Showing posts with label Goldas Grooming. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Goldas Grooming. Show all posts

Monday, February 2, 2015

How to Travel with your Dog



Travelling is something all dogs must get used to. It's important to not only take your pet to the vet and groomer, but to also ensure that your pet enjoys some trips. If the only places you take your dog are the vet and groomer it is likely to get a distaste of travelling rather quickly. Try taking your pup for outings to the park and to local pet retail warehouses where they can help pick out there favorite treats. Take them for pleasure drives when you go sight seeing or visit the mountains or beach. All national parks and beaches have designated pet welcome areas that you can usually find on their websites. Many times there are also local listings on where you can eat with your pet.


There are plenty of patio seating restaurants that don't mind if you bring along your pal. If you leave your dog in the car every time you run in to grab a bite to eat or shop he/ she will feel excluded and won't be having any fun. By including your dog in your regular activities it is more likely to enjoy car rides on a regular basis and less likely to experience any sickness related from nerves.

Another important thing to keep in mind is long distance travel. Travelling with your pet long distances can be unpleasant for all. Here are a few ways to alleviate the discomfort of long flights and car travels and how to make travelling life a little easier.

1. Make sure the hotel is truly pet friendly. It's nice if they allow pets but you want your pet to be treated as a guest too. After all you are paying extra for your pet to stay.
2. Benedryl isn't just for people it can also be used as a natural relax aid for your pet. It isn't as strong as a sedative and doesn't have any long lasting effects. So it can be perfect for those long drives when you think your pet may get a little nervous. Just make sure to check with your vet first to make sure they approve. They know your pet and its ability to medication best. Other relaxing herbs can be administered to your pet including: valerian extract, inositol, and soothing chamomile; fortified with Vitamin C and you can often find treats that have these natural ingredients.
3.Exercise, Exercise, Exercise...The famous Cesar Millan swears by the exercise method. Nothings helps better than to a recently exercised dog. "It will be in a more relaxed state during any long trip.
4. Make sure you bring lots of toys, your pups favorite blanket, and treats. Anything that helps your pup feel at home will help it enjoy its travels more.



For more information on dog care check out the Golda's Grooming Website.
 "We Care About Your Pets" 3629 Western Ave. Knoxville, TN 37931 Right off of I-40. Or 
Schedule an Appointment for a Pet Grooming via email here:

Elderly Dog Care

Many dogs will experience similar symptoms to us as they get older. They may experience arthritic pain, have a changing metabolism that causes weight issues, or even experience dementia. Other common health issues in older aged dogs include loss of hearing and eye sight, bad hips and joint pain, and dental issues. Getting old is never fun, but we can help ease some of our old pal's troubles. A dog reaches its senior years at around the age of seven or eight and from there we should be taking early precautions to try and prevent some of these problems from occurring later in life. If your pup is well taken care of it can go on to reach anywhere from fourteen to twenty years old typically depending on its size and how quickly your dog ages. So here are some of Golda's Grooming tricks of the trade for caring for an elderly dog.


  1. Routine dental care and even professional vet cleanings
Nylabone Dental Products

  2. Natural joint care
  3. A healthy senior diet
      All dog diets should consist of natural ingredients, chicken and lamb are often easier on a dogs stomach. Always check your dog food to make sure it doesn't have any dyes. This can often cause problems of an immediate nature such as indigestion and vomiting, but can also have long term effects.
  4. Use of ramps and beds that are made to ease joint and arthritic pain

It's normal for you as an owner to be concerned about your pets health and well being. We all want the best quality of life for our pets and sometimes its difficult to know if your dog is experiencing the normal symptoms of aging or if they are having a more serious problem. There are a few things you can keep a look out for in the event your dog may need to be seen by a vet such as the following:

1. Diarrhea and Vomiting on a consistent basis is never normal
2. Cloudy pupils could mean cataracts and does need to be treated to prevent further vision loss
3. Painful urination
4. Loss of ability to control urination - incontinence could mean kidney problems
5. Weight gain - watch out for hypothyroidism and;
6. Weight Loss can be a result of several more serious underlying problems and your dog should
     receive a thorough exam regarding any serious weight loss
7. Disorientation - doggy Alzheimers can make you wonder if you know your dog at all
8. Wounds no matter how small always need to be checked by a vet to prevent infection
9. Excessively smelly breath, loss of appetite, difficulty eating could be periodontal disease and needs     to be determined by a vet.

For more information on dog care check out the Golda's Grooming Website.
 "We Care About Your Pets" 3629 Western Ave. Knoxville, TN 37931 Right off of I-40. Or 
Schedule an Appointment for a Pet Grooming via email here:

Friday, January 9, 2015

Why Chihuahuas Make Awesome Pets

Let's Celebrate the Chihuahua for a Moment Shall We...


From the song I Chihuahua to Yo Quero Taco Bell! Chihuahuas have long been a symbol of fun and excitement for all to enjoy. They are undoubtedly a small bundle of energy and joy and often mean the world to their owners, sharing a bond unlike any other. Yes Chihuahuas can sometimes get overly attached to just one person and the chihuahua tends to like being the only child, but if you are lucky enough to have one of these little pistols you are sure to see why they can be the preferred pet of the household.

Here's our top 10 reasons for getting a Chihuahua:

1. They make excellent guard dogs... That's right guard dogs. Sometimes all it takes is one protective little pup to yip, yap, and snarl to make the difference in whether or not an intruder dares to enter. Even if it's as small as a Chihuahua.
2. They are low maintenance and less costly to get groomed. - Although Chihuahua hair can shed, it is extremely short with very little undercoat. Regular brushings and bathing will do the trick when it comes to routine care of your loved one. You might also want to make additional appointments with your groomer just for nail trimmings to keep those sharp claws buffed down.
3. Chihuahuas come in a lot of varieties of sizes and breeds. We all typically imagine chihuahuas as being tea cup sized but some of our favorite breeds include the Cheagle (Chihuahua/ Beagle), Chug (Chihuahua/ Pug), the Chiweenie (Chihuahua/ Daschund), and the Pomchi (Pomeranian/ Chihuahua). These are just a few of the super cute crossbreeds we've seen and enjoyed grooming at Golda's Grooming boutique.
4. They are often talkers. Many Chihuahuas like to speak to you. This can be one of the cutest traits of the Chihuahua when they tell you they love you or even sing along with a song.
5. They get cold easy, so they are big cuddlers. Chihuahuas are true lap dogs and love the warmth of a soft cuddly blanket or even just being cozied up to mom.
6. They often can fit in a small carrier or purse for extra convenience.
7. They love their owner(s) and are both devoted and loyal
8. Chihuahuas tend to be high energy. Although this can be bad, it can also mean they are more playful than other dogs and enjoy their toys immensely.
9. Chihuahuas live long lives and tend to have only minor health problems in their old age unlike many other pure breeds. The perfect pet for a long term companion.
10. These cuties love to be pampered and are the perfect pet for dressing up.

Our very own ~ Oliver is a Cheagle. His personality is fun loving, good with children, and  he loves to sleep under the covers where he can keep your feet warm. He's sociable and is good with other dogs and cats. Just further proof why we believe Chihuahuas are awesome.


For more information on dog care check out the Golda's Grooming Website.
 "We Care About Your Pets" 3629 Western Ave. Knoxville, TN 37931 Right off of I-40. Or
Schedule an Appointment for a Pet Grooming via email here:

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Cutest Small Dog Breeds

This post may be biased, but here is a list of Golda's favorite small dog breeds. How did we determine the cutest breeds. We decided the breed was cute based on typical personality, behavior, and looks of course.

1. Poodle

The poodle is an active, intelligent and elegant dog, squarely built, and well proportioned. One of the most fun parts of owning a poodle is all the fashionable styles of hair cuts available. Poodles are also a lot of fun to dress up.

2. Yorkie - The ideal Yorkshire Terrier character or "personality" is described with a "carriage very upright" and "conveying an important air." Though small, the Yorkshire Terrier is active, very overprotective, curious, and loves attention. Mentally sound and emotionally secure ones should normally not show the soft submissive temperament seen in a lap dog.



 3. Pekingese

(also known as the Lion Dog, Peking Lion Dog, Pelchie Dog, or Peke) is an ancient breed of toy dog, originating in China.

The Pekingese's flat face and large eyes are some of the breeds most obvious characteristics. The body is compact and low to the ground. Pekingese also have a muscular and durable body

 4.  Shitzu



 The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy little dog with a short muzzle and large dark eyes. With a soft and long double coat...Although a Shih Tzu's temperament varies from dog to dog, the breed has a personality and temperament that is loyal, affectionate, outgoing, and alert. Training and proper socializing must start at a young age for the Shih Tzu to obey basic commands.
 


5. Pomeranian

The Pomeranian (often known as a Pom or Pom Pom) is a breed of dog of the Spitz type, named for the Pomerania region in Central Europe.
Pomeranians are typically a very friendly, playful and lively breed of dog.They love to be around their owners and are known to be protective of them. Pomeranians are alert and aware of changes in their environment and barking at new stimuli can develop into a habit of barking excessively in any situation. They are somewhat defensive of their territory and will thus bark when they encounter any outside noises.Pomeranians are intelligent dogs, respond well to training, and can be very successful in getting what they want from their owners.They are extroverted and enjoy being the center of attention but can become quite aggressive and dominant if not well trained.

6. Schnauzer

Friendly and loving, schnauzers become part of their families and can get along well with children if raised and socialized properly. They are protective and energetic, and will alert members of the household to any potential danger. The schnauzer, ever alert, makes an excellent watchdog, although its watchful nature can lead to persistent barking. To avoid annoying the neighbors, dog owners should make every effort to curb excessive barking through training. The breed is of above average intelligence and can be independent minded, so early training and diverse daily exercise is recommended.
Schnauzers have distinctive beards and long, feathery eyebrows. They are generally either a salt and pepper color, black, or white, but they can be brown also.

  7.  Chihuahua

  The breed tends to be fiercely loyal to one particular guardian and in some cases may become over protective of the person, especially around other people or animals. This dog is super cute because of it's size easy maintainability. It's a great pet for an individual looking for a loveable, loyal little baby.
8.  Cocker Spaniel



For twenty five years the American Cocker Spaniel was the most popular dog in America. It was ranked number one first in 1936 prior to the English Cocker Spaniel being recognized as a separate breed, and held onto the spot until 1952







9.  Maltese

Maltese are bred to be cuddly companion dogs. They are extremely lively and playful, and even as a Maltese ages, his energy level and playful demeanor remain fairly constant. Some









10.  Daschund
Dachshunds are playful, but as hunting dogs can be quite stubborn and are known for their propensity for chasing small animals, birds, and tennis balls with great determination and ferocity
Many dachshunds are stubborn, making them a challenge to train.


 11. King Charles Spaniel
It is not a high energy breed, and enjoys the company of family members, being primarily a lapdog.


 12. Lhasa Apso
Having been bred as an indoor monastery sentinel dog by Tibetan Buddhist monks, Lhasa Apsos are alert with a keen sense of hearing and a rich, sonorous bark that belies their size. The ideal Lhasa temperament is to be wary of strangers while being loyal to those closest to them.




















13. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise loves human company and demands much of your attention. They are generally very sociable and do well with an owner that takes them along on outings. They are charming, affectionate, and intelligent.
 
14. Welsh Corgi

Corgis are very active and energetic. They have a strong desire to please and should receive both physical and mental exercise regularly. They should be socialized early on because they tend to be shy and cautious with strangers and other dogs. They have a tendency to be very vocal, and for this reason make good alarm dogs. They are typically good with children, but due to their herding behavior, may nip at their heels during play
 


All references to character and temperament can be found in Wikipedia. This is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of the best small breed dogs, but rather the start to a really great list.

Of course pure breeds aren't the only ones that are cute, but some of our other favorite pups are a mixture of several of the breeds above.
 
The PomChi, Cockapoo, and Pekapoo are also some of our favorites.




For more information on dog care check out the Golda's Grooming Website.
 "We Care About Your Pets" 3629 Western Ave. Knoxville, TN 37931 Right off of I-40. Or
Schedule an Appointment for a Pet Grooming via email here:



Saturday, October 4, 2014

How to Get Rid of Fleas on Dogs and Cats

Fleas and How to Get Rid of Them
Golda’s Grooming has been testing different methods of how to get rid of fleas since 1974 and these are some of the methods that we’ve found to be both effective and safe. Ditch the flea dips and try medicated flea shampoos with itch relief conditioners, and if that isn’t doing the trick there are some medications on the market that are proving quite effective. There is even a special flea collar on the market that is vet approved and actually works.

Medications to Try:

The #1 treatment Recommended by Golda’s Grooming is Trifexis because you can kill two birds with one stone. All dogs need heartworm prevention. This little chewable pill prevents heartworms and fleas. It’s the sure treatment for a safe pet.
 

1.  Trifexis Heartworm and Flea Prevention Chewable Tablets for Dogs

 

(Elanco)  Trifexis Heartworm and Flea Prevention Chewable Tablets for Dogs is indicated for the prevention of heartworm disease; kills fleas; prevents and treats flea infestations; treats and controls adult hookworm, adult roundworm and adult whipworm infections. Trifexis for Dogs can be used in dogs and puppies at least 8 weeks of age and at least 5 pounds. Each chewable tablet contains spinosad and milbemycin oxime. Trifexis is given orally once a month with food for maximum effectiveness.

 

2. Comfortis Chewable Tablets 

If you aren't using Trifexis the next best thing is (Elanco) Comfortis kills fleas and is used in the prevention and treatment of flea infestations in dogs, puppies, cats & kittens 14 weeks of age and older. Comfortis chewable tablets for dogs & cats contain spinosad. Comfortis is given orally once a month, at the recommended dosage of 13.5 mg. per lb. Give with food for maximum effectiveness.



Comfortis may not prevent heart worms, but it does prevent the fleas and may be used seasonally as needed for when it’s warmer outside and the fleas are in a heavier breeding period.



3.  Protect your furry friend from pesky ticks, larvae, fleas and lice for up to 8 months with Seresto for Small Dogs, tough on pest, gentle on your pet.


 
·        Works great on dogs 7 weeks and older
·        Last for up to 8 months
·        Odorless
·        Three visibility reflectors included
Active Ingredients:
·        Flumethrin*.....4.5%
·        Imidacloprid...10.0%
·        Other ingredients....85.5%
Total.... 100%

4. You can also remove your pets from the house for a day and try flea bombing in combination with spraying your yard for fleas if you don’t have an x-large area to cover.


 
Golda’s Grooming recommends these treatments because they are effective, relatively safe, and you don’t have to use a topical cream or gel that can harm your children or grandchildren when handling the pet; or even harm the pet if not applied correctly. Works great on dogs 7 weeks and older

For more information on dog care check out the Golda's Grooming Website. Golda's Grooming "We Care About Your Pets" 3629 Western Ave. Knoxville, TN 37931 Right off of I-40. Or Schedule an Appointment for a Pet Grooming via email here: Golda's Grooming Schedule Your Pet

Monday, September 22, 2014

How You Can Help Animals in Need


There are many shelters in Tennessee. Many are kill shelters and only a few are no-kill shelters. The statistics in Knoxville alone for the number of animals that are put to sleep in our area because of poor ownership and neglect is high.

 See below for the statistics on the # of euthanized animals at just one of our local Knoxville, TN shelters.

Statistics

YearIncoming AnimalsAdoptionsReclaimedRescue/TransferOutgoing TotalEuthanasia
2001118641500783105933427718
200212331232684178939568009
2003138352649760108044898966
2004160332953878888471910848
20051619524489601087449511546
200616914219410781200447212090
20071721325411220669443012261
20081768528191318472460912638
20091783033631410562533512226
2010157503541147161657349714
2011150303410161758857629287
2012143554589167163968997241
2013139215594166245577116547


Although Knoxville has seen a decline in the #'s euthanized; 6,547 needless deaths last year for one shelter is too high. Golda's Grooming of Knoxville, TN is a proud supporter of the activities at Young Williams and has raised money and pet supplies annually for the shelter by throwing a local puppy party with its clients as guests. If Knoxville would focus on making sure that it's animals were fixed, unexpected animal births would decline. If Knoxville patrons would adopt at their local shelter versus purchasing expensive puppy mill pure breeds than less perfectly good pets in need of a home would need to be put to sleep. The Young Williams shelter sees incoming puppies, kittens, and exotics such as rabbits and ferrets. It has a variety of options for the family or individual seeking the companionship of a pet. These pets are both pure breeds and mixed breeds and they all share one thing in common, the need to be loved by a human.

Even if you aren't seeking to adopt a new family member there are countless things you can do to help your local pet shelters. At Young Williams you can add them to Kroger Community Rewards, Join Amazon Smile, set your web browser for the Good Search, choose them as your charity of choice on iGive, Join the Bark Box, bring your ink cartridges to the shelter and help fill the Cartridge World promise, purchase Bissell pet products and use the code ADOPT, join Woof Trax, bring empty pet food cans to the shelter for recycle.

If those aren't enough you can try donating some of the following found on Young Williams Local Animal Shelter Wish List. These ideas are good for any pet care non-profit shelter you are local to.

You can still see our complete Wish List below!
**Current needs as of 5-20-14**
Where to Donate
Please bring all donations to the Lost & Found/Incoming Animal entrance on the side of the building. Please do not leave donations at the front entrance, the door to animal control, or in the garage at the back of the building.
Items We CANNOT Use:
  • Cat or Small Animal Carriers (we can use Medium/Large/XL carriers!)
Pet Supplies: Dog
  • 3-Quart Stainless Steel Bowls
  • Medium/Large/XL Airline-Approved Pet Carriers (we cannot use cat or small carriers)
  • Canned Puppy and Dog Food
  • Dog Treats (no rawhides or pig ears, please)
  • Washable Dog Beds

  • Kong or Other Durable Dog Toys (to put peanut butter in)
  • Dry Dog and Puppy Food
  • Stuffed Animals
  • Peanut Butter
Stuffed Animals: Animal Center dogs show no mercy on their toys, but they have fun as long as the toys last. Goodwill and other shops often have one or two days each month where merchandise is 50% off. Flea markets, yard sales, and your children’s toy box are other sources of stuffed toys. If possible, please do not donate stuffed animals that contain Styrofoam, sand, or other fillers.
No-Sew Dog Beds: Use two pieces of fleece that are the same size. For a roomy dog bed we recommend that the pieces be at least 36″x36″, but larger beds are needed, too. Lay one piece on top of another. Cut fringe all the way around the fleece. Cuts should be at least 1″ apart and approximately 4″ long (into the fabric). Tie the top and bottom fringed piece to each other. That’s it!
Optional: Stuff the bed with batting from a craft store or an old pillow. Consider putting a few mattress or quilt stitches in blankets with batting. This will hold the batting in place during washing.
Pet Supplies: Cat
  • Clay Cat Litter/Oil Dry
  • Cardboard Trays
  • Cat Toys
  • Canned Kitten and Cat Food
  • Washable Cat Beds
  • Carpet Squares
  • Children’s Socks (see catnip sock project below)
Clay Cat Litter/Oil Dry: All cats and kittens are given fresh litter every day. We use generic clay cat litter or better yet, Oil Dry. Oil Dry is relatively inexpensive and can be found in the automotive department of discount shopping centers.
Cardboard Trays: These are used as litter boxes for cats, kittens, and rabbits. They are a staff favorite. They are free (!) and very absorbent. Litter boxes can be made from:
  • The lid to a box of office copy paper
  • The cardboard flat that holds several cans of cola or pet food
  • Any small, shallow box (larger than a shoe box top)
If you want to make a good item great, have your child decorate the cardboard tray using colorful markers.
Carpet Squares: These are used for cat and kitten cages and for enrichment in the rabbit adoption area. We prefer smaller carpet squares (24″square).
Catnip Socks: Take a child’s-sized, clean sock
  • Put a pinch of catnip in the toe of the sock
  • Tie a knot in the sock so the catnip can’t escape
  • Optional: color the outside of the sock with cloth markers, add a cotton ball and/or jingle bell to the sock’s contents
Pet Supplies: Small Mammals
  • Clean Pinecones (no glue or paint)
  • Willow (unpainted, untreated) Baskets
  • Toilet Paper Tube Toys
  • Carrots, Dandelion Greens & Other Leafy Vegetables
  • Hard Plastic Infant Toys (keys, etc.)
  • Kaytee Exact Rodent Food or Other High-Quality Food
  • Treats
  • Purina Rabbit Food (plain pellets in the green bag)
Carrots, Dandelion Greens and Other Leafy Vegetables (no iceberg lettuce, please): These foods provide important nutrients and variety for a small mammal’s diet. A five-pound bag of carrots can last up to a week. Washed vegetables in ziplock bags are ideal, but produce straight from the grocery store is okay, too. Preferred leafy vegetables include:
  • Parsley
  • Cilantro
  • Leaf lettuce (green, red, endive, escarole, romaine, etc.)
  • Kale
Pet Supplies: Birds
  • Pet Bird Food
  • Millet Spray
  • Toys & Dishes
  • Roomy Cages
  • Treat Sticks (nut, fruit, honey)
Administration
  • Batteries (AA, AAA, and C)
  • Postage Stamps
  • Manila folders
  • Sharpies
  • Post-It Notes
  • Pens (any kind)
  • White, 8 ½” x 11″ Copy Paper
Household Items
  • Wal-Mart or Other Gift Cards
  • Paper Towels
  • Latex Exam Gloves
  • Waterless Hand Sanitizer
  • Squeegees
  • Long-Handled Scrub Brushes
Humane Education
  • Washable Markers & Other School/Craft Supplies
  • Girl Scouts Badge Requirement Handbook
  • Story Books about animals (please call Amy Johnston at (865)215-6668 for titles or shop at ASPCA or HSUS)
Mobile Spay/Neuter “Spay Shuttle”
  • Paper Towels
  • 70% Alcohol
  • Swiffer Wetjet Refills
  • Towels or Rags
  • Plastic Garbage Bags (at least 30 gallon size)
Veterinary Clinic
  • Greenies Pill Pockets
  • Lint Rollers
  • Heating Pads
  • Rubbing Alcohol 70% or 90%
  • Bacitracin Ointment
  • First Aid Kit & Supplies
  • Infant socks (can be used)
Workshop
  • Star Drivers
  • Drill Bits
  • Bolt Cutters
  • Chain Saw
  • 14′ Ladder
  • Cordless Drill
  • Shelving Units for storage
  • Drain Auger/snake
  • Multi-oulet power strips

There are so many more resources available on the youngwilliams.com website but this is a
bit to get your wheels turning on how to improve your local pet community by supporting
your local shelter and donating today at your local shelter or Young Williams Animal Shelter
 via the following link:  https://37689.thankyou4caring.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=298

For more information on dog care check out the Golda's Grooming Website. Golda's Grooming
 "We Care About Your Pets" 3629 Western Ave. Knoxville, TN 37931 Right off of I-40. Or
Schedule an Appointment for a Pet Grooming via email here: Golda's Grooming Schedule Your Pet


 
 

Saturday, September 20, 2014

Skin Problems on Cocker Spaniels: The Do's and Don'ts for Healing


 
 
At Golda’sGrooming we’ve been noticing a lot of Cocker Spaniels with skin problems. It turns out this isn’t so uncommon for Cockers. Unfortunately, after doing some research on the issue if you’re poor Cocker is one of the unlucky ones to have skin trouble it could be a variety of factors causing this issue and may take a lot of work and patience to reduce the problem. This does tend to be somewhat of a permanent issue in a lot of cases, because it is very often related to allergies. Allergies can range from environmental to internal via food and water consumption. Yes, even poorly treated water can stimulate allergies. Although, we didn’t find any studies to prove this it has been documented by pet owners that filtered water can help. Never underestimate the power of good food and water.
Looking for other ways to improve your pup’s skin? Try an all-natural food. Grain fillers can cause yeast problems and your dog may be allergic to grain. Fish and Lamb tend to be our dogs preferred meat content, no red dyes either. After trying everything for a dog with a sensitive tummy including name brand foods such as Iams, Pedigree and Science Diet, actually ended up being Ingles Lassie Lamb brand. After trying this food it was the last time our dog with severe skin allergy chewed at himself uncontrollably and his sensitive tummy handled it well. It has no fillers or dyes, is all natural and is considerably less expensive than the other name brands. The only complaint we have is that the only store we’ve been able to find it in is Ingles.  You can also try hand feeding your pet with fresh cooked chicken, fish, lamb, beef, rice or potatoes to implement an all-natural diet just remember to NEVER feed your dog pork products because pork destroys the lining of your pet’s stomach and can cause severe diarrhea.

Lastly, try humidifiers to increase the moisture in the air which may soothe skin irritation and bath your dog regularly in an anti-itch microbial shampoo. We often use Miconazole for fungal infections and to eliminate scaly itchy skin at Golda’s Grooming which has proven some effectiveness against flaky, irritated skin in Cockers. We have also used Chlorhexadine with some effectiveness against these types of problems. The trick is to let your pet sit for at least 10 minutes after applying to make sure the active agents in the shampoo have time to do their magic, then rinse, rinse, rinse. You can also apply an after rinse for itchy skin once the dog is washed. This needs to take place once a week until the skin is showing improvement. If you still feel the need for an ingested medication it's always good to try good old fashioned Benedryl first. We've given one a day to our dog for years and it has seemed to help with the scratching.

Other treatments can be provided to your dog from your local vet for allergies, but often times the all-natural treatments above if used with persistence will persevere in the end gaining back your loved one’s healthy sheen. Treatments from vets often include steroid shots, pills, and creams which can cause both short and long term effects in your pet.
Short term effects can include:
  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Increased hunger
  • Panting
  • Loss of Energy
  • Development or worsening of infections
  • Nausea or vomiting

Long Term Effects:
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Poor wound healing ability
  • Obesity due to increased hunger
  • Muscle weakness
  • Skin spots
  • Pre-disposition to diabetes

For more information on dog care check out the Golda's Grooming Website. Golda's Grooming "We Care About Your Pets" 3629 Western Ave. Knoxville, TN 37931 Right off of I-40. Or Schedule an Appointment for a Pet Grooming via email here: Golda's Grooming Schedule Your Pet

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

K9 Cancer Walk for Knoxville's Dogs 2014

We are placing a big huge star next to this event because it's personal. In 2007, Golda's Golden Retriever Crockett was diagnosed with a high grade (15) Sarcona Cancer and was told he'd have less than a year to live. The first option was to take his leg, but Golda opted for surgery and chemo with radiation as the alternative. 25 radiation and 5 chemo treatments were administered to Crockett over the span of 2 years. In 2009 Crockett was cleared of his cancer. The treatments took several months and Crockett went through all the normal symptoms of these types of treatments including nausea and vomiting, fur thinning, and weakness.

That is why he will be at the Dogs for cancer Walk brought to Knoxville by Gerald Boyd's Petsafe and benefiting the Morris Animal Foundation, because we know how difficult this disease is to face alone for puppy and owner.

Even if your pet hasn't been through cancer, your loved one might have. This is an excellent community effort to acknowledge that cancer is trying to win, but that we are fighting back. It is a huge event to show your support of the fight. Please attend if you can.

September 21, 2014, NOON
 
www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/petsafewalk
 
As promised Golda's Grooming is becoming your source to find out where all the greatest events for dogs of Knoxville, TN are being held and when. Golda cares about the pet community and wants to make sure that we are getting involved and helping Knoxville's pets have their best chance at success. That is why we are keeping our customers and other fellow Knoxvillians informed. Check our website regularly for updates at goldasgrooming.com




Wednesday, September 3, 2014

How to Easily Make a Throw for Your Dog It Will Actually Love

If anyone has ever told you that dogs aren't sentimental they're lying. Dogs love to be close to the things that belong to their owners. They have strong sniffers and know from the scent of items what belongs to those they love. For dogs separation anxiety and just for lonely moments you can ease your pups sorrows by leaving behind something of yours they will love. This is a tutorial on how to make an easy t-shirt throw keepsake for your puppy. That's right, for your puppy. It will love you more for it and will miss you less when you are away and all it takes is some of your old t-shirts, some fleece, and filler to get started. The other cool thing is you can make it personalized by adding a square with your pups name stitched in the center or adding paw print and other dog themed fabric and t-shirt squares. A dog throw is also a great way of keeping fur off your pup's favorite couch cushion to lay on, or if you want to designate a specific spot on a floor or ottoman for your buddy to relax on.


Follow the Written Instructions Here to Make it A Reality

Materials and Material Costs:
1. 15-30 old t-shirts that belong to you and other family members you want your dog to feel close to when you're away ($0 because it's already in your closet and not getting used)
2. Use a coupon and go to your local hobby store for a rotary cutter and cutting mat if you don't already have one ($50)
3. Include the purchase of flannel tor batting o be used for filling:
http://www.ebay.com/sch/sis.html?_nkw=CUTE DOG BLUE FLANNEL FABRIC 100 COTTON FQ FAT QUARTER QUILTING PAW PRINTS&_itemId=161163769631
4. Don't forget the scissors - you will need fabric scissors for this project ($18)
5. + You Time = Avg. 5-10 days and a little patience

Instructions:
1. Cut squares from t-shirts in 12x12, 13x13, or 14x14 blocks; you can also make larger squares from smaller ones if you really want to be creative. The bigger the squares, the less t-shirts you will have to use. You can also use front / back of each t-shirt but it's best to cut the squares from each separately.
2. 1-2  bags of batting
3. Lay the good side of t-shire flat faced down (can also use paw print flannel- idea see above link for the back side), follow by batting and finally the front of the shirt on top with good side facing out.
4. Pin each of the squares to keep it together

Sewing Tips:
Use the same thread throughout
Reverse stitch at beginning and end of X's for reinforced stitch
For larger/ more noticeable ruffle leave more fabric visible at the seams

5. Arrange sewn squares on a nice, clean, flat surface to your liking
6. Sew each row individually, then each row together (seams 1/2 inch apart)
7. Sew around the border for border ruffle
8. Cut notch every .25 to .5 inch on all the exposed seams
9. Wash in washing machine

#10 You and Your Puppy Can Finally Enjoy the Benefits of Providing this Perfect Keepsake to Your Pet

#1 Benefit to You --- Peace of Mind Knowing Your Puppy will be Home Feeling Happier that He / She is Closer to You While You're Working or at School


For more information on dog care check out the Golda's Grooming Website. Golda's Grooming "We Care About Your Pets" 3629 Western Ave. Knoxville, TN 37931 Right off of I-40. Or Schedule an Appointment for a Pet Grooming via email here: Golda's Grooming Schedule Your Pet