Protect your furry friend from toxic Holi colours

Holi is just round the corner and our enthusiasm is at an all-time high. We all have an idea about the harmful effects of colours on pets, and animals, but it never harms anyone to read it all over again. Especially during this time. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind when it comes to Holi colours and your pets.

WHY PETS SUFFER

• Harmful chemicals in colours can take a serious toll on your pet as their skin is thinner than that of humans and the skin barrier  function too is very weak.

• Also, some breeds are more susceptible to the damage than others. Short hair coat breeds are more at risk than long hair coat breeds

• Puppies and senior pets are high vulnerable as their immunity levels are low; they are susceptible to infections.

WHY COLOUR IS HARMFUL

Most pet parents feel that as long as they use dry colours on their pets, there's no harm. It's important to know that these colours contain lead which can be toxic to pets.

Inhalation of colour powder can also cause nasal irritation and possible respiratory allergy or infection. Most pets get paranoid when you rub colour on them, since it very often gets into their eyes and nose, making them very uncomfortable. They also tend to lick their body; taste of dry colour make them prone to vomiting. Some breeds are so sensitive that their skin develops rashes because of dry colours.

PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE

• Keep your pet away from people who tend to throw water balloons indiscriminately.

• Sensitise kids on the pain and discomfort that pets go through.

• With festivities come the mandatory boxes of sweets. Most dog owners don't enjoy anything till they share it with their pets. Desists from this habit, especially where chocolates are concerned.

• Keeping your pets indoors is the safest option to protect them from all the merriments.

WHAT'S THE NEXT STEP?

• Do not use kerosene, spirits or any hair oil to clean the colour off their coat, if by any chance your pet has been smeared with colour.

• Any light dog shampoo should be good enough to remove colour from your pooch.

• If the dog has been hit in the eye with a water balloon, wash the eye with clean water. If irritation persists, consult your veterinarian.

• Colours should be off limits for your pet. Seek medical advice if he has licked or ingested any colour.

Pet Pedicure

How to Cut Pet Care Cost

As responsible pet parents, we have an obligation to care for our furry friends in sickness and in health. But as pet care costs rise, how do we do what’s best for our pet? Here are a few tips to help you save money on your pet’s health care.

Schedule Regular Check-Ups

Don’t skip your pet’s yearly exam. It’s much more expensive—and risky—to treat illnesses than to protect against them. It’s also a good idea to shop veterinary practices by comparing fees for preventative care.

Personalize Your Pet’s Vaccines

Some vaccines are optional, while others are essential in preventing serious diseases. Never skip any shots required by local laws or mandatory for your pet’s protection, but do talk to your vet about personalizing your pet’s vaccine protocol.

Spay or Neuter Your Pet

Spaying or neutering your pet can save a lot of money by preventing serious health problems, including uterine, ovarian and testicular cancers. Many local shelters provide resources for low- or no-cost spay/neuter surgeries. 

Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

Dental disease can lead to heart and kidney problems and expensive procedures. Start a dental routine to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. Ask your veterinarian what products to use and how often. Don’t use toothpaste made for people, which contains fluoride and may irritate your pet's stomach. Visit our Dog Grooming Product page to learn more.

Protect Your Pet from Parasites

Flea and tick infestations can cause a host of costly medical problems from minor skin irritations to life-threatening blood loss. Stick with a topical flea and tick solution to keep the critters at bay. Make sure to only use products as directed. Never use a product intended for a dog on a cat. 

Toss the Cigarettes

Secondhand smoke is no joke for pets—it can cause asthma, bronchitis, lymphoma and oral, nasal and lung cancers. Quit now and you’ll save money on vet bills. At the very least, avoid smoking around your pet.

Consider Pet Health Insurance

If the cost of an emergency veterinary visit or serious illness would be a financial strain, consider investing in pet health insurance while your pet is healthy. Be sure to read the fine print, though—not all plans are created equal.

Buy High-Quality Pet Food

A good quality pet food—formulated under the guidelines of the American Association of Feed Control Officials—is often more cost-effective than a homemade diet. Avoid overfeeding your pet, which can lead to obesity and other health problems. Visit our 

Groom Your Pets at Home

Save the price of a visit to your groomer with regular nail-trimmings and brushings. It’s good for your pet, it will reduce the amount of hair floating around your home, and your cats will have fewer hairballs.