Monday July 21, 2008, 10:45 am
1. Scrapes and cuts. Sometimes little accidents do happen with pets especially if they live outdoors. The aloe vera plant can definitely come in handy for first aid. Simply cut off a piece of the leaf and slit it open right down the middle which will expose the medicinal plant material. Apply the inside portion of the aloe directly onto the wound or affected area, follow up twice daily until healing begins. Pure and natural lavender essential oil also works quickly and effectively when applied directly to the area, I have used it with great success on my own dogs.


2. Flea and Tick Shampoo. This is one product that I would encourage you to make on your own. Commercially produced flea and tick shampoos are heavily laden with toxic chemicals. To begin, purchase an all natural soap base like Dr. Bronner's Magic Pure Castile Classic Soaps. You can find it in most health food stores and can be used daily. Simply pour 2 ounces of liquid soap into a container or plastic squeeze bottle and blend with 5 drops of citronella essential oil, 5 drops of geranium rose essential oil and 5 drops of lavender essential oil. Shake well before use.


3. Neutralize odor. A vinegar and baking soda wash can combat odor by neutralizing it on the spot. Mix 2 cups of white distilled vinegar with 1 gallon of water. Next spray or wash down the area and then rinse with water. To combat odor build-up in carpet make your own pet powder by mixing 1 cup of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Pour into a plastic bag and add approximately 30 drops of your favorite essential oil(s) seal the bag and shake gently to mix the ingredients thoroughly. Sprinkle onto carpet and let it sit for several hours before vacuuming. Incorporating essential oils like; citronella, grapefruit, geranium rose, lavender, lemon, lemongrass and orange will not only deodorize an area but can double as a bug repellant.


4. Sustainable fun. Sticks, rope, old clothes and towels all make great toys that can be remade into something new and fun for your pet to play with. Make a chew toy with rope made from all natural fiber from cotton or hemp. By tying the rope off into several knots you are now ready to play tug-of-war. Fill old socks with catnip or valerian and watch before your eyes as your cat drifts off into a dream like state!

Monday July 21, 2008, 2:07 pm
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