Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe

This pumpkin dog treat recipe is a super yummy treat for your pooch and is loaded with Beta carotene and anti-oxidants especially Vitamin C and E. These vitamins help to lower cancer risk, cataracts and heart disease. The pumpkin also aids in digestion.

Ingredients:

2 eggs
1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons dry milk
2 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon vanilla
water


Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Blend eggs and pumpkin together; add salt, cinnamon, dry milk, and flour.
3. Add vanilla, then add water as needed to make the dough somewhat workable.
4. The dough should be dry and stiff, don't be concerned with crumbs being left in the bowl.
5. You will need to mix this with your hands because it is too stiff for an electric mixer.
6. Roll to 1/2-inch thick.Cut into shapes.
7. Place 1" apart on ungreased cookie sheet.
8. Bake for 20 minutes on one side, then turn over and bake another 20 minutes.

Max says... Gimme more!

Scratch Out Fleas: Fleas in your home

What if my dog brings fleas home?

No one likes to be bitten by those nasty little fleas. If your dog bring fleas to your home, you will first want to wash all linens that are potentially affected in hot water, and dry on high heat. Additionally, there are many products that are made just for this problem. You can use a home spray or a carpet powder. Both are effective options.

Hartz makes ADVANCED CARE 3 in 1 Home Spray that kills and prevents fleas for 7 months.

Hartz also makes ADVANCED CARE 3 in 1 Carpet Powder that kills fleas, flea eggs, and ticks that live and breed in carpets and upholstered furniture. This can be used in homes, basements, pet sleeping quarters and storage areas and can control re-infestation for up to 365 days by killing flea eggs.

Scratch Out Fleas: Natural flea treatments

Is there a natural way to rid my dog of fleas?
You can make your own flea spray or use essential oils to repel fleas.

A recipe for a safe and easy homemade flea repellent is: cut 6 lemons in half, boil in a quart of water, steep a few hours, then strain the solution into a spray bottle. Spritz your pet's fur, taking care not to spray near the eyes.

You can also use essential oils to repel fleas, such as:

• Lavender, lemongrass, peppermint and citronella repel fleas. Lavender, peppermint and geranium essential oils repel mosquitoes. Lavender, lemongrass and geranium repel ticks. Dab oils between the dog's shoulder blades.
  
• Other effective natural repellents include lemon, cedar, eucalyptus, myrrh, neem and rosewood.
• Put a drop of lemon oil or rosemary oil on the dog's collar.

Are there any vitamins or supplements that will repel fleas?
There are vitamins and dietary supplements that will help to repel fleas. Here are some supplements are are known to help:

• B complex vitamins (50 mg once a day for cats and smaller dogs, and twice daily for larger dogs
• Omega 3 and 6 fatty acid supplements
• Organic apple cider vinegar to the dog's water bowl (about 1 teaspoon for small dogs and 1 tablespoon for large dogs)
• Safflower oil and powdered kelp or seaweed to the food bowl (about 1 teaspoon for small dogs and 1 tablespoon for large dogs)
• Fresh garlic in small quantities can help repel fleas by making the animal taste unpleasant to fleas. Grate a small amount of fresh, raw garlic into your pet's food at mealtime, about one-half to 3 chambers of the clove (chamber, not a whole clove -- see below) depending on the animal's size.
  

Scratch Out Fleas: Protecting your dog

What is the best way to protect against fleas?
It is important to treat your dog all year around, especially if you live in a more temperate climate. This can be done with flea shampoo, sprays, and also with the monthly topical treatment.

There are a variety of pet stores, as well as online stores that sell flea treatments. Pet Edge carries many flea treatments at a very affordable price. They have shampoos, sprays, and topical treatment. You can get a 3 month supply of topical treatment for only $1.99. So, there is no excuse to make your pal itch.

Topical treatments

What if my dog has extra sensitive skin?
There are some flea treatments formulated for sensitive skin. Hartz makes an ADVANCED CARE 2 in 1 Flea & Tick Shampoo with Oatmeal that kills fleas and ticks while helping to sooth and relieve dry, itchy or irritated skin with a fresh herbal fragrance. This product was developed with encapsulated Oat Extract to provide soothing relief to itchy problem skin.

There are other dog shampoos and sprays on the market made for sensitive skin. Additionally, you may want to try the topical treatment, since it is concentrated to one area.

Scratch Out Fleas: More than just a summer problem

We all know that fleas can cause your little guy to drive himself crazy scratching. But did you know that these small dark brown insects prefer temperatures of 65-80 degrees and humidity levels of 75-85%... so for some areas of the country they are more than just a “summer” problem. The next few articles will be addressing how to determine if your little guy has fleas and how to deal with it.

How did my dog get fleas?
Dogs and cats can get infested with fleas through contact with other animals or contact with fleas in the environment. Often times, fleas can even live in the grass and can latch on to your pup at play group or even on a walk outside. Fleas can’t fly, but they can jump pretty far!

How do I know if my dog has fleas?
These nasty little bugs can often be seen scurrying along the surface of the skin. Fleas dislike light so looking for them within furry areas and on the pet's belly and inner thighs will provide your best chances of spotting them. Look for "flea dirt", too. "Flea dirt" looks like dark specks of pepper scattered on the skin surface. If you find fleas or flea dirt, you need to begin your war on the pests.

Cain & Able Collection -- Dog Shampoo & Conditioner Review

Cain & Able Collection offers a shampoo and conditioner for dogs, formulated from pure organic essential oils, which act a a natural flea treatment, while still keeping the coat smooth and shiny.

We purchased the shampoo because it was advertised to be a gentle shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin. We used both the shampoo and conditioner for several weeks. At first, it seemed like Max was still scratching at his sensitive skin. However, we determined that we were not rinsing the conditioner out completely. After spending a little more time getting the conditioner out, Max was a soft and clean little guy.

Drying off and looking cute!

The products come in either a lavender or peppermint fragrance. We have the lavender and it smells great. Both the shampoo and conditioner are $12.50 each, for a 16 ounce bottle. It is available for purchase at boutiques an online at the Cain & Able online store.

They also have some other products we are looking forward to try, such as the paw balm.

Overall, both the shampoo and conditioner are great, all-natural products. As long as you are willing to spend a little extra time rinsing the conditioner out, I am sure you will be satisfied with the quality and performance as well.

Max gives Cain & Able Collection 2 PAWS UP!

Pet-Friendly Airline Guide

With the holiday season quickly approaching, I thought it would be helpful to have a list of airlines that allow pets on board. I have used United, Continental and Delta without difficulty. If you have a well behaved dog, the flight attendants are usually lax and let your little pal sit on your lap.

Airline	Cargo or Cabin	Cost	Phone Number
Air Canada	Cargo Only	$90 each way	888-247-2262
Alaska Air	Both	$75 each way	800-252-7522
American/American Eagle	Both	$80 each way (cabin); $100 each way (cargo)	800-433-7300
American West	Cabin Only	$80 each way	800-428-4322
Continental	Both	$95 each way (cabin); $119 each way (cargo)	800-575-3335
Delta	Both	$50 each way (cabin); $110 each way (cargo)	800-221-1212
Jet Blue	Cabin only	$50 each way	800-538-2583
Frontier	Cargo only	$100 each way	800-432-1359
Horizon Airlines	Both	$75 each way	800-252-7522
Northwest Airlines	Both	$80 each way	800-225-2525
US Airways	Cabin only	$80 each way	800-428-4322
United Airlines	Both	$85 each way	800-UNITED-1

Max is getting ready for the flight!

Special Rules
Airlines allowing pet travel generally accept most small domesticated pets. Other pets may be accepted with approval. Pets that may travel in the climate-controlled baggage and cargo compartments include: cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, household birds, non-poisonous reptiles, pot bellied pigs, rabbits, and tropical fish. Dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks old and must have been fully weaned for at least five days prior to travel.

Specific Breed Concerns
Due to health risks, brachycephalic (shortnose) dogs/cats are only accepted for travel at owner's risk and excess valuation is not available. The following is a list of the affected breeds:

• Dogs: American Pit Bull, American Staffordshire, Boston Terrier, Brussels Griffin, Bull Mastiff, Bull Terrier, Chow Chow, Dutch Pug, English Bulldog, English Toy Spaniel, French Bulldog, Japanese Boxer, Japanese Spaniel, Pekinese Pug, Shih Tzu, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Terrier, Bulldog, Pug, Boxer.

• Cats: Burmese, Exotic, Himalayan, Persian.

Don't forget to bring along a health certificate for your pooch dated within 30 days of travel!

Cetacea Step-In Harness Review

This step-in dog harness, found at some Petco stores and at Cetacea's online store, is one of the most amazing dog products I have ever come across. I learned about Cetacea and their plethora of dog supplies when I answered an ad for a dog model. After Max modeled we were given the products to try.

The Cetacea step-in harness is so easy to use. Your dog just steps in it and then it fastens on the back. It is a real time saver because you don't have to hassle with trying to stick their head through and then fumble with the fastening device. It is so quick and easy that Max knows to just step right in, and then step out the door.

Not only is it easy to use, but it is made in a way that is comfy for your little guy. All of the seams face out, and not against the dog. Imagine how uncomfortable that would be to have the thick seams constantly rubbing against you. It is easy to adjust sizes, then locks into position.

Additionally, it has a double safety feature. Not only does it fasten, but it has two brass D-rings that connect over the fastening latch in the event that it would ever come unfastened. It is beautifully crafted and you can definitely tell that a lot of thought went into this construction of this harness in order to meet the highest safety and comfort standards.

This harness is a steal at only $12.99. Max wears an XS, but as you will see at the website, they range from ferret and teacup sizes, all the way to Labrador sizes. They have 18 colors in stock and generally ship the same day. Check them out online. You won't be disappointed!

Max gives this harness 2 PAWS UP!

Halloween Tips & Ideas for your Pup

Costumes:

Be sure to only dress your pup in a costume that he is comfortable wearing. Don't force him to wear that hat he keeps taking off; it is more of a strangling hazard than a fashion statement.

If you want to cut costs this Halloween, try making a costume out of a shirt he already has.

• Sew black felt circles on a red shirt to make a lady bug, or
  
• Sew or draw black stripes on a yellow shirt to make a bumble bee... and don't forget the stinger ;)
• Draw black rings around a white shirt to make your guy a jail bird
  
• Try making a cape or bandanna from a yard of fabric from your local fabric store. It can easily be tied around the neck or sewn on his collar. Then try penciling on your own logo on the cape... Superdog!

Last year I bought a pair of kids jeans at Goodwill, then cut a 8" portion of the calf area and took out the seam. Then I make holes for the arms and wrote on the denim vest. Add a spike collar that we already owned, and Max was a punk rocker!


Safety:

Be extra careful when answering your door for trick-or-treaters. Don't let your little guy get scared by the ghosts and goblins and run out the door. Always use a leash on Halloween, even if your pup is fully trained. All the spooks may spook him.

Keep all decorations that could of danger to your pet out of his reach. Display lit Jack-o-Lanterns on a table or ledge, and keep all candy out of reach... especially chocolate.

If you think your pet has eaten something harmful, contact a veterinarian immediately. Or call the toll-free Animal Poison Control Center hot-line at (888) 426-4435. It's available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

More Tail-Wagging Freebies

I have come across a load of doggie freebies that I would like to pass on. Each requires a short survey, but takes only a bit to complete. Get these great samples before they go to the (other) dogs ;)

• Purina Mighty Dog wet food sample
• Cesar Canine Cuisine free entre sample, fine dining for your small friend
• Natures Recipe coupons and a food sample, you can get up to 10 kits
• Pet N Shape dog treat sample, made with 100% natural ingredients
• Benny Bully's Training Treat sample, pure and natural ingredients
• Yappy Treat sample, No Preservatives, No Chemicals, No Artificial Colors, and No Artificial Ingredients
• ScoopEx 4-Pack Sample, the ultimate disposable scooper
• Clean-up bag dispenser

Greenies Freebies

Get a free sample of Greenies dental chews at the Greenies website. Fill out a short survey so they can send you the right size Greenie for your pup. The survey takes less than a minutes. Enjoy!

Nutro Freebies

Nutro offers a free trial of its Natural Choice dog food. The great thing is that the coupon you receive is for a 5 lb bag. This is a $12 value. You just have to fill out a short survey at Nutro's website, and you will receive your coupon in a few weeks. I Then, simply present your coupon anywhere Nutro Natural Choice dog food is sold. I picked up my free bag at PetSmart. It was quick, simple, and comes in a variety of formulas. I got the adult formula small bites for my little guy.

Nutro Natural Choice Training Bits Review

My little Yorkie, Max, is very picky eater. His treat jar is full of half-eaten bags of treats that I have tried to convince him he likes... yet, time after time, he has proven to me that he doesn't.

I picked him up at the groomer and as I was at the register, I gave in, as usual, and purchased a bag of treats off of the display. As much as I hate the give in to the last minute marketing tactics, I found myself hopeful of finding a tasty and healthy treat for my little guy. I bought a bag of Nutro Natural Choice Training Bits. They were on sale from $1.99 to $1.69 (with my PetPerks card) for a 2 oz. bag, and I can't pass up a bargain.

When we got back home, I opened the bag and then Max came running, ears sticking straight up. I made him work for his treats. He sat, rolled, shook paws, then rolled some more. However, I was worried that I could have false hope... either Max was just really hungry, or it was only the initial allure of the newness, as is usually the case.

However, the next day he just gazed at the shiny red bag of treats that was still sitting out. Again, he sat and rolled and loved the treats. Days have gone by and Max is still loving Nutro's Training Bits. They are about 1" square, so I break them into two or three pieces. The Bits are made from chicken and beef protein, with no artificial colors or flavors, so I feel good about giving these treats to my little guy. You can read more about the nutritional information at the Nutro website. Hope your little pup likes them as much as mine!

Max gives these treats 2 paws up!