5 Handy Hacks for a Fussy Fur Child
Isn't it lovely to feel loved? There's nothing quite like opening the door and having your bundle of fur running towards you with glee. And no, we're not talking about your children (they usually instil terror).
While pets are usually great company with minimal bother (except over dinner time), pets can often get a little comfortable with their privileged, leisurely life and become a rather high-maintenance. And that's no fun for anyone. Did you know dogs are at their happiest when they're mentally stimulated and following commands? Although, we're not sure we can say the same for cats.
To make your life a little easier and your home a little happier, we've come up with some handy hacks to help you manage your fussy fur child.
1. Got a pup that plays up more at bath time than your firstborn?
Some dogs just don't like bath time. Whether it's the whole sensory experience of the water, bath environment and slippery floor or they simply enjoy their own stench. Regardless, dogs need freshening up.
If you're willing to compromise (all great relationships involve compromise, right?) We've got a lifesaving (and genius) hack that will keep your pet clean without the bath time ordeal. The Dr Zoo dry shampoo for dogs is a powder formula that freshens up your pet in between their normal wash by absorbing oils, odours and dirt that can cause our pets to look and smell like something the cat dragged in.
Unless that's the vibe you're going for?
Containing a phthalate free, low irritant fragrant oil (some essential oils don't suit animals) your pet will smell as fresh as a daisy! Easy on the eyes, easy on your nose.
Now, you may be wondering ''Help! What about when it finally is time for a wet bath?!'' We like to refer to these types of scenarios as a 'future you' problem.
2. "My dog just won't stay still for an essential groom. Help!"
It's important for pets to stay still while they're being groomed at home, for safety AND styling purposes. We all love a pam-purr, but animals can sometimes get anxious or bored making them difficult clients.
If you’ve tried all the tricks in the book, you may be at your wit’s end, and that’s exactly how they want you to feel so you give up! And we’re about to let you in on our worst kept secret.
After a few too many close calls as the groomers, we’ve come to realise distraction is key. Our Lick and Stay Treat Mat is about to become you and your pets best friend. Slap some on peanut butter, sweet potato or natural yoghurt and stick it to the floor or wall. Your pet will be so engrossed in their delicious treat they won't realise they've got a whole new look!
3. If separation anxiety wasn't ever a thing, it definitely is now. Thanks, 2020.
Over lockdown, while we cannot say it was a highlight, our pets were definitely living their best life. They had us all to themselves, were never left alone and their daily walks likely tripled in frequency and duration.
We're going to make the assumption that your pet got very comfortable with their temporary lockdown routine. If your well-behaved pet is acting up a little more than usual (eg. peeing inside, escaping and barking more than usual) they're likely experiencing some separation anxiety.
While we're no experts, we do have a few top tips for you to try. Again, distraction is going to be your best bet. The Dr Zoo licking mat for dogs is so versatile. Pop their fave treat through the licky mat, preferably something sticky to keep them distracted for as long as possible while you're out and about.
If you feel like the mental health of your beloved pet is not at its best, book an appointment with your local vet to discuss a more long-term and permanent solution.
Top Tip - While receiving fuss and cuddles when you walk through the door after a long day is great, try to change your behaviour so you coming home is not the highlight of their day, as it can easily exacerbate the problem.
4. Itchy skin? That's our specialty!
No, we're not talking about your itchy skin. Although we do have a solution for that, check out MooGoo Skincare.
Did you know animals can suffer from the same skin problems as us? That's exactly how Dr Zoo came about, animals needed solutions for their itchy skin! We only use 100% natural ingredients that are totally lickable for pets. Because when they can lick 80% of their body, you best believe they need something that won't upset their tummy!
Our most popular product, the natural dog shampoo is made of 3 natural, coconut derived cleansers to thoroughly clean the skin and fur. It also contains Colloidal Rice Bran to soothe their skin. And while you're at it, pick up a bottle of the dog conditioner, which is full Jojoba Oil to moisturise and nourish their skin and fur. It's so great you may get a little jealous.
5. Finally that time for a wet bath?
Thinking we were going to leave you high, dry and smelly? No chance!
As previously mentioned, it's important to understand why your pet behaves the way they do at bath time. Is it their environmental surroundings? The water? Your stress that they pick up and take on themselves? Once you know the cause, it is 100x easier (no exaggeration) to diffuse the situation.
Maybe your pet just doesn't like your beautiful bathroom. While you may like those smooth tiles and glass shower door, these things can be daunting to animals. Yes, we agree, it is a shame that our pets cannot appreciate interior design. Especially a great bathroom. Nevertheless, why not take the bath outside! Alfresco dining is oh-so-popular and alfresco showering is definitely not too far off. Do we need to remind you of those showers in the villas in Bali? Not only will your pet be clean but your grass will get a good drink of water.
If it's the environment that's not the problem, maybe they just need a little encouragement? Someone to look up to? Hear us out... invite their best pal over just before bath time. Once they see them hop in the bath, no sweat, tails wagging, they will more than likely follow suit. No, there is no guarantee that this won't be a full-on, messy affair for you!
If you're still at your wit's end, we are going to go back to our secret weapon. The Lick and Stay Treat Mat! We may sound like a broken record, but you really don't know what you're missing out on. Animals are mostly motivated by food (can we blame them?) so they're likely to not even notice what's going around them while devouring their favourite dog-friendly spread.
While raising puppies, kittens or even Guinea pigs are always going to be a challenge, be sure to try out these tricks to make your life a little easier and theirs a little happier!
