Sunday, October 30, 2011

Expert Tips for Fighting Fleas

http://fuffer.wordpress.com/tag/bugs/
With Halloween right around the corner, we've got a post on the scariest thing we could think of: FLEAS.

EEEE!


Though we like to think of ourselves as pretty seasoned when it comes to doggy ailments and issues, nothing makes our skin crawl like the thought of fleas! Fortunately, we had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Lynn Buzhardt, who's leading flea education on behalf of Novartis Animal Health/Sentinel's new flea prevention program.

What are the tell-tale signs that my dog has fleas?

There are several ways to tell your dog has fleas. You may actually see an adult flea on your dog’s coat, especially if your dog has light-colored or short fur. Fleas tend to stay close to the skin and scurry around a lot. Adult fleas are often found over the lower back, around the face and under the belly.

If you don’t spy an adult flea, however, it doesn’t mean your dog is flea-free. You may find evidence elsewhere that fleas have invaded. Fleas consume your pet’s blood for a meal, and eliminate the digested blood (i.e., flea poop) on the coat. Digested blood will appear as tiny black specks. To confirm that these specks are dried blood, place a few on a damp paper towel. When moistened, the dried blood will turn from black to brownish-red.

In addition to suffering itchy discomfort, some pets can become allergic to flea saliva and develop flea allergy dermatitis, the most common skin disease in dogs. In severe cases, a pet may even become anemic from blood loss. Some fleas may also carry tapeworm eggs that can infect a pet if accidentally swallowed by the pet while grooming itself.
 
If my dog has a flea bite, does this mean we've got an infestation?

Although one flea bite does not always mean you have a flea infestation, remember that adult fleas reproduce rapidly, so an infestation may not be far off. An adult female flea can lay up to 2,000 eggs during her lifetime.  (Barzkilla Note: EWWW!) As soon as adult fleas take a blood meal from your pet, they are ready to reproduce. If there are adult fleas on your dog, you may safely assume that you have a potential infestation in your home. By the time you see one flea, you could have already spent months living with an infestation of eggs and maggot-like larvae. Visible adult fleas represent only 5 percent of the flea population. The other 95 percent hide in your home in the form of eggs, maggot-like larvae and pupae. Eggs and larvae are usually found in areas where the dog rests, such as your sofa, bed or rugs. To prevent flea infestations, fleas must be controlled in the home as well as on the dog.

What's the best way to get rid of fleas?

The best way to rid your home of fleas is to use a dual approach. Contact a professional exterminator about treating the premises. In-home extermination should focus on upholstered furniture, rugs and carpeting. Vacuum all floors prior to home treatment and check with your professional exterminator to see when it is best to vacuum following the treatment. If your pet sleeps in your bed, wash sheets and pillowcases in hot water and regular laundry detergent. Vacuum the mattress and consider buying new pillows.

Be sure to treat the dog’s environment outside as well. Remove underbrush from trees and rake leaves where fleas and ticks lurk. When spraying the yard for fleas, concentrate on the areas where your pet spends most of his time. Eggs and larvae will likely be shed in the spots where he lies down.

Speak to your veterinarian about treating your pet. Your pet’s doctor will prescribe medications to kill the adult fleas and to break the flea’s life cycle, thus preventing future generations of fleas. Use an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as SENTINEL® (milbemycin oxime/lufenuron) Flavor Tabs® to stop future stages of the flea life cycle. Be sure to read the label carefully before administering.
 
Can my dog get fleas all year round?
Waiting too long to use preventive treatments before flea and tick season comes around could be dangerous for your dog. Fleas are very hardy parasites and can survive climate extremes. While they prefer warm, humid environments, they can endure dry, hot summers and cold, wet winters. Fleas can go 100 days without a meal. A monthly tablet like SENTINEL Flavor Tabs combines flea prevention with heartworm and internal parasite protection, offering an easy way to keep your pet and home safe year-round.

To learn more about flea control and to locate a veterinarian near you, visit www.sentinelpet.com. Dogs should be tested for heartworm prior to use. In a small percentage of treated dogs, digestive, neurologic and skin side effects may occur. For full product information, go to www.sentinelpet.com

We hope you find all of this info and advice helpful-- we sure did! While prevention is definitely the way to go, being able to address one of our phobias with an expert did make us feel more prepared in case we ever have to fight a flea infestation. Thanks Dr. Buzhardt!

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Ladurée Goes to the Dogs (in a good way!)

Lucky for us NYC-based Barkistas, we don't have to go far to indulge in Ladurée's world-famous macaroons. Earlier this fall, the Parisian pastry shop opened it's first-ever location in the city. In addition to their tasty treats, Ladurée is well known for their luxe packaging, which occasionally features adorable pups and other cute creatures.  For the holidays, they've rolled out a set of amazing accessories and housewares featuring this medley of characters.

One of our favorites? This adorable keychain featuring a very chic looking Frenchie:


We also love these travel-sized candles which come in a variety of scents:


While we're not sure of availability (we've been avoiding the new NYC location for the sake of our waist-lines..), if you're swinging by Paris any time soon...

Monday, October 24, 2011

These Flowers Are A-DOG-Able

Last week we got two very special birthday surprises:


That's right-- these two adorable pups crafted from flowers showed up on our doorstep! On the left, we have the Witchy-Pooch and on the right, the a-DOG-able for Fall. Made out of white carnations and surrounded by fall foliage and flowers, they're both pretty sizeable as you can see below.


We were really pleased with the quality too-- five days later and our flowers are still looking fresh and lovely!


Want one of your own? Head over to 1-800-Flowers to order yours.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

NOse Offense = No More Unwanted Smells!

We've been loving the gorgeous fall weather in NYC! Sunshine, a cool breeze-- what else could a gal and her pup ask for? While it's been very pleasant during the day, it's been getting a little chilly at night, and with the windows closed, we've been noticing some new scents... Ah eau de dog bed...
Though we're diligent about cleaning Paddy's dog beds on a regular basis (please note the plural: dog BEDS), sometimes before we have guests over we like to spruce things up. That being said, we try to avoid scented air freshening products since the smell can be overwhelming. Let's be honest, if they're that way for us-- can't imagine how intense it must be for Paddy's sensitive nose. A lot of spray/air-freshening products can also contain a slew of not-so pet-friendly chemicals. BOO.


Luckily, the dad and daughter team behind NOse Offense have developed an amazing scent-free solution that actually neutralizes odors instead of just covering them up. (And they're based in NYC, yay!)

Approved for use on water safe fabrics including curtains, carpets, clothing and blankets, it can also be used in litter boxes, cages, carriers, pet living and sleeping areas, as well as on hard surfaces, such as wood or plastic. Spray once or twice in the air or identify the source to spray directly onto/into the affected area. Made from safe, non-toxic, organic and biodegradable ingredients, it is also 100% free of enzymes, alcohols, phenol & phenol derivatives, phosphates, phthalates and of course fragrance.

After taking out the trash we also gave the can a quick little spritz and were amazed about quickly it neutralized any leftover odors!

For more information and to pick up your own bottle, visit their website (32 oz. retails for $14.99).

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Love Your Breed Pens from Fou Fou Dog

We are mildly obsessed with these new adorable friends from the folks over at Fou Fou Dog! 

Part of their new "Love Your Breed" collection-- they're the cutest doggy flare we've seen in awhile. How awesome would these be for the gift bags at your next puppy party?

The only thing we want to know is, when are they going to bring out Morkie pens?

Available from the Fou Fou Dog website for $4.99 each.


Sunday, October 16, 2011

Mutt Nose Best U. Berry Calm Puppy Grooming Goodies

I'm ready for my afternoon at the spa! Sign me up for a massage too...
Several weeks ago we entered a giveaway hosted by our pals at Of Cows' Tails and Chew Toys, and guess what-- we won! The prize was a selection of Mutt Nose Best's new U. Berry Calm Puppy Eau de Toilet, Shampoo and Conditioner. Featuring Maine blueberries and Organic Oats, these shampoos are designed to create an at home spa-like experience for your pup.

We have yet to try out the shampoo and conditioners, but are loving the Eau de Toilet spray which utilizes Ordenone, a natural, water soluble ingredient,  that binds with the proteins that cause bad odors and eliminates them. 
 
Want to get your paws on your own set of Mutt Nose Best Berry Calm goodies? Head over to the website to purchase and learn more about their products. 

 

Disclaimer: These products were won via giveaway!

Saturday, October 15, 2011

A Barkzilla PSA


Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not react well to grabbing, aggressive petting or squealing-- especially if they don't know you. (And nor do their owners.)

We know that everyone gets excited about spotting a Barkista, especially in NYC where they're ever so chic, but would you run up to a celebrity screaming and flailing your arms?

No, you'd want to appear relaxed and nonchalant. Right? 

On that note, here are some great tips for approaching dogs like a pro from Howdini and Tracie Hotchner, author of The Dog Bible. Follow this advice and strangers and their dogs will thank you. Really.

 

Friday, October 14, 2011

Introducing the October Barkista of the Month!

This month we are honored to introduce you to Sydney, aka Syd, the beloved fur-buddy of our friend Heather, the amazing songstress and fab blogger behind Seoul Diva. One of the most talented people we know, it should hardly come as a surprise that she chooses to share her life with an equally amazing (and adorable) Barkista.

Name:  Sydney (aka Syd Vicious)
Hometown:  Astoria, Queens
Age:
Breed: miniature schnauzer
Canine Style Inspiration:  minimalist
Favorite Accessory:  a bright orange cashmere belted overcoat
Designer of Choice:  not fussed, as long as it is
Signature Collar:  red patent leather collar with silver heart studs (I wanted skulls, but I knew Grammy Park would think it was superstitious…Korean grandparents!)
Vacation Destination:  a wide open park where I can run around with my ears back, Old Yeller style    
Ultimate Treat/Indulgence:  a few nibbles of fresh banana.  Whenever my mom makes a green smoothie, I hover around to see if she’ll throw me a piece!
The Toy I Never Leave Home Without:  My stuffed froggie. I love how it squeaks when I bite its ass.
Designer Dream Item:  a completely obnoxious Louis Vuitton dog carrier. Just because when you say Louis Vuitton in Korean, it sounds like “Loo Pi-tong”
Where You'll Most Likely Spot This Barkista:  relaxing at home, or running around at Stush Music Studios
Favorite Website:  www.seouldiva.com – because even though I’m a schnauzer, I’m really Korean on the inside
My Halloween Costume:  I don’t believe in dressing up unless it’s for warmth. Thank goodness my mom feels the same way.  No antlers stapled to this girl!


Is your Barkista begging to be featured on Barkzilla? Email barkzilla at gmail dot com with their answers to the above questions along with a recent headshot for the chance to be featured!

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Doggy Wedding Cake Toppers

I'm just going to throw it out there:
If I ever decide to lock it down, do you know what I want on top of my delicious wedding cake? 
Miniature felted dogs. 

I bet you're not sure if I'm kidding or not.... Regardless, if you too share this dream, you're in luck-- head over to Etsy and check out Dreamwood Art Designs who will custom craft the doggie duo of your choice for $198.


Or, if you're working with a big budget, visit Gfelted, where a custom set of pooches will set you back a cool $425. See below for an example of their amazing work.


Thoughts? What was on top of your wedding cake (real or imaginary)? 

A Very Barkzilla #Giveaway


To celebrate Howl-o-ween and our most favorite month of the year, we're giving away a $30 Petsmart gift card to one lucky Barkzilla reader! That's right-- just in time to score a new costume or stock up on your favorite spooky toys, this gift card will be mailed directly to you and can be used online or in stores. This giveaway is not sponsored by Petsmart (we're ponying up the cash), it's just our way of saying thank you and sharing a little Howl-o-ween treat with our fans.

Don't forget, there are multiple ways to enter!



Monday, October 10, 2011

The Bone Bowl

There is something really adorable about the idea of a dog eating out of a bone shaped bowl. These cute and colorful bowls avoid being kitsch-y with their smooth design and stainless steel removeable bowls. Featuring non-slip rubber feet, they're sized for small to medium sized dogs.


Designed in the UK, they're now available in time for the holidays in the US for $29.95

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Is Your Dog a Pup-Casso?

We can't wait to get our paws on Pup-casso, the latest from the folks over at Artcasso! A mess-free painting kit for dogs, it comes with everything you need to show the world that your dog is an Impressionist master.

Simply apply paint to the canvas, cover with the paint shield, and let your dog go at it!


A fun DIY gift for any owner who loves to boast about their pet (I mean really, who doesn't?), each kit includes 3 canvases and paint shields, as well as 5 acrylic non-toxic colors. Available for purchase for $19.99 from Artcasso.com.



Sunday, October 2, 2011

Louis Dog Cashmere Corsage Sweater

Right now, we're loving this little grey cashmere sweater from Louis Dog! Adorned with a with a pretty pink corsage, it's perfect for the pretty little puppy in your life.

Available from The Ritzy Rover in XS-L from $123 to $131.

A Very Barkzilla Giveaway

To celebrate our favorite month of the year (October) we are hosting our first-ever GIVEAWAY. That's right. You read it here first. What will it be? Stay tuned to find out! Either way, it's our way of saying a special thank you to all of our fabulous readers (furry and human alike).
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