by Rosemary Parker

The long, snowy winter has left many pet owners with a disagreeable spring chore -- cleaning up after their dogs and cats now that the snow has melted. Picking up what pets have left behind in the yard is chore enough. Figuring out the responsible way to dispose of it may be worse.

While many recommend flushing, that's not a good idea when it comes to sewer maintenance, especially in areas served by on-site septic systems, local health officials say.

Hosing down the grass and washing the dissolved feces down the driveway is not a good solution either because of the potential for contamination of streams and lakes as runoff enters storm sewers.

So what is the solution? Homeowners are allowed to bury pet waste, although that's not always a practical solution with the accumulation of a winter's worth of feces and wet spring soils. Since pet waste can be disposed of legally in a landfill, scooping and bagging it and throwing it out with the household garbage is an option, as long as it is allowed by the homeowner's garbage hauler.

And if picking up poop is too odious to consider, homeowners can opt for spring cleanup services that will take care of the whole chore. A final option: Do nothing at all and allow the piles of waste to degrade with spring rains.

But urine salts pose more of a threat to lawns, he said, especially if pets have repeatedly visited the same part of the yard. It is recommended to thoroughly water the area to wash away accumulated salts. If the grass doesn't grow, turn over the soil and reseed it with rye grass or another quick-growing seed.


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The spring is just around the corner, and so are the unfortunate associated health issues. Does your four-legged friend go on a sneezing jag that seems like it will never stop? Does he exhibit continuous chewing of his paws or tail? These could be symptoms of allergic reactions to stimuli in his environment. There are several things you can do to better control his reactions.

Pay attention to the food you’re buying. Many dog foods contain BHT or BHA preservatives that exacerbate allergies in pets. Try to stay with foods that are corn, gluten and wheat free to eliminate the most common elements that cause allergic reactions. If you are able, the more natural diet you can provide your pet, the better.

Don’t use chemical sprays on lawns and weeds in any area that your dog frequents. These toxins can not only trigger allergies, but they can actually lead to seizures in animals. Read the labels and make sure they are safe for animals and children before using them.

Natural Grooming. Use grooming products that are specifically formulated for pets. Never apply regular human cosmetics on your pet as they may cause severe allergic reactions, disorientation, and skin irritation. If your dog has dry flaky skin and hair, avoid frequent bathing and only use natural hypoallergenic products that are vet-approved and sensitive on your dog's hair, skin and olfactory.

If you find that your dog is exhibiting jaw vibrations or cramping, consult your veterinarian. Sometimes what looks like allergies can actually be a mild form of epilepsy. It can be controlled by medication, and your dog can continue to live a full and happy life.
 

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Just in time for Valentine's Day, The Canine Confectionery Company was established in London to provide an exciting new range of unique luxury handmade dog sweets and treats which are as carefully prepared and beautifully packaged as human sweets and chocolates, but are made entirely from ingredients which are safe and healthy for dogs to eat.

A small family business run by dedicated dog owners, this totally unique venture is the first of its kind and has raised interest from all over the world from dog lovers who want to spoil their pet with luxurious and exciting treats without the fear of sickness or reaction to non-dog friendly ingredients in human chocolates and sweets.

From a small two treat Baby Ballotin box of WufflesTM to a luxuriously indulgent selection of twelve DogolatesTM in the large Ultimate Selection box, the range offers something for every dog, including their bestselling bags of Strawberry Heart treats for everyday spoiling, and their popular and easily digested Puppy Honey Hearts for puppies and old timers to enjoy.



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By Gina Spadafori - Universal Press Syndicate

But ticks are more than a disgusting nuisance - they present a serious health risk for people and pets. Tick-borne diseases can be difficult to diagnose and treat, and harder still to live with. That's why when it comes to ticks and pets, prevention and quick removal are the best strategies by far.

Tick prevention in pets means topical treatments, typically spot-ons available by prescription from your veterinarian (or from retailers with a prescription from your veterinarian). Talk to your pet's health-care provider about which product suits your animal best. In some areas, ticks may respond better to one product than another. In areas with heavy tick infestations, additional protection may entail the use of a tick collar; again, talk to your vet.

Whenever you've had your dog out in an area with ticks -- and that could even be a green city park -- you need to go over your dog carefully to hand-pick any pests that hopped a ride anyway. Don't wait for the preventives to kill them. Feel for tiny lumps and part the fur to get a good look at the skin.

When you've located a tick, don't use methods you may have heard of such as applying alcohol, petroleum jelly or the tip of a hot match to remove them. They don't work. Instead, choose a direct method: Either use a tool to pull them off or protect your fingers with a thin glove. Full story...

And do not forget about natural prevention, such as herbal extracts and essential oils. Best Friend NYC Natural Liquid Canine Cleanser contains patchouli and and organic lavender essential oils which are known to repel ticks and other annoying insects. 

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We are excited to announce the release of Best Friend NYC products. Envisioned as a tribute to dogs and celebration of nature, Best Friend NYC offers premium dog products, developed with the finest mix of natural ingredients and phytoactive elements for an elegant canine lifestyle.

Since 12,000 B.C., when dogs first became domesticated, these beloved pets have been enriching our lives as trusted work partners, fearless hunters and guards, devoted and passionate social companions, and always unconditional and true best friends. Best Friend NYC honors canine companions with the beautiful and environmentally-conscious lifestyle products to enhance our best friends’ beauty, and promote health and well-being.

Best Friend NYC veterinarian - approved formulations are hypoallergenic and designed specifically for the gentle canine olfactory. This multi-step canine grooming regimen includes four grooming products:

Step 1. Natural Canine Liquid Cleanser
Step 2. Natural Canine Conditioning Rinse
Step 3. Multivitamin Balancing Tonic
Step 4. Finishing Gloss

All products are natural and gentle enough for often use. Best Friend NYC products are available for purchase on our website www.bestfriendnyc.com, and are soon coming to lifestyle boutiques and high-end retailers near you. For wholesale and press inquiries please contact us at info@bestfriendnyc.com.

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