Keeping safe on your late night walks!

With the days getting shorter, most likely your evening walks are in the dark. Unless you live in a very quiet neighborhood, you'll be passing traffic on the way. This can be dangerous for you, but mostly for your pet. Many dogs are either severely injured, or killed, when they pull out their retractable leash to full length, right in the middle of the street. Even with headlights on, it can be difficult, or impossible, for drivers to see dogs in front of their car. This is even more true for small or dark colored pets. This is why I stress to never use a retractible leash at night. With a regular leash, your dog will be at a maximum of a few feet from you, keeping him on the side of the road and out of danger. But what about ensuring drivers will notice you and your dog? Heres a few products to help that out:

FOR YOU

Headlamp: Headlamps are a very good idea to take with you on your walk. Not only does it light your way, but it leaves both hands to control your dog, making it safer for him too.

LED lights: These come in a wide range of different products, from belts to wristbands, these flash, strobe, or have other settings to make sure you're noticed.

FOR DOG

Dog-e-lite® flashlight and leash: This is a very intelligent product. It consists of a reflective leash, with an attached solar powered LED flashlight (no batteries needed!). Not only does the flashlight follow your dog, but the reflective leash glows from the light, making you even more visible. The flashlight also detaches making it very versatile. Flashight and leash $24.99

Puplight®: This product really wins! Puplight® is a 3 LED light that attaches around your dogs neck, lighting his way  and yours. Super bright, water resistant, and lasting for over 24 hours, its no wonder this product gets 5 stars wherever it''s sold. Illuminating 200 feet ahead, and up to 70 sideways, you and your dog are sure to be seen. This product is also great for late night potty breaks, your dog can see better (especially if he's aging) and if he decides to break free, you'll be able to see him too. Sporting a attached rim to keep light from shining in your dogs eyes, and comfortable easy adjust collar, your dog will love it too. Available in silver, black, red, and blue, Adjustable, fits all dogs. $24.99.

Now remember, it doesn't stop there. For added protection there are a wide range of reflective clothing, collars, and harnesses. Some with LED lights built in. These products can prevent an accident, but it's always best to play safe. Keep off busy streets, keep on the sidewalks, and cross the street as least as possible. But with all this aside,  enjoy yourself. Walks in the dark are great times to see and hear all that we miss during the day. If you live next to a forest, it can be a real treat observing all the nocturnal wildlife. Thats all for this month, see you in October, and enjoy your walks!

Best dog shamoos of 2012

With your dog enjoying himself outside on these nice summer days, most likely he'll be needing a bath more often them normal. Rolling on the grass, swimming, and staying outside will leave him with that dirty dog smell, and you saying he needs a bath. On that note, one question a lot of owners ask is "How often should I bathe my dog?" Well, that depends. First determine what type of skin your dog has, by spreading his fur out and observing his skin. If it feels dry, flakes, or he itches frequently, he almost assuredly has dry skin. If your hands feel oily after petting him, or he has a naturally "musty" smell all the time, he most likely has oily skin. Dogs in between are considered normal. Dogs with dry skin should get bathed the least, or use a specific shampoo for dry skin. For dogs with oily skin, owners should use a "degreasing" shampoo, and bathe more often, but not more than once a week as it will deplete their healthy oils. Normal dogs will fair well with regular dog shampoo, and baths when needed. You should never use human shampoo on dogs, as the PH (acidness/alkalinity of a liquid) is to low for dogs. That would leave dog's coats dull, complicate dry skin, and leave their hair scraggly. Dogs with skin allergies should always be bathed with a hypoallergenic shampoo. Diet is also a major factor in your dog's skin and coat, and can sometimes solve dry or oily skin. I've compiled a list of the best rated shampoos for the three main conditions, dry, oily, and sensitive skin. I've tried to look at natural for this article, as almost all synthetic chemicals/scents are harsh on dogs skin and coat. 

Normal/slightly dry skin: Hydraplex® plus Original Aloe-vera Oatmeal shampoo and spray. This is currently one of the top rated shampoos for dogs. It is formulated with essential omega-3 oils, and amino acids to create the perfect PH balance. In addition, it contains Zinc-PCA, with 90% of dogs lacking zinc in their coat, it rejuvenates and revives their skin and hair, for a beautiful shine, healthy glow, and soft feel. This shampoo is also  top rated for slightly dry skinned dogs, with the aloe and oatmeal moisturizing and protecting. Usually packaged with the shampoo, is  their leave-in spray. Quick and effective, loaded with the same essentials as the shampoo, it cleanses your dog in seconds. Both shampoo and spray are all natural, in three scents, peppermint, spearmint, and lavender. 9oz shampoo and 8oz spray, both for $21.99.


Oily skin: I had a no luck finding a natural "degreasing" shampoo. However, the most recommended ingredient for stripping grease and oils from dogs is benzoyl peroxide. It is also anti-bacterial, anti-itch, and removes dead skin cells. Benzoyl-Plus® shampoo is the leading medicated shampoo with that ingredient. Lather your dog and wait 10-15 minutes then rinse well. The waiting time will allow the  formula to penetrate the skin and fur follicles, stripping the grease effectively. Talk to your veterinarian before using, and he will prescribe frequency of use. There are many different varieties for treatment, so it would be hard to give you a definitive price range.

Hypoallergenic: Vets Best® Hypoallergenic shampoo. This gentle  tearless formula, cleanses your pooch without soap, leaving sensitive skin unharmed. Also great for dogs with extremely dry skin, as this shampoo with soothe rough, scaly, and itchy skin. Unscented, 16oz $9.99

Spray/conditioner: An outstanding "no bath" spray is the FURminator® waterless deshedding conditioner. Loaded with a fresh scent, and natural essential oils, it keeps our dog's fur slick and shiny, and smelling great all the time. It also reduces shedding, and when paired with a FURminator® comb, practically eliminates it. 8oz $8.99

There are many other categories of shampoos, like deshedding,odor control, or conditioners for glossy fur, so take a look around. Remember, if your dog has extremely dry or sensitive skin, its best to let your vet give him a checkup, or recommend a proper shampoo. Simple natural routes tend to be easier and safer though. For example, we live in the woods and our dog was getting more than 3-4 ticks a week. We added a few drops of bug repelling eucalyptus oil to his shampoo, and not only does it keep his odor down, but he now rarely gets ticks. Consider your dogs shampoo, it may make him AND you happier. Thats all for this month, goodbye!

Best dog beach toys!

When you hear the word summer, you think of hot days, cool drinks, and of course the beach. The same happened to me when I was thinking of what to write this first summer article on. The month of July was perfect, and of course all dogs love the beach. It's a great place for you and your pet to cool down, and if you're in Manitowoc County, we have some of the best beaches in the state. So why not get out there with your canine friend, and enjoy it together?! If your dog will swim, not only is it good exercise, and stimulation, but it's good bonding time. Some dogs (and their owners) get bored of throwing sticks, or toys that just get lost. That's when a toy specifically meant for water comes into play . They won't sink, are highly visible, easy to throw, and come in many varieties. I found one down the beach once, and it was our dog's favorite toy for the whole summer.  Here are the best of the toy varieties I could find:

 Hurley®: This is a very well thought up toy. It combines the durability, grip, and washability of rubber, in the shape of the classic beach fetch toy...the stick!  They are 100% recyclable, non toxic, dishwasher safe, and made in the USA. Hurley® comes in 3 sizes and colors, floats, and is guaranteed against dog destruction! $8.00 and up.

Aqua Kong®: These are great for those tuff chewers, and long distance swimmers. They float well, and come with a tuffness guarantee. With their attached rope, they fling long distances, and make it easier for the dog to retrieve. Aqua Kongs® are very durable, a neighbor had one for 2+ years until their labrador lost it. These come in a wide range of colors, sizes and strengths. $6.00 and up.

Hydroplane®: This toy is more suitable for those gentle fetchers, who don't normally chew their toys. It looks very much like a frisbee with a soft foam lining, making it easier for the dog to fetch.  They are also designed so the frisbee sticks up when your dog is carrying it, making them more visible in the waves. These are a little high priced, but they do get very good reviews. Hydroplane® comes in 1 size, 2 colors. $25.00

Zanies Surfs Up® beach ball: When your dog gets ahold of a normal beach ball, it usually gets popped. But not with Zanies Surfs Up® beach ball. Made from neoprene (the same stuff used in wetsuits) it is water resistant, brightly colored, and perhaps most importantly, tough. Zanies Surfs Up® has a whole line of products, be sure to check them out. Surfs Up® beach ball comes in 2 sizes. $7.50 and up.

If you have worries about your small or aging dog drowning, doggy life jackets are economical and are sold just about everywhere in ALL sizes. Still, it is always important to play safe at the beach. If the waves seem to high for your dog, water is labeled as yellow or red for that day, or if there is even a chance for rip currents, please do not let your dog swim. Be sure to keep plenty of drinking water with you. Even if your dog normally drinks lake water, it doesn't mean that he won't ever get sick. Keeping him hydrated will keep his mouth out of the lake. On that note, I know I said I would write about TikiWater® this month, I am sorry, that article has been delayed for various reasons. I will hope to inform you about TikiWater® next month. Until then. enjoy the beach and have a nice 4th of July!

Keeping the heat off your dog in summer.

Summer here in Wisconsin, especially by the lake-shore, is usually pretty mild. But on certain days and further inland, the heat can take its toll. A lot of us ignore our panting dogs, thinking that their natural response is sufficient. It usually is, but often they are not comfortable. Cooling off your pet can be as simple as wetting him down with a hose. But for overweight, long haired, or nearly all dogs, this doesn't help enough. Normally active dogs, being too hot to exercise, will have pent up energy, which can lead to destructive behaviors. With new technology, and new cooling agents being used in more and more pet products every day, the problem can soon be solved with a short trip to your pet store. If I tried to name all the cooling products out there this article would span many pages. Instead, I will go over the pros and cons of the most popular cooling products for dogs. All of these should be available at your local pet store.


A simple way to cool your dog on the hot days, is to purchase a cooling bed/mat. These come in many varieties, but the most popular ones being, freeze, water, heat dissipation, or weight activated. All of these work equally well, but choose the one that will suit you best. For example, if you go camping, the freeze activated will not be your best choice, weight activated however, will probably suit you best. Pros: Simple, rather inexpensive, convenient, also available for cats. Cons: Dogs that are up and about will not get relief, also pets that chew their beds should stay away from these products, as they usually contain inedible chemicals.


For active dogs, or for relief during walks, wearable cooling devices are perfect. These range from bandanas, to vests. Most of these use water or freeze activation for cooling. I wanted to stay away from naming brands, but one stood out as unique. This was the Guardian Gear® Cool pup™. Cool pup™ is a full body coat that works via two strategically placed ice packs on the chest, providing cooling relief. This is very similar to placing a cold towel on your forehead when running a fever. These packs slowly release their chills for up to 6 hours. The rest of the coat also is lined with heat-releasing SPF fabric, to reflect even more heat. Pros: Many types, work on active and non-active dogs. Cons: Dogs that hate clothing will probably also dislike these.

A inexpensive way to keep the heat down on your pooch, is frozen chews or toys. These are readily available, and come in a wide range of colors, sizes, and shapes to suit any dog. Most often, you soak these toys in water, freeze, and then let your dog have fun while he cools off. Pros: Inexpensive, widely available. Cons: Dogs who refuse chew toys will be limited to a smaller selection.

These are just a few of the commercially available ways to keep you dog cool, but keep in mind it doesn't stop there. Use your imagination, wet and freeze his toys in water, or chill his favorite snack. Another home favorite is the kiddie pool you probably have laying around. These are great for large or small dogs to keep the heat off. Please make sure though that your dog can touch his feet on the pools floor, you wouldn't want a fun time to be turned into a emergency.  If you have a long haired dog, keeping him trimmed will help him stay cool. If your dog isn't meant to be trimmed, brushing him down will help more than you think. And of course, keep plenty of fresh cool water around. If your out a lot with your dog, portable water dispensers are easily purchased at your local pet store. On that note, stay tuned for next month when I review a intelligent new product. Tiki Water, healthy water for your pets.

For More Information about Tiki Water, E-mail tiki@tikiwater.com

Reducing kitty litter odor

Cat litter odor can be a real problem for you, and visitors to you home. It isn't only unpleasant for your senses, but can be harmful to your health. Getting rid of odor can be troublesome without the right tools. This month, I would like to explore a few odor eliminating products. All are available online, and should be available locally. There are more expensive options, but I'll focus on more moderate priced solutions.  (Prices and customer ratings shown are average):

The Litter Box: Bionaire Odor Grabber®  rating 4/5 price $75
Even with its semi-steep price,  most people say its worth it. Odor Grabber® works via a built it electronic air purifier, cleaning the litter box of  dust, dander, fur and of course odor. This is more healthy for you and your cat, as it keeps harmful dust, and allergenic fur and dander, out of  the air. With its modern look, it fits any decor. When the filter needs to be replaced, a LED light comes on. Don't worry about your scaredy cat, Odor Grabber® is equipped with an ultra quiet fan. Included are a litter scoop, 2 filters ($15 value), and a 12 foot power cord.

Litter storage: Litter Locker II® rating 4.5/5 price $10
Litter Locker® is a litter disposal can, replacing the one in your garage or basement that always smells. Litter Locker® has a patent pended design that creates a convenient way to store soiled litter,  up to 2 months for one cat, while locking in all odors. One con though, is that you are required to buy their refill bag, for $8. But many users and help sites say that 10 gallon bags work equally well, with a much lighter price tag.

Deodorizer: Arm and Hammer Cat Litter Deodorizing powder. rating 4.5/5 price $5
Arm and Hammer did a outstanding job with this product. Not only does it neutralize odors, but it keeps a light fresh scent, nothing overpowering, for days. It also helps clumping litter from sticking to the pan. With its cheap price, its worth trying.

Of course, all these products work best when paired with regular cleanings. Hope you found this information useful.  Until next month!

Cleaning your dogs teeth.

You may have seen (or have) an older dog with teeth that are yellow or decayed. This can be the result of many things, but can be prevented by regular dental hygiene when he was younger. Cleaning your dog's teeth is not only important for his health, but for his appearance. Cleaning will remove plaque, making his gums healthier, teeth whiter, and it will curb his bad breath. How to clean his teeth? A regular toothbrush will work, for small dogs an infant brush will work better. Specialized dog toothbrushes will work best. These range from 3 headed brushes (to get left, top, and right sides of the tooth at the same time) to brushes that slip on your finger, for ease of cleaning. I found the latter to be easier, especially for small or squirmy dogs that won't stay still. You must be careful though not to use human toothpaste. Human toothpaste contains fluoride, plus many other chemicals that are harmful or fatal if swallowed. Canine toothpaste is readily available in "delicious" flavors, namely chicken and beef. It is safe for dogs to swallow and the meat flavor will probably keep your dog much happier. As an aid to brushing, scrapers and oral pads can be purchased, providing a more thorough cleaning. If your dog won't tolerate you poking around in his mouth, there are other products that reduce plaque, and freshen breath. These are also readily available and range from sprays, add in food/water, solutions, tablets, and dental chewies, edible or otherwise.These are usually very effective at reducing tarter and plaque. Also on the market are Doggie dental care kits, which can contain all or some of mentioned above, in one convenient package. All of these products should be stocked at your local pet store, some in different sizes for your dog. If they don't have what your looking for, you can always shop online! Happy Spring!

Calming your pet.

Many dogs (and some cats) get anxious or nervous. Whether it's a trip to the vet, or neighbors visiting, your pet can get "out of hand". For some pets, the owner can be the solution, talking and petting him until he calms down. But for many others, its not that easy.
You may have seen calming products in pet stores before, and wonder, if, and how they work. If they do, what kind should I buy for MY pet. Well the answer is they DO work, but work most effectively if used in the right situation. Not only do they calm your pet, but they can reduce accidents, chewing, and destructive behavior. There are 6 main calming products, all which work just as well as the other in different environment, and on different pets. I will go over the 6 with a short description of what they are, when they should be used, and how long they will take to effect. An asterisk * will indicate if the product can be purchased in a natural form.

Tablets/treats* -- Tablet and treat variety calming products, are a convenient way to calm down your dog or cat. There are many different calming ingredients, try out a few varieties, and brands to find the one that suits your pet. Effects:15-20 min.

Calming collars *-- These handy collars emit a calming pheromone, or a herb such as lavender, for hours on end, great for a lengthy stress situation (like holidays) These are sold for dogs and cats, in many sizes. Effects: Immediately

Sprays* -- These work well in secluded spots of stress (like a car, or kennel) Frequently sold for just dogs, but you may be able to find one for cats, take a look. They contain pheromones or scents that leave your pet calmed down. They usually don't have a strong scent, as dog can smell 25 times better than humans. Effects: Immediately

Infusers*-- Infusers are similar to those plug in air fresheners. They emit a light pheromone, or scent that keeps your pet calmed all the time. They work best in the room your pet spends most of its time in, as it will be exposed more to the infuser. Great long-term idea for those continuously stressed pets. Effects: 5-15 min

Food/water drops or paste *--These work well, although the pastes may give pets with delicate stomachs nausea. These are basically the same as tablets or treats, except they work better for some pets, and they take longer to work. Effects: 30-60 min

Prescription medication -- Traditional veterinary wisdom dictates drugs as a last resort. These can range from sedatives to mood altering drugs, and once again should only be used if other methods have failed. Effects: Hours to days

Take a look around, ask your vet, and find the best product to calm your pet. Also be sure your pet isn't allergic to any of the ingredients in the edible calmers. Until next month, enjoy the nice weather.

The QuickFinder®

With any dog, trimming his nails is frustrating, not only for him, but for you. Trimming dogs nails is especially challenging, as you don't want to cut his quick. The quick is the nerve and blood inside the nail, if cut, will not only be extremely painful, but will leave a bloody mess. Most dogs have black or dark nails that make the quick very hard to see. One way to see the quick on a dark nailed dog, is to look at the underside of the nail, you should see a faint impression, where that ends, his quick ends. This may sound like a simple solution, but in reality, it isn't satisfactory. Holding your dog's paw up, taking a look at where the quick ends, and then trying to trim just doesn't work. Most owners resort to filing, or getting their vet do it. The first, filing, doesn't work well, especially on small dogs. There paws rattle, its very timely, and it can leaves nails jaggedly. Taking your dogs to the vet, is not only a hassle, but costly. But (as you probably guessed) there is a better solution!

The folks at MiracleCorp™ have invented a outstanding new product, the QuickFinder®. QuickFinder works by sending out frequencies, and detecting the changes over nail, nail/quick, or quick. In doing so, it alerts whether its safe to cut or not, via 3 LED lights. Green-safe to cut, Yellow- cauiton, or Red- do not cut. Simple, but a revolutionary new product. QuickFinder (for small dogs and cats) and QuickFinder Deluxe (for large dogs) sell for around $15.99-$34.99 each, depending on place of purchase. QuickFinder can be purchased at PetSmart, and some PETCO's, calling ahead is advised. For more information, where to buy, and customer testimonials, visit www.quickfinderclipper.com Hope your having a great January.

Pet product review: The FURminator®

Review: The FURminator®

Brushing your pet is important, not only to make them look nice, but to reduce shedding. When I first got my dog, (K9, a Jack Russell Terrier) I purchased a multi-surface brush at the local pet store. It worked fine, keeping his hair sleek and shiny. But especially during his first winter, his shedding would increase, and so would the noticeable hair on the floor. During that time, I became aware of a de-shedding comb, the FURminator. Weary to purchase, because of the steep price ($30 for medium, dog) I did my research. I found out that FURminator works by "grabbing" the dead hairs trapped in the undercoat, the cause of shedding. I also found it got rave reviews everywhere, so I decided to purchase one. When I first brushed K9, I was amazed at the amount of hair it grabbed. In literally a few strokes it obtained a handful of hair. I was suprised, as he is a very small dog (16" from collar to tail) Proceeding, more and more hair was caught, and I ended up with a baggy full. K9, who will squirm if in any discomfort, didn't mind it at all. His fur was still full, but when you'd pet him, his hair wouldn't shed off. He also stayed sleek for a week or more, rather than a few days with his previous brush. If I fail to use the FURminator on him for a few weeks, I will notice his hair finding its way onto everything. A year later, the FURminator is still in perfect condition, a very strong, well built product. I would recommend this product not only for shedders, but also as a great grooming product for your pet. FURminators come in models for short hair, long hair, dogs or cats. For dogs its available in 5 sizes, for cats in 2. Prices depend on what model/size, and your place of purchase. FURminator brand also carries a wide range of other helpful de-shedding products, which include brushes, sprays, shampoos, and much more. FURminator brand is carried almost everywhere you find brand name pet supplies. For more information, testimonials, and their other products, please visit www.FURminator.com. Have a great New Year!

Bloat: a serious issue.

Bloat is a very serious health issue for dogs. Many dogs owners, (including me) thought bloat was just a bad case of tummy trouble. But surprisingly, it is the 2nd killer of dogs besides for cancer. Bloat can happen from a host of things, but the main cause is almost always your dog eating or drinking to quick. Exercising right before or after eating can also cause bloat. When your dog eats or drinks to quick he tends to lap up air, the normal cause of bloat (solids and fluids can also contribute though).When the excess air builds up in his stomach, it swells, blocking blood flow to his vital organs, smashing nerves/organs, and dangerous twisting of the stomach.Ultimately, this combination leads to death. Slowing your dog while eating or drinking will be a near impossible task, but there are solutions. A simple solution (if your dog will ignore it) would be to place a tennis ball in your dogs food bowl, which should slow him down a bit. Slow feeder bowls contain built in obstacles, such as prongs, ridges, or bumps, that slows your dog down. These obstacles don't make it hard for your dog to eat, they just prohibit him from eating his whole bowl in 30 seconds. Anti-gulping water bowls contain a large floating disc with holes in it, where adequate amounts of water pass through. Owners benefit as they also prevent wet messes from your dog. With this in mind, try a tennis ball, but if that doesn't work you can find slow feeder and anti-gulping bowls at your local PETCO. Likewise, view online the Eatbetter® and Drinkbetter® product line. For more information on bloat and its causes, visit http://www.globalspan.net/bloat.htm or talk to your vet next checkup. Have a great Thankgiving!