Category: For Dogs

Posted on by equigroomerllc

When domestic pets, dogs and cats, are not properly brushed, uncomfortable even painful “matting” can occur. Learn how pet matting happens and more importantly,
how you can prevent it from happening to your beloved pets!

What is Pet Matting?

Regular Brushing Helps Prevent Pet Matting
Courtesy: EquiGroomer

Pet matting happens when their coat creates densely tangled or twisted clumps of fur. Without proper and frequent brushing, the hair can wrap around itself, including loose dead and live fur (imagine a Brillo pad!).

Matted fur makes it uncomfortable for your pet to lay down, sit or even walk. The tightness of the matts can pull on the skin leading to mild to extreme pain. Even the pet’s efforts at grooming will be ineffective and painful.

With matted fur, brushing can become extremely painful and even cause severe injury to the pet’s skin because of the tight entanglement with live fur. If matting is left unaddressed for too long, the only humane solution may be to shave the entire coat.

Matted Dog Hair: 6 Potential Home Remedies

Matting also leads to other health conditions and issues. Keep reading to learn more.

Matting: The Negative Side Effects

Not only can matting be uncomfortable and painful for our pets, but matting can also:

  • Cut off the blood supply to the extremities.
  • Prevent regular air circulation to the skin.
  • Cause the underlying skin to become irritated and discolored potentially leading to open sores emitting foul odors.
  • Contain your pet’s stool.
  • Contain fly and other pest larvae.
Brown and White Cat Being Groomer
Courtesy: Spike Summers/ Pixabay

Once matting has occurred, you may need the help of a well-experienced groomer to effectively address the matted hair in the safest way possible for your pet. Depending on the coat’s overall condition, dematting may be done. Or in the worst case, the pet’s entire coat may have to be shaved. If shaving is necessary, only use the services of a professional groomer to prevent your pet’s skin from unnecessary cuts and pain.

Dematting Your Pet

Ensure your groomer is experienced to handle matts safely and comfortably with lots of patience to guarantee your pet’s ultimate protection and comfort. Inexperienced groomers or large box groomers may be unwilling to take the extra time necessary to dematt and brush out small sections of hair at a time.

Keeping Your Long-Haired Cat Free From Matting: 9 Tips

Dematting or Deshedding?

  • Deshedding removes loose, dead hair.
  • Dematting removes matted portions that are:
    • Knotted.
    • Tangled.
    • Twisted.
The EquiGroomer Tool is Effective against Matting!
Courtesy: EquiGroomer

THE Way to Prevent Pet Matting!

There is one simple, yet highly effective way to prevent matting in your family pets.

Frequent and proper brushing and/or combing of their coat! Gently brush down to the skin to properly groom all layers of the coat to prevent future matting.

Blue EquiGroomer Tool
Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

The EquiGroomer design removes pet hair without pulling,
discomfort or damage to their coat or skin.

We GUARANTEE your dog and cat will love it!

Click here to buy yours today!

Keep in mind, pets with long or curly hair will require more frequent attention when it comes to grooming. Develop a regular brushing routine early on with your cat or dog. If you cannot commit to regular brushing, have them groomed by a professional groomer every 4-6 weeks.

Your pet will thank you!

Siamese Cat Shedding on Green Grass
Courtesy: EquiGroomer

EquiGroomer grooming tools are easy-to-use and comfortable for both you and your pet.


Our blade is perfect for even the most sensitive-skinned pet and ensures pain-free grooming making frequent pet grooming a breeze!


For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.


Posted on by equigroomerllc

Have you just adopted a pet? How do you plan to cover their medical needs? Your new pet needs pet insurance to cover their medical expenses, especially in the case of an emergency!

Courtesy: Gerd Altmann / Pixabay

Good insurance is for protecting:

  • Your pet’s health and
  • Your finances.

Unfortunately, many pet parents don’t know where to begin. For example:

  • Where do you buy your pet’s insurance?
  • What does pet insurance entail and cover?
  • What is pet insurance used for?

Let’s look at each one of the questions below.

Pets and Medical
Courtesy: Mohamed_hassan / Pixabay

1. Pet Insurance: Find a Good Company

  • First, read reviews of pet insurance companies.
  • Know your options and which companies offer what you’re looking for. The great thing about pet insurance is that it’s not limited to a network. This means you can buy insurance online and use it in Maine, New York, California or Alaska. It does not rely on networks and accreditations.
  • Also, confirm the company has a license to operate.
  • In addition, you’ll also want to check for any certifications and/or permits required in your home state. Insurance agents will gladly provide you with the information you request if there’s nothing to hide. If they do not, look at another insurance company.
Courtesy: TeeFarm / Pixabay

2. Check the Coverage Carefully

What does pet insurance cover? Ensure you will be reimbursed for your pets’ medical expenses since veterinary bills can be as high as tens of thousands of dollars! Understand if there are any restrictions based on age, breed or pre-existing conditions.

Note: not all insurance coverages are the same, so check potential coverages carefully!

The services insurance companies for pets will typically reimburse include:

  • Unexpected injuries and accidents.
  • Surgery.
  • Medication.
  • Unexpected illnesses.
  • Tests and diagnostics.
  • Emergency care.
  • Exam fees.

Again, not all insurance policies are the same or offer the same coverage. Do your due diligence!

Courtesy: Mbfrye / Pixabay

3. Understand the Reimbursement Process

Most pet insurance works through a reimbursement process. This means you will need to pay the veterinary and medical bills out-of-pocket before filing a claim to your insurance company for reimbursement. Thoroughly understand the insurance company’s reimbursement process before signing on the dotted line. Understanding all the requirements, timeframes, restrictions and limitations of your pet’s insurance coverage will help prevent your claim from being denied for reimbursement.

4. Premiums: Understand Exactly What You’re Getting

The average cost for animal insurance is between $30 and $50 a month for decent coverage. If you want better coverage for terminal illnesses, expect to pay $100 a month. Some pet insurance companies will go as low as $10 monthly for the most basic coverage but do not expect to get reimbursed for major surgical procedures. A general rule of thumb: the higher your monthly premium, the more the policy will cover for your pet.

5. Consider a Pet Wellness Plan

Some insurance companies offer wellness plans as add-ons. A pet wellness plan will cover most routine veterinary services such as neutering, vaccinations, boosters, and screening tests. It is a form of protection, too, because it means diagnosing common diseases earlier, so they don’t become problems in the future. Animal insurance does not automatically include wellness plans, so again, understand your policy’s coverages.

Courtesy: Markus Spiske / Pixabay

The Takeaway

Getting insurance for your pet(s) is part of your responsibility as a pet owner. Your pet is depending on you to provide for their needs. The best time to get pet insurance is right after adopting the pet. When choosing what insurance to get, always consider your budget and the policy’s range of coverage. While cheap insurance sounds practical, you might want to get somewhere near the average, so it covers more services.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

According to Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania, we are in for another six weeks of this crazy winter season! (Personally, we think Phil just wants extra time to snooze!)

But since winter is not ending anytime soon (according to Phil),
let’s ask another age-old question,
just how cold is too cold for your dog?

Dogs and Cold

So, when it comes to dogs and cold, how cold is too cold for your dog? This question does not have a “one-size-fits-all” answer! Instead, there are several factors to consider when deciding how long a dog can safely spend in the cold temperatures including their:

Collie Playing in the Snow
  • Breed, size and coat.
  • Age.
  • Health.

Just like in hot temperatures, it’s critical dog parents must know what is best for their dog and monitor their time outside. Most dogs live for the great outdoors, so make sure you know what’s best for your pup and act accordingly even if they do not want to come inside.

Next, let’s take a closer look at breeds and sizes to understand when it is too cold for them to remain outside!

Dogs and Cold: Different Sizes = Different Needs

Little White Dog in a Blue Jacket Walking on the Snow
Courtesy: Pezibear / Pixabay

SMALLER DOGS AND COLD

Dogs on the smaller size with single coats – or even hairless – are not able to safely deal with colder temperatures. According to Sarah Wooten, DVM, “smaller pups can quickly develop hypothermia and frostbite.” In fact, caution should be used any time the temperature falls below 45 degrees for smaller dogs.

Hypothermia develops when a canine’s core body temperature drops too low. Left untreated, it can bring on cardiac and respiratory failure, brain damage, coma and eventually, death.

Frostbite (like in humans) damages tissues in extreme cold. While frostbite is not life-threatening, it often occurs with hypothermia which is.

Smaller K9 breeds at risk include the:

The Mexican Hairless Dog
Courtesy: Anders Mejlvang / Pixabay
  • Miniature Poodle.
  • Maltese.
  • Chihuahua.
  • Xoloitzcuintli (also known as the Xolo, an ancient Aztec K9 known today as the “Official Dog of Mexico” and the “Mexican Hairless breed,” a non-sporting dog, both coated and hairless); and
  • Chinese Crested.

These breeds are all at higher risk from frigid temperatures.

According to Dr. Wooten, smaller pups should spend no more than 10-15 minutes outside when the temperatures are below 32 degrees F.

LARGER DOGS AND COLD

Bernese Mountain Dog with Snow on Face
Courtesy: ArtTower / Pixabay

Unlike many of their smaller counterparts, larger breeds can usually manage cold temperatures better because of their thick double coats. When temperatures are below freezing or 32 degrees F, these dog breeds can safely stay outside for a half-hour to an hour, says Dr. Wooten. For arctic breeds who are well-acclimated to colder environments, they can handle much more time in the cold.

These hardier dog breeds include the:

  • Siberian Husky
  • Samoyed
  • Malamute
  • Newfoundland; and
  • Bernese Mountain Dog.

Dogs and Cold: Dog Age and Health Matter

Active dogs and those who are medium-to-large can handle the cold much better because of their thicker coats and ability to regulate their body temperatures.

But Dr. Wooten encourages that puppies under 8 weeks of age and Toy Breeds should be kept out of extreme weather conditions for their overall well-being and safety. In addition, senior dogs and/or those dealing with a health condition should spend the most time indoors with shorter, supervised time outside.

How Cold is Too Cold: The Final Word!

Never expose your dog to outdoor conditions which may risk his health or safety! Your dog is depending on you to protect his health and well-being even if he wants to stay outside in the snow!

Always supervise any dog outside and look for symptoms like:

  • Panting
  • Shaking
  • Shivering; or
  • Extreme fatigue and bring them back inside immediately!

Also, in the winter remember to factor in other things like wind chill, dampness, cloud cover and activity for your dog’s ultimate safety and well-being.

Blue EquiGroomer Tool
Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

Keep your dog’s fur clean and unmatted by grooming them after time outside, whether it’s cold or hot!

THE best grooming tools for pain-free and comfortable grooming for dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, livestock and more!

Endorsed by professional groomers, handlers, breeders and pet lovers like you!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Holidays mean family, friends and lots of delicious foods! But don’t leave your dog or cat out of the holiday cheer!

Below are 6 easy homemade holiday treats to share with your
family dog or cat during the holidays.

Sad Puppy Eyes and Incessant Meowing … Oh My!

Large Puppy Eyes from a Brown and White Puppy
Courtesy: PublicDomainPictures / Pixabay

With holiday cooking, baking and delicious smells, your dog or cat will not be far away from the kitchen! So that means never-ending puppy eyes and kitty meows for treats!

And really, who can blame them?!

Include both Fido and Felix in the holiday season with the six easy recipes below! Homemade, do-it-yourself holiday treats are easy and can be much healthier than commercially made treats.

Homemade treats are also a great option to the many holiday foods and ingredients our pets shouldn’t eat! So instead of feeling guilty this holiday season, be ready to hand out pet-friendly treats made in your own kitchen!

Let’s begin with the dogs!

1. DIY Dog Treats: Dog-Friendly Eggnog!

If you are a fan of eggnog, you may be tempted to share some with your K9 friend. Please do not!

Instead, whip up this dog-friendly eggnog (from Gone to the Snow Dogs) you can safely share with your furry, four-legged best friend!

Carton of Eggs, Whisk and Cookbook on a Counter
Courtesy: Steve Buissinne / Pixabay

Dog Eggnog

  • 2 small containers of plain yogurt
  • 1 jar of baby food (use your dog’s favorite flavor)
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 2 eggs

Put all ingredients in a food processor, blender or Magic Bullet and mix until frothy.

Pour into small dishes and top with a dog treat or some healthy blueberries and serve!

Refrigerate any leftovers or pour into ice cube trays or silicone molds for fun frozen treats later.

2. DIY Dog Treats: Turkey & Cranberry Holiday Treats!

This next recipe includes ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Posted by Embrace Pet Insurance from the AllRecipes.com website, this recipe makes about 45 holiday treats your dog is sure to love! Cranberries are a healthy, antioxidant-packed fruit and can be enjoyed by your dog in moderation.

Fresh Red Cranberries
Courtesy: PublicDomainPictures / Pixabay

Turkey & Cranberry Dog Bones

  • 3.5 cups whole-wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cooked turkey
  • 1 cup dried cranberries (make sure there are no added raisins or sugar!)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk the flour and baking powder. Stir in the turkey and cranberries. Create a well in the center of this mixture and drop the egg into that well. Add the olive oil and about 1/2 cup of the broth over the egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the mixture seems dry, add in – by tablespoons – more of the broth.

Knead the dough on a clean, floured surface for about two minutes. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch in thickness. Cut the treats out with Christmas cookie cutters and place on the lined baking sheet. Bake the dog treats for 25 minutes until browned. Turn off the oven and allow treats to rest in the oven for 30 more minutes. Remove and cool. Refrigerate treats.

3. DIY Dog Treats: Frozen Pumpkin Treats

Just 3 easy (and healthy!) ingredients, freeze for 12 hours and satisfy those sad puppy eyes! Courtesy of the Spencer the Goldendoodle website!

Corgi Dog Chewing on a Pumpkin Stem
Courtesy: Elena Rogulina / Pixabay

Frozen Pumpkin Treats

  • 1 can 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!)
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free!)

Blend all 3 ingredients in a bowl with an electric hand mixer until smooth

Pour into ice cube trays or your favorite silicone dog-themed molds!

Freeze for 12 hours, pop them out and serve. Store in the freezer.

Next, let’s whip up some CAT-tastic treats even the most finicky felines won’t be able to resist!

Want a no-bake healthy horse treat for your favorite equine?

Just click here!

1. DIY Cat Treats: Tuna Cat Holiday Treats!

WHAT cat doesn’t meow over tuna?! This easy recipe (from Mess for Less) will have your felines howling for more!

Tuna Cat Treats

Canned Tuna
Courtesy: Taken / Pixabay
  • 1 can tuna in oil, drained
  • 1 egg
  • 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Dash of parsley (optional)
  • Bottle Cap for cutting out treats

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Place all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until a dough forms. If the dough is sticky, add a bit more flour. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water. Roll the dough out to 1/4-inch thickness and cut with a small bottle cap or your favorite cookie cutters.

Place on a baking sheet, bake for 20 minutes until browned. Cool and then store in an airtight container.

2. DIY Cat Treats: Hairball Control Cat Treats!

Gray and White Cat Grooming Himself
Courtesy: JackieLou DL / Pixabay

This recipe from VitaCost.com doubles as a tasty treat as well as a treat that can also help potentially dangerous hairballs effectively move through their digestive system! P.S., you can also add some catnip into the recipe!

Hairball Control Cat Treats

  • 1-1/4 cup brown rice flour
  • 1/3 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix!)
  • 1 brown egg
  • 3 tablespoons ground flax
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon catnip (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Set a sheet of parchment paper the size of your baking sheet to the side.

In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients; mix thoroughly. Wrap dough in plastic wrap. Let rest 5 minutes.

Unwrap dough; knead a few times. On parchment paper, roll the dough to 1/4” thickness.

Using a pizza cutter, cut narrow strips vertically or horizontally. If the dough starts sticking, wipe off the cutter. Repeat in the opposite direction. When finished, you should have a patchwork grid.

Transfer parchment paper to cookie sheet. Bake 10 minutes.

Remove cookie sheet from oven. Using a spatula or your oven-mitted hands, break up the treats. Spread bits around evenly and return to the oven.

Bake 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool. Or, bake for 10 minutes and turn the oven off; leave in oven for several hours or overnight.

These treats will last 4-6 weeks in an airtight container. For a longer shelf-life, refrigerate the treats. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Did you know that hairballs in cats (and even dogs!)
can be limited with regular brushing?
Frequent dog grooming and cat grooming
effectively cuts down on excess hair that can be
licked and then ingested potentially leading to hairballs!
Check out the EquiGroomer Grooming Tools for horses,
dogs, cats and other animals that shed!

3. DIY Cat Treats: Salmon Cat Holiday Treats

If you’re short on time this holiday season, here’s a quick and healthy feline treat recipe (from TheCookieRookie.com) with only 3 ingredients, a quick mix, cutting into treats and just 20 minutes to bake!

Salmon Cat Treats

Fresh Cut Salmon
Courtesy: Congerdesign / Pixabay
  • 10-ounces canned salmon (undrained)
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a food processor, pulse the canned salmon to chop as finely as possible.

Set a sheet of parchment paper the size of your baking sheet to the side.

In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients; mix thoroughly. Wrap dough in plastic wrap. Let rest 5 minutes.

Combine the chopped salmon, egg and flour in a mixer until it forms a dough.

Roll out ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface and cut into fun shapes. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake until light brown and crispy; about 20 minutes.

Completely cool before serving and store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

The EquiGroomer Cat Gift Bag
Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

Need a Gift for the Pet Guardian in Your Life?

Give our Cat or Dog Gift Bag!

The EquiGroomer Grooming Tools are modeled after a traditional shedding stone that effectively removes loose hair, dirt and dander from horses, dogs, cats and any other animal that sheds!

Designed to be safe no matter how much or how often you groom your pet, the EquiGroomer will produce a coat that’s shiny, smooth and soft.

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604
or click here to send us an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Pet separation anxiety is felt by dogs, cats and even horses!

What is it and how can we help our pets?

Pet Separation Anxiety 101

Brown and white dog sitting and looking anxious
Courtesy: Empiep / Pixabay

In simple terms, pet separation anxiety arises when some pets are left alone for too long. While each pet may exhibit different symptoms, this excessive attachment – to humans or animals – is unhealthy and needs to be addressed for the pet’s overall benefit.

Separation anxiety begins with distress in the absence of those the pet is overly dependent on.

If left ignored, this anxiety may escalate to:

  • Behavioral and destructive issues.
  • Self-injury.
  • Even attempts to escape.

Pet Separation Anxiety: Dogs

Pet separation anxiety is common among dogs
Courtesy: Keithfoust / Pixabay

The common symptoms of K9 separation anxiety include:

  • Barking, howling and whining.
  • Accidents in the house (including coprophagia or eating poop).
  • Chewing, digging and other destructive behaviors.
  • Escape attempts.
  • Pacing.
  • Drooling, panting or excessive salivation.

K9 Separation Anxiety: Why

  • Abandonment.
  • Change of schedule, home or guardian.
  • Sudden loss of a family member.
  • Medical issues.

Canine Separation: Solutions

  • Desensitization: Acclimate them to your departure by leaving for a few minutes and then returning. Over time, slowly increase how long you are gone.
  • Create a routine when you leave; ask your dog to sit, offer a high-value treat and then calmly leave. (Begin this routine during desensitization (above)).
  • Exercise your dog before leaving.
  • Add another dog to the household.
  • Avoid a huge fuss when you leave (or come back home).
  • Leave your dog with a filled/frozen Kong toy to keep him busy and distracted.
  • Homeopathic or pharmaceutical options but always discuss with your vet first!

Pet Separation Anxiety: Cats

Gray and white cat grooming itself
Courtesy: JackieLou KL / Pixabay

Pet separation anxiety may seem more common in canines, but research shows our felines also suffer from pet separation anxiety (despite their aloofness!). In a recent study, 64% of the cats evaluated showed less stress when with their caregivers!

How can you tell if your cat is suffering from separation anxiety? General symptoms include:

  • Crying or yowling.
  • Accidents outside the litter box.
  • Destructive behaviors (more common in male cats)
  • Excessive grooming (more common in female cats)
  • Hyper-attachment with caregiver(s).

Feline Separation Anxiety: Why

  • Being a female cat.
  • Cats only livig indoors.
  • Weaned too early, bottle-raised or orphaned.
Indoor cats can suffer from pet separation anxiety
Courtesy: FPHayes / Pixabay

Cat Separation: Solutions

  • Desensitization: Give attention or affection to reward a calm cat. Ignore attention-seeking behaviors. Reward signs of relaxation:
    • Lying down.
    • Sighing.
    • A loose/still tail.
    • Closed eyes.
  • Before leaving, play with your cat to tire them out.
  • Keep your cat busy in your absence with enrichment activities:
    • Cat TV shows,
    • Puzzle feeders, and
    • Hide-and-seek for treats hidden throughout the house.
  • Maintain a consistent routine.
  • Add another cat to the household.
  • Homeopathic or pharmaceutical options but always discuss with your vet first!
Two brown and one black horse in a pasture
Courtesy: Rebekka D / Pixabay

Pet Separation Anxiety: Horses

When separated from other horses (and owners), equines can experience separation anxiety!

According to Dr. Camie Helesi, a renowned equine researcher, separation anxiety stems from wild horses benefiting from strong social connections and bonds. Even short separations can result in equine fear, anxiety, stress and outbursts of panic.

What does separation anxiety look like in horses?

  • High volumes of abnormal vocalizations.
  • Shaking or trembling.
  • Increased heart rate and sweating.
  • Loss of appetite and an unwillingness to drink.
  • Rearing, kicking out, bucking, spooking, pawing or bolting.
  • Pacing and fence walking.

Equine Separation Anxiety: Why

  • Separated from their herd.
  • Confined in isolation (even for short periods).
  • Horses who are tightly bonded.

Donkeys can help horses avoid pet separation anxiety
Courtesy: F. Muhammad / Pixabay

Equine Separation Anxiety: Solutions

  • Desensitization: Using short training sessions, work with keeping your horse’s focus on you while slowly moving them away from their companions. Reinforce good behavior and obedience with high-value treats or a groom session at the end to bolster their confidence.
  • For horses that must be separated, keep them in visual proximity.
  • Pair anxious horses with smaller ponies, goats or donkeys.
  • By keeping horses in a group of three, a horse is never left alone.
  • Homeopathic or pharmaceutical options but always discuss with your vet first!

If your efforts at easing your pet’s separation anxiety
are not working, find an animal or veterinary behaviorist to help you.

Separation anxiety is a serious condition and should not be ignored!

Brushing white horse with an EquiGroomer Tool
Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

Grooming sessions are a wonderful way to reward your horse after
a good training session or ride!

Pain-free
Comfortable for sensitive-skin
Easily removes loose hair, dirt, and dander

Click here to purchase your
EquiGroomer Grooming Tools today!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Despite the dog days of summer ending on August 11th, heat records continue throughout the United States. Lean how extreme heat affects our pets and how to help.

Death Valley experiences extreme heat
Courtesy: Jplenio / Pixabay

THE Hottest Month on Earth!

On Friday, August 13th, the “National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) declared July 2021 the world’s hottest month in 142 years of records.” Even Death Valley, California hit a new world record at a sweltering 130 degrees F!

In addition, records were also broken in Turkey, Northern Japan, Italy and Northern Ireland.

These extreme temperatures are life-threatening for humans, imagine how our pets felt trying to adapt and cope with extreme heat!

Extreme heat affects marine life
Courtesy: Donieve / Pixabay

All Animals Are Affected by Heat

Both wildlife and domesticated animals are affected by these scorching temperatures. Even marine life has paid a high price on the Pacific Coast with millions of mussels, sea stars, barnacles and hermit crabs dying.

So how can you protect your beloved pets during these all-too-common heatwaves?

Extreme Heat: How Pets Cool Down

First, it is important to remember that physiologically cats, dogs, and rabbits cannot deal with extreme heat as we do. While we can regulate our body temperature through our largest organ, skin, animals are different.

Extreme heat affects our K9s
Courtesy: Couleur / Pixabay

Dogs and Cats: Sweat only through their paws and noses. Panting also helps them cool off.

Cats: Through grooming their fur, the saliva evaporates off their hair and helps cool them down.

Rabbits and Birds: Do not sweat at all! They try to cool down with panting. Birds open their mouth and “flutter” their neck muscles to promote heat loss. They also flap their wings. Rabbits dissipate heat through their ears.

Horses: Cool themselves through 1) the dilation of skin capillaries and 2) sweating through their skin.

Remember, deal with dangerously hot temperatures from your pet’s point of view, not your own.

Extreme Heat and Risks

Animals don’t always let us know how they are feeling. So, the pet owner needs to understand each animal and protect them in extreme temperatures.

Extreme heat affects our pets and can cause dangerous conditions including:

Extreme Heat: 8 Ways to Protect Your Pets

Extreme heat affects our pets
Courtesy: Madhurima Handa / Pixabay
  1. Offer plenty of fresh, cool water.
  2. Run the AC; do not rely on just a fan.
  3. Make sure any pets in cages are away from all windows. Pull the shades to keep the heat out.
  4. Brush them often to remove old, excessive hair.
  5. If your pet begins to overheat, slowly cool them down and contact your vet.
  6. Keep a closer eye on pets susceptible to heatstroke including:
    a. Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers.
    b. Pets with heart issues.
    c. Overweight pets.
    d. Very young or very old pets.
  7. Remember humidity adds to the overall heat index so be extra vigilant!
  8. Know your pet so you notice if they are not drinking enough water and whether they are overheating.

Extreme Heat: 6 Things NOT to Do!

Extreme heat affects our dogs
Courtesy: Artem Beliaikin / Pexels

Doing any of the six things below could harm your pet (rather than help) during extreme heat.

NEVER:

  1. Shave your pet!
  2. Immerse your pet in very cold water! This may cause shock and even death and stop all cooling.
  3. Leave your dog or other pets outside!
  4. Exercise your pet during the hottest parts of the day. Avoid hot pavement, asphalt and parking lots. Walk your dog on the grass or dirt.
  5. Leave your dog or any other pet in the car!
  6. Leave pets unattended around a pool!

Always work with your veterinarian on how best to keep your pet cool during heat waves based on their breed, age, overall health and condition.

A Rabbit Getting Groomed
Courtesy: EquiGroomer

Regularly brush out your pet’s old, excessive hair with EquiGroomer tools to help them keep cooler during the hot days.

EquiGroomer Grooming Tools: Easy and Pain-Free Grooming!

Click here or on the image to watch the video!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

For those who suffer from chronic allergies, non-shedding dogs are a popular choice.

But do non-shedding dogs really exist? What you need to know!

Are Yorkies Non-Shedding Dogs?

A Long-Haired Yorkie

The short answer is no. But because Yorkies don’t have an undercoat, they do not shed a lot. According to the AKC, a Yorkie’s coat doesn’t shed any more than our own hair.

Yorkies, with their fine, silky hair, do not have the same growth and shedding cycles like other dogs who tend to have bursts of hair growth followed by periods of shedding.

So are there really non-shedding dogs?

Do Non-Shedding Dogs Exist?

A Dog Brush With Some Hair

Sadly, no. Every dog sheds to one extent or another (it’s just biology!) and no canine is 100% hypoallergenic!

Here’s what is true! Some dog breeds may cause fewer allergy symptoms than others.

Did you know that human allergies are not caused by the pet’s fur? Instead, allergies are exacerbated by the dog’s dander (dried, dead skin cells) that contains a particular protein also found in the saliva, sweat and urine of both dogs and cats according to the renowned Mayo Clinic.

Are Doodles the Answer to Shedding?

Golden Doodle Puppy on Grass

Again, every dog sheds (even “hairless” dogs)! Dogs who are commonly known to be “low-shedding” like poodles still shed their hair albeit infrequently. Once considered the original “hypoallergenic breed,” the poodle’s single-layer coats do not shed much without an undercoat. 

Dog breeds including poodles and doodles “were simply labeled as hypoallergenic because of the false assumption that dog breeds that do not shed hair must release less allergen.”

Back in 2012, researchers in the Netherlands and Virginia concluded that the major dog allergen (Can f 1) was highest in the hair and coat samples from hypoallergenic breeds including Poodles!

So even offspring from cross-breeding with Poodles (called Doodles), does not completely remove the risk of human allergies to dogs. While owners will probably experience less shedding from the single-layer coat of the Poodle, even these breeds are not 100% hypoallergenic.

So, what can a dog lover do?

8 Tips to Lessen Allergies to Dogs!

For those challenged with allergies who still want to have a canine in their life, medications or allergy shots may help reduce or eliminate allergies in addition to the tips below.

These 8 tips can help those with allergies keep their beloved pets in their lives and homes.

Wet Dog in Bathtub Getting Groomed
  1. Frequent bathing and/or grooming to help remove dander and dead hair. (Note: work with your vet or groomer to prevent over-drying your pet’s skin).
  2. Wipe your pet with a wet cloth of baby wipe daily.
  3. Keep pets confined to certain rooms especially those without carpeting.
  4. Every day, run a HEPA room air cleaner.
  5. Always use a HEPA-equipped vacuum cleaner.
  6. Frequently replace heat and air conditioner filters and vents more often.
  7. Steam clean carpets and upholstered furniture often.
  8. Wipe down all hard surfaces often.

So, while some dog breeds may help those living with chronic allergies, keep in mind that no dog is

100% hypoallergenic or non-shedding.

So, while some dog breeds may help those living with chronic allergies, keep in mind that no dog is

100% hypoallergenic or non-shedding.

The EquiGroomer Tools

The Best Grooming Tools for the Pain-free and Comfortable Grooming Both You and Your Pet will Love!

The EquiGroomer Grooming Tools along with bathing can effectively help reduce dead hair, pet dander and allergens inside your home helping to alleviate allergies!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

Image Credits (in order of appearance)

Pezibear / Pixabay

Anna Doshechko / Pixabay

Ludwig Willimann / Pixabay

SDanzger / Pixabay

Benjamin Lehman / Pexels

EquiGroomer.com

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Whether you are experienced at grooming your dog or want to begin grooming your dog at home, the tips below will help create an easier experience for you and your dog!

Groomed Cocker Spaniel Laying on FloorGrooming your dog involves everything from regular brushing, bathing to nail trims, ear and eyes cleaning, teeth brushing and even hair trimming and anal sac expression with some K9 breeds. Regular grooming not only helps your dog look and feel his best, it is also the perfect time to examine your dog for any potential issues with his coat, skin (like hot spots or lumps), teeth, eyes and ears and /or infections or inflammations.

Next, let’s look at some great tips when grooming your dog at home! What should you do – and not do – when dog grooming?

The New York Magazine offers tips and must-have grooming products!

Grooming Your Dog at Home: Know Your Dog

Not all dogs like to be groomed, so it is important to know your dog’s preferences and tolerance at being handled during grooming. If you have a puppy, begin grooming them at an early age to avoid issues later as they grow bigger and stronger!

DO start with short sessions over time so your dog learns to relax and enjoy being handled.

DO NOT do all the grooming (bathing, nail trims, teeth brushing, etc.) at one time.

DO use lots of patience, time AND confidence when grooming your dog! Dogs take their cues from us when it comes to them feeling comfortable and relaxed. 

DO NOT groom your dog if you are uncomfortable, stressed or pressed for time.

Brushing Your Dog

Before bathing – and in between baths – regular, deep brushing will help stimulate blood circulation in the skin, distribute natural oils throughout the coat and remove dirt, dead hair and dandruff. Regular brushing also keeps shedding under control. Always brush your dog just before bathing for the best results.

Our 5-inch EasyGroomer Shedding Brush makes easy work of brushing your dog before baths or in between! 

EasyGroomer Tools

DO brush your dog at least 3-4 times a week for a great coat and to also nurture your bond with your dog. Use an appropriate brush/comb for your dog’s specific coat texture and length.

DO NOT rush brushing your dog especially if there are any mats, tangles or burrs to avoid unnecessary pain to your dog.

Bathing Your Dog at Home

Regular bathing keeps your dog’s body clean and comfortable! Be sure to bathe him for his breed and coat. After shampooing, thoroughly rinse and dry your dog.

DO NOT wash your dog too often to avoid removing natural oils and causing the coat and skin to become unnaturally dry.

DO regularly bathe your dog with a mild dog shampoo with warm water in a warm room.

DO NOT wash your dog with human shampoo products! Only use products formulated for K9s with natural, gentle ingredients.  



HINT: Does your dog hate bathing? Distract him with a “lick mat” covered with peanut butter – or another favorite snack – that sticks to the wall!


Trimming Your Dog’s Nails

Nail trimming is one of the most difficult grooming tasks because so many dogs hate having their paws handled. That’s why it’s important to train puppies early.

DO use lots of patience, praise and treats when trimming your dog’s nails.  If necessary, do just one or two nails at aLong nails on a black dog's paw time to encourage your dog’s comfort. 

DO NOT force your dog if they are nervous or fearful. 

DO use a professional for nail trimming if you are nervous or fearful.

DO NOT clip large pieces of the nail to avoid hitting the quick and creating pain for your dog. Just clip the tip more often.

Refer to the AKC’s website for more information on what to do – and not do – when grooming your dog at home.

Our WaterWisk makes bathing your dog so much easier by removing excess soap and water even on bony areas like your dog’s hips and legs!

Better yet, it’s on Sale Right Now!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.


Image Credits (Shown in order of appearance)

Mat Coulton/Pixabay

Bianca van Kijk/Pixabay

Fabrizio 65/Pixabay

KaraSuva/Pixabay

Courtesy: Walmart.com

Nature Blossom/Pixabay

Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Pets can often feel “feverish” to a worried owner simply because an animal’s normal temperature range is above our own (typically between 97.5 to 99.6 degrees F). 

Our pets and animals can become too hot (or even too cold) for a variety of reasons. If you are concerned your pet has a fever or is overly chilled, taking their temperature can help put your mind at ease or encourage you to contact your regular veterinarian. But how do you know if your pet’s temperature is normal? 

High vs Low Temperatures: Which is Worse

While a pet with a high temperature is typically more worrisome to most owners, a low temperature may also be a cause for alarm. If you are unsure about your pet’s unusual temperature, consult your veterinarian to avoid any long-term issues or complications for your pet.

The medical terms below are used to indicate temperatures outside the normal range:

Hyperthermia (a high temperature outside the normal range) may indicate:

  • Fever due to infection or inflammation as part of the immune system’s defense.
  • Overexertion.
  • Stress; or
  • Overheating from exposure to excess heat and/or humidity (absorbing more heat than the body can naturally dissipate or release).

Hypothermia (a low temperature outside the normal range) may indicate:

  • Extended exposure to cold and/or wet.
  • Shock.
  • Pending labor in females.
  • The body is losing heat faster than it is absorbing.

Healthy Pets: Normal Temperature Ranges

Pet temperatures fall into ranges

Dogs: 101 – 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (or 37.9 – 39.9 degrees Celsius)

Cats: 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (or 39.1 – 39.2 degrees Celsius)

Rabbits: 101.5-104.2 degrees Fahrenheit (or 38.6 – 40.1 degrees Celsius)

Horses: 99 – 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit (or 37.2 – 38.3 degrees Celsius)

Livestock: Click here to find the normal temperature range for other animals in the Merck Veterinary Manual.

Sustained temperatures outside the pet’s normal range can lead to issues like heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and even internal damage if not addressed properly and reduced to the normal range. Always know your pet’s normal resting temperature (temperature setpoint) to know if they are having issues.

Taking Your Pet/Animal’s Temperature

Old-fashioned mercury thermometers are no longer considered safe for taking an animal’s temperature as they may snap especially with excited or nervous animals exposing the pet – and you – to potential mercury.

Digital thermometers show if your pet's temperature is normalDigital thermometers are considered safer and more commonly used today. Temperatures are typically taken via the ear or rectally – which is considered more accurate – in cats, dogs, horses and livestock (with a small amount of lubricant on the end of the thermometer). Be warned, depending on your pet or animal, taking their temperature may be a two-person job!

 

Abnormal Temperatures: When to be Concerned

Our pet’s temperatures can fluctuate during the day and it is not always a reason to be concerned. The temperature and humidity outside and your pet’s activity can all affect their temperature. Getting them to rest and drink should help bring their temperature back within the normal range.

Your vet can tell you if your pet's temperature is normal

 

The Bottom Line

Like humans, animals may run slightly elevated, short-term temperatures as their body fights off minor infections or fevers. This is normal.

Medications should only be used when necessary to avoid diminishing the effectiveness of your pet’s immune system. If a mild fever or slightly elevated (and unusual) temperature persists for more than a few days, contact your veterinarian for an examination and definitive diagnosis.

If your horse is overheated, spraying him with cool, fresh water can help safely reduce his temperature. Use our Water Wisk to remove all sweat and water too!

Order individual EquiGroomer tools or professional kits for your pet shop, tack shop or barn, by calling 860-573-0604,  sending us an email or visiting our website today!

  

Additional Reading:

Pets.WebMd.com: Fevers in Cats

Equus Magazine: What to do When Your Horse Has a Fever

AKC: Fever in Dogs: Causes, Signs and Treatments

Rabbit Care Tips: Why is My Rabbit Shaking and Laying Down?

PetComments.com: Best Pet Thermometers

Image Credits (In Order of Appearance):

Beverly Lussier from Pixabay 

Susanne Jutzeler, suju-foto from Pixabay

Gundula Vogel from Pixabay 

Skeeze from Pixabay

Product Image Courtesy of EquiGroomer

Posted on by equigroomerllc

As the summer months heat up, people become more conscious about staying cool and fully hydrated. But did you know your pet is at an even greater risk of dehydration? Learn how to keep pets well-hydrated during the summer months below!

Courtesy: PetSafe.netYes, our pets are at an even greater risk for dehydration because their bodies contain more water (80%) than the human body which contains only 60% of water so it’s critical to know how to keep your pets well-hydrated during the summer months.

So, in honor of National Pet Hydration Awareness Month during July, let’s take a closer look below at the proper hydration our pets need in these hotter months.

How Much Water Do Pets Need?

Most pets need 1 ounce of water per 1 pound of bodyweight. (Learn about how much water horses need below.) Is your pet getting that much water each day? All pets need plenty of fresh, cool water, especially during the hotter months.

Closely monitor their water intake to ensure they are getting enough water to support their overall health.

If your pet likes to drink out of the faucet (including some cats), invest in a pet fountain that offers fresh running water to entice them to drink more.

This handy graphic by PetSafe.net, the founders behind National Pet Hydration Awareness Month, offers a great visual in terms of 8 oz. glasses of water. (Exercise or excessive heat/humidity increases how much water your pet needs.)

Unfortunately, most pets do not get enough hydration during extreme and humid temperatures. Even if your pet is indoors in the air conditioning, their bodies still feel the effects of the increased heat and humidity especially if they spend any time outdoors.

Signs of Dehydration

Dehydration can sneak up on your pet and owners need to be aware of the symptoms indicating potential dehydration.

  1. Sunken, dry eyes
  2. Dry nose and/or mouth
  3. Lethargy and depression
  4. Gums that are dry, sticky or pale
  5. Loss of appetite or refusal to eat

Use this Skin Test to See If Your Pet is Dehydrated

Gently pull up a loose fold of skin from the back of your pet’s neck or in between their shoulder blades.

Release.

If the skin quickly returns to normal, your pet is probably ok. If the skin hesitates or slowly returns to normal, your pet could be showing signs of dehydration. Call or see your veterinarian immediately to rule out dehydration and other serious health consequences.

Dehydration: Other Causes

Dogs or cats with the health conditions below can become dehydrated quicker and easier and need to be monitored closely.

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Trauma
  • Heatstroke
  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetes (or other metabolic disorder)
  • Cancer
  • Pets who are pregnant/nursing

Dehydration: Equine

Horses are just as susceptible to dehydration. Just a 3-4% loss of body water can cause mild dehydration in a horse.

Horses who exercise and sweat in hot, humid temperatures will need more water especially to avoid heat exhaustion/heat stroke and worse.

According to the EquiMed website, adult horses around 1,000 pounds require a minimum of 10-12 gallons of water each day. Just like with other pets, water is critical for an equine’s proper bodily functions.

The Skin Test (above) can also be used near the base of the horse’s neck to help determine dehydration.

Always work with your veterinarian to make sure that you keep pets well-hydrated during the summer months to avoid any potential risks to their health.

Along with plenty of fresh

water each day, help your

animals stay as cool as possible

with regular grooming to remove

excess, dead hair.

Our EquiGroomer tools make grooming your horse easier, stress-free AND pain-free!

Order individual EquiGroomer tools or professional kits for your pet shop, tack shop or barn, by calling 860-573-0604,  sending us an email or visiting our website today!

  

Additional Reading:

PetSafe: Pet Hydration Awareness Month, Why Now

PetSafe: Infographic: Does Your Pet Have a Drinking Problem?

PetMD: The Importance of Water for Dog Nutrition

PetMD: Dehydration in Cats

EquiMed: Dehydration

Horse Racing Sense: Is My Horse Dehydrated? 10 Clear Signs of Equine Dehydration

 

Image Credits (In Order of Appearance):

Myriam Zilles from Pixabay 

Courtesy: PetSafe.net

Courtesy: PetSafe.net

Free-Photos from Pixabay 

FreeStocks.org from Pexels

Rebecca Schönbrodt-Rühl  from Pixabay 

Product Image Courtesy of EquiGroomer

Refer a Friend

Refer a Friend