A 10 percent multi-pet discount is great for larger fur families, making monthly groomings a breeze.

Contact Purrfurred Pet Styling to get an estimate of your pet’s grooming costs, which vary by breed, size, and coat condition. Mobile dog grooming typically costs $10 to 20 more than traditional groomers, so keep that in mind.

A happy pup serviced by Ashley’s Movin’ Groom, a mobile dog grooming company in the Houston area. (yelp.com/biz/ashleys-movin-groom-houston)

Houston

Ashley’s Movin’ Groom is run by two dog-lovers who service the greater Houston area. Groomers Ashley and Annie vow to take your pup, “From mangy mutt to stylish cut!” A standard service for dogs and cats includes a shampoo, cut, blow dry, nail clip, ear cleaning, and classy bow tie.

Prices depend on your pet’s size and breed as well as travel distance for Ashley’s mobile dog grooming unit. Web estimates include $90 for a Golden Retriever and $80 for a miniature poodle; the minimum is $65. Contact Ashley’s Movin’ Groom for estimates and appointments.

The Pooch Mobile’s open-air mobile dog grooming unit has a built-in hydrobath that massages and removes debris from fur. (yelp.com/biz/the-pooch-mobile-las-vegas)

Las Vegas

The Pooch Mobile is well-known in Nevada and neighboring Colorado for its efficient yet thorough mobile dog grooming. In the Las Vegas area, groomer Richard is renowned for his affinity with animals. “Trust me when I say: you cannot put your dog in better hands than Richard,” said one 5-star review on Yelp. You might even start to question whether Richard loves your dog more than you do.” Full-service grooming in The Pooch Mobile’s open-air doggie hydrobath includes all the basics – brush, wash, cut, dry, nail clip – as well as ear and eye cleanings and luxurious extras like aromatherapy, a deoderizing treatment, and a teeth-cleaning treat.

Locate a groomer in your area for more details on pricing and availability; prices start at $45.

Only in Seattle will you find a mobile dog grooming Mystery Machine! Metro Mutts is known for its personal touch, thanks to owner Jason. (facebook.com/metromuttsseattle)

Seattle

In one the country’s most pet-friendly cities, it’s no surprise that mobile dog grooming is a dime a dozen. Metro Mutts stands out from the crowd, relying on word of mouth to promote its services – no websites allowed! Owner and groomer Jason receives high praise for his ease and tenderness with anxious or elderly pets as well as skillfully wrangling high-energy pups. Metro Mutts grooms both cats and dogs in its Mystery Machine-like van, with a back-to-basics approach – no fancy pet spas here, just a high-quality wash, dry, cut and clip.

To get an estimate, contact Jason and Metro Mutts at (206) 257-2179.

June 10, 2015 0 comment

Dog Grooming

Give Your Pup a Doggie Spa Day

by Colleen Williams February 16, 2015

written by Colleen Williams

A bear-like pooch gets groomed before the Westminster Dog Show. Image via www.petsadviser.com.

Got a dirty dog? Some pets see bath time as the ultimate betrayal, while others love a good soak in the tub. A dog spa day is the perfect treat for your dog’s birthday or when Fido is feeling blue. If your pet has an upper respiratory infection, a nice steamy bath is the perfect at-home remedy.

Make bathing your dog a bonding experience for you both, as well as relaxing and stress-free. Check out these tips for giving your pup a doggie spa day.

Set the mood.

Human spas are relaxing environments, full of tinkling waterfalls, oddly calming gongs, and pleasantly scented. Recreate a canine-friendly version of this in your own bathroom – dim the lights and put on nature sounds to create some atmosphere. Lavender, chamomile, and lemongrass are pet-safe smells guaranteed to soothe the most savage beast.

Your body language and demeanor are also important to a home dog spa. Move slowly and use gentle movements, putting your pet at ease with a soothing voice and praise. Some dogs just aren’t comfortable in baths, so make sure to give Fido plenty of TLC.

Most dogs love a good old fashioned brushing. Use a rubber-tipped massage brush for extra luxury. Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr.

Do a pre-bath brush.

Most pets find a good brushing relaxing! Removing excess fur before a bath cuts down on shedding and makes post-soak grooming easier. Pick a brush best suited to your pet’s coat length or style; dogs with fluffier fur should use a comb, while flat-coated pets can use a wire brush. Extreme shedders should check out the Furminator, a miraculous dog brush with rave reviews from pet parents.

When brushing your dog, use long, slow strokes for maximum relaxation. For the ultimate dog spa experience, invest in a massage brush, which has rubber-tipped bristles that stimulate coat oil production. Don’t brush your dog too much – animals and their coats are naturally self-cleaning and have a delicate balance of natural oils.

Test the temp!

Dogs are very sensitive to temperature. Water that is results in pathetic shivering, while too hot can scald paws. If your pooch is a temperature Goldilocks, err on the side of caution and fill the tub with lukewarm water. Too chilly? Fill a pitcher or large cup with warmer water and use to rinse off Fido as you go.

Water can cool quickly in a chilly bathroom, so it’s important to maintain room temperature as well. If your pet is sick, leave the steam to clear out congestion in the sinuses and chest. Consider using a space heater to warm small rooms before and after a bath. If you think the room is too hot, your dog probably does too! Again, the key is to follow your Goldilocks of a pup – not too hot, not too cold, but just right.

This pooch loves to rub a dub dub! Pick an all-natural shampoo for sensitive skin. Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr.

Select a shampoo.

These days, there are almost as many dog shampoos as human ones! The options can be overwhelming, so focus on your pet’s fur type or skin needs. Dogs with sensitive skin should avoid scents and bubbles, which can result in environmental allergies and skin irritation. Select a hypoallergenic dog shampoo, which often has soothing oatmeal or aloe.

There are plenty of all-natural dog shampoos in pet stores and online. Recipes for DIY dog shampoo are plentiful on Pinterest and pet lifestyle blogs. An easy mix is one cup baking soda and one cup oatmeal; mix with four cups of warm water and a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid. Don’t worry, Dawn and similar soaps are very gentle – rescuers use it to clean seabirds after oil spills.

Toss in the towel.

Finish off your at-home dog spa day with a gentle yet firm toweling to remove excess water. Beware of your pooch’s own method of drying – the ol’ shake and drench! Even dogs can appreciate a fluffy towel, so save the rags for cleaning and put your pet in the lap of luxury. Using a high quality towel also reduces drying time and how much your pet drenches you: a win-win.

As an extra amenity, give your dog a dental chew for a minty fresh taste. This is also the perfect time to brush your dog’s teeth, clip nails, and any other minor grooming. Be sure to provide your pet with positive reinforcement for a job well done.

February 16, 2015 0 comment

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