I don’t know about you but I cannot stand “dog” smell and I am always wanting my dog washed more often than just once every six or so weeks (which is what is best for him). So, for those in-between times, I make my own dry doggie bath. It’s simple to make and super easy to use, better yet… it makes my pooch smell wonderful!

1/2 Cup cornstarch

2 Tbsp baking soda

15 drops of Organic Tea Tree oil

5 drops of Organic Lavender oil

Sift all ingredients together and let sit overnight. Sift again before using. Use in a well ventilated area such as outside or at least in a garage as this can be a tad messy. Use a shaker jar to apply (I use a shaker similar to a parmesan cheese shaker). Massage powder into your dog’s coat taking care to keep it away from eyes and nose and then brush to remove excess. All done and your dog will love the attention and smell good to boot!

FYI… this is not for use on cats, as they cannot digest the essential oil.

Till tomorrow…live green!

~Jennifer

The car is clean, the deck is clean, how about the dog? Most dogs should only be washed every other month or so with “wipe downs” in between. Bathing them too frequently can dry out their skin and even reduce the insulating qualities of their coat. With that being said, you also want to be careful about the products you use on your dog. I prefer Green Bulldog. They make a concentrated shampoo with certified organic tea tree, neem, and eucalyptus oils. Tea tree oil is known for its antiseptic properties and is useful in treating cuts and insect bites. Not only will it soothe your dog’s itchy skin but fleas and ticks abhor its slight nutmeg scent. In addition, a portion of their proceeds goes to great causes such as The Animal Rescue Site and Breastcancer.org.

Till tomorrow…live green!

~Jennifer

Are you one of the 3% that will give a Valentine to your favorite furry or feathered friend this year? Make sure that the gift you give is as green as you are! I’ve found some great products this week that shouldn’t be overlooked when pampering your pet this holiday! In alphabetical order:

Amphibians – Give your frog a friend and help his relatives in need at the same time by purchasing a piece of “Frog Art”. 100% of the proceeds will go to endangered species conservation.

For the birds – There is no shortage of nature in these bird toys. They are pleasing to the eye with their bright colors and to the palate in variety of substances. The dog-shaped toy even includes a perch!

Purr-fect for cats - Organic cat grass! Save your houseplants by growing this edible wheat grass for the kitty in your life.

Man’s best friend - These dog toys are made from organic cotton and boast a removable inner squeaker that makes them even more eco-friendly!

Ferrets – Fresh World Bedding made from recycled newspapers and magazines is an easy eco-friendly choice for a new ferret bed!

Fish – Save energy and keep your fish happy with a more regular schedule with this combination power strip/timer from Coralife.

Guinea Pigs & Hamsters – Give your small animal a place to get away with this all-natural corner retreat by Jesper.

Iguanas and other reptiles - Eco Earth Coconut substrate, reptiles love new beds too!

The rest of the alphabet will have to wait… I think I’ve covered the basics!

Till tomorrow…live green

~Jennifer