staying fresh with natural grooming wipes from PL360 #giveaway #sponsored

If you read my blog regularly, you remember that we recently discovered a great new natural pet product company called PL360. We had the opportunity to try and review several of their products, and they just sent us their newest great thing, grooming wipes! 

I received a pack of PL360 Grooming Wipes to try in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. PL360 is not responsible for the content of this article.

staying fresh with natural grooming wipes from PL360.

I regularly use natural face cleansing wipes, and though it's the same concept, I'd never heard of grooming wipes. What a great idea! We can use these on our pets in-between baths or trips to the groomer to help them freshen up. The wipes can be used on dogs, cats, or other small furry animals. You can use them anywhere except the eyes. Super convenient!

are PL360 grooming wipes natural? 

As with all things my family ingests, applies, or even looks at, I inspected the label before giving the wipes a go. I believe firmly that the accumulation of toxins in our bodies is a huge factor in poor health, and I try to avoid toxins as much as possible. The PL360 grooming wipes are entirely plant-based, have no parabens, sulfates, phthalates, toxins, lanolin, soap, or alcohol. Even the mandarin scent is a natural fragrance. They got the all clear from me.

testing them out

N.A.S.H.A. had some friends over, so I asked their parents if they could join in on the fun. I got to try these on three guinea pigs...er...dogs!

My panel: A trio of guinea pigs...er...lucky dogs.

BEFORE

N.A.S.H.A.: usual scrappy-looking coat, light doggy odor enhanced by sun basking in 110° heat

Milo: smooth normal coat, neutral odor

Quigley: more oily to the touch than the other two, some doggy odor, but nothing offensive, chronic skin allergies

DURING

N.A.S.H.A.: slightly skeptical, but tolerant, and seemed to enjoy it once she realized the wipes did not have acid from the depths of hell on them. She even let me wipe her paws, and the cloth didn't tear on her nails.

N.A.S.H.A.

Milo: couldn't have cared less. Quigley, however, thought I was attacking Milo and barked at me the whole time, so Milo's relaxing massage left a bit to be desired.

Milo

Quigley: thought it was play time while I was rubbing him down...Quigley was squigley, but we got the job done.

Quigley

AFTER

N.A.S.H.A.: shook off, then rubbed herself all over the couch cushions, to my delight, as she does after every bath. Her fur had a light mandarin scent and seemed slightly smoother to me. 

Milo: walked away and took a nap (he's 14, so we have to cut him some slack...this relaxing massage business can be exhausting). He smelled fresh as a ripe mandarin orange.

Quigley: he made sure Milo survived the ordeal, then stared at me for several minutes, making sure I was not going to attack again. He smelled fresh like the others, and his fur seemed a bit less oily. Most importantly, the wipes didn't make him itch, in fact, in the few hours following, he seemed to me to itch and scratch less then he normally does. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

I think the PL360 Grooming Wipes are a safe, convenient way to freshen up your pet in-between baths or grooming visits. Though I don't currently have any small caged animals, I think they would be especially great for rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, and the like. Though they definitely couldn't replace your pet's regular bathing routine, I think they are a great option for daily use. If you have a pet who likes to "get into things" and make a mess, these would be an excellent resource to save your sanity. They would also be great for travel or even routine walks...it's a big, dirty world out there! 

After barking at me for wiping Milo, Quigley thought better of his rash opinion.

UPDATE, SEPTEMBER 8, 2015: We found another great use for these wipes! The dingleberry (I'll spare you the gory details, but suffice it to say that the PL360 wipes made it much less gory than it would otherwise have been).

Would you like to try the PL360 grooming wipes? You can! We are giving away five packs of wipes to five lucky winners, courtesy of PL360. Pawesome!

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how to tell when your child is ready for a pet

This article, written by me, originally appeared on Brie Brie Blooms. It appears here with minor changes, with permission. 

Kids and pets: they go together like peanut butter and jelly, right? Families who have never even considered incorporating an animal into their lives may consider it once their children start the begging process. Any kind of pet requires some level of care, so at what age is a child ready for that responsibility? Since all kids are different, it can be difficult to determine a general guideline, but there are some important things to consider that can help us make a good choice when deciding whether to incorporate a pet into the family. 

Step 1: Determine if the pet you are considering is in the realm of possibility. Housing pony in your apartment or a shark in your pool are suggestions that can be shot down without further ado.

Step 2: Research, research, research, and ask yourself some tough questions. Some things to consider:

• What type of daily care is involved?

• How much exercise does this animal need to be healthy and happy, and am I physically able and willing to spend the time an energy it takes to provide that?

• Will this pet make a mess (shedding, pooping, chewing, etc.), and am I willing to put up with that mess?

• What is the life expectancy of the pet, and will we be able to care for the pet for the duration of its life?

• Is this pet a safe choice for our family? What are the risk factors?

• Is anyone in the household allergic to this type of animal?

• What are the upfront and long-term costs associated with bringing this pet into the family? Consider food, supplies, vacation care, and veterinary costs. Is proper care for the pet in our budget?

• What will day-to-day life be like with this pet? Will this pet add joy or chaos to our family?

• Who will be responsible for day-to-day care of the pet?

• Can you provide the animal a safe, loving, healthy environment?

Step 3: If you've determined the answers to all of the questions above, and are confident that a new addition would be great for your family, then it's time to find the perfect pet. 

Let's look at some common options.

DOG

It's a classic. What kid doesn't want a snuggly puppy? Puppies and dogs are lots of work, but the rewards are great. They truly can become members of the family.

Pros: Oh, so cute. High level of interaction, great exercise partner, excellent snuggle-buddy, playful.

Cons: Can be messy, require lots of interaction. Exercise requirements must be met for physical and mental health. May require training. Ongoing grooming and veterinary costs. You have to take Fido on vacation with you or find a pet sitter.

How do I get one? I'm an advocate for rescue. Most areas have multiple rescues to choose from. There may be certain cases where a particular breed may be purchased from a reputable breeder, but never, ever purchase a puppy or dog from a pet store, as they almost always have come from a puppy mill.

Upfront cost: $$$

Ongoing cost: $$$

Daily care required: Feeding multiple times per day, providing fresh, clean water as needed, meeting exercise requirements (depending on breed and age through walking, jogging, playing and other forms of exercise), high level of interaction with family, cleaning "accidents" or mishaps if untrained.

Periodic care required: Regular veterinary care, grooming, pet sitting.

Bottom line: The right dog with the right family is magic. It is likely that all family members will need to participate caring for a pooch. As children grow older, they can take on more responsibility.

CAT

Cats are great. They are as individual as we are. Some cats are low-maintenance, and some require more attention. How integrated they are into your family largely depends on their nature and your care.

Pros: Fun and often funny. Some will be highly interactive (never leaving your lap or quite playful), and some will disappear until dinner is served (you are their slave). It all depends on what you are looking for. Usually require a bit less maintenance than dogs do. 

Cons: That litter box smell (in most parts of the country, it is best to keep a cat indoors), worried parents if an outdoor cat doesn't make curfew, sometimes they barf up hairballs, sometimes they scratch stuff up. They sometimes scratch and bite if they don't get their way.

How do I get one? Rescue, rescue, rescue. There are SO many kittens and cats of any age that need homes desperately. 

Upfront cost: $$

Ongoing cost: $$

Daily care required: Feeding once or twice, providing fresh, clean water as needed, scooping the litter box.

Periodic care required: Regular veterinary care, grooming (varies, depending on coat) pet sitting.

Bottom line: Look for the right fit. Cats are as individual as we are. If you adopt a cat that fits with the lifestyle you want, you'll have a great buddy.

SMALL CAGED FURRIES

Rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, mice, hamsters, and gerbils all fall into this category. Though personalities will vary amongst breeds and individual animals, the general care and time commitment is similar. 

Pros: These pets are cute and entertaining, and, depending on type, can even be trained. They don't need walks, and they won't take over your house (unless they escape, heaven forbid).

Cons: Frequent cage clean-ups and difficult–if not impossible–to potty train. Often shy and skittish, at first and can be slow to warm up. These animals often make quite a bit of noise gnawing on things hopping about or running in an exercise wheel. 

How do I get one? Your best option is always to rescue, but small caged animals aren't as abundantly available as dogs and cats. If you've checked your local rescues and the type of pet you want is not available, make sure the pet store you purchase from is reputable.

Upfront cost: $$

Ongoing cost: $

Daily care required: Providing fresh food and water and interaction, as well as a means to exercise (large pen or running wheel).

Periodic care required: Veterinary care as needed, Cage cleaning every few days, depending on the individual animal. Pet sitting required for extended trips.

Bottom line: In reality, small caged animals are more work than they are thought to be. They can be great "starter" pets for children, but once the initial infatuation wears off, your child may lose interest.

BIRD

Birds come in all kinds, from the small, quiet, finch to the exotic, chatty, parrot. if you are truly a bird lover, you should have no trouble finding the perfect fit.

Pros: Beautiful and fun to watch and interact with (depending on species). Songs can be soothing to listen to. You can put them to bed.

Cons: Birds can be messy and loud. Birds who squawk can be disruptive. Time consuming to train. Some will bite.  

How do I get one? Bird rescues exist, and they are great places to find an avian family member. Rescues will know the individual personalities of birds and can help you find a great match. Purchasing a bird through a reputable pet store is a second option.

Upfront cost: $$-$$$$

Ongoing cost: $$

Daily care required: Providing food, fresh water, and treats, as well as daily interaction and cage maintenance.

Periodic care required: Regular veterinary care, wing clipping, cage cleaning (as well as the area around the cage) pet sitting.

Bottom line: In order to be a successful bird parent, you have to be a bird person. They can be great pets for children, depending on the type of bird you are considering, but require quite a bit of attention and parents will definitely have to help quite a bit, initially.

REPTILES, AMPHIBIANS, AND SNAKES

Reptiles, amphibians, and snakes make excellent pets for children, as long as they are handled properly. They are unique and fun to learn about and care for.

Pros: Most are relatively low-maintenance, and they provide a unique educational experience for children. Some can be quite interactive. Great for kids with allergies.

Cons: They aren't very cuddly. Some must be fed live prey. They can carry disease that may be transmitted to humans, but, if handled properly, this is not an issue. 

How do I get one? Always turn to your local reptile rescue, first, but if you can't find a good fit, get a recommendation for a local reptile breeder. These people are usually "reptile nerds" and will provide you with an education and recommendation about the right fit for your family. They are a wealth of knowledge. Though there is nothing wrong with purchasing a reptile, amphibian, or snake from a pet store, I'd make that option number three.

Upfront cost: $$-$$$$

Ongoing cost: $-$$$

Daily care required: Feeding (varies, depending on type), providing fresh water (depending on type), interaction (depending on type).

Periodic care required: Veterinary care as needed, aquarium/habitat cleanup, pet sitting for extended trips.

Bottom line: Do your research. Each type of reptile, amphibian, or snake requires a different environment, feeding schedule, and care program. These animals also vary widely in how interactive they are. They can be an enriching educational experience and a lot of fun, but be sure you find the right fit. 

FISH

Perhaps one of the best "first pets" for young children. You can get a beta fish in a bowl, or you can spend a million dollars on a custom salt water tank. 

Pros: Beautiful and soothing to watch. Quiet. Low maintenance (unless you go nuts).

Cons: They are quite sensitive to their environment, so you have to be careful. Basic fish are pretty easy, but if you want a full aquarium, you'll need to educate yourself thoroughly before embarking.

How do I get one? Typically, fish come from a reputable pet store.

Upfront cost: $-$$$$

Ongoing cost: $-$$$

Daily care required: Feeding and visually checking on the health of the fish and condition of the tank.

Periodic care required: Tank cleaning, pet sitting for extended trips.

Bottom line: If you're looking for a first pet for your child, a beta fish is a no-brainer. They are typically pretty hardy, and they don't require an elaborate aquarium set-up. If you're into something more involved, maintaining an aquarium is a great family hobby. 

WE THINK WE'RE READY! WHAT, NOW?

Consider the family routine when determining if your child is ready for a pet. Who will be responsible for the pet's care, and how will it be determined that the job has been done? Although your five-year-old may swear she'll feed the fish every day, she may be distracted. It's best in cases like this to actually witness your child feeding the fish. Provide her with a checklist, and even consider a pet-related reward for a job well done. Maybe she receives a new decoration for the tank after a month of excellent care. If your child falls down on the job, it is ultimately the responsibility of the parent to make sure the animal is cared for. It's not fair to Fido if he has to wait two days for water because no one has noticed his bowl has gone dry. Having a pet can be a great way to teach a child responsibility, but kiddos–some even into their teens–need supervision when it comes to animal care. It is ultimately on our shoulders, as parents, to make sure the animal is well cared-for.

Pets can provide us with love, entertainment, and a great deal of enjoyment as they become part of our families. They help teach children responsibility and caring, and give kiddos a greater sense of belonging and friendship. When considering any pet, it's important to know that you're making a commitment to the animal for the life of that creature. Rescues become overcrowded when people are impulsive about bringing a pet into the family and then have a change of heart. It's just not fair to the pet, so be sure to do thorough research and know what you're getting into.

Pets add a great to family life when you determine that your child and your family is ready for the adventure. There is a great fit out there for all animal lovers.

Does your child have a pet? Tell us about your experience!

You might also enjoy:

your baby and your pets: 10 tips for a smooth introduction

kids and animals: instilling respect

how to approach and pet a dog: ten steps kids need to know

the basics of holistic veterinary care (originally appeared on Hybrid Rasta Mama)

Treating your pet holistically does not mean shunning veterinary care altogether and doing everything at home. It simply means finding a like-minded veterinarian. By learning about and treating our pet with natural home remedies, we can often prevent disease, so being able to find a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about alternative treatments and accepts them as a benefit to your pet's health is a balanced option. 

what is the difference between holistic and traditional veterinary care?

While checking your pet's health during regular check-ups is a priority for a traditional veterinarian, their primary goal is to help with problems. These problems are typically treated individually as they arise with medicine and possibly invasive procedures. 

A holistic approach–in contrast–is focused on prevention by maintaining good overall health of the pet. It is proactive and minimally invasive, and involves natural and alternative treatment. A holistic veterinarian will likely focus on nutrition and natural supplements with the thought that if your pet is healthier, overall, fewer problems will develop.

what is holistic veterinary care all about?

The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association states that: "the (AMVMA) explores and supports alternative and complementary approaches to veterinary healthcare and is dedicated to integrating all aspects of animal wellness in a socially and environmentally responsible manner." The philosophy is described as:

Holistic medicine is humane. The techniques promoted in holistic medicine are minimally invasive and incorporate patient well-being, lifestyle, and stress reduction. Holistic thinking is centered on love, empathy and respect. Use of blood tests, x-rays, and similar objective diagnostic techniques is minimized in favor of sensitivity to the animal. Nearly every form of medicine and therapy used in alternative medicine for humans is also used in holistic veterinary medicine. 

 A holistic veterinarian typically has all of the surgical and diagnostic skills that a traditional veterinarian has, and, in addition, has specialized training in holistic methods. A holistic veterinarian will first evaluate the overall wellness of your pet through speaking with you about your pet's health history and doing a physical examination.

A healthy diet free of additives is central to a holistic approach. Holistic veterinarians believe that, through nutrition, most disease can be prevented, so, taking into consideration your pet's lifestyle and special needs, a healthy diet specific to your pet will be recommended. 

what types of treatments are involved in holistic veterinary care?

Holistic veterinary treatments may include the following:

Veterinary Acupuncture

Reflexology

Herbal Supplements

Massage Therapy

Chiropractic Care

Though the focus is on alternative therapies, a holistic vet should also be able to provide more established methods, when necessary, due to the fact that they have traditional training. When more invasive treatments are required, a holistic vet should be up to the task and willing to take those measures.

how do i find a holistic veterinarian?

As with any veterinarian, it is important to be sure the holistic veterinarian you choose has the appropriate traditional license from a school of veterinary medicine. In addition, a holistic practitioner should have certification from accredited organizations and schools in the holistic methods they provide, which may vary from veterinarian to veterinarian.

Visit the AHVMA search tool to find a qualified veterinarian in your area.

Whether you choose a holistic veterinarian or a traditional one, always do thorough research about the qualifications of the individual practitioner and interview them to make sure they are a good fit for your family.

This article by me originally appeared in its original form in February 2014 on Hybrid Rasta Mama, a blog to which I contribute regularly, and has been reprinted with minor changes with permission.

for keeps: Blog the Change for Animals

There are so many animals out there in need of homes, and so many who are destroyed as a result. So it goes without saying that unless you need a particular breed of animal pet for a specific reason, adoption is the best option. Regardless of the means by which a pet joins a family, the most important factor is that the family knows what they are getting into. A pet is a member of a family, not an armchair that can be replaced if the leg is busted or the upholstery is worn. Pets are in it for the long haul. If they are sick, they must be cared for–not discarded. If a family moves, it needs to seek out a pet-friendly option in a new home, not dump the animal at a shelter. And if your pet urinates around the house, it's time for behavior training, not the streets. We all have our issues, right?

Before getting a pet, think about the following:

1. What will this pet add to the family?

2. What care is involved with this pet?

3. Will this pet be good around children (if applicable)? And will the children be able to help care for the pet?

4. How long is the pet expected to live, and are there any health concerns surrounding this type of pet?

5. How much time is our family willing to put into training?

6. What are the potential issues with the specific pet we are considering adding to our family?

7. Who will care for the pet?

8. Can we afford to care for this pet?

9. Does our family's activity level and presence in the home fit with the needs of the pet?

10. Is our family ready to make a commitment to care for the pet for the duration of it's life?

It's wonderful that there are no-kill options for families who are in over their heads, but if research is done before a pet enters the family, there is a better chance that that pet will be a perfect, livelong fit, as it should be. Bringing a pet into the family is a commitment for the life of the pet, period. Pets are for keeps.

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