Whether you are changing up your outdoor space for the first time or touching up your longtime lawn, it is a good idea to keep your doggie friends in mind. If you are adding a new furry friend to the family, this information can be especially helpful for you too! 

Your Setup: A Fence

To keep your backyard pet-friendly, there are some logistics to keep in mind. First and foremost, it is always a good idea to have a fence. Make sure you keep up with maintenance, especially if you live in windy Colorado, to ensure there are no problematic gaps. Ensure it is high enough it cannot be jumped, especially if you have a larger or more agile doggo. If your four-legged friend likes to dig, make sure to keep an eye on them or explore partially underground protective options like burying chicken wire or large rocks along the fence. 

If a fence is not an option, look into alternatives. An electric collar can be good, but make sure you take the time to do your research. An invisible fence can be expensive, and you want to make sure your pet is safe. You and your pet will both need to adapt to this new technology and the routine that comes with it. 

If you are looking to train your pet without a physical or invisible fence, consider an electric beeping collar that can signal to your pet their bad behavior through sound. It is always a good idea to focus on positive reinforcement rather than negative punishment when it comes to training though.

Fence Alternatives

Whether outside of your budget, convenience, or aesthetic, there are other ways to keep your yard private and your pet enclosed. This includes alternative bamboo fences, stone walls, or hedges (check out 7 Viable Alternatives to Fencing Your Backyard for some unique ideas). 

Your Decor 

If you are looking to spruce up your backyard space, make sure you take note of any new or existing decor’s compatibility with your pet. Make sure any new plants are nontoxic and that any new decorations aren’t pokey or in the way. If you are looking to add some shade to your backyard, consider your pet too, especially if you live in a warmer climate. 

Your Maintenance

Once you are happy with your lawn, make sure you are keeping up with routine maintenance. Firstly, it is always a good idea to do a routine walk around your lawn to make sure there are no foreign objects or new hazards. This is especially true if your backyard is more public or if you live in a windy area.

And, of course, it is always a good idea to do routine doody cleanup. This is especially true if you have a puppy around to ensure they do not play with or consume any excrement. Do wild animals pass through your space? It isn’t a bad idea to keep an eye out for any of their droppings too to prevent any unwanted exposure to diseases.

As for your foliage, it is always a good idea to keep up with frequent mowing and maintenance. Ticks like to hide in tall grasses, and unruly greenery can scratch, irritate, or disrupt your pet. Keep in mind that any plant treatment or fertilizer you use is pet safe. Make sure you plan for any lawn treatment and keep your pet out of harm’s way. 

In Closing…

It is always a good idea to keep an eye on your furry friend if they are new to their outdoor space until you and your pet are used to their outdoor activity. If you are introducing a new fluff to your home, check out this thorough indoor and outdoor checklist for Puppy-Proofing Tips for Your Home and Yard.

Spring and summertime is the perfect opportunity to grab a chair or blanket and splay out in the sun with your furry friend. Making sure your space is tidy and pet-friendly can save unwanted heartache and take your lawn to the next level. So, as you plan your lawn renos or spring cleanups, make sure you keep your four-legged family members in mind!

Emma Walker

The post <strong>Maintaining a Dog-Safe Backyard</strong> appeared first on Lilly Brush.

Fact or fiction: are orange cats nuttier than other cat breeds? To all my orange cat parents out there, you may either be familiar with this myth firsthand or have heard such rumors.

If you are someone considering adopting a new kitty friend, you may have heard of this orange cat myth. Regardless of your preferred cat aesthetic, it is a good idea to take genetic dispositions into account for current or future furry friend’s personality. 

What We Know: Orange Cats and Their Craziness

The rumors are true! Thanks to Why Orange Cats Are So Special, According to Science, I have learned that there is a lot that goes into an orange cat’s spunky personality. Ultimately, though,

“orange cats may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors that result in death.” 

But… why? Well, gender and size are contributing factors. “The gene responsible for the orange color is sex-linked, resulting in a much higher likelihood that an orange cat will be male versus female.” Since orange cats are generally larger in size, especially since they are predominantly male, they may thrive off of a high social status, leading to strong behavioral characteristics. 

Although this may not sound preferable if you want a calm companion, there is more to an orange cat’s persona. The good news: “self-report surveys indeed suggest that orange cats are more affectionate.”

The Good News: Orange Cats and Their Lovingness

Said to be more loving, orange cats are known for their affection in addition to their chaotic habits. This could also be due to their gender: “male cats have been said to be slightly friendlier than female cats, which could explain the loving nature of orange cats.”

An orange cat’s risky behavior can be explained by science, but their predisposition for friendliness has yet to be scientifically shown. Nevertheless, orange cat owners tend to rave about their furry friends, myself included. 

In My Experience…

I must admit, I am a bit biased as an orange cat mom. But, anyone who spends time around my furry son cannot deny his zesty and loving personality. Allow me to take a moment to introduce you to my cat companion. 

This is my almost-three-year-old cat, Finn. Now, I must admit – I didn’t intend to become a dedicated cat-mom to Finn. I fell into the role of step-mom about two and a half years ago when I started dating Finn’s other dedicated parent. 

I am embarrassed to say that I am a historic cat hater. It pains me to admit it, but I used to find cats annoying. Growing up with dogs, I was a dog person through and through. This silly little orange tabby changed me for the better, though. 

It took me some time to get used to Finn’s zoomies, nighttime adventures, and playful disposition. After a rocky start, Finn and I started spending more time together, and we slowly began cuddling and playing more frequently. 

It took some time for us to warm up to each other, but recently, we have become best friends. Over time, I have “trained” Finn to curl up in my lap when I sit criss-cross-apple-sauce. Historically fearing strangers, Finn will cuddle up in any visitor’s lap if they sit on the floor nowadays. Who doesn’t love some cat cuddles complete with purring! 

Finn has changed my life: being a cat mom brings me such joy. Although he loves roaming the countertops, he also loves to cozy up and take a nap with his humans. Not to mention… Finn makes me laugh so hard!

An accidental comedian, Finn loves random places like behind books on a bookshelf, in small boxes, and on top of the fridge. Nothing makes me laugh harder than our playtime and his hiding spaces. 

So, yes, in conclusion, I was curious to learn about the science behind orange cats… 

I have wondered how much of my crazy cat’s behavior is nature vs. nurture. This still remains a mystery, but I know that there is science and self-reporting out there reinstating my experience: orange cats can fill your home and heart with chaos and love like my sweet little Finn. 

Emma Walker

The post <strong>Are Orange Cats Really That Crazy? </strong> appeared first on Lilly Brush.

Halloween. Christmastime. Winter. 

These all seem like great opportunities to adorn your furry friend with jackets, accessories, or costumes. But… is it safe to put clothes on your dog?

This topic is of great debate. A quick Google search will show mixed reviews. Much like parenting human children, there is not a one-size fits all answer for pet attire. So, consider taking a moment to educate yourself. The following will explore the pros, cons, needs, and process of dressing up your pup. 

The Pawsitives

Let’s start with the obvious: dressing up your pet can be fun! Seeing a floof in special attire can make them look extra cute. Additionally, pet attire can protect your furry friend from the weather and anxiety, both of which will be explored more later on. So, what’s the big deal? Well, it is important to be educated on the potential downsides of doggie dress-up. 

The Negatives

Unfortunately, there are some concerns that should be kept in mind when it comes to dressing up your furry companion. Why you should not dress up your pet examines the causes for concern. Costumes can be problematic if they limit your pet’s mobility, are ill-fitting, hide your pet’s body language, or lead to discomfort. If you do decide to dress up your pooch, make sure you mitigate these issues. This can be done by ensuring their outerwear is well-fitting, functional, and comfortable from your pupper’s perspective. 

Use Cases

Thanks to How to know if your pet needs clothing, the answer is simple to assess your pet’s clothing needs: pay attention to their behavior and body language! If you live in a colder climate or have a not- so-furry-furry friend, you may notice your pet shivers, hides, or suffers from dry skin as a result from coldness. You can help maintain your pet’s warmth by getting them a well-fitted jacket. 
For those doggos in snowy climates, booties can be a great addition to a jacket to keep warm and prevent irritation. Ice melt products can irritate paws as well as very cold temperatures or ice.

Booties keep disruptive material out by providing a protective barrier. Also, booties can help with post-walk cleanup at home, especially for furry and fluffy puppers. There is nothing more annoying than your pooch tracking in snowy chunks from outside that melt into cold puddles! 

Another beneficial and less obvious use includes pet safety. If you walk your four-legged friend during low-visibility hours like dawn or dusk, reflective or bright clothing can help provide visibility of your less obvious pet. If you walk at darker times, consider safety gear for yourself and your walking companion to protect you from passerbyers.  

Lastly, pet clothing can be good for medical treatment. Maybe you have heard of anxiety vests. Anxiety Vests for Dogs can be beneficial to provide a calming effect on your pet from loud noises or disruptive or stressful activities like nail-trimming, moving, or unusual visitors. Much like babies enjoy being swaddled or my personal newfound appreciation for a weighted blanket, these vests provide a cuddly calming hug. Although there is little data, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence. 

If you are going to utilize an anxiety vest for your pet, make sure you are attune to their behavior. Although they may be more still, this may be a sign of uncomfortability rather than calmness. And, if your pet has a good deal of anxiety symptoms, you may benefit from getting your vet involved. Your pup may benefit from a combination of medication and other modifications in addition to protective and calming clothing. 

The Process: How to Dress Up Your Pet Safely

So, if you want to dress up your furry friend, how should you do so? Thanks to A Guide to Dressing Up Your Pet, the process can be simple. Firstly, make sure you are patient and calm. Don’t try to rush your pet into something that makes them seem uncomfortable. By gradually introducing them to their new attire, they can become more comfortable with the scent, feel, and proximity. Make sure you pick what is best for your pet, and maintain awareness: make sure you look out for signals of distress! 

In conclusion…

If you are left with further questions and concerns when it comes to dressing your pet, take a moment to ask your vet their educated opinion. Ultimately, make sure you and your furry friend have a good understanding of each other before rushing into any dress up. They need to be comfortable with you and their attire, and you as the owner need to be able to understand signs of discomfort. 

Dressing up your fluffer can be fun, cute, and even beneficial! It’s just important to have an understanding of pet attire and a smooth dressing process. So, ensure proper fitting and a content pooch for an enjoyable and stylish time! Maybe next year’s Christmas card can include matching pajamas for the whole family!

Emma Walker

The post <strong>Is It Okay To Put Clothes On Your Dog?</strong> appeared first on Lilly Brush.

As states continue to decriminalize and legalize marijuana, there is a certain member of your family whose safety should be kept in mind: your pets! THC-free CBD products have boomed in popularity, including lotions, drinks, and sleeping treatments among many others. 

The recreational use of cannabis has been legalized in 21 states. My home state of Colorado was the first of many that voted to legalize recreational marijuana in the beginning of 2014. “Veterinarians are seeing a rise in cases of cannabis poisoning in pets as the legalized use of marijuana for recreational purposes continues to spread,” according to this article from the American Animal Hospital Association.

Even if you do not consume or store marijuana products, your pet may be at risk to exposure. So, as a responsible pet owner, how can you keep your pets safe? The first step is to understand how to prevent marijuana ingestion. 

Preventing Marijuana Ingestion

First and foremost, assess the storing of any marijuana products in your household. This includes more than recreational bud or edibles. Make sure you are ensuring secure access – discussing this with your family members may help keep your furry friend safe!

Secondarily, keep your pets away from secondhand smoke. Like humans, secondhand smoke inhalation of marijuana can be dangerous for your pets. Exposure to secondhand smoke can lead to allergies, respiratory problems (which can lead to lung cancer!), eye infections, or nasal tumors. If secondhand smoke is a concern, check out The Effects of Secondhand Smoke on Pets from VCA Animal Hospital for more information.

Thirdly, keep a close eye on your pets outdoors. Any product waste like wrappers or product remnants can be littered near sidewalks or yards, so always pay attention to what is going into your pet’s mouth. 

Most importantly, did you know intoxication in pets can be caused by the consumption of feces of people who have consumed cannabis? If you take your pet into rural areas like campgrounds, make sure they are in your sight to prevent this. This is also a great time to remember: always pack out! Whether in a park, your lawn, or a campground, always pick up after yourself. 

Understand What to do in the Event of an Emergency

Make sure you have a plan in place in the event your pet is exposed to marijuana. Firstly, make sure you know how to spot intoxication. If your four-legged friend seems out of the ordinary or disoriented, keep a close eye on them. Heart rate, blood pressure, or breathing changes can be a sign as well as pupil dilation. Any other disrupted bodily functions can also be a cause for concern. 

If you do believe your pet is showing signs from intoxication, it is very important to take them to the vet. Remember to be honest with your vet – they are here to help! Your floof will likely have their vitals assessed first and foremost. 

Your pet may need IV fluids and monitoring, so you should expect hospitalization if your companion has consumed weed. For more information on responding to your pet’s marijuana ingestion, check out this blog from Veterinary Emergency Group.

Talking to your family about an intoxication response plan is not a bad idea to ensure everyone is on the same page. Remember: prevention is always better than reaction! Although your pet’s proximity to marijuana can be a scary thing, it isn’t always a bad thing!

Cannabis Use and Treatment for Pets

Cannabis can bring relief and comfort to pets just like humans! It is important to know that there is not extensive science  related to this, so it is important to do your own research. CBD products can be used to treat pain while salves and creams can help provide allergy relief to your pet’s skin safely. 

If cannabis treatment is something you are curious about, make sure to bring it up at your next vet appointment. It is always a good idea to seek professional guidance to ensure minimal disruption, safety, and efficacy when it comes to alternative pet medicine. 

In Closing… 

Just like human usage of any controlled substances, it is always best to be educated on the dos, don’ts, and best practices. If your pet is going to be around other people or other homes, it is smart to discuss any potential marijuana exposure to keep your pet happy and healthy. So, keeping your goods contained, paying attention to your pet’s exposure, and having an emergency plan in place can keep your furry friend safe from unwanted and dangerous marijuana exposure. 

Emma Walker

The post <strong>How to Keep Your Pets Safe From Marijuana Intoxication</strong> appeared first on Lilly Brush.

What’s in a name?

When it comes to naming someone or something, people tend to have strong opinions. This is no surprise: a name is something generally with us forever! So, picking one should not be taken lightly. But what about our four-legged friends? How should you pick and teach a pup their name? 

A puppy can learn their name starting at twelve weeks according to this article,  Call Him By His Name. If adopting a young puppy, eight to twelve weeks is prime time to introduce a puppy to their new home. This is great timing to start working on teaching your floof their name. But, there are a few things to consider when naming your pup. 

How to Pick a Name

Remember: you can teach an old dog new tricks… 

Did you know you can teach an adult dog a new name? Whether a puppy or elder, there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to naming your furry friend. Two syllables are ideal and ending with a vowel can help grab your dog’s attention. 

Did you know dogs distinguish frequency ranges more than humans do? This is why ending in a vowel can be a good idea. If the name is easy to say, it will likely be easy for your dog to hear. Dogs prefer short sounds. Keep it short and sweet! 

Once you have picked a name, here is how you can start to teach your pupper…

The easiest way to teach a dog their new name is – you guessed it – using treats! Just like commands and potty training, teaching your dog their name is a type of training. Work on speaking your pet’s name; once they look at you, reward them with praise and a treat. Do this repetitively and throughout the day. Soon enough, they will associate their name with turning their attention towards you, reinforced by a treat! 

Keep in mind… 

If your pet previously had a different name, it is important to make sure you take time teaching their new one. Just like all other training, consistency is key! Be persistent and positive. Dogs are like us people – they like positive attention. Try to keep your frustration hidden to keep them from getting discouraged. This will also help you keep an optimistic attitude, too! 

Taking a look at the most popular dog names of 2022…

Almost all of The Most Popular Dog Names of 2022 are short 2 syllable names ending in a vowel sound. Names like Luna, Willow, and Sadie for girls and Milo, Charlie, and Leo for boys show this criteria. 

This doesn’t mean you need to follow the trends, though! There are plenty of names out there that are short and vowel-ending without being mainstream. If you are looking for unique unconventional, check out 215 Rare and Unusual Dog Names. Some of my personal favorites from this funky list include Argo, Kiva, and Nessie. 

At the end of the day, it is important you pick a name that matters to you! After all, you will be the one saying it over and over again. For a family pet, picking a name can be a tense debate. If you or your family is struggling to choose a name, assess its teachability – this might just help solidify your decision. 

Emma Walker

The post <strong>How to Teach A Dog Their Name</strong> appeared first on Lilly Brush.

How do you view your pet

Is your four-legged roommate your friend, family member, or “just” your pet? 

Research indicates that “pets can occupy similar social niches as partners, family members, and children.” For a deep dive on the fascinating science, check out this article: “Family Member, Best Friend, Child or “Just” a Pet, Owners’ Relationship Perceptions and Consequences for Their Cat.”  

Thanks to this article, I learned that “human-animal bond is defined as “a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and other animals.’” I always knew I considered my pets as family, but now I understand the science behind this. 

How we view our furry friend influences how we treat them: if you view your animal as a child, you may view them as dependent. If you feel a loyal companionship, you may consider your cat or dog your “best friend.” If you view your pet as just that – a pet – then you may not feel as social of a connection to them. 

Of course, there is no “right way” to be a pet parent. From a family member to a simplistic pet, your function for your pet is likely very similar: provide shelter, food, and water. No matter how you pet-parent, thinking about which relationship you have may help you better understand how to connect with your four-legged friend/family member/acquaintance/child. 

Connecting With Your Cat 

For cat owners especially, adapting to a new four-legged roommate can be tricky. Cats have very strong personalities all on their own! Whether you are a new cat companion or a seasoned cat lover, I invite you to consider the following ways to connect with your feline, no matter your attachment style. 

If you consider your cat to be a member of your family

Your cat likely has a good bit of autonomy, they may have less limits to their space in the home. For your furry family member, consider where you and your human family spend time like the living room. Is this space set up so your kitty can have their own spots? 

A cat tree, bed, or comfy nook may help your pet find their own cozy space just like your family members might sit in the same spots while watching TV. I find this helps my sweet yet independent cat have more control over his alone time: if he is hidden away in one of his “cat only” spaces, I know he may want a private nap. If he’s sitting on the couch, he generally is in the mood for some pets and cuddles. Just like your human roommates, sometimes it’s nice to have your own space to escape to!

If you feel like your pet is your little fur baby

You may want to get them a fun gift. Just like with human children, it can feel really good to treat your fluff. Consider getting them a toy that both of you can play with! This could mean a string toy for your cat or a Chuckit for those dog lovers out there. 

It’s important to find what toys capture your pet’s attention. Having toys that your pet can get their aggression out with can help them be more relaxed companions. I know my cat sometimes loves to attack my feet or playfully bite my hands and redirecting him with a toy helps get the attention off of me. 

For a four-legged bestie

Consider making space in your schedule for quality time! Just like you might get lunch or watch a movie with a friend, I love to take time to sit with my cat companion. He and I love some TV time cuddled under the blankets. If you view your pet as your pa(w)rtner in crime, take some time to have some fun and intentional 1-1 time. This is even more important if you live alone! Although they may not be able to talk, having a furry friend around can bring feelings of peace, connection, and support.

If all this talk of tight pet bonds seems a little silly, I get it: at the end of the day, your pet is, in fact, a pet animal. There is still plenty to consider, though, like routines and pet spaces. Dogs and cats are like us: they like a routine! My cat knows when I get home from work, dinnertime is near. Reinforcing your shared schedule can not only provide some peace to your furry roommate, but also to yourself. 

Where you keep your pet’s belongings can have an impact on your ease and accessibility. For instance, keeping your dogs outside belongings by the door can be easy for quick turnarounds out the door for those dog parents. Or, it’s important to pay attention to where you put that litter box! If you want to dive deeper into your organization, I invite you to check out the organization section of How To Be A Minimalist Pet Owner. 

In Summary… Pets can have a big impact on our lives. Being intentional about your relationship with your pet can present more opportunities for connection and joy! Considering what kind of pet owner you are and what that may mean to you and your floof can build the intentionality of being a pet parent. It can be a privilege and delight to be a pet owner: our pets are lucky to have us, and we are lucky to have them!

Emma Walker

The post Connecting With Your Cat: Family, Furry Friend, or Familiar Face  appeared first on Lilly Brush.

Now, I have a feeling you know just what I mean. When was the last time you looked around your garage and thought “what IS all of this stuff? Why do I still have this?” (I know I had this very thought today!) 

It can be so hard though, to commit to purging. It is so overwhelming to assess your space and decide what stays and what goes. So… what if we just bought less from the start? Buying less will mean less to organize and ultimately get rid of. 

What Does Minimalism Mean? 

In recent years, minimalism has become a buzzword for many, admittedly myself included! I know I can enjoy my space so much more when there is less clutter to distract and disrupt me. A quick google search yields innumerable responses to the prompt “definition of minimalism lifestyle.” 

For me personally, I like to think of it as living more with less. When there is less junk and clutter around me, especially in my home, I can spend more time enjoying myself and focusing on what matters to me. 

Now, this is much easier said than done. It’s important to start simple! An area of your life you may have yet to consider: your pets! Assessing what/where/why you have pet related items can be a great start to organization and living more with less. 

Becoming a Minimalist Pet Owner

Focus on what you need and have. Do away with what you don’t. 

Much like we go through our closet, consider going through your pet’s belongings. Are you and your furry friend holding on to a toy that is just a little too torn up? Do you have collars that no longer fit or leashes you’ve replaced? Maybe there are some things you and your floof don’t need anymore. 

Much like we do with our own belongings, it can be a great idea to separate the purged items into two categories: trash and donate. For well-loved items, it might be time to toss them. For your more gently lived-in pet supplies, see if there are any shelters near you that take donations! These supplies can be put to great use for to-be-adopted cats and dogs. 

Assess what you do need and don’t already have. 

Here is how you can be more intentional about what you do end up owning as to avoid the aforementioned stress of “getting rid of.” When you assess something you and your pet need, make sure you take some time deciding between the plethora of options. Not all products are created equal! 

Cheaping out on doggie waste bags may not work out in your favor. Rather than buying several products and facing trial and error, see if there is any research or reviews to inform your purchase. 

Another great way to save money and space is to buy multifaceted items. 

My fur babies are shedders – it is so overwhelming to decide how to keep clean when you have pets! Lucky for me, I have found a few simple products I can put to good use just about anywhere from my car to my couch to my clothes! 

Let me introduce you to the  Mini Pet Hair Detailer: 

With a few easy swipes, I can collect stubborn and stuck fur full of dander. For on the go, consider establishing a grab bag for your pup complete with baggies, a leash, a collapsible water bowl, and that Mini Detailer. With your Mini Pet Hair Detailer, you can easily remove hair stuck in the carpet of your car or your favorite furniture. 

In addition to focusing on owning less, I try to focus on reducing my waist. I always manage to find fur lingering on my clothes, especially on my way to work. I’ve historically kept a lint brush in my car and around my house, but I found myself annoyed by the trash it produced and the frequency of buying a replacement. 

Thanks to Save Our Sweaters…

I can save money, reduce clutter, and lighten my trash can. My favorite part of this product is that I can use it on my favorite nice pieces of clothing like my cashmere sweaters or silk scarfs without worrying about damaging them. This product is great to grab fur, remove pills, and make my clothes look good as new!

Don’t skimp out on organization! 

Once you and your pet narrow your belongings to the useful, important, and meaningful ones, it’s good to assess how you organize. Much like you may have an organizational system for your closet or bathroom, consider what can best suit you and your pet’s needs. 

If your living room is filled with toys, consider using a basket to store these items. This can make quick cleanup by having a centralized space for your furry friend’s goods. For leashes or on the go items, consider setting up hooks or shelves near the door. This way you can easily grab them on your way out! For your car, keep a Mini Pet Hair Detailer in your center console or for an advanced car clean, consider keeping the Pro Pet Hair Toolkit  in your trunk. 

In Summary

Getting your spaces organized isn’t something that happens overnight. But, getting your pet’s belongings in line can be a great place to start. Giving gifts to your four-legged friends can be such a joy. So, the next time you want to spoil yourself and your pooch, make sure you are getting the most bang for your buck. And as 2023 begins maybe give it a try – living more with less. 

Emma Walker

The post <strong>How to Be A Minimalist Pet Owner</strong> appeared first on Lilly Brush.

The average number of COVID-19 cases in the United States is decreasing every day now. With this comes new opportunities to venture out into the world once more (with safety precautions, of course)– but what happens to our pets now that the world is changing again? 

During the pandemic, many pets have become used to their humans being home all the time. At first, this was a good thing, as humans and animals were able to spend more quality bonding time together. However, now that the world has been in a pandemic for nearly a year, pets have become more dependent on the time they’ve been spending with their owners than they were before, hence causing high levels of separation anxiety when pet owners begin to leave the house more often. 

For some pet owners, something as simple as leaving the house to go to the grocery store has triggered severe separation anxiety in house pets who’ve become used to the constant presence of their caretaker. As the world begins to heal from the pandemic, and move forward, we must ensure we look out for our pets, and guide them through the changes that are taking place and that are still yet to come. 

What causes separation anxiety? 

While it’s not fully understood why some dogs are more prone to separation anxiety than others, there are indicators that suggest a higher chance of the anxiety showing up: 

• Puppies: Due to their young and impressionable phase of life, puppies might develop a more severe attachment to their caretaker. Thankfully, catching separation anxiety at an earlier point in your pup’s life is easier to treat. 
• Dogs with pre-existing behavioral conditions: If your dog is already prone to any sort of behavioral conditions, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for any signs of separation anxiety. 
• Recently adopted pets: As a newly adopted pet has a past which will remain mostly unknown to you, it’s important to be extra sensitive and aware of what might trigger your pet. 

If you have been a work-from-home pet owner for the past year, it’s important to take the following precautions to ensure the well-being of your beloved pet if you know you’ll be heading back to the office soon. Beginning to prepare your pet a few weeks prior to returning to work is ideal. 

How to treat separation anxiety: 

• Exposure therapy: Leaving your pet at home for short periods of time, then gradually increasing the amount of time your pet is left alone for, will acquaint your pet with your periodic absence. Eventually, he or she will start becoming used to these increments of time when you’re out of the house. 
• Give your pet a treat or toy: Giving your dog a treat or toy will give them something to focus on in your absence. Toys like this puzzle toy are calming, stimulate your pet’s mind, and keep him or her occupied for long periods of time. 
• Create a safe and calming environment: If your pet has the type of separation anxiety in which he or she causes mass chaos and destruction to anything in their path, try designating an accident-free zone where your pet can feel at peace. This could be any room with the least amount of furniture and/or fragile house decor, or any room you transform into such. The goal is to keep your pet safe and comfortable, while also protecting your home. 
• Leave your recently worn clothes: The pheromones from an article of clothing produce a calming effect, making your dog feel like you are close. 
• Pet camera: If you are unsure whether your pet has separation anxiety, or if you have suspicions that they do but you’ve been unable to identify it, try purchasing a pet camera in order to keep an eye on them throughout the day. Many pets will not exhibit the true nature of their distress until their owner has already left the house.

H

Alexa Highsmith

Writing Specialist at Lilly Brush Co.

The post How to Calm your Pet’s COVID-Induced Separation Anxiety appeared first on Lilly Brush.

Plants have the ethereal capability of brightening up any living space they’re in. They provide fresh air, circulation, and general feelings of joy and well-being. However, when choosing which plants to include in your pet-friendly living space, one must heed caution to avoid plants that are toxic and therefore dangerous to pets! 

Keep in mind: although some plants considered non-toxic may still cause digestive complications, unlike toxic plants, symptoms do not run the risk of being fatal. 

NON-TOXIC PLANTS

Spider plant: This non-toxic plant is easy to care for, and thrives in a variety of environments (ranging from low to moderate sunlight, and moderate watering).

Areca palm: Although some palms are toxic to dogs and cats, the areca is not. This is especially helpful considering the long and alluring nature of the leaves. 

Boston fern: The Boston fern is partial to humidity and bright, indirect sunlight, and is non-toxic to dogs and cats. Like palms, their fronds may be attractive to pets, but will do no harm. 

Calathea: This plant’s popularity has increased quite drastically in recent years, deservedly so. Its beauty flourishes in shady patches (as to not damage/fade coloring), where your pet can curl up worry-free nearby. 

Polka Dot plant: Although this plant is not toxic, heed caution in your placement of this plant in your house. Ingesting the leaves is likely to cause digestive problems in cats and dogs, though unlike toxic plants, the symptoms are not fatal. 

Peperomia: This plant is fairly low-maintenance, requiring less frequent waterings, and is a great decorative addition to the home. To keep out of the way, it can be grown in a hanging basket. 

Cape marigold: Marigolds are least likely, of non-toxic plants, to cause upset digestive tracts, and make a great addition to your home. 

Cast iron plant: Hardy and extremely durable, cast iron plants will survive in most climates and through temperature changes. Considering its steadfastness, it’s sure to last through any chaotic pet’s attempts at defiling it. 

Bamboo palm: Another non-toxic palm, the bamboo palm is a gorgeous, tall plant that can grow up to eight feet in height. It grows best in shady spaces. 

Burro’s tail: This succulent is non-toxic to both dogs and cats. Its trailing stems induce a pleasing and modern aesthetic. As a hanging plant, Burro’s tail makes a great addition to any home. 

TOXIC PLANTS

Sago palm: A toxin in the sago palm, known as cycasin, affects the liver, causing a myriad of side effects (including liver failure). 

Snake plant: If ingested, may cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. 

Asparagus fern: Since the asparagus fern is not considered a “true” fern– unlike Boston, maidenhair, and others– it is toxic for dogs and cats. As mentioned above, ferns such as Boston and maidenhair are non-toxic. 

Devil’s ivy: If you choose to have any toxic trailing plants in your home, it’s best to keep them out of reach and high up so that there is no chance of your pet interacting with it. 

Rubber tree: Any and all parts of the rubber tree are toxic if ingested by pets– the compound known as psoralen attacks and causes damage to DNA cells. 

Hydrangea: When ingested, causes diarrhea, lethargy, and vomiting. 

Unfortunately, there are far too many houseplants to list that are considered either toxic or non-toxic to pets, but you can find an extensive listing on the ASPCA website for more information. 

Disclaimer: This page is not veterinary advice. All content is based on extensive research. 

Sources: 

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/dogs-plant-list 

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/cats-plant-list

Alexa Highsmith

Writing Specialist at Lilly Brush Co.

The post 16 Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Households with Pets appeared first on Lilly Brush.

**DISCLAIMER** We love all of our furry friends, but today we are going to talk about the benefits of our mixed breed companions.

Actually, the whole crazy concept of purebred dogs became popular just a few hundred years ago when the intent of breeders was to manipulate the size, shape and character of their working dogs to create the best hunters, herders, and guardians. Over time, however, humans began to focus their genetic efforts on their home companion pets. They desired pets with extremes in size like the portable “teacup” breeds, and exotic looks, like the adorable flat-faced pug. Of course, there were drawbacks to all of these different mutations, but demand was high, and despite health issues, breeders persisted in trying to perfect their dogs to set breed standards.

The good news for our mutt buddies is that traditionally they are significantly healthier than most purebred dogs. As our friends at Your Dog Advisor have shown us, mixed breed dogs have a much lower incidence of genetic disease. It is very common when breeding animals that have similar familial backgrounds to pass on diseases. Since mutts are a mix of genetics, they have a lower rate of disorders such as hip dysplasia, certain knee diseases, spinal diseases, heart diseases, and even cancer. This also increases their lifespan (They’re quite the tough mutters). Adopt a mutt and save thousands of dollars on vet bills every year? Deal, Howie!

Not only are mixed breeds hardier, but they are also known for their excellent dog sense and general intelligence. Check out the video of our very own Buck doing agility training below at only 9 weeks old. Buck is a mix of Cattle Dog, Miniature Long-Haired Dachshund, Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier and Wild Dog.

Most mixed breed pups are wonderfully unique, and it can be incredibly difficult to identify which breed your pup has to thank for his adorable bat-ears, or his short little legs. If you really want to find out about your pup’s genetic background, get a DNA test!

Hopefully this gives some insight on why mixed breed dogs are just as desirable as their purebred counter parts.

Elsie Hamilton

old.lillybrush.com

The post I Like Big Mutts And I Cannot Lie appeared first on Lilly Brush.

Thus, our first word to the wise: as soon as you realize that your pet has been sprayed by a skunk, keep the smell out of your home by IMMEDIATELY CLOSING ALL DOORS AND WINDOWS…don’t forget the garage! It’s tempting to approach your pet to sniff twice or thrice to see how badly they got hit, but believe me, a quick shake on their part will make you regret that. It’s far better to direct your pet to a safe grassy place where they can do what they naturally need to do which is to rub as much of the scent off as they can. This will also give you a moment to regroup and plan your attack.

Hmmm, what to wear, what to wear!

As some skunks have been found to carry rabies, it’s always advisable to use rubber gloves, glasses and a mask or bandana to cover your mouth while you wash your pet. If you have a swim or shower cap to keep the smell out of your hair, wear it. Choose clothes you won’t mind throwing out…that T-shirt your ex gave you…yeah, wear that. For best protection, add a couple of kitchen trash bags taped on for boots and cut head and armholes in a contractor size trash bag for a tunic. To complete your look, add a duct tape belt.

Rumors Debunked

• Tomato Juice: Turns out this age old trick doesn’t quite work like they say! There are better options available, don’t go straight to the vine!
• Hose them down: Skunk spray is an oily substance, by hosing down your dog you are likely just spreading it throughout their fur!
• Let it settle: TAKE ACTION IMMEDIATELY. The smell will not go away with time, waiting a day to take action could keep that skunk smell in your house for an extra week!

To clean a medium to large sized dog, mix:

• 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide solution 

• ¼ cup baking soda

• 1 teaspoon Dawn dishwashing liquid*

• *DO NOT store this mixture in a closed container as it will explode.

Work the mixture into your pet’s coat. Although you should make every effort to avoid the eye area, mistakes can happen. Rinse quickly with water if your pet gets this in their eyes. Once you have given your pet a good soapy scrub (with lots of loving reassurance) thoroughly rinse the mixture off and follow with a soothing pet shampoo and rinse. Your pet should then smell considerably better.

Keep in mind that the skunk who sprayed your pet was protecting its home territory. If that happens to be under the garden shed in your backyard, chances are you will have a repeat performance of this unpleasantness sometime in the near future. To avoid this, consider leashing your pets for evening walks and speak to your local wildlife officer for advice on how to encourage the skunk to find a new home.

Sincerely,

The Lilly Brush Team

old.lillybrush.com

Elsie Hamilton

old.lillybrush.com

The post How To Help Your Pet In This Stinky Situation appeared first on Lilly Brush.

It’s no secret that some dogs are smarter than others. We’ve listed a few breeds that might have an easier time learning these fun little stunts! Among the most trainable pups, we have the following breeds: Poodles, Australian Shepherds (just like our Lilly!), Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Collies, German Shepherds, and Corgis. Of course, all dogs are capable of learning tricks and being trained, these breeds just seem to pick it up a little bit quicker! Below is a list of five common tricks to teach your dog. Check out the “How-To” videos for whichever skill you’d like to learn together.

We would love to see some of the tricks you and your pets have put together! Feel free to submit videos of them to our Instagram (@lillybrushco) or via email (sales@lillybrush.com) for a chance to be featured on our social media outlets!

Elsie Hamilton

old.lillybrush.com

The post Top 5 Tricks to Teach Your Dog appeared first on Lilly Brush.

Everyone knows their pet is the cutest, you just need a chance to prove it! Good News! We now are accepting photo submissions to be a part of the Lilly Brush Blogs, Instagram, Facebook, etc.

Requirements:

1. Send us an adorable photo of your pet and take part in a product giveaway! (By doing so, you will be subscribed to the Lilly Brush Newsletter to inform you of all giveaways and our upcoming new product releases.)
2. That’s it!

(Protip: Higher quality images are more likely to make the cut!)

Not required:

1. Follow us on Instagram @lillybrushco so we can tag you in our post when your pet hits the ‘big screen’
2. Sometimes beauty is just skin deep, feel free to include notes on your pet’s hilarious personality.

Click Here for Submissions!

Elsie Hamilton

old.lillybrush.com

The post Good News! We Now Take Adorable Pet Photo Submissions! appeared first on Lilly Brush.

Who can you trust?

If you suspect that the sudden attention from huge multinational brands could have turned into a prosperous business for almost any pet-centric Instagram or Facebook account boasting a large following, you are right…but only sort of.  True, product placement with an adorable pet can sometimes cost a brand upwards of $2000 per product-loving post, depending on follower counts (Forbes.com). That said, in many instances, manufacturers are only asked to send free products. No money is exchanged. For this simple reason, the way into the consciousness of target consumers has become a much more level playing field as, with these influencers, large companies with the financial capacity to make huge TV time ad purchases are no more powerful than small companies when it comes to an honest product review.

How has this changed things?

The power of Pet Influencers has produced a very refreshing and honest result for consumers and small brands alike. If a product performs as it should, or better, outperforms the Influencer’s expectations, the resulting endorsement is pure gold. A prime example is our Mini Pet Hair Detailer which entered the marketplace with no ad budget. Positioned as a tiny David against products from Goliath-like multinational competitors, the Lilly Brush MPHD has managed to gain remarkable traction thanks to Pet and Car Detailer Influencers who were blown away when they were able to use the $10 tool to remove previously impossibly embedded pet hair from car carpets and home fabrics.

 How will this impact the future?

We have all seen how forums such as Twitter, Facebook, and Yelp and Amazon’s 5-star rating system have forced manufacturers and service providers into accountability through individual conversations with their consumers. The Influencer community is a powerful extension of this trend. Yes, dollars do sometimes change hands, but should you find yourself wondering whose peppering of product endorsements you can trust as unbiased, or who is formally representing a brand, you can almost always get a straight answer if you ask. Just remember, these very popular people and pets became well-loved because they took care of their followers so misrepresenting something for pay would be more damaging to them than it would be to you!

Sincerely,

The Lilly Brush Team

old.lillybrush.com

Pet Hair Problems in Your Car?

Try our newest product the Mini Pet Hair Detailer, the #1 recommended tool by professional detailers!

Elsie Hamilton

old.lillybrush.com

The post The Era of Pet Influencers appeared first on Lilly Brush.