June

HAPPY 6th BIRTHDAY SYDNEY!!!

Also, special Birthday wishes to client, Achilles!!

Here's Achilles in his "blinged" up "Birthday Boy" t-shirt selected for him by Le Petit Papillon and purchased with love by mom and dad ~ Dominique and Joseph

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~ Tulu needs a home ~

Tulu is a year old Huskie mix looking for a good home.  Please let me know if you or anyone you know is interested in this little girl looking for love.

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- New Arrivals -

Mimi Green is here! ! ! ! 

Full line available through LPP ~ Monogrammed Tees below ~ available in four colors:  blue, green, grey, pink

View full line of collars/leashes here: http://mimigreen.com

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Foot Pad Care ~ Dr. Boyd Harrell (condensed version of article)

Foot pad problems in dogs are relatively frequent and are uncomfortable issues that many owners don't know how to deal with and groomers are often asked about.  In this article, we will explore some of the more common foot pad problems that pets are likely to encounter and discuss appropriate treatment for them.

Dry and Cracked Foot Pads

Dry and cracked foot pads can be the result of a number of contributing factors.  A few common contributors: 

Zinc deficiencies (which are rare nowadays because commercial diets do a good job of providing zinc and other minerals in the correct amounts and proportions for healthy skin and foot pads),

Walking on hot surfaces like summer sun heated asphalt, concrete and sand can burn the pads and cause them to dry and crack.  Avoid pad burns by walking during cooler times of the day and walking in the grass.  Similarly, walking on extremely cold surfaces can have the same effects as walking on hot surfaces.  Walking on ice covered walkways or walking and running through snow for extended periods may damage foot pads.

Hyperkeratosis is an overgrowth of the hard outer layer of skin.  It shows up as thickened and roughened pads that sometimes have feather like or toenail like growths coming from the pad.  Chemical irritants such as melting salt used on sidewalks, lawn or garden spray, rug and floor treatments, disinfectants and cleaners can damage foot pads and cause drying and cracking.  Allergies and autoimmune problems can be generalized or more isolated, often affecting the nose and foot pads.  Long term bacterial and yeast infections of the feet can lead to foot pad problems.  Most long term infections are related to allergy and immune problems.

Treating Foot Pad Problems:  Dry and Cracked Foot Pad Treatment

Contributing factors such as Zinc deficiency, hyperkeratosis, allergies and autoimmune problems when present will need to be addressed separately to gain any long term or permanent control.  It may be necessary to consult your veterinarian to determine if there is a treatable contributing cause.  For the purpose of this article such contributors will only be mentioned and treatment will be confined to localized care of the pads.

The goal with dry and cracked foot pads is to soften the pad, promote healing and protect the pad until healing is complete. Simply soaking a dry pad in plain water will help to soften it as the dried tissue becomes rehydrated; the effects, however, will be temporary unless additional steps are taken to keep the moisture from escaping.  In addition, simply soaking the pads does little to promote healing.  Products like petroleum jelly (Vaseline) can create a temporary barrier to keep moisture from evaporating, yet has no moisture of its own to hydrate the pad. Very mild cases of dry foot pads may be treated with a combination of soaking followed by an application of petroleum jelly.  This combination is getting us closer, but still does nothing to promote healing.  Addition of a boot to the water soak/vaseline treatment offers protection and now becomes an effective treatment.

Some products that have proven themselves over time are:  Bag Balm-an old remedy originally formulated to keep the udders of milk cows soft and to prevent chaffing. It still has a place when treating dry and cracked foot pads, noses and elbow calluses. Nu Balm- now known as Nutri-Vet Healing Cream is formulated with natural ingredients that soothe and promote healing (Calendula-an herb with anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antifungal properties-it also helps stimulate surface blood flow, Grapefruit Seed-has antimicrobial properties against a wide range of gram-negative and gram-positive organisms. Preliminary data suggest an antibacterial characteristic that is comparable to that of proven topical antibacterial agents. It is high in anti-oxidants and helps skin wounds heal faster with less scarring, Aloe-is the extract of the plant Aloe barbadensis. It contains enzymes, proteins and growth factors that work together to reduce inflammation of the injured area, improve teh rate of protein formation in wounds and reduce pain, Glycerin-promotes moisture retention, soothes and softens skin and may help skin cells mature properly during repair, Vitamin E-is a potent, fat-soluble antioxidant that helps with collagen repair and wound healing).

It is not possible to cover every scenario or every product available for foot pad treatment but the points and products mentioned here will certainly apply to the majority of foot pad issues one is likely to experience.  You may have a favorite product that isn't mentioned, if it works for you and causes no harm to the dog then don't change.  Even if you do use another product the principles here will universally apply.**

**Nutri Vet Healing Cream available through your groomer as well as HappyTails Spa's Bow Wow Butter Balm~another great all natural pad product

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Communicating With Canines

Highlighting pet owners' strong connections with their dogs, most people are convinced they can tap in on Fido's thoughts

Despite the obvious language barrier, the majority of American dog owners believe they can communicate with their canines-maybe even better than they can with their friends.

Nearly three in four pet parents (74%) report that body language or facial expressions let them know how their dogs feel, according to a survey conducted by Kelton Research (New York) for Del Monte Foods (San Francisco).

Futhermore, seven in 10 (70%) believe they have "shared a look" with a pooch on at least one occasion. In fact, participants in the Pup-Peroni Wags, Not Words survey said they shared, nearly half (49%) believe they know exactly what their pet is thinking and more than a third (34%) report that they've had an entire conversation with a dog without saying a word.

"When compared with other animals, dogs' ability to "read" humans is highly accurate," said Patti Wood, a body language expert. "Dogs pick up information from the subtlest hand gestures and even understand the meaning of a human glance."

The survey highlights the deep connection between dogs and their owners. So strong is the bond that many pet parents surveyed (41%) said their canine friend would be more likely to notice if they've had a bad day than their human best friends.

"Researchers believe that over centuries there's been direct selection for dogs with the ability to read social cues in humans, highlighting its importance," Wood said.

That comes as no surprise to dog owners. A majority of them agree their dogs are able to pick up on their emotions, such as happiness, anger, and sadness. The survey also showed that 89% of dog parents believe there have been moments when dogs tried to comfort them in times of need.

Whether dog owners are happy, hungry or tired, their pets seem to "just know" and often can comfort an support them when they need it most.

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Oral Care Just got Easy!!!!

"TropiClean Fresh Breath Made Easy"

Cleaner Teeth and Fresher Breath without Brushing!!!!

- Helps Fight Periodontal Disease - the #1 disease among dogs and cats

- 80% of dogs show signs of periodontal disease by the age of 3

- Breakthrough formula of safe natural ingredietns help remove plaque

Available in Gel / Water Additive Kit (apply gel to teeth - no brushing required) - keeps teeth and gums healthy - reduces plaque & tarter build-up / kills germs that causes bad breath

Water Additive (fresh breath naturally by applying all natural additive to pets water)

Fresh Mint Foam (apply to teeth directly - no brushing required) - keeps teeth and gums healthy

Fresh Breath Treats - the anytime way to freshen breath and clean teeth (reduce plaque by administering daily)

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If you haven't already done so ~ Flea Protection starts now!!!

The Spring season is upon us which means your pet is now at risk of contracting fleas and ticks - start prevention today!!!!  Ask your groomer about "Flea the Scene" Insect Spray from the HappyTails Spa line

Now taking your dog on a hike, playing in the yard and going on vacation doesn’t have to be such an itchy experience. Perfect for spring/summer, all natural Flea the Scene is a 3 in 1 spray that will take the sting out of flea season. Flea the Scene is a: Skin Soother- Indian Frankincense and aloe alleviate itchy skin, Insect Repellent-a blend of all natural plant extracts will ward off insects for up to four hours, Sunscreen-PABA free all nautral sunscreen.

Remove your dog's unsightly tear stains using all natural, safe products!

EyePack - each product also sold separately

Eyemunity - Food Supplement helps eliminate tear stains by boosting your dog's immunity, contains absolutely no pharmaceutical antibiotics

EyePads - Premoistened pads help eliminate tear stains and odors around a dog's eyes, infused with colloidal silver, an all natural antibiotic

EyePack $33.00 / EyePads $15.00 / Eyemunity $23.00

A gentle, all-natural two part program that cleans and deodorizes your dog's ears

EarAid - each product also sold separately

Ear Clear - Break down tough wax build-up and eases swelling and discomfort, easy to use, no mess applicator

Ear Wipes - Lavender scented pads refresh and clean, removes dirt and debris, contains an all natural antibiotic

Ear Aid $28.00 / Ear Wipes $14.00 / Ear Clear $14.00

In addition to these products, ask your groomer about solutions for:

Stinky Dogs and Coat Refreshment / Long, Dull and Matted Coats / Nervous or Anxious Dogs / Older, Sick and Gassy Dogs / Dry, Itchy Skin and Flea Control

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SOMETHING NEW JUST FOR YOU!!

* * Personal Shopping Now Available * *

Le Petit Papillon is now offering Personal Shopping at no charge (for a limited time only). 

Why sit in traffic or perform endless internet searches when you can do all of your furkid's shopping at home through us? Who better to turn to than your groomer, who has more than 5 years experience within the pet fashion and grooming industry and who not only knows you, but your sense of style and your pet's healthcare needs?

Here's how we work for you: 

0. You tell us what you need for your pet whether it be collars, leashes, apparel (including holiday costumes & accessories, hoodies, sweaters, dresses, coats, boots, bows, barrettes, charms), bowls, beds, toys, treats - you name it, we'll find it
0. We do the searching for you - you can even specify the exact color or brand you are looking for
0. We send you (via email) photos of merchandise specific to your needs with the retail price of each item
0. You e-mail us your selections, we place one bulk order and within a few days, your merchandise arrives (you pay upon delivery - no upfront costs or charges)
0. If you are not completely satisfied with the merchandise for any reason, we perform the returns and exchanges for you (please note, each manufacturer has it's own return policy, please check with your groomer upon placing the order)

It's that simple!  Shopping has never been easier or more convenient.  We deal with over 100 manufacturer's of mid to high-end fashions and accessories including brands such as Puppia, Up Country, Pinkaholic, Monkey Daze, Mascot, Animal Wrappers, Dallas Dogs and more!  Fashions from these and other manufacturer's have been featured in NY Dog, Modern Dog and in the movie, "Hollywood Chihuaha".

There is no better time than now to contact your groomer and partake in one of the most exciting shopping experiences ever!!

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Pretty Penny in her Buffalo Plaid Jacket (Animal Wrappers), PJ's / Snowsuit (both Pedigree Perfection) and Dog Magic Game (The Company of Animals)  

         Beautiful Sasha in her Ski Coat (Puppia) and Thanksgiving Day attire (Doggie Design Couture)

The newest member of the Le Petit Papillon Family, Adorable Achilles in his fabulous Cashmere Sweater (Gooby Fashions)

Sydney in her Sherpa Sport Parka

~ All apparel items selected exclusively for them by Le Petit Papillon ~ 

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