FAQ
Some Really Good Advice!
Over time we have had all sorts of questions come up in the store. We'd love to share a little basic advice here on a few topics so people can learn some more about the most common of these.
The smoothest transition from one dog food to another occurs when the foods are mixed together. This process should usually take about 10 days to 4 weeks depending on the sensitive of your dog. It is always a good idea to have a 1/2 bag of the dogs current food when you start looking for a new health food to rotate. I also use oatmeal as a buffer. Oatmeal is easier to digest then rice and most of the time you don't have to cook it. If your pet will not eat it raw, cooking it usually does the trick. When dogs refuse to eat their old food or you have run out of the old food before the transition is complete, you can also feed 3 to 4 smaller feedings of the new food with warm water to ease the transition.
Day 1 & 2 10% new food to 90 % old food
Day 3 & 4 20% new food to 80% old food
Day 5 & 6 30% new food to 70% old food
Day 7 & 8 40% new food to 60% old food
Day 8 & 10 50 % new food to 50% old food
keep going at this rate until your pet is 100% on their new food.
Every week we are asked for help and products that ease a dog's fears and anxieties. These may be fears of noises, people, dogs, car rides, being left alone or any number of situations. In helping your dog overcome these fears, we would always encourage you to work with your veterinarian to make sure there are no medical concerns or a behaviorist who can help you develop a plan including exercise, nutrition, and training. Bark N' Scratch Outpost is here to help you choose the appropriate nutrition and products to help you and your dog live a happy and stress free life! Below is a brief explanation of types of products and how they work.
Exercise, Toys and Training
The saying, "A tired dog is a good dog." is a great place to start. Physical and mental exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety in dogs as well as people. We carry puzzle toys from Nina Ottosson, Premier/Pet Safe, Canine Ware and others that will keep your dog busy figuring out how to get the tasty treats inside. We also carry treat pouches and clickers to aid in training tricks, tasks and appropriate behaviors.
Music and Sound Desensitizing
We carry a variety of CD's including those from Through A Dog's Ear which have been studied, arranged and played to calm the canine nervous system. We have great feedback that they work well! Another CD is available for those who need to work with their dog to overcome fear of loud noises.
Anxiety Wraps
Wraps such as The Thundershirt, work by applying pressure to points on the dog's body helping to calm the dog much like swaddling a baby. It is a snug fitting and breathable coat.
Flower Essences
Flower essences are a very gentle yet effective way to ease stress and balance the mind and body. We carry Bach Rescue Remedy for Pets and the original formula. This liquid is given by adding a few drops to drinking water or by dropping on food or treats.
Western Herbs
Western herbs include Chamomile, Valerian, St. John's Wort and others known for stress relief. These products come in a capsule, liquid or chewable treat form. Some formulas may also contain ginger which may help with car sickness in addition to the stress of a car ride.
Chinese Herbs
Traditional Chinese Medicine aims to rebalance the flow of energy in the body to maintain and balance behavior. We carry Herbsmith Calm Shen in both powder and tablet forms.
Essential Oils
Aromatherapy with AnimalEO works well for dogs as well as people! These therapeutic grade oils may be diffused or applied to the dog using very small amounts. Our staff can help you with any questions you may have. We often diffuse oils in our store. A good introduction to using essential oils with your dog can be found in the newsletter articles at Oily Vet.
Pheromones
Mother dogs secrete a pheromone called Dog Appeasing Pheromone. This tells her pups they are safe and secure. Products such as Comfort Zone come in a spray useful for bedding, car or the space your dog frequents. There is also a refillable plug-in diffuser for your home.