Bows & Bones Pet Grooming

People often mistakenly believe that declawing their cats is a harmless "quick fix" for unwanted scratching. They don't realize that declawing your cat is actually a surgical amputation of the first joint of the cat's toes. If performed on a human being, declawing would be like cutting off each finger at the last knuckle. Declawed cats are often chronically painful, and may develop aggression or litter box problems. Declawing can also lead to lasting physical problems for your cat. Claws are a physically, socially, and emotionally vital part of every cat. Scratching, for a cat, is not only a natural act, but a necessary one as well. It isn't done to destroy a favorite chair or to get even. Cats scratch to remove the dead husks from their claws, mark territory, and stretch their muscles. If you have a cat that scratches unwanted areas, there are things you can do to help redirect them. Here is a link to some suggestions from cat behaviorist, Jackson Galaxy:  How To...

Some dogs are more affectionate than others. Some pups practically tackle you to the ground when you walk through the door and want to lick your face until they can't lick anymore. Others prefer to keep their distance and express their love in more subtle ways. Similarly, dogs can have mood swings like humans can. But the happiest dog breeds have gained a reputation as the most consistently cheerful members of the household. Every dog can get stressed but generally, these are some easy going pups. Here are some of the dog breeds who have gained a reputation as a happy pup: Labrador Retriever - Known for their friendliness, outgoing nature, and welcoming expression Bichon Frise - Curious, cheerful, and quite charismatic. They are typically quite tolerant of attention (but also require frequent grooming) Golden Retriever - They love to work and are very intelligent. They are eager to please their owners, enjoy treats and lots of affection Italian Greyhound - For their small si...

Despite the fact that it is now 2018, unfortunately, some companies are still testing their products on animals. Not only is animal testing inhumane, but it is not an effective way to test the reaction on what it would be for humans. Essentially it's unethical, bad science, wasteful, archaic, and unnecessary. Sadly, this blog would be extremely long to list all of the companies that still test on animals, so here are a few links where you can find some lists: Companies That Test On Animals  or  PETA . There is also a long list of cruelty-free companies which you can find here:  Cruelty-Free  but here are some popular drug store brands that do not test on animals: Elf Milani Wet N Wild Jordana Physicians Formula Pixi Jane MUA Pacifica Mineral Fusion Alba Botanica Ecotools Jason Avalon Organics Desert Essence Yes To Kiss My Face Queen Helene Aubrey Organics Nourish Organic NIP + FAB Andalou Naturals Acure Organics Desert Essence

With Spring rapidly approaching, gardening season will soon be in full bloom. Though plants are a nice way to brighten up the place, deter pests, etc., some plants are harmful to your pets. For a longer list of toxic/nontoxic plants for both dogs and cats, click here:  Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants Plant toxicity can range from mildly toxic (vomiting, etc.) to more serious canine health problems. To be on the safe side, you should thoroughly research any plants that are around your dog. NOT Dog Friendly - Perennial Flowers: Foxglove Mums Lenten Rose Lily-of-the-valley Hosta Bleeding Hearts Iris Monkshood Yarrow NOT Dog Friendly - Vines: English Ivy Morning Glory Wisteria Clematis Bittersweet Boston Ivy NOT Dog Friendly - Shrubs: Rose of Sharon Yew bushes Mountain laurel Hydrangea Burning bush Azalea Boxwood Privet Daphne Andromeda NOT Dog Friendly - Trees: Oleander American Holly Yellow Bird of Paradise Golden Chain Oak Trees (leaves ...

Dogs make wonderful pets, but dog owners know that they are far more than just pets. If you are considering becoming a dog owner for the first time, there are a few things you should first consider. First thing you should consider is the dog's needs and if they can be met (i.e., If you have a hectic work schedule or are gone a lot, adopting a high energy breed or any breed is not a good idea unless you have time for the dog) Also consider your future - are you planning on moving soon? Will you have to move to a place that doesn't allow dogs? I'd encourage not adopting a dog unless you are certain of your situation and that where ever you go, you will be able to take your dog with you. After all, would you want to be adopted into a loving family and then abandoned and wait to be re-homed?   Also consider the dog's hair type/coat; will they require frequent grooming to avoid matting, etc.? Are they prone to health issues that will require frequent vet visits or a special...