FAST FIX-ITS
Solve tricky pet problems in a flash with common household items
DIY FLEA SPRAY
To manage a nasty flea invasion without using chemical-laden sprays or collars, make your own natural flea spray. Simply mix ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon baking soda and 120ml water in a spray bottle. Slowly add 250ml apple cider vinegar, which will react with the baking soda. Spritz the solution all over your pet, parting the fur with a brush to ensure the mix is evenly distributed throughout the coat. The salt and the baking soda will dehydrate the fleas, killing them off, and the vinegar adds a discreet smell to your pet’s skin that will deter the pests from returning. So easy!
CARE FOR YOUR DOG TAG
To stop your faithful hound’s tag from rusting – so it’s easy to read in case they make a break for freedom at the park – use a soft cloth to apply a thin coat of car wax to the metal, let it dry and then attach it to the collar. The wax will help shield the tag from moisture. Just keep an eye on it because every few months or so it might require a touch-up.
CALM THEIR TUMMY BEFORE A CAR TRIP
There’s nothing worse than knowing your beloved dog is feeling queasy on a car trip. To settle their stomach, give them a piece of crystallised ginger about 30 minutes before heading on your road trip. Ginger works just as well for dogs as it does for us. You can buy the little treats or make them yourself.
BREAK THE BITING THE LEASH HABIT
It can be pretty difficult to walk a pooch when it won’t stop biting the leash! To arrest this habit, mix two cups of lemon juice and one cup of white vinegar in a spray bottle, shake it up and spritz it all over the leash. The bitter taste will deter your pup and you can have your walkies together in peace.