I'm a self-taught raw feeder. When I started this journey, the courses available today weren't an option, so I learned through raw feeding groups, blogs, and books. As a result, I have an extensive library of raw feeding and canine nutrition books that I still...
I'm swapping my capri pants for cozy sweaters in September, October, and November. I'm also getting used to rinsing off paws and drying dogs after a walk in the rain. I love burning Pet Safe candles and diffusing essential oils to rid the house of that wet dog smell...
I'm an essential oils junkie. I have over 100 essential oils, I receive oils from two subscription services (linked below), and I reference Dr. Melissa Shelton's book at least once a week. Plant Therapy Oil of the Month Club – I receive one oil (sometimes two)...
We have hardwood and tiled floors throughout our home that require sweeping and mopping several days a week. And blankets and bedding are washed once weekly. Not long ago, I began cleaning the floors and counters with a mixture of white vinegar and warm...
When I was new to essential oils, Ylang Ylang essential oil was a favorite in the EO community. So, when I began building my collection of essential oils, Ylang Ylang was on the list as one to diffuse in our home for the dogs and us. Ylang Ylang smells amazing and...
One of the first “natural” products I purchased for my dogs was a flea and tick repellent made with lavender essential oil and other ingredients. Today, more than ten years later, lavender is still one of my favorite scents and I use it regularly with my...
Every time things aren't going right in my world, I inevitably find out that it's Mercury Retrograde, and this gives me a sense of calm because I now have something mystical to blame for the fact that my partner and I aren't communicating well, the dogs aren't...
Plai, also known as Thai Ginger, essential oil has a rich, earthy ginger-like scent that I love. It's used to ease discomfort, support clear airways, and balance our emotions – basically, I diffuse this oil to create a calming environment in the house,...
Sometimes I wonder if all pet parents suffered from some form of anxiety or depression because it seems that many of us relate to the statement “I love my dogs more than people.” I'm fortunate to be in a place where I can treat my anxiety naturally through...
Regarding anxious dogs, I've found that exercise is the best cure. They say a tired dog is a well-behaved dog, and I don't disagree. With the upcoming shorter days, I may not be able to squeeze out that last bit of ‘bouncing off the walls' energy from the dogs....
If you live with dogs, then there are times when your home could use a bit of a refresh. I clean our house daily, sweeping and vacuuming up all of the dog hair from the floors and furniture, and we still occasionally have that pet smell. When the house needs more...
Have you heard of Seresto collars? They're flea and tick collars for dogs and sound like the perfect alternatives to the chemicals we put on our dogs. I was interested when I first learned about them but didn't bother looking further because my dogs didn't wear...
What are Healing Paw Balms? A healing paw balm is a solid-ish product (think vaseline consistency or a little thicker) that soothes dry, chapped, or cracked skin. I was introduced to them when Rodrigo used to lick his paws incessantly. And someone recommended Bag Balm...
I love essential oils. Love Love Love them. But this is an expensive hobby so I watch for Flash Fridays, holiday sales, and special discounts and December was a great month to save money on essential oils. Why I Order Essential Oils in December It may seem like the...
I am not a veterinarian, nor am I an expert in using essential oils. There is a ton of information online about using essential oils with pets. Please be sure to do your research. I've learned that every dog is different, and to go slowly as I find the right amounts...
I'm a passionate writer in the Pacific Northwest who loves all things dogs. I share what I'm learning as I attempt to crack the code to longevity. Keep the Tail Wagging is a blog dedicated to the dog who inspired this journey: Rodrigo Gauthier - March 2010 - September 2023.
