Do you know that flaxseed oil has immense nutritional benefits for dogs? Yes, because it contains a substance called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential fatty acid that seems to hold great promise in keeping arthritis and cardiovascular diseases at bay. Moreover, it also keeps their coat shiny and glossy. Nowadays, dogs seem to suffer from a deficiency of Omega-3 fatty acids since the foods they consume lack this important nutrient. Research, however, shows that in earlier days dogs mostly fed on the flesh of wild animals that were high in their fatty acids content.

I have summarized some of the potential benefits of flaxseed for my readers.

Here’s a quick look:

Keeps the coat glossy – Surprisingly enough both dry and greasy coat can be an indication of fatty acid deficiency. If there is a lack of this vital nutrient in your dog’s body, his skin can turn dry and flaky. But if there is an excessive amount of oil in his coat, chances are that he is suffering from a similar deficiency. Fatty acid insufficiency can also lead to ear infections and other skin problems. So, if your dog is suffering from any of these problems, you can supplement his diet with flaxseed oil in consultation with his vet.

Prevents Arthritis – Just like humans, arthritis too can affect dogs. It is indeed  distressing to see our buddies groan with pain. As we are very often unaware of the cause there is very little we can actually do to ameliorate the situation. The joint pain stems from a deficiency of Omega-3 fatty acids in their diet. In the absence of this nutrient, inflammatory prostaglandins, hormone-like substances produced from wrong kinds of fat can attack the joints, resulting in pain and inflammation. So, what we can do is treat them to a flaxseed meal which tends to lower the inflammatory response. This in turn reduces swelling and in turn, arthritis pain.

Prevents cardiovascular diseases – Flaxseed has multifarious benefits on the cardiac health of dogs. Its thinning properties help in preventing blood clots. Flaxseed also lowers blood cholesterol and high blood pressure by improving the elasticity of blood vessels. Flaxseed has been found to be useful for other conditions, like allergies, irritable bowel syndrome and cancer.

Flaxseed oil is available both in liquid form and also as chunks. However, for appropriate  guidelines you should consult his vet.

Is your dog having a itchy frenzy? Well, if his hind leg is whirling like a windmill, then it is no surprise that there is a whole lot of scratching going on. Your dog has probably even gotten the nickname Itchy & Scratchy.

If you haven't already realized getting to those hard to itch places can be a quite a challenge due to your pups lack of opposable thumbs. So instead, a dog may itch, lick or bite the bothersome itchy area. Like humans, dogs can develop issues with their skin and are not immune to eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis or the itches.


The incessant scratching, gnawing & biting can be irritating and unbearable for you to watch, but even more so irritating for your pup to experience first hand. They just can't help but scratch away! So you may be wondering what can cause your pup to go in a scratching frenzy.

Well, allergies, fleas or even hot dry weather can trigger an outbreak of canine eczema (or what some dog owners call red mange), which can lead to itchy, scabs, red patches of dry, flaky skin and even an infection. Here are a few tips to help you get your dog's itchy, inflamed skin under control.

1. Seek Vet Help! Take your dog to veterinarian if experiencing constant skin problem. It is important that your dog can be diagnosed properly & treatment can begin. Its vital for the vet to rule out any other underlining problems like parasites, fleas or mange.

2. Fight the War on Fleas- Flea infestation is one of the most common causes of eczema in dogs. Apply an all natural topical flea treatment to the dog that does not contain toxic chemicals but will do the job. Keep in mind that commercial flea repellents can be just as harmful to your dog as the fleas that plague them; sure they may get to the bite of the problem & work fast. But the down side is that commercial flea repellents contain chemicals and insecticides, which are toxic to your dog and can cause serious illness. This is especially true for sensitive dogs who sometimes suffer from skin irritations and allergic reactions.

Also, give your house & yard a flea free green clean sweep by treating your flea ridden home with all natural flea traps, safe eco-friendly insecticides, & eucalyptus leaves. Don't forget to wash your dog bedding in hot water with strong soap, and vacuum the entire house, paying particular attention to the corners and baseboards, where fleas like to hide. But like anything, the key to flea control is prevention, so ready your arsenal of natural flea repellents, sprays & shampoos!

3. Snoop in Your Dogs Dish! Sometimes, eczema can be caused by an allergic reaction to specific dog food or ingredients. It would be a good idea to change your dog's diet for 3 to 4 weeks, to see if the skin issue will go away. Sticking with simple ingredients will make the ruling out process even easier. Boiled and shredded meats with rice and mixed vegetables is a tail wagging pleasure. Then, when your pup returns to their normal diet, be as watchful as a guard dog for signs of recurrent eczema symptoms. If the symptoms reappear, that will be a sure sign that you need to permanently switch to a different brand of dog food.

4. Suds up & groom your Pup w/ soothing hypoallergenic, all natural spa products. Wash the dog in a gentle shampoo & conditioner that are not only sensitive to your pup but the earth. Choose a shampoo specifically formulated to relieve itchy skin or that is labeled "for sensitive skin". After the bath, make sure the dog is dried properly and brushed well. Remember, that to many bathes can dry out your pups skin & coat and cause your dog to itch like crazy. So, only bath your muddy paw dirty pup when necessary. Bathe your dog less often in the winter, and remember to keep them well brushed.

5. Natural Remedy. Apply aloe vera gel to inflamed areas. Alternatively, you can make a tea from marigolds and apply it to the dog's skin to reduce the itch, soothe irritation and promote the growth of healthy skin. The tea is made by placing 3 flowers in 1 cup of boiling water. Allow the mixture to stand for 10 minutes. Remove the flowers and wait for the brew to cool. Swab the tea over the affected area with a cotton ball.

6. Get out the clippers & trim your dog's toenails. By making the nails blunt, you reduce the risk of your dog making things worse by constantly scratching an itchy area. To much scratching can rupture your pups skin infected area and slow the healing process.

7. Take Vitamins & Supplements. To keep a dog's skin healthy, look into giving your dog an anti inflammatory supplement such as omega 3. This powerful fatty acid can do wonders for keeping eczema under control, and a dog's skin soft.

Since eczema can be caused by allergies, here is a helpful diagram below that will help you recognize allergy symptom & determine if your dog has an allergy.






















Need Help!

Don't forget to use our Is Your Dog Sick? easy drop down menu on our www.pawlux.com homepage to find eco-friendly, healthy, all natural products that with help with your dogs specific ailment.

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Like humans dogs can also feel a little bit under the weather when a virus or infection strikes. So, whats a loving owner to do? When your pet falls ill it important to boost their immune system so they can fight foreign invasions.

Remember that dogs are social creatures by nature and always on the go. Putting them at higher risk for coming in contact with toxins & pollutants that could wreak havoc on their vulnerable immune systems. But no worries here are some preventive steps you can take to promote your dogs wellness, build up their immune systems & be a responsible guardian.

1. Clean & Fresh Water-Keeping you dog's water dish full with fresh clean water is key. Filtering the water is highly recommended as tap water contains chemicals that can hurt the internal systems of your pet. By making sure that they are getting lots to drink, you will know that they are getting what they need to flush out the dangerous toxins that may have entered their system, which in turn will help keep the vital organs working the way they are supposed too.


2. Daily supplement-Adding a daily supplement can help with your dog's immune system. Make sure that it contains important vitamins, minerals, and other special herbs. Look at the labels to determine what they contain to ensure that you are getting something appropriate for your pet. Vitamins A, C, E and the mineral selenium are ones to keep in mind when doing this. Proper supplement that meets your dog needs will ensure a strong immune system.


3. Eat healthy-Make sure that before you let your dog chow down to read the label first. Often times some commercial foods are lacking in the area of nutrition. We such taking a holistic approach and opt for organic, all natural, human grade dog food that are free of animal by-products, hormones, artificial preservatives & ingredients. Things that you would normally not eat. Sure, the organic route can at times be a bit more pricier, but the money that you will save on vet bills makes up for it.


4. Add Yogurt to Your Dogs Diet-You can also buy plain unflavored yogurt that contains acidophilus. Add a tablespoon of yogurt to your dog's meal twice daily. For larger dogs (dog's larger than 100 lbs.) add 2 tablespoons. Stir the yogurt into your dogs food so it's well incorporated.

Natural Remedies to the Rescue!

But just like humans, a dogs strong immune systems must develop over time. Beside annual vet visits and caring for your pets health & wellness. There are several herbs, vitamins & minerals that work wonders to give your dogs immune system a boost:

1. Vitamin A is essential for the natural protection of your dog's skin which is their first line of attack. It plays a critical role in both the repairing and the protection processes of the tissues that surround the mouth, nose, throat, as well as the lungs. It is also essential in fighting eye infections and maintaining eyesight.

2. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and helps the immune system naturally in several ways. It helps both protect against both bacterial as well as viral infections. It also helps to heal wounds and scar tissues naturally as it strengthens blood vessels; and in the process also helps your dogs systems protect against hemorrhaging.

Not to mention it produces collagen, a type of protein that assists in supporting several body tissues. It helps the skin, bones, tendons, and muscles. It also helps to protect internal organs and aids both forms of your pet's immune systems.

3. Vitamin E also know as the miracle vitamin for dogs as it assists vitamin A from breaking down and combining with foreign substances that may cause autoimmunity in your pet. It aids both the innate and the adaptive systems in protecting against attacks on the cardiovascular functions in your dog as well as protecting against aging and cancer.

4. Zinc mineral is present in almost every tissue of your dogs body and is absolutely essential as a natural treatment for dogs immune systems as it builds blood circulation, as well as the brain and nervous system functions. It also helps in the synthesis of both protein and nucleic acid.

Nucleic acid is what makes the memory of the adaptive system work. It allows organisms to transfer genetic information form one generation to the next. Without this natural treatment, your dog's second line of defense will not function properly.

5. Copper is a mineral is found in every tissue of your dog's body. Copper is essential for the forming of both hemoglobin and red blood cells, as well as assisting several enzymes that break down as well as build up body tissue in your pet. It also surrounds nerve fibers and works in harmony with Vitamin C to form elastin in your pet's muscle fibers.

6. Echinacea extract is a herb that acts as a natural supplement which helps to purifying your dog's blood. In doing so, it stimulates the immune system to help fight both viral and bacterial infections. It acts as an interferon which is produced naturally by your dog. Interferon is a group of glycol-proteins manufactured by different cells and react to different attacks. It is an essential herb in building the adaptive immune system & boosting the lymphatic system.

7. Viscum album (Mistletoe) - It is known for its ability to improve the immune system of animals. It also keeps your dog's blood pressure levels under control.

8. Sylibum marianus (Milk Thistle) - It is one of the most commonly used herbs in natural medicine. It strengthens your dog's liver. It contains flavonoids which fight the free radicals which damage your dog's external and internal organs. Without milk thistle, your dog's immunity boost plan is not complete.

9. Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) - It has a restorative effect on your dog's body. It promotes good health and vitality in dogs. It also nourishes your dog's blood.

10. Uncaria tormentosa (Cat's Claw) - It increases your dog's disease resistance capacity and makes it strong enough to defend against various diseases.

Here are some all-natural products that will help give your dogs immune system a boost!

1. Fuzzyard Eucalyptus Lemon Immunity Blend

This all natural fragrance blend contaisn no harsh chemicals or additives. It works as an immune booster, wards off infection and creates a healthy environment for your dog

2. Organic Pet Superfood Super Immunity Formula Supplement

Provides a complete nutritional defense against the onslaught of invading internal free radicals and external stresses such as nutritionally inadequate food, environmental and situational stresses. In addition to supercharging your dogs immune system the Super Immunity Formula works to promote healthy joints, improved digestion and the maintenance of a beautiful coat.

twitter.com/PawLuxury Shop www.pawlux.com for eco-friendly, all natural & organic goodies for your new furry family member. We carry a great selection of Odor Free Bully Sticks / Dog Treats / and Dog Toys !

You and your dog have something in common, you both get dog gone tired & lethargic and just want to hit the snooze button. For that boost of energy in the morning you grab a cup of coffee, an energy bar, take your daily vitamins or have a hearty breakfast for that extra pick me up. But what's a dog to do? Well, we are here to answer just that!

Is your dog, once a fur ball of energy, constantly tired and all he wants to do is be a couch potato? Does Fido sleep all day and hogs the remote? If your dog is like most lethargic pups not even a persuasive enticing game of fetch, brisk walk, arrival of the mailman, a siren, or a taunting stray cat gets him excited. He's to tired to even bark & lift his snout.

Being the loving pet owner you are, you've even tried to lure him of his dog bed with all his favorite foods but all has failed. His body continues to remain motionless as you wave a yummy morsel in front of his nose. You are probably thinking that it will take a miracle or forklift to get him off the couch and back to his playful ways. Sure you love timeouts & lounging on the couch with your best friend, but truth be told you do miss your normally energetic dog's zest for life.

What is lethargy? Lethargy is decreased energy levels.

What are the warning signs your dog is lethargic?

• Tire easily
• Reluctant to play, walk, eat, drink, or do other things that he used to enjoy doing.
• Don't take outdoor potty breaks as often, resulting in "accidents" in the house or on his bed.
• sleep a lot
• Lost interest and enthusiasm in almost everything.

**Don't hesitate to seek vet assistance if symptoms persist these could be the warning signs for something more serious. **

So, what can cause your dog to be lethargic & sluggish? Well with the help of a certified vet, it important to pinpoint potential culprits so you can remedy the situation. Sickness, depression & injury can bring on your dogs lethargic ways and should not be taken lightly. Before you can tackle lethargy it is important to dig deep for the root cause. Here are some common cause of lethargy:

1. Anemic pup- If your pup lacks enough red blood cells to transport oxygen to different parts of the dog's body, then he or she has anemia. Anemia leads to lack of oxygen making a dog lethargic. Anemia can be caused by flea infestations, gastrointestinal parasites such as worms, internal bleeding caused by ulcers or other conditions (e.g. poisoning, clotting disorders, bone marrow disorders, cancer).

2. Aches & Pains- If you had aches & pains you probably wouldn't want to leave the couch. Pain caused by injuries or physical problems can make a dog lethargic & not wanting to move. Just keep in mind that if your pup has sustained an injury, then his or her body's resources and energy are probably being redirected to the injured area for healing. Therefore your dog may not have sufficient resources or energy for normal day to day activities. Pain can arise from dental disease; ear inflammation; bone, joint, or spinal diseases; gastrointestinal obstruction; pancreatitis; urinary tract disorders; and eye diseases, such as glaucoma and corneal ulcers.

3. Obesity- Overweight dogs are less likely to move around and engage in activities since it simply takes too much effort and energy! Lack of exercise will cause anyone to feel tired & sleepy. Exercise is key to improved mobility and heightened energy levels. So, get your dog to break a sweat on the treadmill or take a walk around the dog park.

4. Poor Diet -Lack of well balanced diet. Malnutrition & insufficient quality diet can lead to decreased nutrient absorption resulting in weight loss & lethargy. So, make sure you are feeding your dog food that promotes his overall well being & health. Throw away the mystery meat & go for the real thing!

5. Aging Canine-Older dogs naturally have less energy than young puppies and they tend to move slower due to achy joints. They are more prone to suffer from such age-related ailments as heart failure and liver disease, which can also make a dog lethargic.

6. Depression-A dog may become lethargic simply because of a lack of stimulation & socialization! Dogs that are cooped up in the house all day with out companionship, bonding time or paw pals will naturally feel bored, depressed & lethargic. It is important that your dog gets enough play time and outside interaction with you, other humans and furry friends. So a doggie play date or day at the dog park is in order!

7. Infectious Disease such as canine distemper and parvovirus infection.

8. Endocrine disorders. Hormonal conditions as hypothyroidism, a common disease in dogs that causes a slowed metabolism and lethargy. As well as other disorders such as Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome, and diabetes mellitus can lead to lethargy & fatigue.

9. Hypoglycemia- Your dog's lack of energy may be due to low blood sugar caused by severe infection, insulin-secreting pancreatic tumors, liver disease, or starvation.

Mother Nature Knows Best!!

Various herbs such as ginseng & rosemary have been effective in boosting a dogs energy levels for the weak & fatigue. As well as helping pup young & old recover from illness or surgery. Here are some all-natural lethargic remedies & products that will help energize & put pep back in your dogs wags!

1. Happytails Re-bound herbal Elixer

You’ve pampered the outer hound now nourish the inner dog with all natural elixirs designed to improve canine health from the inside out. Re-Bound helps to recharge your dogs battery and restores normal energy levels after periods of general malaise or inactivity. Turn back the paws of time! It's also the perfect tonic for an older or sluggish dog or a dog who is recovering from an operation or illness.

2. Spot Organics Happy Dog Aromatherapy Spray

Is Spot dog-gone tired. Spray a few times on the chest to uplift a depressed dog or increase the appetite of a senior dog






3. Fuzz Yard Organic Rosemary & Peppermint Aromatherapy Refreshing Blend

Pamper, uplift your dog and deodorize your living space all in one spritz! This natural and refreshing blend of organic Rosemary, Peppermint and Aloe Vera essential oils will do the trick. Simply spray the fine mist around the house, on your dog's bed, on furniture or directly on your dog. This unique blend of essential oils helps to create a refreshing environment for you & your dog.

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