Victims of Flea Collars

Pets Die from Flea Collars and Flea and Tick Products. As a dog or cat owner, it seems as if the news is always reporting some sort of information about the harmful ingredients used in flea prevention products.

One of these prevention methods are flea collars and many people question if they are safe or dangerous when exposed to or used on their pets.

These are all flea collars and flea products that can be bought at your local pet supply store and unfortunately, a simple search online reveals pet owners complaining that these products were responsible for the health problems that their dog or cat are experiencing from using BioSpot, Zodiac, Sentry, Sargent and Hartz.

Many pet owners report chemical burns and other skin irritations. In the most severe cases, pet owners have claimed that one of these products was responsible for the death of their pet.

The Natural Pet Store has flea collars that are all natural and you will be able to reapply the citronella-lemongrass-cedar oil solution on the collar, allowing you to “reuse” the flea collar long-term, protecting your pet and the environment!

Click here to read more about fleas and how they can harm your pet and you.

We certainly do not recommend trying any of the products listed.

Judge for Yourself.

Below are just a few comments from Victims of Hartz and Sentry Flea Collars and Products. There is a pending Class Action Lawsuit, which will be implemented shortly.

Comments from Victims of  Flea Collars

Mia Shouldn’t Have Died That Way!

My mom’s cat was perfectly healthy when she decided to use Hartz flea treatment on her pets.

The fleas weren’t bad this year and because of a theft she was running short on funds so Hartz seemed a viable option. Instead of helping with the fleas, it was toxic to her and threw her into anemia and then the parasites infested her frail body.

The poison that this company sells to unsuspecting consumers needs to be stopped. I think a class action law suit could be the best avenue. I had to witness such a pretty girl die in a way that never should have occurred.

My Kitty

Roughly a year ago I gave my cat who was only a year old at the time a Hartz flea and tick collar. I noticed about 2 days later the skin was completely raw and bleeding. I thought maybe I had the collar on to tight (even though I did check to see If it was to tight when I put it on) I loosened it and kept it on for a few more days.

Over the next few days I noticed her entire neck was raw, bloody, and she was acting weird. I took the collar off and applied Neosporin for about two weeks, her neck healed up.

Until I stumbled across this website today and I never thought it was the collar that did this to my baby, so Thank You for the warning. I’ll never use any of the products again.

I Am So Sorry 

i would like to reach out to everyone out there who’s pets have gotten sick or saddly died from products this company is putting out i am not sure what i can do to help but i/we my wife and family have been through this and what ever support or ideas we are here.. you can email me at bnt11620@gmail.com from there i can always give you my number maybe together we can do something to get this off the shelf.

There are hundreds of complaints from people who have used these flea collars and flea products. There is a pending class action lawsuit for Hartz.

To read more heartbreaking story’s  from unsuspecting people click here.

Dogs, Cats, Bunnies, Ferrets and Birds can be adopted from the Humane Society, SPCA, adopted from a Rescue Group or rescued off the street, their contribution to the household they are in, is invaluable.

CLICK HERE

Recommended Reading:

• Treating Flea’s Naturally
• ASPCA
• HARTZ Victims Class Action Law Suit

Smart Dog Upstages Human

Even the best speakers at the recent American Psychological Association’s annual meeting were upstaged by a four legged research subject.

When Chaser, a 7-year-old Border collie walked into the room, people jockeyed for position so they could photograph the celebrity.

Border collies are at the top of canine intelligence charts. What sets Chaser apart is that she has learned to identify more than 1,000 objects and distinguish between nouns and verbs.

Her trainer, John Pilley, has posted videos of Chaser’s remarkable abilities on a You Tube Channel. In these clips from New Scientist, she responds to voice commands, correctly identifying both objects and actions.

Chaser’s vocabulary is the largest recorded for a canine. Over a period of three years she was taught one object at a time, with regular reviews, until she could correctly identify them. According to New Scientists, she never got less than 18 out of 20 right.

This smart dog’s accomplishments are, of course, only part of the story. They give us a glimpse into her ability to figure out what humans are trying to communicate. The other side of the equation remains a puzzle, with many pieces still missing. 

The more we learn about the capacities of non-humans, the more we realize how much we still do not know.

For an Extensive List of Shelters and Animal Rescue Groups Click here

Dogs, Cats, Bunnies, Ferrets and Birds can be adopted from the Humane Society, SPCA, adopted from a Rescue Group or rescued off the street, their contribution to the household they are in, is invaluable.

  

AKC Announces Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.

10 Top Dog Breeds 

Lovable Labs Hold Top Spot for 21 Years While Rottweiler Moves Into the Top 10

Look out Lab, the American Kennel Club® (AKC) has announced that the Beagle has overtaken the beloved Yorkshire Terrier to become the third most popular dog breed in the U.S., according to AKC registration statistics released today.

The Golden Retriever also made a strong push into the top ranks – advancing from the fifth to the fourth most popular dog breed – and the Rottweiler made news by unseating the Shih Tzu – which had been in the top 10 since 2000.

But fans of the Labrador Retriever need not fear: the beloved Lab remains the champ – a spot it has now held for 21 consecutive years – thanks to its well-earned reputation for playfulness and loyalty and its use as a police and search-and-rescue dog.

“While the Labrador Retriever has proven once again to be a family favorite, this year clearly belongs to the Beagle,” said AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson.

“The Beagle’s merry personality combined with his love of outdoor activities make him such a wonderful family pet that I wouldn’t be surprised to see this spunky breed sniff his way to the top of the list next year.”

2011 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.	2013 Ranking
1. Labrador Retriever	1. Labrador Retriever
2. German Shepherd	2. German Shepherd
3. Beagle	3. Golden Retriever
4. Golden Retriever	4. Beagle
5. Yorkshire Terrier	5.Bulldog
6. Bulldog	6. Yorksire Terrier
7. Boxer	7. Boxer
8. Poodle	8. Poodle
9. Dachshund	9. Rottweiler
10. Rottweiler	10. Dachshund

For An Extensive List of Shelters and Animal Rescue Groups Click here

Dogs, Cats, Bunnies, Ferrets and Birds can be adopted from the Humane Society, SPCA, Animal Foundation, adopted from a Rescue Group or rescued off the street, their contribution to the household they are in, is invaluable.

Source:

AKC Dog Breeds
Complete List of Dog Breeds

2013 Top Ranking Dog in America

Dangers of Flying Your Pets in Cargo Section

When flying with pets, many animal welfare organizations strongly recommend that pets should travel in the passengers cabin of the aircraft with you, rather than in the cargo hold.

The statistics on animal loss and death as a result of cargo hold shipping indicate that about 5,000 animals are killed or lost every year in the United States, you do not want your pet to become a statistic.

For this reason, if you own a small animal such as a cat, small dog, or rodent, you should make arrangements for the pet to fly in the passengers cabin.

If your animal is too large to fit in the cabin, you may want to consider an alternate mode of transportation instead of flying your pet.

There is a new service now operating called Pet Airlines which will allow pets to fly in a temperature controlled and pressurized cabin from 5 major cities around the United States.

This is a pet-only airline, and there is always a pet attendant on board frequently checking on your pet.

 
Another option is a Canadian charter service, SwiftJet that is allowing pets in their first class cabins.
For more information on private jet airline charters, both within the United States and worldwide.

PLEASE NOTE that not all of these airlines are pet friendly. You will need to confirm that with individual charter companies.

NOTE: Some rabies free countries do not allow pets to arrive in that country on a chartered aircraft unless the charter company has been pre-approved.

A bit of extra effort on your part can pay off in a big way when it comes to the safety and comfort of you and your pet. Consider a pet friendly private plane for less-stress travel.

Additional Information

Pet Airlines
Pet Air/Pet Shipping/Animal Transportation

TheHumane Society of the US: Why Pets Shouldn’t Travel By Air

Be aware of the risks, and explore all your options before booking your pet’s flight.

TheHumane Society of the US: Traveling Tips for Pets on Planes
If your pet must travel in the cargo hold, you can increase the chances of a safe flight for your pet by following these tips.

AirlineAnimal Incident Reports
The Department of Transportation (DOT) is now tracking the numbers of animals that died or were lost or injured during transport. Complete monthly reports are published in DOT’s Air Travel Consumer Report.

USDomestic Airlines That Allow Pets
Kennel size and weight requirements, fees.

Petfinder’s2011 Most Pet-Friendly North American Airlines

Petfinder.com’s annual review of pet-friendly airlines which outlines the best options for traveling in-cabin with animal companions.

Flying With A Dog

Dog owners who go on business trips or take vacations have to decide whether to board their dog in a kennel or take the dog with them.

For many dog owners, leaving their animals behind is not an option; they want the animal to accompany them, even if it means flying with a dog.

The key element when flying with a dog on an airplane is to make plans and work out the specifics in advance of the flight. The following is a list of details to consider before flying with your dog.

If you are flying with your dog you will want to plan a direct flight to their destination, if possible. This will shorten flight time and help to reduce your dog’s time in the animal-transportation carrier.

You should call the airline as soon as the itinerary has been finalized. The airline may have rules, regulations, and policies that must be followed.

If an overseas trip has been planned, there may be quarantine regulations that must be considered. You’ll need to bring a certificate showing the dates of the shots your dog has had. Ask the airline what their requirements are.

Calling the airline in advance will enable you to discuss any requests or requirements that you may have.

If you’re sending your dog by cargo, it is imperative to make sure that the cargo compartment of the airplane is pressurized, so that the animal will have oxygen and be warm enough while traveling. Read cargo compartment dangers

If your dog is small, most airlines will allow your dog in the passengers cabin secured in a carrier. Ask the airlines what their weight limit is and if their “quota” has been met for your flight.

Pet Carriers

There are different types of pet carriers used by the various airlines. Contact the airline and ask them if they have a carrier for your dog.If not, inquire what the regulations are from the airline you are traveling on, pertaining to the carriers dimensions you will be providing.

Having the carrier at home before the flight will allow the dog owner to help the dog get used to being confined. This will help reduce some of the fear or anxiety that the dog may experience on the day of the flight.

Some dogs need mild tranquilizers to help them remain calm while flying. Discuss this with your vet.

Departure Day

When the flight day arrives, you should plan to start the day early. This will give you enough time to exercise the dog, allow the animal to ‘go potty,’ and help your dog become comfortable in the carrier.

Before your dog enters the carrier, you need to place your dog’s identifying information on the carrier and make sure it is on your dog as well.

Food And Meds In Flight

Feed at least 5 hours in advance of travel and avoid water for your dog within 1 hour of flight. (Water may be advisable for dogs traveling in cargo on long flights.) 

For dogs traveling in the passengers cabin, you may offer ice cubes or a sip of water toward the end of the flight as needed. 

Avoid giving a rawhide chew stick as it could get stuck in your dog’s throat and assistance would be difficult. If your dog is on medication, schedule it accordingly.

A good idea is to bring along your dogs favorite toy, or surprise him with a new one,  a soft blanket to be put in the carrier, some treats and of course his food, given to him after arrival.

Identification Tags

Write your pets name on the carrier in large letters, along with your name and contact information. You need to make sure that this information is securely attached to your dog’s carrier as well as on his tag on his collar.

An implanted ID (microchip) is also a good idea, but must be obtained via a veterinarian prior to the trip. After you release the dog and carrier to the airline, you need to request confirmation your dog has been securely and safely loaded onto the plane. Then you also need to verify, with an airline representative, that your dog is on the right plane.

Instructions at Time of Arrival

After you arrive at the intended destination, you should immediately tell a flight attendant and an airline representative in the airport that your dog is on board.

You can request that the dog’s removal from the plane be given immediate priority. Finally, you need to ask for the exact point of removal. Some airlines have a separate office or facility where passengers pick up cargo, including animals, from a flight.

Dog owners who follow the above guidelines will be well-prepared when they are flying with their dog. They will ensure the dog’s safety. In addition, the dog will be more at ease and less likely to experience fear or anxiety during an airline flight.

Flying with a dog can be a great experience if precautions are taken to prepare ahead of time.

Additional Information:
Pet Airlines

Pet Air Line/Pet Shipping/Animal Transportation

PetAirlines
Providing a list of pet friendly airlines

TheHumane Society of the US: Why Pets Shouldn’t Travel By Air

Be aware of the risks, and explore all your options before booking your pet’s flight.

TheHumane Society of the US: Traveling Tips for Pets on Planes

If your pet must travel in the cargo hold, you can increase the chances of a safe flight for your pet by following these tips
.

AirlineAnimal Incident Reports

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is now tracking the numbers of animals that died or were lost or injured during transport. Complete monthly reports are published in DOT’s Air Travel Consumer Report.

USDomestic Airlines That Allow Pets

Kennel size and weight requirements, fees.

Petfinder’s2011 Most Pet-Friendly North American Airlines

Petfinder.com’s annual review of pet-friendly airlines which outlines the best options for traveling in-cabin with animal companions.

For an Extensive List of “No Kill” Shelters and Animal Shelters click here

5 Tips on How to Take The Stress Out Of Taking Your Pet To The Vet

Taking your pet to the veterinarians’ office can be an adventure all on its own.

There are so many sights, sounds, smells and other sensations that your pet can easily become quite excited or agitated to the point that control is difficult.

Multiply this by the ever rotating average of 10 or more pets in a busy waiting room and mass pandemonium could be the result.

Without proper training and control, a veterinarian’s waiting room might quickly become a bedlam of scales, feather and fur as the animals all compete for space and attention. So what can you do to make the trip less stressful for your pet, yourself, your vet and the staff? There are five basic points that will make any visit, less of an odyssey.

 1.  Leash or Halter Train Your Dog

If you do not plan on using a pet carrier for transport, train your dog to walk on a leash. A shorter leash or halter is best in this situation as it provides more control for the dog owner and prevents tangling with other animals or furniture. Leashes also provide a handhold for cases where aggressive behaviors among animals might otherwise get out of control.

2. A Pet Carrier

 A pet carrier is ideal for cat and small animals. This provides them with a measure of security, as they have their own personal space, and it also gives them protection from larger or aggressive animals that might be in the waiting room, but for larger animals a pet carrier may not be an option.

3. Don’t Forget the Rewards

Unless your veterinarian has requested your dog have no food for specific purposes, such as testing, or if they do not allow food in the waiting room, feel free to bring along a treat for your pet.
This will help them to feel more at ease with the new surroundings and help to keep their focus on you rather than on getting a closer look at the iguana on a leash in the corner. It also gives you the chance to continue the training lessons while waiting for your pet to be called back to the exam rooms.

4. Keep Track of your Pet’s Medical Records

Is your pet allergic to anything? Is she up to date on her vaccination shots? How old is he? Has your pet had any surgeries, major illnesses or parasites? These things are all important to know and could be potentially life threatening if you didn’t keep them current.

Regular visits to the vet and being current on shots is always a good idea. Over vaccinating can be deadly for your pet. Read more on vaccinations and which ones are not necessary. Visiting the vet regularly will help your pet to become more relaxed with the office settings and they will respond better.

5. Let’s Party 

Socializing your pet to other people and animals prior to vet visits is a great idea provided they are current on their vaccinations. This allows them to learn acceptable behaviors around other animals and what the boundaries of interaction are. Hosting a puppy party is a great way to do this.

Invite several other dog owners over to visit and serve a modest picnic or potluck type meal. Encourage the dogs to play and interact together and with the other owners. This will help them to learn what you will and will not accept and helps you to determine potential problem areas.

Following these simple tips can make vet visits less traumatic on all involved and much easier to cope with. You will thank yourself later. Your pet will thank you and so will the staff at the vet’s office.

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10 Commandments for a Responsible Pet Owner – As dictated from the pet

Take a moment today to thank Heaven for your pets.

Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God’s critters. Please pass this on to other pet lovers.

Dictated From A Pet:

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. 
Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me. 

3. Place your trust in me.
It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t lock me up as punishment. 
You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you.

5. Talk to me. 
Even if I don’t understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Don’t yell at me...speak softly to me so I won’t get stressed out.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me.
Remember that I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, and yet I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative.
Ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. 
You too will grow old.

10. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. 
Never say you can’t bear to watch. Don’t make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so.

The following is for to you from the Las Vegas Valley Humane Society:

Click Here

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6 Top Benefits of Adopting a Pet

Are you thinking of getting a new pet? Have you ever considered pet adoption?

Dogs, Cats, Bunnies, Ferrets and Birds can be adopted from the Humane Society, SPCA, Shelters, adopted from a Rescue Group or rescued off the street, their contribution to the household they are in, is invaluable.

Here are 6 simple reasons why you should choose pet adoption.

1. You’ll save a life

Saving a life just may be one of the most rewarding actions in a person’s life. Some pet shelters have to put down animals if they do not get adopted. If you choose to adopt a pet from an Animal Shelter or Animal Rescue Group, you are not only saving a precious animal’s life, you are also greatly increasing its quality of  life (and yours).

2. You’ll save money

When you adopt a pet, you are actually saving a lot of money. Animals that have been placed in Shelters and Rescue Groups are spayed or neutered, micro-chipped, vaccinated and temperament tested.

Those preliminary, but necessary procedures add up when all is said and done. Also, it is relatively inexpensive to adopt a pet from an agency or shelter in comparison to purchasing dogs or cats from a local pet store who usually gets their pets from Puppy Mills.

 3. You’ll receive a healthy pet

As was mentioned above, pets from shelters and adoption agencies are almost always spayed or neutered, and have received their vaccinations as well. This ensures the health and happiness of your future pet.

In contradiction to popular belief, many pets who have been placed in shelters have not been mistreated or “done something wrong.” Many pets have been taken there because of people problems, such as divorce, a big move, illness or death of the guardian, or they are simply too busy to adequately provide care for a pet.

4. You won’t be supporting puppy mills

Many pets that are sold in pet stores or newspaper ads sometimes come from puppy mills. Puppy mills are mass dog-breeding businesses that are harmful to the health of their bred puppies.

These facilities sometimes house up to several hundred dogs at a time, thus compromising the health and well-being of a precious puppy. Do NOT buy any pets online. 

By adopting a pet from a Shelter, an Animal Rescue Group or a pet adoption agency, you are not supporting these often inhumane businesses.

5. You’ll have a large selection

Because pet adoption agencies, animal shelters and rescue groups have many pets, there is a wide selection for you to choose from.

To make pet shopping easier on potential parents, many rescue groups, pet agencies and shelters have websites that allow people to search for possible pets by their age, sex, size, and breed.

This enables families to search from the comfort of their own homes, the hassle of going to noisy and overwhelming shelters and agencies is eliminated.

Click here for a list of Shelters and Animal Rescue Groups. The satisfaction you will acquire when you adopt a pet is like no other. 

You will have received a healthy pet, you will save money, you will be supporting a healthy and just cause, you will get the perfect pet for your family, you will have saved a life and you will have gained a loving, loyal companion.

6. Health Benefits

We know intuitively that our pets enrich our lives, so it is not surprising that a growing number of scientific studies are demonstrating the positive effects that animals can have on human health and development.

Here is just a partial list of the health benefits of pet ownership, as reported by the Delta Society, a non-profit foundation that promotes research on the bond between humans and their animals:

1. Pets Help to Lower Blood Pressure. A recent study at the State University of New York at Buffalo found that people with hypertension who adopted a cat or dog had lower blood pressure readings in stressful situations than did those who did not own a pet. (Dr. Karen Allen, State University of New York at Buffalo
2. Contact with pets develops nurturing behavior in children who may grow to be more nurturing adults.
3. Having a pet may decrease heart attack mortality by 3%. This translates into 30,000 lives saved annually in the U.S. alone
4. Seniors who own dogs go to the doctor less than those who do not. In a study of 100 Medicare patients, even the most highly stressed dog owners had 21 percent fewer physician contacts than non-dog owners. (Siegel, 1990)
5. Autistic children with pets are more highly socialized and are less self-absorbed.
6. Children exposed to pets during the first year of life have a lower frequency of allergic rhintis and asthma. (Hesselmar, 1999)

It’s also been reported that petting an animal significantly reduces stress and helps to eliminate depression. Many nursing homes have incorporated programs which allow pets to visit residents, which is said to “lift ones’ spirit”.

Adopting a pet has lifelong benefits that you will not regret. Give these animals a second chance by allowing them to join your loving family.

AnimalFoundation (formerly Lied)
This is a HIGH KILL Shelter in Las Vegas, NV
By adopting an animal you’ll be saving a life!
655 N. Mojave Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702)384-3333 #131 (adoptions)

Map and Directions Information and Hours

Adoption Search

The Adoption Department is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Lost and Found Daily 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

All animals have been:

• Spayed or neutered 
• Microchipped
• Vaccinated 
• Vet checked 
• Temperament tested 
• You receive a Free bag of food 
• Free follow up Vet check 
• 14 day return policy 

If you’re not certain whether you want a long term commitment by adopting an animal and would like to see if this is for you, perhaps you would enjoy Fostering.

Fostering an animal is very rewarding and so gratifying knowing that you have saved a life and took care of this precious soul until he finds a forever home. For more information on fostering an animal click here.

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BEWARE of Hazards at the Groomer’s: Grooming Deaths Cause Concerns

Hey, it’s hard being a dog — or a cat — for that matter. All that lying
around during the day, eating biscuits (or catnip), chasing toys, going for walks … it might not be a 9-5 job, but it still has its demands, which is why your furry, four-legged friend deserves an indulgent day at the spa.

OK, so the “spa” is really called the “groomer’s” and there aren’t any mud masks or massages, but we’re willing to bet that Fluffy and Fido will enjoy a blowout and pedicure — no matter how much they put up a fight.

“I think that groomers are a good thing for our pets,” said Dr. David Bessler, senior emergency clinician at NYC Veterinary Specialists. “Without groomers, they wouldn’t have dignity, and they would have health problems from mats (in their fur). I see a lot of accidents when people try to take grooming into their own hands.”

That said, certain hazards can occur at the groomer’s, even if by accident.

1. Self-Hanging

The biggest hazard to worry about is the hanging collar that groomers use to keep dogs (and sometimes cats) still while they cut their fur, Bessler said.

This is the proper equipment to use so they won’t “hang” themselves. This kind of devise actually prevents the dog from jumping off the table.

“Dogs can’t sit still,” he said. “It can be life-threatening. Sometimes dogs — or cats — will struggle and try to jump off the table. They are usually caught right away, but the way strangulation works, it only takes a second for the airway to be obstructed.”

2. Clipper Burns

“If the pet is clipped a little too close to the skin, it causes pain and irritation to the skin,” Bessler said.

There are some areas on an animal that are more sensitive than others, like the hind quarters, and if that is affected, the animal may be itching quite frequently.

Bessler said he gets a lot of calls about clipper burns, and he usually treats them with a soothing lidocaine spray.

3. Soap in the Eye

Most of the time, the groomer will use a safe shampoo, but if that shampoo comes in contact with the animal’s eye, a corneal abrasion can occur, Bessler said.

The owner may notice the animal’s eyes are red and squinty, in which case he or she should seek attention from a veterinarian, who will treat the condition with eye drops.

4. ‘Swimmer’s Ear’

Dogs with floppy ears that hang over the ear canal are prone to ear infections, so groomers have to be careful not to get water in them, Bessler said.

“They can get the equivalent of ‘swimmer’s ear,’” Bessler said, “and it’s frustrating for dogs.”

Owners should watch for dogs that are scratching or pawing excessively at their ears, shaking their heads frequently, or have pain when the owner touches the ear. Also, if the owner manages to get close enough to the ear to look at it, the ear will look red in color, Bessler said.

5. Sedatives

Sometimes groomers will give animals sedatives, Bessler said, and he has seen disastrous results occur because of this. If your groomer offers to sedate your pet, say no.

“Sedatives should be administered only by licensed vets or by specific instructions for specific pets,” he added.

Animals have died by overdosing on sedatives given to them by groomers, Bessler said, and in his tenure as a veterinarian, he has seen animals so heavily sedated that he has had to intervene. Sometimes the drugs can be reversed.

6. Dryer Cages

Thomas Bruckner, of Point Lookout, Long Island, lost his dog Bailey, a pug-beagle mix, from heatstroke in September 2008. The dog had collapsed at the groomer’s, shortly after she had been in a dryer cage, Newsday reported in April.

Recommended Reading: 

Avoid This Unnecessary Trauma At The Groomers

Do you need a license to be a dog groomer?

Dogs have been killed or injured by hot dryers, sharp clippers or their own leashes if left unattended during grooming, which doesn’t require a license or training.

According to About.com, a person does not need a license or certification to be a dog groomer, but certification training instills knowledge and credibility. A person who wants training has the option of going to an accredited institution with certified master dog groomers as teachers. 

NO license, no training, no knowledge needed to become a groomer!
_________________________________________________________________

PNM: “On my many visits to PetSmart, sometimes I would gaze into the groomers section to watch the adorable pets. 

I couldn’t believe how some groomers handled the poor dogs, by pulling them and in general being extremely rough. I complained to the manager and she said sometimes they had to get aggressive with the dogs because the dog didn’t want to listen to the groomer. There’s a right way to handle dogs, which obviously they weren’t aware of. Several dogs have been injured and burned to death by the automatic drying blowers. (See stories below)…

At a private grooming salon while I was having my dog groomed, I witnessed a dog who had the “hanging collar” around his neck, jump off the table while the “groomer” went to get my dog. I screamed for someone to help him…lucky I was there. If they don’t have the proper equipment, run the other way! 

I could go on and on about this problem. Just do your homework before bringing your furbaby to be groomed. Better safe than sorry…
_______________________________________________________________________
This is what happened when I investigated some of the grooming salons in the area.

Reviews
After doing my homework  I picked out a few Pet Groomers in my area that had high ratings along with good reviews – and here’s what I discovered:

1. The cost of grooming a very small dog, with no frills added was quoted on the phone, by the owner (who I met at the facility), as one price, however when I picked my dog up, the cost was $15 higher with no sight of the owner. 
2. I asked for a full groom, which included a bath + the works. When I picked my dog up and brought her home, I noticed that the small mat behind her ear was still there. How can a dog be bathed, dried, trimmed and brushed, and still have that mat still there?
3. When it was time again for her bath, I took her to yet another “salon”, only to find that they never gave her a bath, as her tail fur is very fluffy after a bath, however, you guessed it…NO BATH…her tail fur was as limp as a dish rag.
4. Good News! I finally found a reputable Grooming Salon who made my little girl gorgeous. Tail was very fluffy along with her fluffy body, nails were perfect and, all in all, a great place to take your pooch – and – it only took a little over an hour. Price is right and people are there are a delight. So, if you’re not happy with your present groomer try: Doggie Delight (you’ll be delighted with the outcome). 

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FLEA’S: How To Safely Get Rid Of Them

You’re not the only one who’s enjoying the warmer weather, so are the fleas that are on the lawn, at the park and maybe in your house. That’s why you want to make sure your pets – both dogs and cats – are protected.

Flea and tick collars along with flea products are not only toxic to your pet, they also expose YOU to pesticides when you play with your dog or cat.

From collars to sprays to topical solutions, Americans spend millions of dollars on flea-control products every year and unwittingly poison themselves and their animal companions. There are safer, more environmentally friendly ways to protect your furry friends and yourself from these pesky insects.

                             About The Enemy 

For millions of pets and people, the tiny flea is a remorseless enemy. The flea is a small, brown, wingless insect that uses specialized mouth parts to pierce the skin and siphon blood.

When a flea bites your dog, it injects a small amount of saliva into the skin to prevent blood coagulation. Some animals may have fleas without showing discomfort, but an unfortunate number of dogs become sensitized to this saliva.

In highly allergic animals, the bite of a single flea can cause severe itching and scratching. Fleas cause the most common skin disease of dogs – flea allergy dermatitis.

• Hartz Victims Read comments from VICTIMS using flea collars and products

Las Vegas plus other desert states have seen an increase in the incidence of fleas. Other parts of the country and abroad have more severe problems with infestations. 

Fleas are most well-known for spreading tapeworm to pets. The discomfort of a flea bite causes the pet to turn and chew at an area and, if they accidentally consume the fleas, the pets can take in the tapeworm eggs that the fleas carry.

The adult fleas hopping around on your pet and in your house are only about 1% of the entire flea population in your home environment. So this means that for every flea you see, there are actually at least 99 more in one or another stage of development lurking around the house or yard.

Considering an adult flea can live up to 60-100 days, a single flea could lay upwards of 2000 eggs in her lifetime. And even if only half of those go on to reproduce – you get the picture – lots and lots of fleas!

Flea larvae emerge from the eggs within 1 to 10 days, although if conditions are not ideal, the egg can remain in the environment much longer waiting for the right “moment” to hatch.

Fleas Spread Disease 

One more detail about our foe the flea – they can spread disease and tapeworms.

An important fact about fleas is that they prefer weaker, less healthy hosts and very young puppies and kittens with undeveloped immune systems. Knowing this, we can arm our pets for flea resistance by boosting their health and immunity. If you have a flea problem, this is the first place to start.

There are many topical sprays & shampoos out there touting their effectiveness at killing or deterring fleas. Many of them contain chemicals and pesticides that are not conducive to building your companion’s immune system.

Cats, in particular, are susceptible to the toxic nature of many of these products because they are constantly grooming themselves and ingesting whatever they have been sprayed with.

Flea collars (especially on cats), can cause severe deep wounds around the neck with open sores, bleeding and painful blisters. Inhaling the fumes from the toxic flea collar can cause nausea, loss of appetite, lethargy and dizziness. See complete list below of the health risks for your pet.

Diet for Your Pet

Diet is the foundation of health. Nothing you give your dog or cat can do as much good for their health and immunity as a proper diet.

At the minimum this means top quality processed foods that do not contain fillers, chemical preservatives, or food coloring’s. Click here to find out about the “shocking ingredients” that’s put into pet food.

Supplementing your pets diet can also help. Essential Fatty Acids will help build the immune system and boost the health of the skin and coat. Digestive Enzymes & Probiotics will help him get the most nutrition from his food and aid the digestive process.

I highly recommend Nupro Health Nuggets for Dogs and Cats. It is a superior supplement that provides the raw vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino and fatty acids that are lacking in commercially processed foods. Nupro was designed to boost your pets typical diet with whole, fresh and nutrient-rich ingredients.

Garlic (very small amounts for cats) and B vitamins tend to make the animal less tasty to fleas, so many guardians supplement with garlic & brewers yeast, (a good source of vitamin B1), during flea season to help their companions ward off attacks.

Keep in mind that some animals are allergic to brewers yeast, so watch closely the first week or so to make sure the itching doesn’t get worse.

NATURAL TREATMENTS

Neem Oil Products

Also recommended is Neem Oil products or Flea Away for dogs and cats, and essential oils for dogs.

Always dilute Neem Oil or Essential Oil with a carrier oil or water.

Actually, Neem Oil can be used as a substitute for expensive “miracle” beauty potions for humans which are full of toxins. Neem oil sprays and shampoos not only help repel fleas, they also help sooth and heal irritated skin for our pets and our self.

Neem oil also kills parasites and “bugs” on plants. This essential oil blend is another good repellent for use on dogs. You can put a drop on their collar and dilute it into a spray to mist your dog.

Combining a little neem oil spray with your flea combing is a great way to both spread the neem oil throughout the animal’s coat as well as giving you extra help with catching the fleas. Pay particular attention to the neck and chest on cats and the top of the hips/base of the tail and under the legs and belly on dogs.

When using any product like these with a strong odor, just keep in mind that your dog or cat has a much stronger sense of smell than you do, (as do the fleas), so don’t overdo it. Cats especially seem to be sensitive, so use sparingly.

Many cats do not like to be sprayed, so spray a small amount of Neem Protect Spray onto a cloth and wipe it on lightly or it can be sprayed onto your palms and  massaged over your pets exterior, and all the while, your pet is loving it AND being treated for those nasty fleas.

Essential Oils and the Risks

There are a few natural oils that are safe to use on dogs to repel fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. According to the Partnership for Animal Welfare, lavender oil will repel all three types bugs and can be used in the same fashion as a spot-on treatment. Geranium and peppermint oil can be used to repel mosquitoes and ticks, but they don’t really work for fleas.

Lemongrass is good for ticks and fleas, but not mosquitoes. Other essential oils that seem to be “flea repellent” are cedar, tea tree,citronella, eucalyptus and pennyroyal, (the last two are toxic to cats).

ALL essential oils must be diluted with a “carrier” oil or water. Carrier oils that are good to mix with essential oils are olive oil, coconut oil (when cold it becomes solid) and jojoba oil.

It is not recommend to use essential oils on cats. One more precaution about using essential oils – they can interfere with the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies, so don’t use them if you are treating your pet with homeopathy products. It must be diluted if you use it on your dog. Use 6 drops of orange essential oil to a gallon of warm water and rinse well.

“Flea Away” is a specialized diatomaceous earth that is safe for use on dogs and cats as well as around the home. It kills fleas by dehydrating them – which is not only non-toxic to pets, humans and the environment, and fleas cannot develop an immunity to it as they do to all other pesticides over time.

If your pet has fleas, you can use this soothing homeopathic remedy.  It will help the infestation and redness which your pet will most likely refrain from his frantic scratching bouts.

Flea Away is an all Natural Flea Repellent for Dogs and Cats that also comes in chewable tablets which is also a dietary supplement.

Bathing your pet is an excellent way to kill fleas. Use a neem shampoo or an oatmeal shampoo if your pet as irritated skin. I have found Dawn dish washing soap is effective in ridding your pet of fleas. You can also add a drop or two of essential oils to the oatmeal shampoo to make it more “flea unfriendly”.

Leave the lather on your pet for a few minutes to help smother any persistent fleas, and then RINSE WELL. Soap residue can dry the skin and make the itchiness worse. You can follow with Doc Acerman’s Orange Cream Conditioner to help prevent dry skin as well.

The House Environment 

You cannot rid your companion of fleas by treating your pet alone, (unless you are willing to resort to pesticides). Most of the population lives and develops in your house and yard, not on your pet. Treating the environment is essential if you want to win this war.

Furniture, Carpets and Flooring

Flea Away, discussed above, can be used on carpeting, on the pet’s bedding, on furniture and on hard floors. It is a very fine powder similar in consistency to talcum powder, so it gets into cracks and crevices on hard wood and linoleum floors easily.

It acts more quickly than boric acid products – a difference in the flea population can be noticeable in 24 – 48 hours. 

Diatomaceous earth, however, does not last as long as the boric acid products. Monthly applications are recommended, especially during the height of flea season.

Bedding

Don’t forget the sleeping quarters! Wash your pet’s bedding in hot, soapy water at least weekly. You can even add one or two drops of essential oils or Bite This! to the water for extra flea-zapping power. Sprinkle a little Flea Away onto DRY bedding and work it in to help kill the little pests while your companion sleeps.

Your Yard

Last, but certainly not least, treat the yard. Remember that the larvae don’t like light – so rake up any leaves and keep the grass cut. Watering can help drown the larvae as well.

A majority of the fleas and larvae will be within 50 feet of your companion’s favorite spot to rest, so focus on those areas. Flea Away can be sprayed onto the grass with a hose sprayer to kill fleas in the yard. Application must be repeated after rain or watering.

Beneficial Nematodes are another way to control fleas in the yard. Beneficial nematodes are a flea parasite, (mother nature always has a balancing mechanism). They are tiny little bugs that prey on both adult fleas and larvae. They can be applied with a hose sprayer or, on a smaller yard, with a watering can. 

Some garden centers and nurseries carry them or can order them for you, as well as some of the “natural” pet stores. An internet search will provide more sources than you can sort through.

Keep the treatment up for several months after you stop seeing fleas. If you stop flea treatment as soon as you stop seeing fleas, you may miss flea eggs or newly hatched fleas, and they’ll return triumphantly to cause even more problems.

Using natural methods is a bit more work than dropping a spot of pesticides on their back, but in the long run your pet and your environment will be healthier for your efforts.

Remember — keeping your pet’s immune system healthy and strong is the best way to help him fight off parasites as well as disease. A high quality, species appropriate diet is the foundation upon which your pet’s good health and long life must be built.

References: 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “Pesticides: Health and Safety,” 9 May 2012.
F. Beugnet et al., “Comparative Efficacy on Dogs of a Single Topical Treatment with the Pioneer Fipronil/(S)-Methoprene and an Oral Treatment with Spinosad against Ctenocephalides felis,”Parasite, 18(2011): 325-31

Just saw this post on Facebook…

Brittany Gosselin

Yesterday at 6:14am · St. Clair Shores, MI

To all my friends with dogs and cats, a few days ago my Aunt bought this natural flea spray and used it on her 2 dogs and cat, within 2 days they have all 3 passed away 😨please don’t buy this brand! So sorry Aunt Nancy and tell the kids for me too ☹️💚

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