The Dog Hub

Q&A on all things matts

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 09:15:00 GMT

Everything you need to know about those pesky mats.

What is matting and why does it happen?

A mat is a very thick, uncombable knot of hair. If a coat is not brushed regularly, loose and live hair become embedded in large clumps. Sometimes these can be brushed out but if left too long, it is impossible to comb them out without hurting the dog.

Where on the dog can I find mats?

Everywhere is the short answer. Matting is typically found in areas of your dog with the most friction; armpits, where the collar or harness sits, legs and backend where they lay down, behind the ears or other areas of the body where they might be scratching.

Water can also contribute to matting and in Ireland we have it plenty! Weather your dog loves puddles, going for walks in the rain, lying on wet grass or perhaps he's getting too many bubble baths, if you don't brush out the hair when it dries matting will appear very quickly.

How can I prevent matting?

Brush, brush and brush. Depending on your dog breed, desired length and style of the hair brushing should be done a few times a week. During colder and wetter months it should be done more frequently especially around the areas where the collar and harness sit.

Can a dog groomer deal with it?

Absolutely providing the mats are not too dense and not many. If the mats are very close to the skin and appear all over the body, it is very uncomfortable for your dog and the nicest thing to do is to clip it off.

What is dematting?

The dematting process involves taking small sections of hair at a time and working to release the mats using scissors, brushes and other tools. If the matting on your dog is heavy and very tight, the safest and least painful way to remove this altogether is to clip his hair short. Also known as shaving off the coat. This means we have to work close to the skin with my clipper blade and on the release of the mats there can often be signs of irritation of the skin so you can imagine we do not take the decision to clip the coat off lightly.

So the ultimate solution is a brush?

Yes, brushing and regular visits to your groomer. If you're too busy and this does not fit into your daily life, I would recommend speaking to your groomer and get a plan in place for your dog. To give you an idea, for a cavachon (cavapoo, cockapoo etc.) whose hair you like to keep long, I recommend having a full groom every 6-8 weeks and a wash & brush out every 4-5 weeks. This way we can stay on top of the mats if there are any and ensure we can keep them long and fluffy when they come in for the full groom.

Cold weather and dogs

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:13:51 GMT

Tis the season for cooler weather and here's just a reminder for what to pay attention to when it comes to our doggies.

How cold is too cold?

At 7°C and below, most dogs will start to get uncomfortable.

At 0°C small, thin coated, young, elderly or sickly dogs should not be let out for a long time.

At -7°C and lower dogs become vulnerable to hypothermia.

Please note that the above is just a guideline. How much your dog can tolerate will always depend on the size of your dog, coat type, age and weight and any medical conditions.

Maintaining their paws

Paws, nose, ears and the stomach region are generally unprotected and therefore quite sensitive in all dogs. Make sure your dog’s paws are looked after. Remove dirt when you come back from your walk especially if you're walking on gritted roads and use a paw balm from your favourite pet store (Holistic hound do one if you would like to support an Irish business).

Jackets and jumpers

Who doesn't love seeing a pup in a cute Christmas jumper? Obviously some breeds will tolerate the cold just fine such as Huskies, Newfoundlands or Saint Bernards for example. For breeds such as greyhounds, miniature pinschers, chihuahuas and whippets, get them a doggie jacket or jumper to wear when you’re out and about. Make sure the garments fit properly and are free of any irritating zippers or embellishments. If your dog won't tolerate a jacket (like my Fiadh), just limit their time outdoors and go for shorter adventures.

Exercise

Dogs can and should continue to exercise in the colder months. But remember to exercise gently for the first five minutes – just like humans, dogs need to warm up their muscles, too.

Fireplaces and heaters

Beware of fireplaces both inside and outside your home. Never leave a fire burning unattended with a pet nearby. Make sure you use a safety screen to keep your pet safe from soot, flames and embers. Also, be mindful of space heaters. Your dog can be burned if it gets too close to a heater or the dog could tip the heater over and start a fire.

Puppy grooms

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 13:48:58 GMT

Puppy grooms are definitely a perk of my job. But it's not all fun and games and here's why.

Keeping your dog healthy is a priority of every dog parent and part of a regular health routine is grooming. Here are a few grooming related things to consider when you first get a puppy.

Starting early

Depending on what breed of dog you have, the best way to get them used to the process of grooming is starting when they've had all their vaccinations. Grooming is a skill that dogs need to learn and trust the process just like any other training element in their life. Starting early also gives your pup plenty of time to get used to all the tools, noises and handling before they will need their first full groom.

Positive first experience at the groomers.

When your puppy is between 3-5 months it is unlikely they will have matts or tangles which are uncomfortable to remove so this ensures they have a positive first experience. I normally start with them exploring my groom room and have a play around before moving on to washing and drying, I turn on the clippers so they get used to the sound, get them to sniff all other tools, touch their legs and pads and if needed cut their nails. All is done very slowly with breaks so I don't overwhelm them. I finish with some playtime and some treats. Sounds fun but I promise there is some work involved in all of this!

Home grooming

There are a number of things you can train your puppy at home that will help them get confident and comfortable at the groomers. Try practicing the below while watching TV with your pup snuggled on your lap, use their favorite treats to reward them or reward them with some playtime with their favorite toy.

Touch their paws, between pads and nails
Stroke their ears on the inside and outside in a gentle way
Brush your puppy with an appropriate brush for a few minutes on a regular basis

The more your pup is used to being touched and handled the better!

You can always contact me for advice on what to do or what tools to use for your specific breed of pup. We can have a chat on the phone or you can come into my grooming room in Raheny for a free assessment.

Dogs and warm weather

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 08:00:01 GMT

How to look after our pets in warm weather.

Summer is definitely here and I for one am loving it! But with high temperatures come a few things that we need to look after when it comes to our dogs.

First things first, make sure they haven constant supply of cool fresh water. Pets cool through their mouths which means the water evaporates every time they breathe. Make sure you place the bowl in shade and top it up multiple times a day or as often as needed.

If your pet spends most of the time outside or in the garden make sure there is always shade available. Weather that's in form of trees or a canopy, dogs will need some relief from the hot sun. Have a look around your local pet store or online for different options available for you pet to hide under.

Another thing to consider is your daily walks. Make sure you exercise your pet early in the morning or evenings when temperatures are lower. Along with that pay attention to what surface you're walking on. Walking on hot tarmac can be damaging to their paws and can lead to burns. In general, if the asphalt is too hot to keep your hand on it for more than 5 seconds, then it's too hot for your dog. Walk your dog on grassy areas, parks, beach etc. Or if you live in a concrete jungle, try walking in the shade side of the street and check your dogs paws are ok after every walk.

Now the next topic has been talked about plenty on various channels but I will repeat it again, NEVER ever leave your pet in the car. Even if it is for 2 minutes with the windows down. The car becomes a furnace and even with the windows down there isn't enough cool air coming in for your pet to be able to tolerate that type of heat. Don't believe me? Do a little test yourself and try sitting in a car with the window down slightly and time yourself how long you last.

Last but not least, it may be useful to know what to look out for if your pet is overheating so here are signs of a heatstroke:

- excessive drooling

- vomiting

- heavy panting

- rapid heart rate

- increased body temperature

- diarrhoea

- collapsing

If you suspect a heatstroke start cooling your pet immediately; wrap them in wet towel or soak them in cool water. Call your vet and follow their instructions.

Grooming senior dogs

Mon, 15 May 2023 08:00:03 GMT

Senior dogs have slightly different requirements when it comes to grooming and here's a few things to watch out for.

Brushing

You all know how much I love a good brush and I have discussed the importance of a brush routine with your dog many times. And it's especially important with elderly dogs. Abnormalities such as thinning hair, skin irritations, growths or lumps are just a few things that you may notice as you brush and it's important to keep an eye on and discuss with your vet if you're worried.

Use a non-slip surface

Make sure your pet is standing or lying on a non-slip surface. This will make them feel more comfortable and secure. A simple rubber bath mat will keep your dog steady when you brush them. Same goes for washing your dog at home, using a rubber mat is a must!

Professional grooms to be kept at a minimum

I would recommend choosing a haircut that will keep your senior dog away from the groomer for longer. Full grooms require your pet to stand for a long period of time which most senior dogs find hard to do even when they're in good health. So it's important to choose a haircut that will last longer and keep the hair at bay longer. Talk to your groomer what the best plan for your senior dog's coat is.

Tools

Make sure your tools are in good repair and choose softer, gentler brushes for older dogs. Skin may lose elasticity as dogs age and many dogs can develop lumps and bumps that can be a bit tender.

Examine the “sanitary” areas

This is done by your groomer but you can keep an eye on these areas yourself too. Sometimes if dogs have stiff achy joints, they might have difficulty keeping these spots as clean as they did when they were young. A quick fix if the hair does get soiled is to use water wipes (baby wipes) on these areas.

Trim nails regularly

Senior dogs are generally less active then they used to be so their nails don’t get worn down as much. Making sure their nails are clipped is important so they don't slide around the floor and put pressure on achy joints. But be sure to clip gently as old dog's nails can be brittle.

Quick guide to home bath time

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 08:00:01 GMT

Quick guide for bathing your pup at home.

Do you have a dog who run into every puddle and splashes around in the ocean but when it comes to bath time the breaks come on? There's a few things you can do to make it a bit easier for yourself and of course your fury friend.

Prep time

This may sound obvious but make sure you have everything ready before you start. Towels ready on the bath and on the floor, dog shampoo mixed up, calming music playing in the background etc. It all helps and will save you stress running around trying to find a towel while your wet dog is making a run for the door.

Brush before the bath

It may not be the first thing you would think of before bath time but brushing before bath will remove shedding hair and make it easier to lather and rinse. It will also save your drain from clogging up! And it's a great time to calm your dog down and bond with them before moving him to the tub.

Make it a positive experience

It's important to build positive associations with bath-time from the very start. Start slowly and use treats, favourite toys or even playtime in the bathroom. If your dog is still hesitant then start with having him just stand in the bath and build it up from there over the course of a few weeks.

Use warm water and gentle shampoo

The water should be no warmer than you would use for a human baby. Make sure you wet your dog thoroughly before applying and lathering the shampoo. Use a gentle shampoo without parabens and avoid using human grade shampoo. And try not to bathe too often. Frequent use of shampoo can dry out the skin and the natural oils that protect their skin from the elements.

Avoid getting water in the ears

Be careful around the ears as any water down the ear canal is not only irritating but can cause ear infections. Put some cotton wool in the ears if you're worried.

Stay calm

It always help staying as calm as possible whenever attempting grooming your dog. Dogs are very responsive to voice tone so try talking in a gentle reassuring voice.

Brush after the bath

The single most important thing to avoid matting for all you curly wurly owners! Cokapoo, cavapoo, cavashon, bichon, mini schnauzer etc. or any other long hair breed prone to matting, make sure you brush the dog completely after they're dry. Same goes for any rainy day walks.

Consider a professional

This is where my professional pitch should come in! Seriously though, if you find it too stressful just call your dog groomer. You could even be a bit cheeky and plan a really long dirty walk before bringing your dog in... Afterall that’s what we’re here for!

Spring and your dog

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 09:00:06 GMT

The clocks have changed, it's starting to look a little more green and there's flowers popping up everywhere.

We're finally ready to make our gardens a bit more presentable but before you bring out all the outdoor furniture, cushions and your firepit, have a quick read about what your dog could be up to while you’re busy catching some sun rays.

Ticks and fleas

Springtime usually brings an increased amount of ticks and fleas found in dogs. To prevent creepy crawlies from moving into your home, discuss the right course of treatment for your dog with your vet.

Fertilizers and pesticides

If you have green fingers then you will have at least one type of fertilizer and/or pesticides in your shed. However as they contain chemicals which pose a significant health concern for your pets try seeking out a pet-safe option. There are a few that can be found online so plan ahead to avoid shipping delays.

Allergies

Some dogs develop seasonal allergies to things like pollen, mould and mildew spores. These can manifest themselves in itchy and irritated skin, sneezing, coughing etc. Allergies to insects could be a problem as well due to the increased number of insects in the springtime. If your dog is scratching increasingly, visit your vet to see what can be done to lessen his symptoms.

Garden plants poisonous to your dog

There are lists upon lists of plants and flowers that vary in the level of toxicity for dogs so I will only mention the most common ones found around: Daffodils, Tulip bulbs, Rhubarb leaves, Bluebells, Ivy, Wisteria.

And you can find an extensive list on the link below:

https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/health-and-dog-care/health/health-and-care/a-z-of-health-and-care-issues/poisons-in-your-garden/

These are a few of my favourite (dog) things

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 09:15:00 GMT

Do you ever come across a toy, a trick or a gadget that you love so much you think everyone should have it? Well here's my list of all dog things that I use either in my studio or for my Fiadh.

Grooming tools

This will of course depend on the type of dog you have but I cannot live without my Chris Christensen brushes and dematting spray. I have written countless blogs about brushing and I cannot stress enough what a good brush and a gentle positive brush routine will do for keeping hair soft and mat free.

Peanut Butter

You'd be surprised what I can get away with by treating dogs with a dab of peanut butter. Dog friendly of course. Cutting ails, nervous bath time, teaching new tricks,... you name it! It's all a little easier with the help of this trusty treat.

Nail Grinder

This was a game changer for all dogs that hate their nails done. Although they may take a tad longer, they're generally quieter than a nail clipping sound and gentler on the nails and the dogs are calmer as a result. Try Dremel or Andis one, they both come recommended by professional groomers.

Toys

My favourite is a simple cardboard box with a few treats hidden inside it. It's a 3 in 1 treat- gives the dog sniffing opportunities, food reward and they can destroy the box as well! Also, anything soft and squeaky works wonders to draw attention and distract from any unwanted behaviours.

Keeping them fresh

Yuup are an Italian brand that do wonderful things in dogs cosmetics. I use their Revive perfum / deodorant which prolongs my Fiadh's groom and leaves her smelling lovely! It also conditions the coat and skin and is free of any harmful substances. I highly recommend it!

Canident

I cannot recommend this product enough, It's all natural seaweed and works miracles (yes!) on dog's teeth and keeping plaque at bay. Using it regularly from early on, it will prevent build up of plaque resulting in fewer trips to the dentist.

Why brushing your dog should be your New Year's resolution

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 09:20:22 GMT

There are many benefits of having a good brush routine with your dog. Here's a few practical ones that might help you stick to it.

Prevents matting
Brushing removes dirt and debris from your dog’s coat, as well as detangling any smaller knots which could have developed into serious matts. And we all know what thick matts result in - the dreaded "shave down". I'm sure all you long haired dog owners (cavashon, cavapoo, cavashons, bichon frise etc.) know the importance of using a brush on a regular basis.

Reduces shedding and improves their coat

Brushing your dog strips out the dead hairs in their coat and reduces the amount of fur that ends up in your carpet, your car or stuck to the sofa. Regular brushing also distributes natural oils for a glossy shiny coat, it stimulates the surface of the skin, gets rid of dead and dry skin, and helps you become familiar with your dog's body.

Helps you spot anything unusual

Brushing allows you to spot anything unusual such as bumps, lumps or parasites. Regular brushing helps you get to know how your dog’s skin usually looks so that you can notice if anything changes. Some bumps are harmless, but if you spot one that isn’t, early detection can mean the difference between life and death.

Keeps your dog and your house clean

Brushing your dog’s coat gets rid of any dirt they’ve picked up outside. Of course if your dog decided to sit in the muddiest of mud pits or roll in something dodgy, no brush will help. But for the majority of situations a good brush out is great and also helps to keep your dog’s coat clean between baths and trips to the groomer.

Bonding time

Making time in your daily routine can be a challenge but setting time aside for regular brushing is a great way to make sure you’re spending some quality time with your dog. Five minutes of brushing your dog while he’s curled up on your lap on the sofa can be a pleasant experience for both you and your dog.

And if you just simply cannot find time in your day, call your groomer and arrange a bath and brush out. We'll remove any tangles before they develop in serious mats and keep your dog nice and fluffy.

Dog breed focus: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 09:00:03 GMT

The sweet, gentle expression of large, round eyes, long ears and a silky, richly colored coat is what makes this breed very distinct.

Good brush routine

Getting your dog used to brushing is a good base of home grooming. Choosing the right equipment and technique is something you should discuss with your groomer to help you best look after your dogs coat. Start brushing when your dog is a puppy in their down time and with a few treats in your hand.

Washing at home

Unless you have a salon grade blow dryer I wouldn't recommend washing a Cavy at home. It'll take a long time to dry them, especially the ears! A good brush out will remove the dander and dirt but if you really have to, rise the feet only and leave the rest to a professional groomer.

Professional grooming visits

This will depend on weather you're leaving your cavy long or short. If you're looking to grow out their coat long, a daily brush routine is a must. And visits to your groomer every 4-6 weeks. For shorter cuts normally a visit every 10 weeks does the trick. Speak to your dog groomer (Dog Hub grooming in Raheny) about what will work best for your and your dogs lifestyle.

Teeth

Start checking your dogs teeth when they're still puppies. Depending on what food you feed them, dry or wet or raw, check regularly for signs of any build up on their teeth. Brushing their teeth a few times a week should help to prevent a big build up. And if you're a fan of supplements, I use a product called "Canident" for my dog (Irish Terrier) and it works amazingly well to keep the tartar at bay!

Flea / Tick / Worm treatments

Make sure you check your pet regularly for ticks and any signs of flea debris. There are many ways of keeping your pet free of any parasites so find a solution (chemical or natural) that works best for you and your pet.

Vet visits

It is advised that you visit your vet once a year for a general health check. Even if your pet seems healthy, they're professional vets for a reason and might spot something you missed.

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 09:00:04 GMT

Big thank you to all my customers for trusting me with their pals this year! Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and can't wait to see you all in the New Year!

Tinka and Fiadh at Dog Hub

Keeping dogs safe at Christmas, pet safety at Christmas

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 09:00:00 GMT

It's the most wonderful time of the year for all the family including your dog! And if you want to make sure your dog’s happy and safe this Christmas, here are a few tips.

Dangerous food and drink

Chocolate, raisins, mince pies, Christmas pudding are all poisonous for dogs so make sure you keep them out of reach. And it goes without saying - alcohol. Please just don't.

What leftovers can you feed them? Carrots, parsnips, turkey (if there's any left), salmon, peas, rosties.

Christmas plants

Poinsettia - this beautiful red flower appears everywhere around tis time of the year but it can cause irritation in the mouth and stomach and can cause vomiting.

Holly - considered low in toxicity but if the berries are ingested they can cause an upset tummy.

Mistletoe - similar to holly if the berries are ingested they can cause an upset stomach and vomiting.

Christmas tree - not high on the toxicity levels but sharp pine needle tips can cause damage internally.

Wrapping paper

If you have a dog that likes to discover the world with their mouth, eating larger amounts of paper can cause digestive issues and obstructions in the stomach.

Christmas Decorations

Decorations made of plastic, paper or foil are of low toxicity although may obstruct the stomach if ingested. Glass decorations pose a risk if chewed or swallowed.

Fairy Lights

One of the dangerous elements to dogs and Christmas trees are the twinkling lights wrapped around them. They may look harmless, but some dogs think of the wires as shiny new chew toys – which is most common with younger dogs or puppies. Also, if you have a particularly boisterous pup that likes to play, they may get tangled up in the wires.

Visitors

With plenty of friends and family visiting over the holidays, this can be quite overwhelming for your dog especially if they’re not used to it. Make sure you provide them with a safe space away from it all, put down blankets, favourite toys and a few treats they can occupy themselves with (sniffle mats, kong toys, lickimats etc.). That way if they feel stressed from all the excitement around, they can go to their quiet space.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas!

Dogs and cold weather

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 09:00:03 GMT

How cold is too cold, should I buy a puffer for my dog and what about snow? A short guide on all things winter and your dog.

How cold is too cold?

At 7°C and below, most dogs will start to get uncomfortable.

At 0°C small, thin coated, young, elderly or sickly dogs should not be let out for a long time.

At -7°C and lower dogs become vulnerable to hypothermia.

Please note that the above is just a guideline. How much your dog can tolerate will always depend on the size of your dog, coat type, age and weight and any medical conditions.

Maintaining their paws

Jackets and jumpers

Exercise

Dogs can and should continue to exercise in the colder months. But remember to exercise gently for the first five minutes – just like humans, dogs need to warm up their muscles, too.

Fireplaces and heaters

Dog breed focus: Pomeranian

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 09:00:06 GMT

Super soft and fluffy comes to mind when talking about this vivacious breed. And despite their fluffy appearance, their coats are not too difficult to look after.

Good brush routine

A good brush routine is the most important thing when looking after this breed's coat. And it's something both you and your puppy should get used to very early on. Buy a slicker brush and a comb and brush your pup in their down time with a few treats in your hand.

Washing at home

Unless you have a salon grade blow dryer I wouldn't recommend washing a Pomeranian at home. A good brush out will remove the dander and dirt but if you really have to, rise the feet only and leave the rest to a professional groomer.

Professional grooming visits

Most of my clients keep their Pomeranian coats nice and fluffy with a 4-6 week schedule. Speak to your dog groomer (Dog Hub grooming in Raheny) about what will work best for your and your dogs lifestyle.

Teeth

Start checking your dogs teeth from when they're puppies. Depending on what food you feed them, dry or wet or raw, check regularly for signs of any build up on their teeth. Brushing their teeth a few times a week should help to prevent a big build up. And if you're a fan of supplements, I use a product called "Canident" for my dog (Irish Terrier) and it works a treat to keep the tartar at bay!

Flea / Tick / Worm treatments

Vet visits

It is advised that you visit your vet once a year for a general health check. Even if your pet seems healthy, they're professional vets for a reason and might spot something you missed.

Change of season and your dog

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 09:00:00 GMT

There has been a lot of changes in the recent months so here's a few tips on how to help your pet cope with them.

A lot of changes come in the autumn months; temperatures are lower, Halloween and the dreaded fireworks, clocks go back and the walkies are now done in the dark. So how can we make this time easier for our dogs?

Daylight saving time

Explaining this one to a dog should be fun! I don't even know why we're doing this anymore... As with everything, a little forward planning is needed to minimize the affects this has on your dog. Start changing the routine slowly by 10 minutes every couple of days this includes wake up times, feeding and walking.

Appetite change

When the temperatures fall, during autumn and winter, the body’s energy demands increase. The body needs more fuel to maintain body temperature. Luckily Ireland hardly goes below freezing however it's still worth noting you can expect your pets to eat more in winter.

Walks in the dark

As it gets dark at five in the afternoon, if at all possible have a big walk earlier in the day so that the evening walk is only a short and you can stick to well lit areas. If that's not possible, consider a dog walker or a dog daycare.

Also, make sure your dog wears some sort of reflective collar, coat or something that's going to make him visible to traffic around.

Coat and skin changes

During the cold months, the cold and dry weather can be harsh on the skin. Most pets have dry skin and dandruff during autumn and winter so make sure you use products or supplements that will aid to relive the discomfort.

Parasites

Parasite problems such as increase of ticks and fleas also make an appearance during autumn so make sure you check your pet regularly and stay on top with whatever treatment you are using.

Halloween pet safety

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 08:00:05 GMT

Halloween is fun for most humans but for dogs it can be a very challenging time of the year. Here's a few tips and tricks on how to best protect your dog from all that comes with this holiday.

Poisonous food for your dog:

Chocolate – is a top ingestion problem at Halloween. Chocolate contains Theobromine, which can be harmful and sometimes fatal to your dog. Baking chocolate is exceptionally high in this chemical. The general rule of thumb is the darker the chocolate, the more danger it poses. If your pet consumes chocolate contact your veterinarian immediately.

Candies and Gum – The biggest concern with candy is the ingredient called xylitol. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol commonly used as an artificial sweetener and is toxic to pets. This ingredient is often used in sugar-free items but has been found in more and more foods even when they are not labelled as sugar-free.

Hard Candie s – Large amounts of hard candies and gum can clump up in the stomach and cause a risk of obstruction. Goes without saying, keep all treats out of reach of dogs.

Raisins – Some treats and bakery items can include raisins or grapes which are toxic to dogs and can cause renal failure. If you suspect your dog consumed raisins, please call your veterinarian immediately.

Costumes

Dog costumes and dressing dogs up in outfits has increased over the years. Never purchase costumes for pets that have dangling parts or pieces that can be chewed off. Also, beads, snaps, buttons, ribbons, elastic and fabric can all be intestinal hazards. Moreover, with certain costumes your pet can result in overheating, impaired vision, and even difficulty breathing if it covers the face or is too tight around the pet’s neck or chest. Never leave your dog unattended while he’s wearing clothing or other decorative items

Safety first

Take your dog for a long walk while it's still light and tire them out. Before the trick-or-treating starts, put your pets in a quiet room where they will be safe from all the Halloween activity. Make a den for them with favourite toys, treats and play calming music (or white noise to mask the outside commotion). If your pet is especially sensitive, leave the treat box outside with a "do not knock" sign. That way trick or treaters can still get their candy and your dog isn't disturbed by the noise.

Don't leave your dog unattended outside even if you have a fencened off garden. And make sure your pet is wearing a proper ID tag and the details on their microchip have been updated. It is unlikely your dog will manage to escape or run off scared but if it does you have a better chance of getting them back safely if you can be reached on as many contact information as possible.

There's a variety of products available to keep pets calm, from sprays to support vests. Do some research, try them out in advance to make sure they work for your dog and hopefully it'll be another thing to rely on which keeps your dog calm and happy.

Wishing you and your dog a happy and safe Halloween!

Dog breed focus: Miniature Labradoodle / Labradoodle

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 07:45:00 GMT

The one that started the trend, the OG of doodles!

Labradoodles are known for their lovely nature and beautiful thick coat that can be styled in many ways. And like all mix breeds you never know which type of coat will prevail and how much of a tight curl your dog will have. Here's a few tips on how to help you with managing their curly locks!

Good brush routine

A good brush routine is something both you and your puppy should get used to very early on. This doesn't have to take a long time but 5 to 10 minutes a few times a week should do it. Buy a slicker brush and a comb and brush your pup in their down time, when they're calmer like in your lap whilst you're watching TV. And of course a little reward goas a long way to help them associate brushing with positive things.

Washing at home

I normally don't recommend washing your dog too often but I appreciate that with the wet and colder months around the corner, it gets harder to keep the house clean. Use a gentle dog shampoo and make sure you brush them out from head to toe when they're drying! This is important to avoid matting.

Professional grooming visits

Most of my clients with either of the breed keep their coats nice and fluffy with a 6-8 week schedule. If you don't have much time to brush your dog regularly or you're simply not to concerned about going short with their grooms, then you can stretch this out to 10 - 12 weeks. Speak to your dog groomer (Dog Hub grooming in Raheny) about what will work best for your and your dogs lifestyle.

Teeth

Start checking your dogs teeth from when they're puppies. Depending on what food you keep them on, check regularly for signs of any build up on their teeth brown or yellow in colour. Brushing their teeth a few times a week will keep the build up at bay.

Flea / Tick / Worm treatments

Warmer months are when parasites are at their worst so make sure you keep checking your pet for any signs of parasite debris. There are many ways of keeping your pet free of any parasites so find a solution (chemical or natural) that works best for you and your pet.

Vet visits

It is advised that you visit your vet once a year for a general health check. Even if your pet seems healthy, they're professional vets for a reason and might spot something you missed.

Autumn and your dog

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 08:00:02 GMT

Temperatures are definitely dropping, we're covering our garden furniture and raking leaves like there's no tomorrow. Every change in weather brings with some changes for your dog and here's a few tips on how to help deal with them.

Conckers

Conkers may look appetising to dogs but it’s important they don’t eat them. They may look like food but if eaten, they can cause your dog to be very ill. As well as diarrhoea, they can cause vomiting, abdominal pains, retching and in some cases intestinal blockages.

Darkness

As summer draws to a close, the days are getting shorter. If you're used to going out with your dog late in the afternoon, make sure your four-legged friend is visible in the dark. Reflective collars and harnesses and are great for this and can help prevent any potential accidents (cyclists etc.).

Mushrooms

Mushrooms flourish in the moist soils of autumn and eating them can be lethal for our four-legged friends. To be on the safe side, don’t let your dog eat any mushrooms at all not even those that are safe for humans.

Antifreeze

This chemical which can leak from a car’s radiator and is very dangerous. It is sweet tasting and very palatable and can be fatal even a small quantity . The first signs of intoxication can be that your dog appears ‘drunk’. If you know your dog has ingested ethylene glycol or you have any concerns, contact your vet immediately. The prognosis becomes worse the longer the treatment is delayed so do not wait!

Fallen leaves

Piles of leaves left for a long time can develop bacteria and mould. Whilst leaves are impossible to avoid in autumn, make sure that your dog doesn't ingests these as it can lead to gastrointestinal upsets.

Why you should brush your dog's coat

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 08:00:04 GMT

No matter what type of hair your dog has, they all benefit from a little brush out.

Brushing reduces shedding and improves their coat

Helps you spot anything unusual

Keeps your dog and your house clean

Prevents matting
Brushing removes dirt and debris from your dog’s coat, as well as detangling any smaller knots which could have developed into serious matts. I'm sure all you you long haired dog owners (cavashon, cavapoo, cavashons, bichon frise etc.) know the importance of using a brush on a regular basis.

Cuddle time

And if you just simply cannot find time in your day, give me a call and we'll arrange a bath and brush out for your pooch. I'll remove any tangles before they develop in serious mats and keep your dog nice and fresh between their full groom.

Things you should know before bringing your dog to the groomers

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 08:00:05 GMT

I wrote a blog on this topic before but it's good to have a refresher and hopefully helpful for all new dog owners.

Training

Dogs need training, we know that by now, and the same goes for grooming. As a professional groomer I work with a lot of sharp items from scissors to clipper blades and it's important that I train your dogs to be calm around these items. That's why bringing them in regularly from an early age goes a long way. Their coats may not look like they need a groom but it's the training that we focus on at that age.

Brushing

Every groomers nightmare is to shave a dogs coat down to the skin. We don't like doing it and the owners don't like how it looks. But when it comes to matting I don't mess about, I clip it off as it's the kindest thing to do for the dog and their welfare. That's why a regular brush routine is very important for long haired and curly coats. You can find more about matting here . h

Letting them go to the toilet before the groom

This one is self explanatory but it does save the dog some discomfort. There's nothing worse than washing, drying and starting to clip a white Bichon or a snow white Maltese and they "do their business" right there on the grooming table. It means another wash and dry session for them, more time spent grooming for the groomer and at the end more money for you. It can take a groomer up to 30 minutes extra to redo everything and most groomers will charge extra for their time.

Bring a picture of the style you like

Pictures of the type of haircut you would like for your dog are always very helpful. Whilst all dogs have different shapes and hair grows in different ways, it gives me a chance to come as close to a desired groom as I can. Another thing to consider is what your dog is like and how busy your life is and then choose a groom that will be most suitable. For example, if your cavashon (cavapoo, cokapoo, bichon etc.) is very active, loves puddles and you have a very active life with no time to brush him, then a shorter style might be best!

Regular clients

Most of my clients are on 6, 8 and some on 10 week schedules and they book their next appointment on departure. I send them reminders a week in advance which allows them to make any changes to the timings and most of them genuinely forget how quickly the appointment comes around. Another benefit is that dogs that stay with the same groomer regularly learn to trust them. They get to know the groomer, trust the process and are calmer as a result.

Make dropping-off your dog stress free

If you speak to any groomer they will tell you the same thing: drop the dog off and walk away as if it's a no big deal. Dogs are great readers of our emotions so if we're stressed, nervous or a bit "off", they will feel it and it can stress them out. So be as calm as possible on arrival, speak to your groomer about the groom style and then walk away calmly.

Regular vet checks

Ticks, fleas, teeth, changes in skin and hair etc. going to the vet once a year or more often as your pooch ages is the best way to make sure your pet is healthy and ready for grooming.

My dog can't see!

The number one reason why my clients attempt home grooming is because their dogs can't see out of the hair in their eyes. Please don't try doing it yourself. I offer free eye trims for all my regular clients in between grooming appointments. It only takes me a few minutes and makes a huge difference to their cute little faces.

I hope this is helpful and if you need any further advice on all things dog related or just have a chat about your dog, you can find me in my grooming studio in Raheny!

Dog Breed Focus: Maltese

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 08:00:02 GMT

This gentle and playful dog breed is another popular in my grooming studio and here are a few tips on how to look after their hair and overall health.

Tools for home grooming

Maltese tend to have a silky fine hair so having a good quality slicker brush and a comb is a must. As is a regular brush routine. It's always good to teach your pup that a brush is not scary so using treats or toys while introducing a brush routine will go a long way. Especially if you'd like to keep their hair long!

Brushing tip: brush your pup in their down time, when they're calmer like in your lap whilst you're watching TV. And using treats will help them associate brushing with something positive.

Washing at home

I'm not a fan of washing your dog too often, a brush is far more helpful in removing debris and staying on top of mats. But I appreciate that mud on a white dog is hard to ignore. How often you bathe your dog really depends on you and how much bath time your pup can handle.

Professional grooming visits

This will depend on the length of the hair you'd like to keep on your dog. If kept long then a 4 week routine is a must: a bath and brush out every four weeks followed by a full groom in four weeks time. If they get too matted in between, speak to your dog groomer (add plug in - Dog Hub grooming in Raheny) about changing the schedule.

Teeth

Get into a routine of checking your dogs teeth from when they're puppies. They're usually a bit sensitive if you're moving their gums around so gentle does it and of course a little reward. Keep an eye on any signs of build up brown or yellow in colour. If you notice anything that worries you, speak to your vet on how to best look after your dog's teeth.

Flea / Tick / Worm treatments

Most dogs live inside these days and with so many ways of keeping your pet free of any parasites, it takes a bit of research (and a chat to a professional) to find a solution that works best for you and your pet.

Vet visits

An annual health check by your vet is advised even if your dog appears healthy. They're professional vets for a reason and might spot something you missed.

All about shedding

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 08:00:12 GMT

A few tips on how to reduce shedding at home.

Whilst a natural process for dogs, it can be a frustrating one for dog owners. Shedding is the natural process of the dog's coat ridding of hair that is old, detached and perhaps somewhat damaged. And wile you can't stop your dog from shedding altogether, there are a few things you can do to help limit the dreaded "tumbleweed" around the house.

Brushing your dog

I have mentioned the benefits of a good brush routine in almost every blog post and this one is no different. Brushing is great to removing dead hair, debris, tangle knots and prevent matting. How often you brush your dog will d epend on your dog’s coat type and it can range from every day or only once a month! There are several different types of brushes out there and which one to use will again depend on the type of your dog's coat. Speak to your dog groomer (hint hint - Dog Hub Groomer Raheny) if you're unsure about which one to use.

Choosing the right shedding tool

Shedding tools are useful whether your dog sheds seasonally or all year-round. Shedding tools make it easy to remove dead hair before they fall to become tumbleweeds in your home. There's a number of different tools out there so again if you're not sure what tool to use, give me a call and I'll be happy to advise.

Healthy diet

Feeding your dog a healthy well balanced diet has an impact on all aspect of their health including their hair. When your dog gets balanced nutrition, their hair follicles become more resilient to breakage. And strong follicles can help minimize extra shedding caused by undernourished hair. Some dogs can benefit from supplements such as Omega-3 fatty acids and similar products. Before giving your dog supplements, consult a vet or a dog skin and hair expert.

Hydration

Dehydrated skin can be a major cause of hair loss and can easily increase the amount of fur your dog looses. Knowing how much your dog is drinking however can be tricky but the general rule is 3 ml to a pound of body weight.

Bathing and shedding treatments

Bathing your dog regularly removes dirt and debris as well as dead hair before it falls all over your house. Using a de-shedding shampoo and conditioner can further help eliminate hair and keep the existing hair strong and tangle free in the meantime.

And if you're just simply to busy to deal with all the hair yourself, bringing your dog to a professional groomer to do it for you will do the trick.

Your dog and back-to-school time

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 08:00:10 GMT

Kids will be going back to school, the house will be quieter and routines will change again. If your dog is a bit unsettled with all the changes that the end of holidays bring, here’s a few tips that can help.

Ease your dog into a new routine

Dogs that normally spend their day playing with kids and being stimulated with people around them, can experience anxiety when they are suddenly left alone. Set your alarm a bit earlier and bring your dog outside for toilet and a vigourus walk or home training session to tire them out. Start setting meal times to this new routine too.

Slowly get them used to being alone

Ease your dog into being left alone slowly. Start with 20 minutes and build up to longer periods, baring in mind dogs need to go potty every 4 hours or so. This will teach your dog to spend time alone and be calm and stress free.

Enrichment activities

I wrote a couple of posts about enrichment toys here and these could help you keep the dog busy for a while. A bored dog can be a destructive dog so get your thinking cap on and get some interactive toys.

Doggy Day Care / Dog Walker

If you have to leave your dog home for extended periods of time perhaps dropping them off at a doggy day care a few times a week could help. Another option could be a local dog walker who visits your dog once a day for a walk and a bit of playtime.

Background / White noise

I always leave my radio on for the dog whenever I leave the house as that's what is normal whenever I am around. If you have a noisy house then an empty quiet house can be strange for your dog. Trial leaving on the TV or radio when you’re away to see if it makes a positive difference for your dog.

It may take a couple of weeks but dogs are very adaptable so just be patient with your pooch while they get used to their new routine.

Breed focus: Miniature Schnauzer

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 08:15:00 GMT

They may be small but they're mighty! Here's how you look after their hair and health.

Tools for home grooming

Getting a good slicker brush and a comb from your local pet store and a mild dog shampoo if you'll be washing your dog at home. Depending on what hairstyle you'll have for your miniature schnauzer you might not need to do much brushing at home but it's always good to teach your pup that a brush is not scary.

Brushing tip: brush your pup in their down time, when they're calmer like in your lap whilst you're watching TV. And using treats will help them associate brushing with something positive.

Washing at home

Professional grooming visits

Most of my clients keep their Schnauzers on 8 -10 week schedule. This is for both the classic Schnauzer trim or the teddy style cut. If in doubt, speak to your dog groomer (add plug in - Dog Hub grooming in Raheny) about what will work best for your and your dogs lifestyle.

Teeth

Check your dogs teeth from when they're puppies. Depending on what food they're on (dry, wet or raw), check regularly for signs of any build up brown or yellow in colour. If you notice any, they might need a good brush out a couple of times a week with dog appropriate toothpaste and a very gentle baby toothbrush.

Flea / Tick / Worm treatments

Warmer months are when parasites are at their most active so make sure you keep checking your pet for any signs of flea dirt, ticks or mites debris. There are many ways of keeping your pet free of any parasites so find a solution that works best for you and your pet.

Vet visits

An annual health check by your vet is advised even if your dog appears healthy. They're professional vets for a reason and might spot something you missed.

Looking after your dog's paws

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 08:00:10 GMT

Running, playing, climbing…our dogs are on their feet quite a bit and it’s important we make sure their paws are healthy.

Keep them clean

Even though we might not see it, there’s plenty of stuff on the ground that can get stuck in the paws or the hair between the pads. Rinsing the paws with water or mild dog suitable soap will clear any irritants and loosen up anything that’s stuck in between their little pads.

Trimming nails and fur

Dogs' hair and nails can grow very quickly and can cause discomfort if left unattended. If you bring your dog to the groomers regularly they will trim the nails and hair around the pads for you. If you’re doing it at home…good luck! Seriously though, nail trims can be tricky with some dogs so if in doubt bring them to the vet or the groomers and they’ll do it for you.

Keep an eye

This is perhaps obvious but you should check the paws from time to time just to make sure there’s no cracks, splits or anything that could lead to something more serious. Use paw balms such as Snout & Paw from Holistic Hound , it's all natural and it works wonders on cracked or dry feet.

Surfaces

In the summer the surfaces can get extremely hot and can end up hurting their paws so make sure you check the temperature of the surfaces your dog walks on. In general, if the asphalt / concrete is too hot to keep your hand on it for more than 5 seconds, then it's too hot for your dog. Also, be sure to keep them off sharp gravel because we all know those surfaces are not comfortable to walk on.

Boredom busters for dogs

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Just like humans, dogs can get bored too and here are a few suggestions on how to keep your pup occupied and out of trouble.

These suggestions are not too difficult and some might need some assistance if your dog hasn’t met them before but they’re great from an enrichment perspective and will keep your skirting boards intact ;)

Snuffle mat

If your dog is a sniffing machine like mine is, hide a few varieties of foods (fruit, nuts, dog treats…) in the snuffle mats and away they go!

Build a dig pit

If you have a garden and build a small area where your dog can dig. Hide a few treats or toys in the pit for your pet to find and watch them work away.

Lickimat / lick mats

An oldie but a goodie. I’m sure you’ve heard of lickimats by now and how they have a calming effect on dogs. Instructions are very simple: take your dog’s favourite spreadable and spread it on the mat and give it to your dog to lick. Evoila! And if you'd like it to last longer, freeze the lickimat for an hour or so.

Puzzle feeders

You can find a variety of puzzle feeders online or in your local pet shop. There are many different levels of difficulty available to keep your dog occupied for a while. If you have a dog that likes to chew, make sure you take the puzzle away at the end.

Cardboard box

This one is my dog’s favourite as it’s so easy to make and dogs can destroy the whole lot. Make sure the box is free of any clips, staples, stickers etc. Put a few treats inside, stuff it with some scrunched newspaper to make it more difficult for them and then loosely close it so your dog needs to work to get in for the treats. It’s great for sniffing and tearing things apart which they will absolutely love.

Dog breed focus: Bichon Frise

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 08:15:00 GMT

Another very popular breed among my customers and despite being non-shed, one that needs quite a bit of maintenance.

Good brush routine

Whilst they're non shedding, the hair needs quite a bit of attention when it comes to grooming at home. A good brush routine is something you should adopt very early in their lives. This doesn't have to take long but needs to be thorough. Brushing the coat from head to toe a few of times a week should do it. If you're not keeping the hair long then brushing can still help with removing debris, twigs and other surprises your dog may carry into the house from the park.

Tools for home grooming

Buy a good slicker brush and a comb from your local pet store, a mild dog shampoo if you'll be washing your dog at home, a baby toothbrush and dog appropriate toothpaste. Of course these tools should be adjusted if your dog has any skin or other health issues. In this case follow your vet's instructions.

Brushing tip: brush your pup in their down time, when they're calmer like in your lap whilst you're watching TV. And using treats will help them associate brushing with something positive.

Washing at home

Summer months tend to be drier so usually less bathing is needed. In wet and colder months there's more mud around it really depends on you and how much bath time you can handle with your pup. Rinse paws after a long muddy walk and wash them every few weeks to keep your bedsheets and sofa clean. Use a gentle dog appropriate shampoo and make sure you brush them out completely from head to toe when they're dry! This is important to avoid those pesky mats.

Professional grooming visits

Most of my clients who keep their Bichon Frise a bit longer are on 6 week schedule. If you're not too concerned with going short then you can stretch this but not to the point where your dog will be completely matted and uncomfortable. Speak to your dog groomer (add plug in - Dog Hub grooming in Raheny) about what will work best for your and your dogs lifestyle.

Teeth

Check your dogs teeth from when they're puppies. Depending on what food you keep them on, check regularly for signs of any build up brown or yellow in colour. If you notice any, they might need a good brush out a couple of times a week with dog appropriate toothpaste and a very gentle baby toothbrush.

Flea / Tick / Worm treatments

Vet visits

An annual health check by your vet should be in your calendar even if your Bichon Frise appears healthy. They're professional vets for a reason and might spot something you missed.

Grooming puppies

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 08:15:00 GMT

There has been quite a few puppies visiting me in the grooming studio lately so I thought it might be time for a few tips and trick on grooming your little furry pals.

Keeping your dog healthy is a priority of every dog parent and part of a regular health routine is grooming. Here are a few grooming related things to consider when you first get a puppy.

Starting early

Positive first experience at the groomers.

Home grooming

There are a number of things you can train your puppy at home that will help them get confident and comfortable at the groomers. Try practicing the below while watching TV with your pup snuggled on your lap, use their favourite treats to reward them or reward them with some playtime with their favourite toy.

Touch their paws, between pads and nails
Stroke their ears on the inside and outside in a gentle way
Brush your puppy with an appropriate brush for a few minutes on a regular basis

The more your pup is used to being touched the better!

Dog breed focus: Yorkshire Terrier

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 08:00:05 GMT

Arguably one of the most popular breeds out there, Yorkies have been around forever and are fairly easy to look after.

Good brush routine

Whilst they're non shedding, the hair still needs some attention when it comes to grooming at home. A good brush routine is something both you and the pup should get used to very early on. This doesn't have to take a long time but 5 minutes a couple of times a week should do it. If you're not keeping the hair long then brushing can still help with removing debris, twigs and other surprises your dog may carry into the house from the park.

Tools for home grooming

Buy a slicker brush and a comb from your local pet store, and a mild dog shampoo if you'll be washing your dog at home and a baby toothbrush and dog appropriate toothpaste. Of course these tools should be adjusted if your dog has any skin or other health issues. In this case follow your vet's instructions.

Brushing tip: brush your pup in their down time, when they're calmer like in your lap whilst you're watching TV. And of course a little treat goes a long way to help them associate brushing with positive things.

Washing at home

Summer months tend to be drier so usually less bathing is needed. In wet and colder months there's more mud around it really depends on you and how much bath time you can handle with your pup. Rinse paws after a long muddy walk and wash them every 3-4 weeks to keep your bedsheets and sofa clean. Use a gentle dog appropriate shampoo and make sure you brush them out from head to toe when they're drying! This is important to avoid those pesky mats.

Professional grooming visits

Most of my clients who keep their Yorkie long are on 6 week schedule. I have a client who is great at brushing and still comes in every 4 weeks for a bath & brush out, followed by a full groom 4 weeks after. That way the coat is silky, healthy and knot free.

If you don't have much time to brush your dog at home or you simply prefer a shorter cut, then you can stretch grooming out anything from 8 - 12 weeks. Speak to your dog groomer (like myself at Dog Hub grooming in Raheny) about what will work best for your and your dogs lifestyle.

Teeth

Flea / Tick / Worm treatments

Vet visits

An annual health check by your vet should be in your calendar even if your pet appears healthy. They're professional vets for a reason and might spot something you missed.

Everything you need to know about matting

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 08:00:07 GMT

Your ultimate guide on all things mats!

What is matting and why does it happen?

Where on the dog can I find mats?

How can I prevent matting?

Can a dog groomer deal with it?

What is dematting?

So the ultimate solution is a brush?

Yes, brushing and regular visits to your groomer. If you're too busy and this does not fit into your daily life, I would recommend speaking to your groomer and get a plan in place for your dog. To give you an idea, for a cavachon (cavapoo, cockapoo etc.) whose hair you like to keep long, I recommend having a full groom every 6-8 weeks and a wash & brush out every 4-5 weeks. This way we can stay on top of the mats if there are any and ensure we can keep the long and fluffy when they come in for the full groom.

Regular grooming is the best way to stay on top of the pesky matts and for your dog to feel and look their best!

3 best summer dog treat recipes

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 08:00:02 GMT

I love preparing treats for my Fiadh and love discovering new recipes for her. Here's a few suggestions for the warmer months for you to try!

Strawberry smoothie

Ingredients: strawberries, peanut butter, water (if needed)

Take a handful of strawberries, give them a good rinse and put them in a blender. Add a spoonful of dog friendly peanut butter (must be xylitol free) and blend well. Serve your pup as is or if you add a bit of water you can make ice cubes out of the mix and give them to your pup as a daily treat.

Fruit freezies

Ingredients: your dog favourite fruit (blueberries, bananas, strawberries, pineapple etc.), water or yoghurt, silicone bone molds (optional)

These ones are very easy, blend small amounts of various fruits and add water to dilute the mix or add a spoonful of yoghurt to make it creamier. Put in cute bones shaped molds if you have them and pop into a freezer for a few hours and they should be all set.

Meat pupsicle

Ingredients: a cup of meat stock (chicken, beef or veggie if your dog is intolerant or allergic to any of the proteins), half a cup of water, 50g of chopped up meat of your choice. I sometimes add an egg as well.

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and gently cook it or if your dog is on a raw diet you can just stick it in a blender if you prefer a smoother texture. Put into a popsicle mold and use a carrot baton instead of a stick and pop into the freezer for a few hours.

As with everything, don't go overboard with these as yummie as they are. Fruit contains sugars so treats should be just that, an occasional treat for your bestie.

Dog breed focus: Cavashon and Cavapoo

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 08:15:00 GMT

How to look after the coat of these two mix breeds at home.

Like all doodles, cavapoos and cavashons are known for their beautiful thick coat that can be styled in many ways. But like all mix breeds you never know which type of coat will prevail and how much of a tight curl your dog will have. In any case they will all need you to look after it regularly and below are some tips that may help your pooch look and feel their best.

Good brush routine

Whilst they're low shedding, the hair still needs quite a bit of attention when it comes to grooming at home. A good brush routine is something both you and the pup should get used to very early on. This doesn't have to take a long time but 5 to 10 minutes a few times a week should do it. Get yourself a slicker brush and a comb and brush your pup in their down time, when they're calmer like in your lap whilst you're watching TV. And of course a little reward goas a long way to help them associate brushing with positive things.

Washing at home

Summer months tend to be drier (although this year maybe not so much) so usually less bathing is needed. With wetter and colder months and more mud around it really depends on you and how much bath time you can handle with your pup. Rinse paws after a long muddy walk and washing your dog once or twice a month should keep them clean enough to roll around the sofa. Use a gentle dog shampoo and make sure you brush them out from head to toe when they're drying! This is important to avoid matting.

Professional grooming visits

Most of my clients with either of the breed keep their coats nice and fluffy with a 6-8 week schedule. If you don't have much time to brush your dog regularly or you're simply not to concerned about going short with their grooms, then you can stretch this out to 10 - 12 weeks. Speak to your dog groomer (hint Dog Hub grooming in Raheny) about what will work best for your and your dogs lifestyle.

Teeth

Check your dogs teeth from when they're puppies. Depending on what food you keep them on, check regularly for signs of any build up on their teeth brown or yellow in colour. If that's the case they might need a good brush out a couple of times a week with dog appropriate toothpaste and a very gentle baby toothbrush.

Flea / Tick / Worm treatments

Vet visits

Even if your dog is healthy, visiting your vet once a year for a health check should be in your calendar. They're professional vets for a reason and might spot something you missed.

The above should be a good base for grooming your cavapoo or cavashon at home and as always give me a shout if you have any questions!

Dogs and summer heat

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 08:00:35 GMT

How to look after our pets during the summer months.

The main change during the summer (not that you would notice this year) is the high temperatures. And with that come a few things that we need to look after when it comes to our dogs.

First things first, make sure they haven constant supply of cool fresh water. Make sure you place it in shade and change it at least twice a day or top it up as often as needed.

Last but not least, it may be useful to know what to look out for if your pet is overheating so here are signs of a heatstroke:

- excessive drooling

- vomiting

- heavy panting

- rapid heart rate

- increased body temperature

- diarrhoea

- collapsing

It goes without saying you should call your vet immediately if you suspect a heatstroke and follow their instructions.

Dog grooming: Expectation vs Reality

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 08:01:13 GMT

Is dog grooming the equivalent to us going to a spa? Ehm....

It’s your dog's birthday and you schedule a grooming appointment for him to be pampered as a treat. In your mind, the dog will be fussed over, get treats and look and smell lovely when you bring him back home. The reality for the dog however is slightly different.

Grooming can be a tiring experience for dogs as it can be a lengthy process where they have to pay attention to the groomer and are focused for a prolonged period of time, an hour and a half on average. And if you think about how a short walk or a 15 minute training session exhausts your dog, you can imagine what an hour and a half of grooming does to their energy levels. That said, dogs who get groomed regularly are used to the process and find it easy to tolerate, they trust the groomer as they’re used to them and know that it’s not a scary experience.

Another common misconception about grooming is that if the dog is used to a hair dryer and home bathing they’ll be fine in the groomers. Bathing experience with a stranger in an unfamiliar environment is different from that at home. And a hair dryer is relatively quiet in comparison to a salon grade high velocity dryer. We don’t call it a “blaster dryer” for no reason!

There are always elements of grooming that dogs find unpleasant and difficult to withstand such as nail clipping and blaster drying for most. And there are elements that they like such as towel drying with a big fluffy towel, a gentle massage and even brushing. The key for your dog to enjoy or at the very least tolerate grooming is to get them to the groomer's as puppies when no hair clipping is needed. What your groomer does then is basically start with training them to stand still on the grooming table, introducing scissors and clippers and just generally builds their tolerance of the various elements of grooming. And what really helps of course is lots of practice at home.

And if you have an older dog that has never been professionally groomed, make sure you take it easy and keep your expectations low. Even if your dog is confident and curious about new things, spending an hour with a stranger in a strange environment being handled in ways they haven't been before, can be overwhelming at the least. And it may take a few visits before they'll be ready for a full groom. I am a huge believer in taking it slowly and making sure your dog has a nice experience rather than pushing the dog to achieve a desired style for whatever cost.

All in all, a trip to the groomers can be a nice experience for your pup but only with a little planning and training to make sure grooming is just another part of their life.

Dogs and holidays

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

How to prepare your dog to cope while you’re away?

It’s that time of the year again and after not being able to travel for two years, this year will be travel galore for everyone. But unfortunately our dogs can't always travel with us so how can we prepare our pets to cope without you while you’re away?

First things first: book your minder/kennels etc. way in advance. Some boarding facilities are already booked for Christmas!

One of the biggest things to consider with today's dogs is separation anxiety. Most of us have been sharing our homes with dogs 24/7 during the last couple of years because of the pandemic. Dogs got used to us being around and a change in that can cause some stress to our pets. If your dog is not used to being away from you for long periods of time, you need to start planning way ahead on how to train them to tolerate this better. Get a session in with a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist to give you tips and tricks on how to build up your dog's tolerance on spending time alone as well as away from you.

Choosing the right minder is of course key. If your dog is used to all the mod cons and has a free range of the house during the night, putting them in kennels might not be the best solution. As nice as kennels are, dogs will still need to be used to spending time in a confined space so if you haven’t crate trained your dog or trained them to be in one room during the night, they will find this difficult. Home boarding usually works best with sensitive dogs but make sure you choose the right person to leave your dog with. Check references, make sure they will know what to do in unfortunate circumstances, meet them in advance and do a trial for a couple of nights just to make sure your dog gets to know the person.

And to make them feel more comfy take their usual bed, a few toys or things that have a familiar smell with them. It'll be a nice little pacifier if they miss you.

Another important thing when dropping off your dog is to make it as swift as possible. Try not to linger too long or say goodbye to your pet for twenty minutes as they’ll just get upset for no reason. Make it a positive thing and if you introduced your dog to the minder ahead of time they’ll be happy coming in with them.

p.s. Also on a separate note and this is just my personal view….I recently read an article about the lack of dog kennels and dog minders in general in Ireland. It described how the pet boarding industry is hard work, it’s 24/7 work with high costs and not great financial payoff. Some kennels only charge 20 EUR per day so imagine how many dogs they need to take on just to break even? It really made me think. I love to travel and I would hate to leave my dog in a place where she wasn’t happy while I’m away, I would be worried sick and it would ruin my holiday. Leaving your dog with relatives to look after for a week or two is a big ask and it’s also not always possible. There is so much that goes into looking after someone's pet so why aren’t we prepared to pay more for that service so that everyone benefits?

Your dog grooming checklist

Mon, 23 May 2022 08:15:03 GMT

What grooming you should do on a daily, weekly and monthly basis

Whilst this post will mostly be related to owners with long haired and curly haired dogs, there is still some grooming to be done for short haired breeds too. Below is a list of grooming and dog health related activites.

Daily

Depending on the weather and hair type you might need to brush your dog out of all the debris of the park. If the weather is hot make sure you check their paws regularly for any cracks and burns if they're walked on tarmac.

If you have a dog prone with weepy eyes, make sure you clear them with a vet recommended solution or just a simple water wipe ( make sure the ingredients are free of alcohol or any other nasties).

Weekly

As with most things it will depend on the weather and how often you wash your dog but brushing should be on your list at least 3 times a week. This goes for breeds such as Cavapoo, Cavashon, Bishon Frise, Cockapoo, Cocker Spaniels (if kept long), Yorkies, Schanuzers, any breed mixed with a Poodle.

If you're using a toothbrush for your dogs dental health this too should be used a few times a week. Dogs don't tend to like this very much so keep session short.

Monthly

If brushing and small grooming sessions are going well at home then no need to book a mini groom. Or if you like a little pamper for your pooch a little bubble bath, complete brush out and a trim of the eyes and feet is a great option in between full grooms.

Every 8-12 weeks

By now your pooch will definitely need a groom so make sure you give your groomer a couple of weeks' notice to schedule an appointment.

Seasonal

Whilst we don't get extreme range in weather conditions here in Ireland there is still a difference in how you look after your pet during winter or summer months. Depending on the temperatures you need to be extra careful with checking your dogs paws not only in the summer but also winter as there tends to be quite a lot of de-icing products around the roads. Wetter months also mean more brushing so to avoid the dreaded matting.

As always, speak to your groomer if you're unsure and make a plan with them on how to best look after your dogs coat.

Grooming your senior dog

Mon, 16 May 2022 08:00:14 GMT

A few tips on grooming older dogs and how to make it easier on them.

Brushing

Use a non-slip surface

Professional grooms to be kept at a minimum

I would recommend choosing a haircut that will keep your senior dog away from the groomer for longer. Full grooms require your pet to stand for a long period of time so choosing a haircut that will "last longer" is important. Talk to your groomer what the best plan for your senior dog's coat is.

Tools

Make sure your tools are in good repair and choose softer, gentler brushes for older dogs. Skin may lose elasticity as dogs age and many dogs can develop lumps and bumps that can be a bit tender.

Examine the “sanitary” areas

This can be done by your groomer but you can keep an eye on these areas yourself too. Sometimes if dogs have stiff achy joints, they might have difficulty keeping these spots as clean as they did when they were young. Trimming the hair around the area is something I always do when the dogs com in for a groom and it just helps keep all the dirt and urine to get stuck on the hair. A quick trick if the hair does get soiled is to use water wipes (baby wipes) on these areas.

Trim nails regularly

Dog Grooming FAQ

Mon, 09 May 2022 08:13:27 GMT

Most frequently asked questions about dog grooming answered.

As with most things there are some questions that come up from clients groom after groom, year after year. This might shed some light on what I do and why I do it.

When should my puppy come in for his first groom?

I always advise to bring them in as soon as they had all their vaccines and are in their socialization period. It's much a much nicer experience to introduce a puppy to grooming noises and process when they don't urgently need it as we can just leave out whatever they're afraid of and build their confidence up gradually.

How often does my dog need to be groomed?

The length of your dog's hair and how much brushing you do at home will determine how often they need to come in.

Most of my Cavapoos, Cavachons, Cockapoos, Bichon Frise, Schnauzers, Shitzus etc. come in every 6-8 weeks. The longer you leave it without doing any brushing, the more risk of matting.

For short haired dogs that need de-shedding ever 12 weeks should be sufficient unless you're fed up with vacuuming. In which case, we're happy to see them more often!

How long does the groom take?

Similar to pricing this depends on the style and condition of the hair. With regular clients who are used to grooming it takes around 1hr 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the size and style.

How much does my dog's groom cost?

I don't want to sound vague but the price will depend on the size of the dog, condition of the hair and desired look. As a rule of thumb, I charge for my time rather then dog weight or size. For example, scissoring a Bichon Frise in a long thick cut might take me longer then de-shedding a Labrador and will therefore will cost more.

I try to give an exact price at the time of booking and you can always refer to my Pricing page on my website as a guidance.

Can I stay and watch my dog is getting groomed?

Unless a dog is a therapy dog I try to avoid customers staying in with me. The dogs will wiggle and move around trying to get close to their owners which is not safe while I'm using scissors and other sharp objects. It is best to drop off your pooch at their scheduled appointment time and then come back when the treatment is finished.

What's the story with matting and de-matting?

Mats most easily occur on friction places of any long or longer haired dog- armpits, where the collar or harness sit, feet, bum, legs etc. De-matting is a process of detangling these mats providing they're not to solid. The easiest way to imagine how dematting feels like is similar to brushing out dreadlocks in your own hair. I'm sure you can imagine the discomfort which is why most groomers will not put your pet through that.
The safest and least painful way to remove this altogether is to clip his hair short. Also known as shaving off the coat. This means I have to work close to the skin with my clipper blade and on the release of the mats there can often be signs of irritation of the skin so you can imagine we do not take the decision to clip the coat off lightly.

While this results in a very short haircut it is much more comfortable for your dog. This is perhaps not the style that most owners would prefer, but remember that hair grows back in a few weeks. And with a grooming plan and a regular brushing routine, you'll be well on your way to have your pooch sporting your preferred look.

Do I need to bring anything with my dog for their groom?

Before your pet comes in I strongly recommend they go for a short walk and have a chance to relieve themselves. You can feed them as normal but keep in mind if you have a very nervous pooch they might do better with an empty stomach. All new customers are asked to complete a registration form so do take a bit more time when coming in for your first visit. You can bring your dogs favourite treats or toys with you to make the experience nicer for your dog. And of course a picture of a preferred groom always helps me achieve the desired look.

Great communication with your dog groomer is key! Don't be afraid to ask questions as that is the way you'll understand better what they do or if this is indeed the right groomer for you and your dog. And once you find a groomer you and your dog are happy with, it'll be easy sailing from there.

Pups in the Park

Mon, 02 May 2022 08:00:05 GMT

Quick review of my experience over the weekend at Pups in The Park festival in Malahide.

I have to say I was super excited when Pups in The Park first started advertising. I was probably one of the first to buy a ticket and tell all my clients and friends about it. The line up was really promising with a lot of industry professionals attending and of course various opportunities for my Irish Terrier Fiadh to get some playtime.

I went on the Saturday and I thought we were going to be the first ones there especially given the weather. We were lucky to find parking straight away so off we went! I was particularly interested in the talks that Pete The vet and Suzi Walsh were involved in and it didn't disappoint. Suzi was a great help when I first brought Fiadh home and I will forever be grateful for all the advice she gave me when I was setting up my grooming business.

The talks were great and very educational but as my Fiadh hates (and I mean HATES) rain we had to move on to something more interactive for her so she didn't drag us home too soon. So we took her around to the agility and then visited all the stands and got her kitted out (again). And of course bought numerous treats for her from Pet Hamper, Kudog, Tonic Treat and many more. The selection of retail places was very varied and mostly from Irish businesses which is another bonus. The schedule was jam packed and it was hard to visit everything but come lunch time we all got a bit tired and needed a break. And so we tucked into some of the yumie food from one of the many (human) food vendors.

Sadly there was one disappointment for me... The Irish Woolfhounds never made it to their designated time and place so I was heartbroken. But there was a visitor with a wolfie so Fiadh got to meet her fellow native Irish breed :)

All in all it was a great day out and although the weather wasn't ideal it couldn't spoil the fun for us!

Things to know before bringing your dog to the groomers

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 08:00:06 GMT

Thing to do and not do before you bring your dog for a grooming session.

Brushing

Training

Letting them go to the toilet before the groom

Bring a picture of the style you like

Pictures of the type of haircut you would like for your dog is always very helpful. Whilst all dogs have different shapes and hair grows in different ways, it gives us a chance to come as close to a desired groom as we can. Another thing to consider is what your dog is like and how busy your life is and then choose a groom that will be most suitable. For example, if your cavashon (cavapoo, cokapoo, bichon etc.) is very active, loves puddles and you have a very active life with no time to brush him, then a shorter style might be best!

Regular clients

Most of my clients are on 6, 8 or 10 week schedules and they book their next appointment on departure from my grooming studio. I send them reminders a week in advance which allows them to make any changes to the timings and most of them genuinely forget how quickly the appointment comes around. Also dogs that stay with the same groomer regularly learn to trust them. They get to know the groomer, trust the process and are calmer as a result. Plus regulars always get a discount!

Make dropping-off your dog stress free

If you speak to any groomer they will tell you the same thing: drop the dog off and walk away as if it's a no big deal. Dogs are great readers of our emotions so if we're stressed, nervous or a bit "off", they will feel it and it can stress them out. So treat it as a normal appointment, say a short bye to your dog and walk away calmly.

Regular vet checks

Ticks, fleas, teeth, changes in skin and hair etc. Yes that’s right, going to the vet once a year or more often as your pooch ages is the best way to make sure your pet is healthy and ready for grooming.

My dog can't see!

The number one reason why my clients attempt home grooming is because their dogs can't see out of the hair in their eyes. Please, please don't try cutting them yourself! I offer free eye trims for all my regular clients in between grooming appointments. It only takes me a few minutes and makes a huge difference to their little faces.

I hope this is helpful and if you need any further advice on all things dog related or just have a chat about your dog, you can find me in my groom room in Raheny!

Bath time the home edit

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 08:15:03 GMT

Tips on how to make bath time at home a little easier.

I still don't understand dogs who run into every puddle and splash around in the ocean but when it comes to bath time the breaks come on. So what can we do to make it a bit easier on us and of course our fury friends.

Preparation

This may sounds obvious but make sure you have everything ready before you start. Towels ready on the bath and on the floor, dog shampoo mixed up, calming music playing in the background. It all helps and will save you stress running around trying to find a towel while your wet dog is making a run for the door.

Brush before the bath

Make it a positive experience

Use warm water and gentle shampoo

Avoid getting water in the ears

Be careful around the ears as any water down the ear canal is not only irritating but can cause ear infections. Put some cotton wool in the ears if you're worried.

Stay calm

It always help staying as calm as possible whenever attempting grooming your dog. Dogs are very responsive to voice tone so try talking in a gentle reassuring voice.

Brush after the bath

Consider a professional

This is where my professional pitch should come in! But in all seriousness if you find it too stressful just call your dog groomer. You could even be a bit cheeky and plan a really long dirty walk before bringing your dog in... Afterall that’s what we’re here for!

Keeping dogs safe at Easter

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 07:49:53 GMT

Chocolate is toxic to dogs and with Easter around the corner, here's what you can do to keep your dogs safe.

I love Easter mostly because I just really love chocolate! There’s so many options in the shops to buy all things chocolate with my favourite going to the Lindt red chocolate egg. But for every time I indulge in something choc-like, I need to thoroughly clean up and make sure there’s no debris around because my Fiadh will clean it up in seconds! And since chocolate is poisonous to dogs, that’s not something I’d be too keen on.

While rarely fatal, ingestion of chocolate in dogs can result in significant illness. Theobromine is the main toxin in chocolate and is very similar to caffeine. Both chemicals are used medicinally as a diuretic, heart stimulant, etc. Dogs cannot metabolize the chemical as well as people can which means it can have detrimental effects.

Here are the symptoms to look out for if you suspect your dogs has eaten some chocolate behind your back: pet has chocolate poisoning

Dehydration or excessive thirst
Diarrhoea
Drooling
High temperature and blood pressure
Hyperactivity
Vomiting
In severe cases, epileptic-type fits

If you set up an Easter egg hunt for your children in your home or garden, make sure to keep your dog away or on a leash during this time. And make a note of where all the treats are hidden and that none are left behind after the event.

Another food item worth mentioning are hot cross buns and they should go straight to your dog’s forbidden food list. They normally contain raisins and sultanas which are again toxic to our furry friends so best to avoid!

Easter can be fun for everyone if you just take a few precautions and keep an eye on your dog.

Green living and your dog

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 08:15:04 GMT

They might need our help but dogs can assist in our worldwide effort to fight pollution. And here are a few ideas on how.

Food

Food is probably the biggest offender to the environment. From packaging to the production of food itself, there’s a similar problem here as with human food supply chain.

Buying food and other supplies in bulk reduces trips to the store (gas emissions) and the amount of packaging you contribute to the landfill. Pay attention to packaging materials and try to buy products packaged in recycled or recyclable materials. Store food and treats in reusable storage containers instead of plastic bags.

Same goes for treats. Rather than buying treats in plastic packaging, you can bake your own! Think of all the packaging waste you’ll avoid! There’s many websites that have doggy treat recipes available for even the fussiest of dogs.

Waste

My biggest pet peeve in the park are people not picking up after their dog! Pick up your dog's poop! It’s against the law but as it’s not being enforced people keep leaving it behind. Not picking up and properly disposing of waste is a health issue for everyone. Bag it and carry it until you find a trash can. And make sure you purchase biodegradable bags as they’re not only environment friendly but dog excrement could rot for quite a while inside a non-biodegradable plastic bag.

Grooming

I have to say a lot more could be done in the grooming industry as far as shampoo and other product bottles go. I buy in bulk so the shampoo gets delivered in 5 or 10 litre bottles but sadly it’s all still plastic. The content is environmentally friendly so it's a step in the right direction.

For home use, there’s environmentally friendly shampoo and grooming products out there. EcoMut t is an Irish small business that does lovely natural soaps for dogs in environment friendly packaging and other gifts so check them out.

Toys

I’ve written a post about enrichment ideas to make yourself at home which you can find her e but if your dog simply wants his ball then there are options out there. BeC o is one of the brands which I love. They do a range of toys from rope and soft toys to harder chew toys and it's all helping minimize your pets carbon footprint. You can find them in Petstop here in Ireland or order directly from their website.

Springtime and your dog

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 08:15:04 GMT

How happy are you that Spring is finally in the air?! It feels way overdue!

Ticks and fleas

Fertilizers and pesticides

Allergies

Garden plants poisonous to your dog

And you can find an extensive list on the link below:

https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/health-and-dog-care/health/health-and-care/a-z-of-health-and-care-issues/poisons-in-your-garden/

Adding enrichment games to your dog’s life

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 09:15:03 GMT

To prevent boredom destruction or just for fun here are a few ideas on how to stimulate your dog when the weather isn’t suitable to go out or just to add a bit of fun to your day.

Cardboard box

This one is my dog’s favourite. It happened by accident when she was a puppy and she’s been getting cardboard boxes to destroy regularly ever since. Make sure the box is free of any clips, staples, stickers etc. Put a few treats inside and loosely close it so your dog needs to work to get in for the treats. To make it more difficult, put a bit of scrunched up paper on top of the treats.

Egg box

Egg Boxes are great for smaller dogs, I think they might be too easy for bigger dogs but give it a go! All you need is an empty egg box and a few treats which you hide inside. Make it easy to start with and don’t close the lid completely. Or if your dog is a ninja in finding treats then close it completely.

Sniffari (I can’t remember where I heard this word but it’s funny)

If your dog enjoys a good sniff this one's for you! Take a few pieces of your dog's smelliest (yummiest) treats, have your dog wait outside a room or area where you will scatter these treats and have them find it.

Lickimat / lick mats

Puzzle feeders

Hide & Seek

You can play this one inside or outside in the park and it’s great for recall training too! You’ll need another person to distract your dog while you hide. Once hidden, call your dog with a high-pitched voice and wait. If they can’t find you straight away, call them again in slow intervals. Once they find you, make a fuss and reward them either with treats or playtime, belly rubs etc.

Make sure you supervise the games at all times. And even if your dog might not take to all the games, they will definitely enjoy the attention!

The basics of home dog grooming

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 09:50:34 GMT

Even if you bring your dog to the groomers regularly a little home TLC won't go a miss.

It is important that our dogs maintain a healthy lifestyle and part of that is a regular (beauty) grooming routine. As a professional groomer I encourage my clients to bring their dogs in regularly however there are things that you can keep an eye on in between professional grooms.

Brushing

Cavachon, Poochon, Cockapoo, Cavapoo, Miniature labradoodle, Bichon Frise, Shitzu, Schnauzers etc. I could keep going here for a bit but what do all of these breeds have in common? They all need a regular brush routine. And I cannot stress this enough. Introducing them to a brush early and in a positive way will do wonders for the health of their coat, avoid matting in between professional grooms as well as avoid the dreaded shave off.

Bathing

Depending of the time of the year I try to avoid washing my dog with shampoo more than once a month. I rinse her with warm water after a muddy walk just to prevent muddy pawprints all over my light grey sofa . But if your dog loves rolling in something dodgy then washing with a gentle dog shampoo is unavoidable. That or bringing them to the groomers to do the dirty work for you ;)

Nails

Daily walks with your dog should keep nails in good condition and length as they are naturally worn down. However, long nails can cause problems and discomfort in walking and should be maintained according to each dog’s individual needs. If you find yourself chasing your dog around the house with a nail clipper just leave it to the experts. Your vet or groomer will stay on top of their pawdicures for a small fee.

Teeth

A lesson I learned early is to brush my dogs teeth often. My dog is only a year and a half and her K9s can have a bit of plaque build up very quickly. She's on a wet food as dry food really wasn't an option due to her sensitive tummy so plaque isn't uncommon for dogs on such a diet. A regular routine with a bit of dog suitable toothpaste and a baby toothbrush will keep the dentist at bay!

Ears

The ears, eyes and paws of a dog require special care and attention to avoid any outbreak of infections and discomfort. There are many products out there to clean ears so which one to use it's up to you and of course vet's recommendation. I use ear wipes to gently wipe the outside of the ear canal. You'll be able to see or smell an infection yourself or just by noticing your dog is scratching excessively around the area.

Eyes

Eyes should be clear of any cloudiness, redness or gunky discharge. Mild discharge is not uncommon and I usually wipe this away with a water wipe. And leave the trimming eye hair to a professional to avoid any accidents. This is something I offer free of charge when dogs are booked in on a regular schedule so make sure you take me up on it!

Paws

Hair in between paws can get tangled with muck as it grows out so it's always good to wipe it or rinse it out properly after a walk. Dry cracked paws also need some attention and there are a few natural balms out there that can help with that.

As with all things related to dog health if anything looks out of the ordinary and worries you, make sure you call or visit your vet. And get pet insurance!

Dogs and car sickness

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 14:12:51 GMT

There's no one size fits all when it comes to car sickness so here are a few tips which might help your dog tolerate car journeys better.

There are a number of reasons why dogs develop motion sickness. One of my clients' rescue Cavallier l was absolutely petrified of the car and just wouldn't go near it. Turns out he associated the car with being abandoned by his first owners. So how can we make this more pleasant experience for our dogs?

Adjust what your dog sees .

Watching the world speed by through a side window can nauseate anyone. Put your dog in the middle seat in the back so he’s more likely to look forward. Use a doggie seat belt or safety harness to keep him in place. You can also purchase special car seats which minimize movement around and provide some stability.

Lower the car windows .

Keeping the car well ventilated, e ven a few inches of fresh air will equalize inside and outside air pressure and that can help reduce nausea.

Restrict your dog’s food intake.

Try withholding food for 12 hours before the car trip. Make sure they still get plenty of fresh water.

Favourite toys.

Bring something that smells familiar for your dog, whether it’s a favourite blanket or a toy or even a comfy bed. It will have a calming effect on your dog.

Natural remedies.

Holistic Hound is a small Irish company which does wonderful natural remedies for dogs. For motion sickness they have "Travel Well " herbal spray that may help combat the physical signs of motion sickness.

Desensitizing.

This one will involve training and if you're unsure where to start, contact a registered dog trainer. Starting slow by just sitting in the car with your dog for a few minutes at a time. Then slowly increase the amount of time you spend in the car and eventually go for very short drives down the street or even just the driveway. You'll need bags of patience and rewards such as toys or food or something else that your dog absolutely loves. If your dog is showing signs of stress or anxiety such as drooling, panting, shaking etc. take a step back and try again the next day.

Medication.

If you have tried everything then perhaps it's worth chatting to your vet about what medication you can give your pup to make the necessary journeys more tolerable for them.

5 great dog walks near Raheny

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 09:15:03 GMT

Dog parks are great great for your dog's social hour but where do you go for longer walkies that both of you will enjoy?

Howth's Cliff Walk

I only discovered this one recently and completely by chance. Of course I knew about the Howth summit for a while and have been around there many times. There's not lots of parking around so plan ahead. There is a map at the entry and there are 4 routes available. They all vary in length of time so it all depends on how much stamina you and your pupper have! Needless to say the walk has amazing views over the Dublin bay and the ocean is by your side on almost all routes.

Bull island

There are two ways to get to this beauty, from Raheny side on the North and on the Clontarf side via the wooden bridge. Parking gets quite busy but the walks around there are great especially around the sand dunes. Make sure you're aware of the nesting periods of birds around there and keep your dog on the leash to avoid any mishaps. The beach near the bridge has a great cafe there called Happy Out and is very popular with kite surfers.

Portmarnock beach

Arguably the prettiest beach in Dublin. This beautiful 5 km beach of velvety sand is backed by sand dunes which lead onto the Portmarnock golf course. These dunes are an important home to a variety of flora and fauna. It gets very busy when the weather is nice so p arking can be a challenge. Make sure you familiar yourself with the area before heading off so you don't end up getting stuck in traffic.

Burrow Beach, Sutton

This sandy 1.2 km beach spreads out along the north side of Sutton and connects it to Howth head to the mainland. It's very simple to reach both by car or by public transport. And if you happen to be there on Friday afternoon or evening, you have to stop at Man Street Kitchen at Sutton RFC for some seriously good food. Make sure you order in advance though, they've become VERY popular :)

Paddy's Hill, near Portmarnock

One of my clients recommended this one recently and it didn't disappoint. Apart from the carpark there's no distractions around so you can have a peaceful walk enjoying the stunning views.

If you have any suggestions let me know, I'm always up for a new walking adventure!

Best secure dog parks around Dublin

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 09:15:03 GMT

Here's some of my (dog's) favourite dog parks in and around Dublin.

St Anne’s Park, Raheny & Clontarf, Dublin 5

Closest one to where I live and my Fiadh loves it! It’s double gated which is great if you have a dog with no recall (like Fiadh) and has two separate enclosures, one for small and the other one for large dogs. There’s a water tap and bowls provided too. It gets busy on weekends but it’s a great way of getting to know your neighborhood dogs and of course their owners ;)

Corkagh Park, off Naas Road, Dublin 22

Car park is small but the dog park is less than a 5-minute walk away. Follow directions for the “Green Isle Hotel” then drive past the hotel and the park is on your right. The dog park is double gated and there’s a small water fountain and a bin near the entrance. And lots and lots of green space for your dog to run around.

Marlay Park, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16

Similar to St Anne’s, Marlay Park has separate areas for big dogs and small dogs so your pooch can feel comfortable running around off-leash. Waste bins are provided but no water fountains so bring some water along with you.

Catherine’s Park, Leixlip, Co Dublin

This dog park is located within the park itself and is a completely fenced-off area perfect for off leash run around. Bring water & bowl for your dog with you and make sure you don’t wear your Sunday’ best.

Charlesland Dog Park, Greystones

This one is a new addition and I only found out about it from my Insta friends at Pet HQ Greystones. We visited this park this past weekend and we gave it a big fat thumbs up! Double gated, water provided and Fiadh left with a new BFF Charlie the cockapoo. Located behind the Go Gym right beside the running track.

If you know of any more please do share! I’m always on the lookout for new places to go with my dog.

Dog Friendly Cafes around St Anne's

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 15:07:47 GMT

You're on your daily dog walk and you get peckish, run out of steam or just want a treat. Where do you go?

THE LAB, Raheny

Loved by parents who drop off and pick up their kids from the nearby school this coffee cart set up during the pandemic and has been a hit. Apart from coffee they have toasties and pastries available for anyone feeling peckish and there's plenty of outdoor seating. And for your pooch? They get plenty of attention as well as dog biscuits.

Kennedy's Food store, Raheny

Opened from Tuesday to Sunday this one is one of my favourites. They have a wide selection of dishes for breakfast and lunch, and there's plenty of cakes, pastries and other goodies available if you're on the go. And cherry on top- dogs are allowed indoors!

Red Stables, St Anne's Park

Who doesn't know this fab cafe in the beautiful surroundings of St Anne’s Park and the Red Stables building. It’s always busy whether it’s on a Monday morning or during the market time on Saturday. They have warm and cold food available, treats, drinks and ice cream during the summer months so there really is something for everyone. Water bowls and plenty of covered outside seating available for you and your doggo.

The Orange Goat, Killester

Another one I visited quite frequently during the various lock downs over the last couple of years. They have an extensive menu and you can pre-order online or pop-in with your pup and take it easy.

Happy Out, Bull Island

I've been coming here ever since I moved to Raheny 4 years ago. I didn't have a dog back then but I appreciated all the dogs around. They do a mean toastie and have yummie treats available every day. Most seating is outdoor and there's water bowls available for your dog. The walks around there are beautiful as well so it's a win win for everyone!

*As a good rule of thumb, always ask the staff at the Cafe's if your furry friends are allowed on their premises.

5 reasons to brush your dog’s coat

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 16:54:22 GMT

There are plenty of benefits of brushing your dogs coat, here's a few practical ones to note;

Reduces shedding and improves their coat

Helps you spot anything unusual

Keeps your dog and your house clean

Bonding time

And if you just simply cannot find time in your day, call your groomer and arrange a bath and brush out. We'll remove any tangles before they develop in serious mats and keep your dog fluffed up between their full groom.

Matting and De-matting

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 14:45:32 GMT

We’ve all seen it before, a shaved down dog walk of shame. It happens to almost every long haired dog owner so let's have a look at how best to avoid the "shave down".

Why does matting happen?

Matting is typically found in areas of your dog with the most friction; armpits, where the collar or harness sits, legs and backend where they lay down, behind the ears or other areas of the body where they might be scratching.

Why don’t groomers always de-matt?

The simple answer is because it’s uncomfortable for your dog. And I personally am not prepared to cause any dog discomfort if it can be avoided. The easiest way to imagine how dematting feels like is similar to brushing out dreadlocks in your own hair. Even if you never had dreadlocks I think you can imagine the discomfort.

The dematting process involves taking small sections of hair at a time and working to release the mats using scissors, brushes and other tools. If the matting on your dog is heavy and very tight, the safest and least painful way to remove this altogether is to clip his hair short. Also known as shaving off the coat. This means I have to work close to the skin with my clipper blade and on the release of the mats there can often be signs of irritation of the skin so you can imagine we do not take the decision to clip the coat off lightly.

How to avoid matting?

Brush, brush and brush. Depending on your dog breed and desired length and style of the hair brushing should be done a few times a week. During colder and wetter months it should be done more frequently especially around the areas where the collar and harness sit.

If you're too busy and this does not fit into your daily life, I would recommend speaking to your groomer and get a plan in place for your dog. To give you an idea, for a cavachon (cavapoo, cockapoo etc.) that you prefer to keep long I recommend having a full groom every 8 weeks and a wash & brush out every 4-5 weeks. This way we can stay on top of the mats if there are any and ensure we can keep the coat longer when they come in for the full groom.

Regular grooming is the best way to stay on top of the pesky matts and for your dog to feel and look their best!

Puppy Groom, the teenage edit

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 14:45:32 GMT

Ah the puppy teenage phase. I remember my Fiadh being well on her way with all the tricks and obedience and then....it all fell off the cliff. And the same happens when grooming teenage dogs.

I love seeing dogs come in when they're pups and watch them grow up. And you see them in all kinds of stages including the challenging teenage period. They normally act up a bit more, pretend they never met the dryer, cutting nails is now a challenge and god forbid I touch the ears! But that too passes and usually within the next groom or two they're all grown up. Still silly little things but obedient and responding to all the training we've done.

What about pups who haven’t been exposed to grooming at all until they’re around 9 months or even older?

I mentioned before how starting as early as possible is key to building up a dog’s confidence in grooming.

We know life happens, especially over the last couple of years when availing from services was a challenge. But your puppy is growing up and before you know it your dog's coat is getting out of control making it impossible to stay keep it mat free.

Your puppy’s coat starts to transition between 6 to 9 months, sometimes even later. The hair goes from "puppy coat", which is soft and fluffy, to "adult coat" which is denser and more coarse. This period of this change can be a trying one as they’ll need more brushing and maintenance to prevent matting. And as we know a teenage pup is likely going to challenge you on this every step of the way.

Moreover if your little furball hasn’t met a brush at that stage chances are there will be some matting (more on that her e ). I always assess individual puppies and what the best way to proceed is. With teenage pups it can be challenging to teach them new tricks during this period so we might have to start slowly as we would with a younger pup. Grooming can be overwhelming if not done gradually so starting slowly is always best even if you do need to come to the groomers more frequently to begin with.

The most important thing is to build your dog’s confidence in grooming as it will be their way of life and it would be a shame if it was an unpleasant one.

As always give me a call for some free advice or pop into my groom room in Raheny for an assessment and we'll work out a plan on how best to proceed.

Puppy Groom

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 14:45:32 GMT

If you’re reading an article about puppies, chances are that by now you’ve probably heard all the tips on socialization, loose lead walking and know every dog park around. But has anyone mentioned anything about how to groom your puppy?

Keeping your dog healthy is of course very important and part of a regular health routine is grooming. The groomer in me could write essays on this subject but I’ll try not to overwhelm you with information and keep it nice and simple.

Starting early.

Starting at an early age is the best way to get them used to the process of grooming gradually giving your pup plenty of time to get used to all the elements before they will need their first full groom.

Positive first experience at the groomers.

What to do at home?

There are of course things that you can do at home that will help your puppy get used all the handling. Try practicing the below while watching TV with your pup snuggled on your lap:

Touch his paws, between pads and nails
Stroke his ears on the inside and outside in a gentle way
Brush your puppy with an appropriate brush for a couple of minutes on a regular basis (include treats if it helps!)

The more your pup is used to being touched the better!