|
10/23/2018 Life cycle of a Flea Building your animal’s immune system and keeping them healthy will help their resistance to fleas, ticks and other pests. The following is the life cycle of the flea so that you can see the importance of keeping your pet’s environment clean.
1) Adult fleas live about three to four months, laying eggs during this time that look like dandruff or salt crystals. 2) The Fleas eggs hatch out into larvae that can live in cracks and crevices, rugs, upholstery, blankets, and the like. 3) The tiny larvae cannot jump and can only travel approximately an inch. The larvae feed on dried blood called flea dirt that falls off of your pet along with eggs when your pet scratches or grooms themselves. 4) After one to two weeks the larvae go through a cocoon or pupa stage. 5) A week to two weeks later, the fleas hatch out and hop onto the nearest warm body for a meal of blood. And the whole process starts over again. 6) This cycle can take 2 to 20 weeks depending on the climate. In most locations during the summer flea season, the entire cycle can take only a couple of weeks.
0 Comments
10/2/2018 Fall updateWow! Where did summer go?!? It’s hard to believe there is cool weather on the horizon. But here it is! Fall is here! Fleas are still here too! I’m up in Portland right now and my son’s little Abyssinian kitty scratched her face raw from a flea bite. I know, you would expect my own children to have and use Pip & Willy’s but that’s how it is with family sometimes. We have to prove it to them before they get it. So on with Pip & Willy's flea powder and off with the fleas. She’s feeling much better! So just because it’s cooler weather don’t be surprised that those fleas are still lurking about. You can always check by using a flea comb if your pet has a coat that one easily can go through and you’re looking for the little dark specs of flea dirt or poop. You may even be lucky to get a few fleas caught in the comb teeth and then you can easily put them in a bowl of soapy water. It’s very rewarding! And if your pet has fleas just put a little Pip & Willy’s flea powder or spray on them. Put some in your shoes by the door or on your front door mat to help prevent them from coming into your abode. Viola! Happier Healthier you and pet! Remember too, a healthy diet and ample sunshine help our pets take in more vitamins and minerals and keep their immune systems healthy.
8/15/2018 Product Reviews"On a day I was at Rosemary’s Garden in Sebastopol a woman came in wanting to purchase some of Pip & Willy’s Flea control. She wanted a safe product for her mother and was uncertain whether to get the flea powder or flea spray. Her mother lives in a senior care facility that was experiencing an infestation of fleas. Whenever her mother would leave her room to take a walk she would return with fleas attached to her pants legs. Her mother would then get flea bites on her ankles and legs. Yikes! Her daughter wanted to know what she should do. I suggested using both the flea powder and flea spray. She could spray her pants legs with the flea spray and put a little powder in her shoes and sprinkle a little on her doormat preventing the fleas from entering her space. Her daughter also chose to get Pip & Willy’s Anti-itch Spray for her mother’s flea bites. They did the trick! Her mother could take her much loved walks without getting fleas any longer and Pip & Willy’s Anti-itch Spray helped to heal her mother’s flea bites and stop the itching! Yeah! We love these stories and are so happy Pip & Willy’s Healthy Pet Products can help." -Rosemarys Garden
"Amazing products!! One of my dogs suffers from horrible dermatitis and flea allergies. He would scratch all day and night, even waking me up. I've used everything from for fleas to prednisone and benadryl for the 24/7 scratching. Nothing worked. I happened to read about this and tried it. The scratching slowed down to almost nothing after the first use. By the second he was sleeping through the night. We're on week three and he's a new dog. I have never seen anything work so fast and so well. He loves the spray, it soothes his skin. I love these products and so does my dog." Kathy, Dog Owner "Amazing Products! I use the pet powder after hikes to freshen up my dog. I also love the anti-itch spray. It has been working really well for my dog's allergies and skin rashes. After researching "normal" pest and pet care products and finding out how toxic many of the ingredients are, I was desperate to find healthier options and am so happy to have found Pip and Willy's! It smells and feels great and I don't feel guilty putting it on my dog! Thanks Pip and Willy's!" Amy, Dog owner 6/28/2018 Anti-itch Spray: Recipe changeWe received some feedback from a couple of pup owners that the apple cider vinegar in the anti-itch spray was too intense for their dogs. It caused them to wiggle and run and hide. So we’ve increased the amount of lavender hydrosol just a bit and will lessen the amount of apple cider vinegar to see if this won’t decrease any stinging effect the anti-itch spray may have on your loved ones skin. Applying the anti-itch spray to your pet by misting a cotton ball or pad can help with any fear of the spritzing mechanism and applying a little lavender hydrosol to their skin beforehand may help. If the skin is raw due to excessive itching and scratching start out by just using a small amount of the anti-itch spray and increase slightly over a period of time. Maybe just a couple of spritz on a cotton ball and dabbing on once per day until you see results. If there is stinging due to the apple cider vinegar it normally dissipates within a few minutes of applying. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, various amino acids and Vitamins B1, B2, B6, C and E giving apple cider vinegar its antiseptic properties, which help to fight bacteria and preserve the product
6/21/2018 About our ProductsBy our Formulator, BrendaWe appreciate you visiting our site! My name is Brenda and I'm happy to be creating herbal products for our pets and passing on the information I've gathered over the years. I'm not against allopathic veterinary medicine. My animals see a regular veterinarian on occasion (especially when one of those irritating foxtails find their way into my little friends ear canal) and also receive holistic and alternative pet care when necessary. I think there is a place for both.
I've studied and used herbs for several years and continue to learn something new about the wonderful world of plant medicine everyday! I've stumbled across a few herbal solutions. One was the making of Pip & Willy's flea powder. With all the chemicals we use in our environment and on ourselves, I believe it is important to first try a healthy alternative to the present day chemical solutions on the market. Pip & Willy’s has formulated our flea powder with a blend of dried powdered herbs combined with Organic Arrowroot powder and Organic Non-GMO Cornstarch. The Arrowroot Powder and Cornstarch allow for an even distribution of the powdered herbs throughout your pets fur and help to soften their coat. We feel it is important to create plant based products using the whole herbs rather than using potent essential oils that can be toxic to your pet. We also wanted to create a safe product that could be used on both cats and dogs. In my experience essential oils are overused and there has been way too much overdosing with them. We include lavender hydrosol and orange blossom hydrosol in our anti-itch spray and flea spray for cats and dogs. The hydrosols are the water that is collected in the distillation process of collecting the essential oil from the plant source. The water is naturally diluted, and has a gentle effect that still includes the exquisite medicine from the plant. Please note - Cats are very sensitive creatures and their liver and kidneys can not tolerate essential oils. Absolutely no essential oils should ever be applied to your cat. The arrowroot powder and cornstarch also help to soften and clean your pet's coat. Pip & Willy's Flea Powder for dogs can also be used as a dry shampoo for those who hate to be bathed or are unable to use water for any reason. Arrowroot powder and cornstarch are not drying to the skin. That is one reason why we don’t use diatomaceous earth in our products. Diatomaceous earth contains 85% silica. Silica in the right condition and when airborn can cause respiratory diseases. One such disease found in our research is Miner’s lung. Research has shown that the use of diatomaceous earth in flea powders can cause miner’s lung in dogs. Why take that chance? c, sustainably harvested or mindfully Apple Cider Vinegar contains acetic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, various amino acids and Vitamins B1, B2, B6, C and E giving apple cider vinegar its antiseptic properties, which help fight bacteria. Arrowroot Powder Arrowroot is a lightweight starch collected from the tropical rhizomes of the Maranta Arundinacea plant grown in South America. The Arrowroot plant was given its name because it was used to help heal those who were injured by poisonous arrows. Arrowroot powder is commonly used as a safe and effective base for body care formulations and is one of the main ingredients in Pip & Willy’s Flea powder. Calendula Flowers (Calendula Officinalis) the herb of the sun possesses important medicinal properties. The happy bright calendula is excellent for skin health and for the treatment of a variety of inflammations and skin rashes. In addition, the Calendula flowers are edible and great for the gastrointestinal tract. Calendula is used in topical applications to boost the healing rate of wounds and prevent infection. It is antifungal, used to heal minor burns, and is an herb that is traditionally used for the treatment of rashes and other skin disorders. Cornstarch (Non-GMO) is known as a thickening agent in cooking but also is commonly used as a safe and effective ingredient in body care powders. In Pip & Willy’s flea powder formula cornstarch is used as a base and is soothing agent for irritated skin, including skin allergies and insect bites. The cornstarch and arrowroot powder help soften your pet’s coat and allow an even distribution of the flea repellent herbs through your pet’s fur. Fennel Seed Powder (Foeniculum Vulgare) Fennel is a perennial plant distinguished by its finely divided, very aromatic leaves found primarily in coastal regions. The seeds yield a sweet oil of high medicinal value commonly used as an excellent stomach and intestinal remedy. When dried and powdered Fennel adds the perfect aromatic deterrent to fleas and insects and has been recommended as an ingredient in herbal flea powder. Flower Essences harness the unique healing wisdom of flowers to promote and support well-being, nourishing mind, body and soul. Flower essences are energetic imprints of the life force of each plant which interact with the subtle bodies of all living things. The gentle flower essences help to soothe your pet’s itchy skin and further assist in ridding fleas and insects. The Flower Essences help to improve your pet’s energetic field so that it may better rebuff pests. Grindelia (Grindelia Camporum) commonly called “gum weed”, this resinous plant is well known for its use in ointments and dressings for rashes, poison oak and ivy, burns and insect bites. Grindelia is emollient and serves to soothe and protect irritated or inflamed skin. It’s antibacterial qualities will help heal and prevent infection. Hydrosol of Lavender Angustifolia (Lavendula Angustifolia) steam distillate from the fresh, organic lavender blossom. It is used in a variety of skin and hair products and is known to address skin problems related to all kinds of rashes. It is a powerful, soothing, hydrating, relaxing toner which naturally helps to retain moisture. Say goodbye to dry flaky, itchy skin! Hydrosol of Orange Blossom (Citrus Aurantium), also known as Neroli Hydrosol is a steam distillate from the fresh, organic orange blossom; highly astringent, it tones, strengthens and calms irritated skin reducing excess sebum secretion. Plantain Leaf Powder (Pantago Major, P. lanceolata) called “Nature’s Band-aid” is a plant of pasture and waste land and can often be seen right outside your door. It is distinguished by its flat oval-shaped, green leaves and spike flowers. It is an important herb that yields a soothing mucilage and can be used internally and externally. The leaves make a powerful healing ointment used for wounds, sores, ulcers and bites of all kind. Rosemary Leaf Powder (Rosmarinus Officinalis) There are many uses for Rosemary and as a topical repellent for fleas it works superbly. It’s natural camphorated odour makes it one of the most important of the aromatic herbs becoming an antiseptic, one of the finest of all wound remedies, and an effective insecticide. Rue Herb Powder (Ruta Graveolens) Distinguished by its flat, divided leaves and yellow flowers. Rue is highly aromatic and bitter tasting. Rutin the principle of the plant possesses potent powers. Highly antiseptic it makes a perfect insecticide. Externally, in powder or as a wash, Rue can be used for all skin parasites and is a great ingredient in flea powder. Sage Leaf Powder (Salvia Officinalis) Distinguished by grey aromatic foliage and blue-grey fragrant flowers, Sage is an important medicinal herb and excellent for rebuilding vitality and strength. Its name Salvia is from the Latin name salvus, meaning “safe” and salvere, “to be well”. Sage is well liked by animals and externally is an effective application against fleas and insects. Sheep Sorrel Herb Powder (Rumex Acetosella) Sheep Sorrel is called Sour Grass and Red Sorrel. It is a common weed of wastelands and pastures and is enjoyed by grazing animals due to its distinctive sour taste. It aids in digestion and is cooling to the whole system. Good for the kidneys and a variety of blood and kidney ailments. It is included in Pip & WIlly’s flea powder due to its use externally for skin irritations. Wormwood Powder (Artemisia Absinthium) Distinguished by its grey, fringed foliage Wormwood exudes a very strong, penetrating odour, and is extremely bitter tasting. The pungency and bitterness are due to the presence of camphorated, volatile oil, found in the leaves and flowers. As a topical powder it makes an excellent insecticide for fleas and verminous sores. Yellowdock Root Powder (Rumex Crispus) is an abundant weed of fields, roadsides and gardens and is commonly used for the digestive system, liver and a variety of skin issues. When dried and powdered Yellowdock adds an aromatic deterrent to fleas and insects in herbal flea powder. Several of the herbs in Pip & Willy’s “Give Your Pet a Hug” Flea Powder & Spray for Cats & Dogs are recommended by Dr. Richard Pitcairn, DVM, PhD. in his book “Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats.” and Juliette de Bairacli Levy’s book “Herbal Handbook for Farm and Stable” These are important books to read and have on hand for anyone who chooses to have animals. 4/17/2018 Frequently asked questions1. How Often Should I use Pip & Willy’s Flea Powder or Spray? It really depends on you and your pet. What’s your lifestyle like? How often is your pet outdoors? How bad is your flea situation? Do you have an infestation? What time of year is it? I would say, if your pet is outdoors a lot, you’re experiencing warmer weather, finding lots of fleas or flea debris, you have a pet who loves to run through the tall grass, and loves coming into your home, you might want to use Pip & Willy’s flea powder or spray daily at first. Maybe for the first few days or possibly for a week. If it is a cat, and you are using the spray (sometimes cats are sensitive to being sprayed and really don’t like the spritzing mechanism or the sound), you can easily mist your hands or a cloth and gently wipe your cat’s fur. Dogs are a little easier and typically you can spray them, but if your dog is sensitive, you may also want to consider misting a cloth and wiping them down too. So with both, just be sure not to spray around their eyes or any other sensitive area that your pet may have. We don’t want to create any more trauma than those pesky fleas are already. In the same case, If you are using Pip & Willy’s flea powder, you may dust your cat or dog daily at first to make sure to rid them of fleas. Try doing this just for a few days and then start applying the powder weekly if desired. You may also dust their bedding or surrounding area. You can test a bit on your furniture too, but just make sure it doesn’t discolor or cause problems to the fabric. If you feel you have your flea situation under control but want to make sure that there aren’t any lurking about, use the powder or spray weekly or when you notice your pet scratching. Whether you use Pip & Willy’s Flea Spray or Flea Powder remember the most important thing is your pet’s overall health. Be sure to build your pet’s immune system and resistance as much as possible through proper nutrition by providing your pet with a healthy diet and lifestyle. A healthy pet is less likely to have parasites such as fleas. Overall care, frequent grooming, along with the use of Pip & WIlly’s products will help to produce a Happy, Healthy Friend! 2. What else can I be doing to keep fleas under control? There are few products I have used that I recommend to help keep fleas under control. If you have a yard I recommend using nematodes. I used them in Portland. Oregon in a yard that I had that was so infested with fleas that you couldn’t even walk outside without having them cling to your pants legs. Yikes! So I went down to the local hardware store and bought nematodes and brought them home and attached this little device (that supposedly had these tiny little nematodes in it) to my garden hose and sprayed the entire yard. I was sceptical at first because I couldn’t see any little bugs or anything really but the water that I was spraying on the yard. But sure enough, no kidding! It worked! What I remember is the fleas were gone fairly soon, maybe within a couple of weeks. It was pretty amazing! I will have to do some research, because I’m not sure if nematodes upset any balance to the ecosystem in the yard. I will make a note to myself to do that. So in addition to the nematodes, one of my favorite products on the market is “Flea Busters”, I recommend this for your floors in your house. You sprinkle it on and then vacuum it up. Just make sure to wear a mask and remove your pet from the room because it is not healthy to breathe. The effects of the Flea Busters will last quite awhile. The product simply dries up those little buggers and their larvae. Really works quite well, and again, just make sure you and your pet do not breathe it in. The third item that I use to help keep fleas under control is one of my all time favorites and that is a simple flea comb! It is so fun to get a bowl of soapy water and just sit down and comb your cat or dog. It gives you some really good loving connecting time too! Comb the area on your pet you suspect some fleas are hanging out, like maybe right above their tail and stick those babies in the bowl and voila, so long fleas! It is so rewarding! But certain pets are not easy to comb, like my curly haired poodles so that’s where a little of Pip & Willy’s flea spray and flea powder come in handy. 3. I noticed some little floaties in my Anti-itch Spray, is it okay to use? Yes, certainly, it is okay to use. Those floaties are a combination of the herbs used in the anti-itch spray and the apple cider vinegar. It’s like kombucha, so don’t be afraid to use it. The only thing is they may plug up your mister but you can take the mister out and just lightly pour a little of the anti-itch spray on a cotton pad and dab on the affected area. If you need an extra mister, please just contact us at pipandwillys@pipandwillys.com and we will send you one. 4. I’ve had my Pip & Willy’s Flea spray and Anti-itch spray for a year, are they still good? Yes, they are still good, as long as you don’t see any mold growing in them. The vinegar helps to preserve the products and you do not need to worry. Temperature is a factor also, and so with many of my own products or hydrosols, I keep them in the refrigerator just to help with the preservation process. It is not necessary though and is only a personal preference. When applying any product to my pets, I make sure to remove the containers from the refrigerator and allow them to set on the counter at room temperature before applying. No chilly nilly’s for my Pip & Willy! 5. How long will Pip & Willy’s Flea Powder be good? We commonly say that herbs are good for a year. Just like with our cooking spices, you can check them by smelling them. If it still smells like it’s got some good umph to it then by all means use it. In general, the product should be good 1 - 1 ½ years. 6. What is Pip & Willy’s Return Policy? Of course we want you to love our products so much that you would never imagine returning them, but we totally stand by our products. You may return them if you are not happy within 60 days of the date of purchase. If by chance your product arrives damaged, please notify the shipper and Pip & Willy’s immediately. We will file a claim with the shipper and get out a replacement promptly. To return product otherwise, simply shoot us an email at pipandwillys@pipandwillys.com informing us you will be returning product. We want to do everything to make your return process easy as pie. We do not charge a restocking fee. Simply put your return package in the mail and get it shipped back to us at PO Box 1077, 1821 Sea Way, Bodega Bay, CA. 94923. We will credit your account once we receive the product. You are responsible for any return shipping charges. 7. Does the flea powder really work? How should I apply? Yes, Pip & Willy’s Flea Powder really works. I suggest you apply the flea powder outdoors because the fleas will bale once you shake the powder onto your cat or dog. So they’re not liking it at all and will head for the hills. If you apply the powder in your home the fleas will leap off onto your lovely furniture or floor and I don’t suggest allowing that to happen. If they are unable to get off of your pet they will be smothered and most likely killed by the flea powder. Pip & Willy’s flea powder primarily works as a repellent so that the fleas don’t even want to jump on to your pup or cat. So keep that in mind when your cat wants to roam outdoors or you want to take your dog for a long walk. First apply Pip & Willy’s Flea Powder and then you won’t have to worry about them bringing home some new found tagalongs! 3/14/2018 Our story continued....hated to be bathed and would howl up a storm. We figured we better try something new for sprucing Nook up and decided to use a combination of Arrowroot powder and cornstarch combined with herbs and essential oils. We sprinkled the powder on her coat and brushed it through. Not only did it clean, soften and condition her coat but the powder seemed to repel fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. Since then we've done a lot of experimenting to perfect our formulas and the powder we used for Anook has evolved into what we now call "Pip & Willy's Flea Powder." Pip and Willy are two well-loved poodles that currently bless our families lives. They have helped us create many more natural healing products to address even the most sensitive of animals on our team. From our home to yours with love!
|
Pip & Willy's Blog.... Archives
October 2018
Categories |
RSS Feed