NATURAL PETS
often they’re made by small producers who really care about what goes into your pets. Mostly, these companies don’t spend a fortune on advertising, which is an extra costs that bigger companies then pass on to you!
SB . What can you recommend to create a healthy coat for a cat or a dog? KB . First and foremost I’d suggest a good diet and the right exercise for the breed is essential. As for natural products, try Billy No Mates flea repellent and Yumega Plus omega oils for great results.
SB . What natural tips can you offer to make our dogs smell better? KB . The is unfortunately a very common problem! Again, this can be down to the correct diet too. Dogs tend to seep out of their fur whatever’s in them, I’m afraid! There are arguments for and against too much bathing but I believe that Neem shampoo bars are excellent because not only do they smell divine, they won’t dry skin and coat out as they don’t contain any harmful man-made surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulphates. As for preventing bad doggy breath try a big juicy,
uncooked bone, or our antibacterial tooth cleaners with colloidal silver. No toothpaste, no harm to the environment, simply shiny, fresh gnashers!
SB . Is there anything we can put in dog beds to release a pleasant odour? KB . I’d recommend regularly washing the dogs bedding in a natural non-bio powder, such as Ecover Laundry Powder Non Bio, or better still get a water- proof bed which you can wipe or hose down, then give them a blanket which you can throw in the wash whenever is gets a bit too whiffy.
SB . Are there any natural products pet owners should avoid? KB . You should always be careful with essential oils and animals – they can do lots of harm if used directly on the skin or if not diluted enough. You must ensure the oil has been blended to the correct proportions for the size and type of pet and if in doubt, always seek advice from a professional pet expert. I had a customer yesterday tell me she was spraying her dog with a watered down solution of tea tree oil to prevent ticks. Tea tree can easily cause liver and kidney damage, especially to small animals. I’d suggest never giving essential oils to a cat, they groom so much and can ingest it quickly. Equally, always use your gut instinct – shop around and ask questions. If the pet shop owner doesn’t have the answers or it doesn’t feel right – don’t buy it.
SB . What natural tips can you recommend for other pets such as hamsters, rabbits and larger pets such as horses? KB . Keep treats simple – raw carrots, broccoli etc. Make sure you pet has the right environment too – exercise, home, bedding, food and stimulation – and you’re more than halfway there. Do your research, get advice from books or forums, there are plenty out there dedicated to each animal and each specific breed. The horse sector is really up on natural products and has been for years, so there is a lot of information out there.
Doggy-licious! K
ate shares this great healthy, low fat dog treat recipe for you to try – perfect for your furry friends. Recipe by Joe Inglis
To Make 1. Dissolve the stock cube in the hot water and add gradually to the flour and vegetables, in a large mixing bowl, to form a thick dough.
2. Roll out on a well-floured surface until the dough is around 1cm thick.
Ingredients 250ml hot water 1 beef stock cube (low salt if possible) 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 cups whole wheat flour 1 stick celery (finely chopped) 1 carrot (grated)
3. Cut out small biscuit shapes – the smaller the better as every little helps when you are trying to cut down on your dogs calories.
4. Place the biscuits on a greased baking tray and bake in a moderate heat in the oven for 30 minutes.
5. Allow them to cool before serving and ration them with steely determination!
These delicious treats can be kept for several weeks in an airtight container and make a perfect doggy treat.
For further information, or to buy any of Kate’s products, visit
www.myitchydog.co.uk
Simply beautiful • 25
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