Coffy became instant best buddies with the striking Taz.  Watching this friendship of opposites develop has been a great time for all of us at The Grove.  Little black terrier mix “Coffy” meets and falls in love with Big White German Shepherd “Taz”, their rowdy play and constant snuggling brings a smile to us everyday!

Here in the Northwest we mostly are concerned about fleas on our dogs, although Ticks are present in the Northwest they are not as big a problem for us.

Most of us are aware of topical applications that are applied every 30 days to prevent and treat for fleas.  These topical applications while effective are pesticides and many consumers and veterinarians are concerned about the potential side effects of these products.  Dr. Thomason and Dr. Bloomer warn in their paper Battling Fleas, Ticks and More: “pet owners most often aren’t told about the adverse effects, the neurotoxins within the pesticide products, the cancer causing ingredients (both active and inert), or how they also affect the environment by their traditional health care practitioners. In fact, pet owners are rarely given Full Disclosure and/or Informed Consent regarding these products.”

Previously we blogged about Diatomaceous Earth and it’s ability to help prevent and treat fleas.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is USDA approved for use in human food storage and regularly added to grain storage to help control beetles.

DE is commonly used to control fleas and used as a natural wormer by Natural Rearing Breeders. DE is a 100% natural organic pesticide.  DE Food Grade is FDA approved for internal and external use in both dogs and humans.

Instead of applying that topical you might consider a less toxic solution such as DE. 

Previously we blogged about a new company here in Washington called Pure Dog Chow, they offer a great price and high quality DE.  Check out their current special and learn how you can get some free DE!

The Border Collie is a HIGH energy dog and requires frequent exercise and lots of mental stimulation. The Border Collie although present in the United States for many years was only recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1995.

The original club for the Border Collie was the United States Border Collie Club (USBCC) founded in 1975. The USBCC was not in agreement with AKC recognition and so a new club was formed to work with the AKC; The Border Collie Society of America founded in 1994.

Have a paw-slappin good day !