Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Pampering Prince or Princess at Home

Many of us wish we had standing weekly pedicures or facials at a Salon that we could actually schedule, afford and keep. But remembering to get our hair done about every six weeks or every couple of months is all we do. So we perfectly understand why you want the royal treatment for your dog, but you often have to settle for pampering your dog at home. The good news is that shampoos, conditioners, and other products can be used at home and offer the same salon quality results! Now that’s good news for our furry family members.

Many of the products available today are salon quality and have natural, holistic ingredients that are not only safe for your dog but also for you. In fact, one manufacturer in particular, Cain and Able, is constantly telling us that we can apply the same wonderful products to ourselves. Their stuff is formulated to protect, heal and moisturize and has Shea Butter, Aloe and Vitamin E. None of us have actually done this but several are very tempted.

Do it yourself products like brushes and de-shedding combs are easier than ever to use. Many of these products are of the same quality that the groomer uses and they are made for the consumer market. There’s even a comfy, cozy terrycloth bathrobe with a rubber duckie on the back for your dog’s at-home spa experience.

In fact, many shampoos, spritz, and breath elixirs smell so good you may be tempted to try them for yourself. One thing is for sure though; you’ll love what they do for your dog. We have lavender, coconut lime and green tree varieties made with yogurt, honey, kiwi, or oatmeal all leaving your dog shiny, detangled, smelling great and stress free. Exactly what the Spa Experience would do if you could ever get there. Our personal favorite is toothpaste called ‘kissable’.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Has Bigger Gotten Better for Large Dogs?

We get emails that say something like ‘I love that sweater does it come in an XX-Large?’ or ‘do you have a pink leather collar that will fit a 26” neck?’ all the time. And lately, we’re happy to say our answer is yes. Many large breeds such as the Great Dane, Newfoundland, Labrador and Rottweiler were out of luck when it came to great looking larger styles of shirts, sweater and collars. But now, the pet apparel industry is leveling out and has a better selection of stylish and durable items for larger breeds.

It’s hard to miss the best-dressed Yorkie on the block with a shirt or sweater for every day of the week. Small dogs clothes are abundant. But big dogs, and big dog owners were collectively left out of the fashion loop until now. Part of the issue was seeing the need for larger dogs to wear clothing, coats, and fashionable collars. German Shepards, Golden Retrievers, Mastiffs and other large breeds were considered sporting or guardian dogs that were active that didn’t wear clothing. But that’s not necessarily true, many large breeds have short coats and can benefit from the warmth and protection that coats and sweaters have to offer. Some of our favorite sweaters and coats now come in sizes to fit dogs with necks up to 24” and chests up to 34” (that’s almost 3’ around).

Thanks to the growing demand for stylish products for larger dogs, many fashion collars now come in XX-Large sizes. Many large breed dog owners want their dog’s collar to make a statement about themselves and their families. Whether it’s purple crocodile studded leather collars or natural fleece lined hemp collars there is plenty to choose from. Bigger has certainly gotten better for large breed dogs.