The Blissful Dog Nose Butter was mentioned in an article in esteemed Whole-Dog Journal! We are absolutely THRILLED and of course, honored. This is a very long article, just scroll down to the purple if you want to see our mention!

August 2011 Issue
By CJ Puotinen and Mary Straus
Identifying and Treating Skin Conditions that can Affect Your Dog
Numerous conditions, some quite painful, that can affect your dog’s feet and face.

Yikes! What happened to Fido’s nose? And what’s wrong with Fluffy’s paw pads? The possibilities are many, and a surprising number of nose and paw pad problems are related. Because illnesses in this category often have similar or identical symptoms, a veterinarian’s diagnosis can be important. The following overview will help you identify, prevent, or treat these disorders.

Pigment loss on your dog’s nose is not generally a health problem, though some dogs with light noses may suffer sunburns. Using a sunscreen formulated for dogs is recommended to give a pink nose protection from the sun.

Pigment Problems
The most frequently asked questions about dogs’ noses concern color. Dogs have black or dark noses and paw pads because of melanin, a pigment that darkens skin. When melanin production slows or stops, the skin lightens uniformly or in patches.

Nasal hypopigmentation, also known as nasal depigmentation, is most commonly seen in the Golden Retriever, yellow Labrador Retriever, white German Shepherd, Poodle, Doberman Pinscher, Irish Setter, Pointer, Samoyed, Siberian Husky, Malamute, Afghan Hound, and Bernese Mountain Dog. Nose color is normal at birth but gradually fades to a light brown or whitish color.

Considered harmless, hypopigmentation does not make the nose more sun-sensitive and does not require treatment. However, this cosmetic imperfection matters to breeders because the loss of nose pigment is a conformation fault in the show ring.

Vitiligo (pronounced vit-ill-EYE-go) creates white spots of varying size and location on the skin when pigment cells, or melanocytes, are destroyed, preventing melanin production. Dogs with this immune system disorder develop white spots on the nasal planum (the hairless, leathery part of the nose), muzzle, and inner lining of the cheeks and lips, as well as patches of white hair and scattered white hairs through the coat. A skin biopsy confirms the diagnosis. Vitiligo is most associated with the German Shepherd Dog, Doberman Pinscher, Belgian Tervuren, and Rottweiler. Color loss is vitiligo’s only symptom.

Dudley nose, which is named for an English town known for animals with flesh-colored noses and light eyes, is a syndrome of unknown cause that may be a form of vitiligo. A puppy’s solid black nose may gradually fade to a solid chocolate brown or liver color, or, if the nose loses all of its pigment, pale pink. Some depigmented noses spontaneously regain their dark color while others remain pale.

Snow nose is a similar condition in which the nose’s dark pigment fades during winter months (without losing all of its color) and darkens again in spring and summer. No one knows what causes it, but one theory blames increased light exposure reflected on snow and another blames cold winter temperatures.

Color Treatment

There are no proven cures for the pigment problems mentioned here, but anecdotal recommendations abound. For example, supplementing with melatonin, the hormone associated with sleep, may help with seasonal changes. Vitiligo may respond to oral doses of folic acid (1 mg twice per day for an 80-pound dog) combined with vitamin C (500 mg twice daily) and injectable vitamin B12 (50 micrograms every 14 days). Some dog owners have reported success giving blueberry extract.

Juliette de Bairacli Levy’s natural rearing methods have been popular since the publication of her Complete Herbal Handbook for the Dog and Cat in 1955. “I introduced seaweed to the veterinary world when a student in the early ’30s,” she said. “It was scorned then, but now it is very popular worldwide.” She credited kelp and other sea vegetables with giving dark pigment to eyes, noses, and nails, stimulating hair growth, and developing strong bones.

It’s important not to overuse kelp; it’s rich in iodine, and too much iodine can suppress thyroid function. Levy’s NR Seaweed Mineral Food contains deep-sea kelp, nettle, and cleavers or uvi ursi, herbs that are associated with thyroid, skin, coat, and kidney health. The recommended daily dose is a pinch for small dogs, 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon for medium-size dogs, and 1/2 teaspoon for large dogs. Kelp fed by itself should be limited to half these amounts.

Pink noses exposed to sunlight may burn or blister, and they are more at risk for the development of cancer. Sunscreen can protect pink noses; see the sunscreen recommendations under Collie nose (page 18). Another option is to have a dog’s pink nose tattooed with black ink, which shields the cells below, to give the nose permanent sun protection.

Nasodigital Hyperkeratosis

The term nasodigital refers to both nose and toes. A thickening of the outer layer of skin (hyperkeratosis) at the edges of the nose or paw pads can develop into painful cracks, fissures, erosions, and ulcers. The nasal planum, which is usually soft, shiny, and moist, becomes dry, hard, and rough, especially on the dorsum (top) of the nose.

Digital hyperkeratosis, which involves the entire surface of all paw pads, is most pronounced along the edges, as excess keratin (the skin’s tough, fibrous outer covering) is worn away on the weight-bearing surfaces in the center of the pads. The keratin may have a feathery appearance. Excess keratin in hard, cracked paw pads can make walking so painful that it causes lameness.

No one knows what causes this condition, which is associated with older dogs, particularly American Cocker Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels, Beagles, and Basset Hounds. Skin pigment is not affected, and the nose retains its natural cobblestone or pebbly appearance. Secondary bacterial or yeast infections in fissures can cause inflammation and increase discomfort. Other parts of the body are not affected.
Nasodigital hyperkeratosis has no specific diagnosis; it is determined by the exclusion of other conditions that might cause similar symptoms, such as discoid lupus erythematosus or pemphigus complex diseases. Veterinarians usually prescribe topical corticosteroids and antibiotics to control secondary inflammation and infection. Other treatments involve shaving or cutting away excess keratin, which must be done with care, along with the application of wet dressings and topical ointments. Bag Balm, a lanolin-based antiseptic ointment, is a popular treatment, as are Tretinoin Gel (a natural form of vitamin A that treats acne as well as keratosis and is sold by prescription), and petroleum jelly. Foot pads can be soaked in a solution of 50-percent propylene glycol.

One product with numerous fans among breeders, owners, trainers, and veterinarians for the treatment of dry, cracked noses is and Nose Butter, a blend of shea butter, vitamin E oil, and essential oils.
Nasodigital hyperkeratosis is a lifelong condition. Treatment may start with soaking and topical treatments twice a day. Once improvement is seen, ongoing treatment once or twice a week or as the growths recur is required. Note from kathy…there was another product also mentioned, but this is my website so I deleted that – hehe.

When hyperkeratosis affects the paw pads, they develop an excess of crusty, feathery tissue that cracks and can cause pain, as seen in this “before” photo of Chisum, a 7-year-old Lab. Chisum’s paws responded nicely to the topical use of Bio Balm, a French ointment. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Graziano O’Grady.

Milo, an 11-year-old English Shepherd belonging to Katie Palmer in Frederick, Maryland, has lived with this condition for five years. “It started as a rough spot on his nose and continued to get worse,” says Palmer. “If I leave it alone his nose cracks open and he yelps if he bumps it. Then it starts to slough off. Putting vitamin E oil on it makes it softer and not as cracked looking. Milo was fed kibble until one and a half years ago, when I got a Bernese Mountain Dog and put both of them on a raw diet. His nose still looks pretty bad but it’s better than before. I hoped the diet change might fix it, but so far it hasn’t gone away.”

In Denver, Colorado, Vanessa Graziano O’Grady’s 7-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever, Chisum, developed hyperkeratosis when he was a year and a half. His paw pads were treated with prednisone (a corticosteroid drug that suppresses inflammation), Accutane (a prescription form of vitamin A), and Kerasolv (an ointment containing salicylic acid that is no longer available).

“No luck with any of those,” says O’Grady. “Our vet completely trimmed all the excess off and it all grew back. Then our veterinary dermatologist introduced us to Bio Balm, a French ointment that moisturizes and helps heal noses and paw pads. It’s a blend of essential oils, soy oil, and palm oil. Within two weeks of using it nightly, the excess footpad skin started crumbling in my hands and falling off! We use it every night at bedtime on the edges of each pad and it keeps his pads smooth. The dermatologist was so stunned that she asked for pictures to share with colleagues.”

Chisum’s nose was affected, too, but despite two biopsies, his dermatologist couldn’t confirm a diagnosis. “We tried long courses of tetracycline and niacinamide but they didn’t do much, and neither did prednisone,” says O’Grady. “What seems to help the most is Protopic, a prescription ointment for eczema, which we apply once or twice per day. His nose is not perfect but it seems to be holding steady and hasn’t gotten worse.”

Collie Nose

Named for the breed most associated with its symptoms, Collie nose (nasal solar dermatitis) generates crusty lesions on the nose, lips, or eyelids. Its cause is a lack of pigment and inherited hypersensitivity to sunlight. Collie nose is usually classified as a type of discoid lupus erythematosus (see below) but is sometimes considered a separate illness.

Whatever its cause, nasal solar dermatitis tends to worsen in sunny climates and can result from other skin diseases or scarring. In advanced cases, the nose may become ulcerated, bleed easily, or develop skin cancer.

For Collie nose and similar disorders, sun avoidance is the most recommended treatment. Sunscreen can be applied to the noses of outdoor dogs within an hour of sun exposure and repeated frequently. Zinc oxide and other preparations containing zinc are not recommended, as excessive zinc is toxic to dogs. Sunscreens should be fragrance-free, non-staining, and contain UVA and UVB barriers similar to SPF 15 or SPF 30. Preparations made specifically for dogs include Doggles Pet Sunscreen, Epi-Pet Sun Protector, and Vet’s Best Sun Relief Spray. Dr. Mark Macina, a dermatologist at the Animal Medical Center of New York, recommends the human product Bullfrog SunBlock, and some caregivers report good results from Water Babies Stick Sunscreen. Both are widely sold.

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE)

Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that affects the entire body. Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), a less severe form of the illness, affects only the face, causing depigmentation of the nose followed by open sores and crusts. Australian Shepherds, Brittanies, Collies, German Shepherds, German Shorthaired Pointers, Shetland Sheepdogs, Siberian Huskies, and crosses of those breeds may be predisposed to the disease.

Crustiness around Dagr’s nose advanced into open sores and bleeding. The German Shorthaired Pointer was finally diagnosed with discoid lupus erythematosus. (DLE). Supplements and sunscreen keep the condition in check. Photo courtesy of Barbara Gordon.

There is no known cure for discoid lupus, which is the most common inflammatory disease of the nasal planum. In most cases, the nose becomes smooth and shiny rather than pebbly, it can lose pigment, and the skin of the nose becomes inflamed, crusty, atrophied, cracked, and ulcerated. DLE can affect the bridge of the nose, lip margins, the eye area, the inside of the ear flap, and in some cases the genitals. DLE can also cause inflammation of the third eyelid.

Because it’s aggravated by sunlight, discoid lupus erythematosus is usually worse in summer and is seen most often at high altitudes, where ultraviolet light exposure is highest. Veterinarians use oral and topical corticosteroid drugs to manage symptoms, and many recommend vitamin E as a supplement (400 to 800 IU given every 12 hours, two hours before or after meals) and essential fatty acids (both omega-3 and omega-6).

The combination of tetracycline (a broad-spectrum antibiotic) combined with niacinamide (a B-complex vitamin) has helped an estimated 50 to 70 percent of patients. More severe cases may require immunosuppressive drugs.

The application of sunscreen during periods of sun exposure is recommended (see Collie Nose, above, for more on sunscreen). Tattooing with permanent black ink can protect depigmented areas from sunlight, a procedure that is best done on young dogs with light pigment before lesions develop. Recently, reconstructive surgery has replaced ulcerated areas with normal skin.

Because this is an autoimmune condition, immune-enhancing supplements that strengthen or boost the immune system, such as echinacea, should be avoided, but immune-modulating supplements such as fish oil may help. Limiting vaccinations may also improve this condition, which is life-long despite periods of remission.
Barbara Gordon of Goffstown, New Hampshire, noticed crustiness around the nose of her German Shorthaired Pointer, Dagr (pronounced Dagger), during the summer of 2010. “We thought it might be a sunburn,” she says, “so we applied Bag Balm. Then in the fall it was still there, so we treated him for allergies with Benadryl. It started getting worse, with open sores and bleeding. The vet looked inside and couldn’t see anything, so she referred him for a rhinoscopy on February 1, 2011.”

Biopsies from the inside and outer edge of Dagr’s nose tested positive for discoid lupus erythematosus. The veterinarian recommended protecting Dagr’s nose with sunscreen and prescribed a daily treatment for the 55-pound dog of 500 mg niacin (vitamin B3), 1-1/2 teaspoons of the fish oil supplement Welactin, and 2 tablets doxycycline in the morning, followed by another 500 mg niacin and 1 doxycycline at night. To this regimen Gordon added Nupro, a supplement containing liver, kelp, and other nutrients, beginning with 1 ounce daily for a month and continuing with a maintenance dose of 1/2 ounce daily.

“I don’t know if stress aggravates it or not,” she says, “but the DLE flared up for a few days after we brought home a new puppy. He’s doing better now. His coat is awesome and his nose looks perfect.” Stress has been associated with the onset and flare-ups of lupus in people; it makes sense that the same would apply to dogs.

Pemphigus Foliaceus

One of several related skin disorders known as pemphigus complex, which develops when the body produces antibodies against the skin’s outer layer or epidermis, pemphigus foliaceus (PF) is the most common autoimmune disorder in dogs. It is also the most serious and has the highest fatality rate. Pemphigus foliaceus is both more common and more severe than discoid lupus.

The Akita, Chow Chow, Dachshund, Bearded Collie, Doberman Pinscher, Schipperke, Finnish Spitz, and Newfoundland are most commonly affected by pemphigus foliaceus, which usually develops on the head and feet before sometimes spreading to more of the body.

The initial symptom of PF is the formation of pustules (pus-filled blisters that look like pimples), which lead to severe crusting, scales, shallow ulcerations, and inflammation. Footpad overgrowth and cracking can result in lameness. A loss of pigment can change the color of the nose. Severe cases may produce fever and a loss of appetite. The blisters associated with pemphigus foliaceus are not always obvious, for they may rupture without being noticed. Chows and German Shepherds may be more prone to secondary bacterial infections.

Unfortunately, the treatment of pemphigus foliaceus isn’t always successful. Mild to moderate facial forms may be treated with tetracycline and niacinamide, similar to DLE, with about 30 percent of dogs responding. Prednisone is commonly prescribed for the life of the dog to control scabs and scaling, and it is often combined with antibiotics or immune-suppressing medications like azathioprine or chemotherapy drugs, all of which require careful monitoring.

Dogs on prednisone may drink more water than normal and can develop urinary incontinence. Because cortisone stimulates the appetite, they may experience metabolic changes, gain weight easily, and eventually develop diabetes. Secondary infections are common because open sores attract bacteria.
Promeris, a topical flea and tick control product, was recently linked to PF and will be removed from the market soon (see “Promeris Discontinued,” WDJ June 2011).

Julie Cassara of Rocklin, California, knows how complicated pemphigus can be. In 2008, Jack, her American Pit Bull Terrier/English Bulldog-mix, was 12 years old and in trouble. After being diagnosed with chronic renal failure and having a tooth extracted, Jack began limping. He soon developed crusty paw pad erosion, was diagnosed with pemphigus foliaceus, and was given prednisone, doxycycline, and daily foot baths in distilled white vinegar and water. “He reacted badly to the prednisone,” Cassara says. “His eyes had a glazed zombie look, he became extremely pushy with us as well as his sister, and he was relentless when it came to food.”

Three months later, the antifungal drug Flucanazole was added to his regimen. Because of Jack’s fragile health, Cassara worried about the effect of all these drugs on his organs, but their vet insisted this was the only way to treat PF.

Cassara soon transferred Jack’s care to Signe Beebe, DVM, a Sacramento veterinarian who co-wrote The Clinical Handbook of Chinese Veterinary Herbal Medicine and serves on the faculty of the Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine.

“Dr. Beebe stopped the doxycycline, weaned him off the prednisone, and started him on Chinese herbs and acupuncture,” says Cassara. “Jack never had another PF flare and he lived a wonderful life under Dr. Beebe’s care until the end of May 2010, a month before his 14th birthday, when his kidney failure progressed to the point where he lost interest in everything. We helped him to the bridge so he could pass away with the dignity he so deserved.”

Emmett, an Australian Shepherd belonging to Lisa Howard in Lewiston, Maine, was only 10 months old when he developed small scratches next to one of his nostrils. “It got all puffy,” she says, “and then the red puffiness moved to the top of his nose, grew larger, and developed blisters.” Punch biopsies, which remove small circles of skin, provided the pemphigus foliaceus diagnosis.

The initial symptoms of pemphigus foliaceus are the development of pustules on the head and/or feet, which lead to severe crusting and lameness. Conventional treatment failed to help this dog, Jack, but he improved with Chinese herbs and acupuncture. Photo courtesy Julie Cassera.

Prednisone cleared the condition, but symptoms returned when the dose was reduced, so it was increased again. Then Emmett swallowed some bone shards and developed bloody diarrhea, dehydration, anemia, elevated white blood cells, and a high liver count.

“The vet’s theory was that bone fragments damaged the lining of his prednisone-weakened intestines,” says Howard, “and that allowed bacteria into his bloodstream.”

Emmett spent two days in the hospital and after five days resumed his low dose of prednisone. That’s when the pemphigus erupted, covering his nose, eyelids, one ear, an elbow, both front legs, and the tip of his tail with swollen, red, blistery crusts and hair loss.

A canine dermatologist started Emmett on cyclosporine, a medication designed to suppress the immune system, and began weaning Emmett off the prednisone.

“He looks much better now,” says Howard. “All the blisters have gone except for those on his ear, which still have a way to go but are much improved. His hair has regrown and his energy is back to normal for a 19-month-old Aussie. Our goal is to get him down to cyclosporine only once a week.”
Other illnesses in the pemphigus complex are pemphigus vulgaris, the most severe form, which severely ulcerates the skin around the nose, mouth, anus, or vagina; pemphigus erythematosus, a milder form associated with Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, and German Shepherds; and pemphigus vegetans, a rare and less-severe form that produces warty growths that may ulcerate. Pemphigus erythematosus so closely resembles discoid lupus erythematosus that a biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Other Conditions
A number of other conditions can affect the nose and footpads, as well as other parts of the body.
Plastic dish dermatitis occurs when the plastic chemical p-benzylhydroquinone inhibits melanin synthesis, altering a dog’s nose and lip color. In addition to losing pigment, skin damaged by plastic can become irritated or inflamed. This dermatitis can affect any dog. Switching to glass, ceramic, or stainless steel bowls prevents this condition.
Vitamin A-responsive dermatosis is a rare disease seen primarily in Cocker Spaniels and reported in Labrador Retrievers, Miniature Schnauzers, and Shar-Pei. Rather than a nutritional deficiency, this appears to be a vitamin A deficiency in the skin caused by problems with the epidermis. Scaling, a dry coat, prominent pus-filled bumps, hair loss, crusts, and waxy ears are common symptoms. The diagnosis is confirmed by a positive response to vitamin A supplementation (usually in the range of 8,000 to 20,000 IU twice daily), which must be continued for life.

Zinc-responsive skin disease, which primarily affects 1- to 3-year-old Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, is caused by a problem with zinc absorption. Zinc supplementation is required for these dogs for life. This disorder can also be caused by diets that are high in plant phytates or calcium, which bind zinc in the digestive tract, or by zinc-deficient commercial or home-prepared diets, or by diets that are over-supplemented with vitamins and minerals, especially calcium. Great Danes, Doberman Pinschers, Beagles, German Shorthaired Pointers, Labrador Retrievers, and Rhodesian Ridgebacks are susceptible to these nutritional problems, and their symptoms usually resolve within two to six weeks of dietary correction.

Commonly affected areas include mucocutaneous junctions (where smooth skin meets haired skin, such as around the eyes and mouth), as well as the chin, ears, foot pads, genitals, and pressure points. The coat is often dry and dull. Water soaks and anti-dandruff shampoos can loosen and remove the scaling and crusting.

Nasal keratosis associated with xeromycteria results from damage to (or the absence of) the nasal gland that keeps the nasal planum moist. Without it, the nose becomes dry and may be crusty at the tip. This condition can be linked to middle ear infections and may resolve with treatment. It can also be associated with dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and benefit from pilocarpine therapy. Topical moisturizers such as those recommended for nasal keratosis can help alleviate symptoms.

Nasal parakeratosis of Labrador Retrievers, a rare, hereditary condition, occurs in puppies (males more than females) with lesions on the nose or paw pads developing between six months and one year of age. Topical vitamin E, petrolatum (petroleum jelly), and propylene glycol help repair the lesions.

When Emma, a young French Bulldog, developed allergies, her main symptom was red, raw, itchy feet. Homeopathic treatments and a change of diet successfully treated the condition. Photo courtesy of Martha Sloane.

Proliferative arteritis is a rare, inherited vascular disease affecting the nasal philtrum, the vertical groove between a dog’s nostrils. Large dogs such as St. Bernards, Giant Schnauzers, and Newfoundlands between three and six years of age may be predisposed to this condition, which causes ulceration and hemorrhage. The V-shaped sore doesn’t usually become painful or infected, and symptoms may wax and wane. Proliferative arteritis, a lifelong condition, is often treated with glucocorticoids, tetracycline, niacinamide, and fish oil.

Familial paw pad hyperkeratosis, which is also rare, affects some lines of French Mastiffs and Irish Terriers and is also seen in Kerry Blue Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and mixed breeds. Lesions develop in very young puppies, before six months of age, and affect all of the paw pads dramatically. Thickened skin that resembles horns, fast-growing nails, fissures, splits in the skin, and secondary infections can lead to lameness. This condition may be a subgroup of ichthyosis, uncommon skin disorders that cause excessive dry surface scales due to abnormal epidermal metabolism or differentiation.
Hard pad disease, which develops two weeks after a dog contracts an active distemper infection, causes thick, hornlike callusing of the nose and paw pads. This symptom usually resolves when the dog recovers from distemper.

Leishmaniasis, a worldwide zoonotic disease that arrived recently in North America, causes lesions on paw pads and other body areas. Foxhounds are most associated with leishmaniasis, but other breeds are now affected. Nearly all infected dogs develop dry, hairless skin lesions that begin around the head or paw pads before spreading.

Allergies can affect a dog’s paw pads. Emma, Martha Sloane’s French Bulldog, was four years old and living in Upper Grandview, New York, when she began to itch all over. Sloane took Emma to veterinary homeopath Stacey Hershman, DVM, of Hastings-on-Hudson, New York. Emma’s feet were so red,  itchy, and painful that she was barely able to walk.

In homeopathy, treatment depends on the patient’s individual symptoms, so there is no standard treatment for any of the conditions listed here. (See “How Homeopathy Works for Your Dog,” WDJ December 2007.) Emma was treated with nutrition and a series of homeopathic remedies, and within two months her feet – and the rest of her – were completely free from allergy symptoms.

Opportunistic infections, including bacterial, yeast, and fungal infections, are a problem whenever the skin cracks or is injured. The fungal condition aspergillosis can erode nasal passages, reshaping them so the dog develops chronic nasal discharge and in some cases bleeding. Malessezia, a form of yeast that commonly causes skin infections, can produce allergy symptoms, severe itching, hair loss, and crusty skin. Bacterial infections can produce skin lesions, pustules, hair loss, itching, and dried discharge. The treatment of secondary infections depends on their correct diagnosis.

What about garden-variety tender feet? Hunting dogs, sled dogs, and other active dogs can develop sore, cut, abraded, or injured paw pads. Blends of herbs, balsams, and natural waxes can help toughen the skin to help prevent minor injuries or protect pads from winter salt and chemicals, ice build-up, snowballing, summer sand irritation, hot pavement, and rough terrain. Popular remedies include Tuf-Foot and Musher’s Secret.

Next month, we’ll publish an article on one more condition that affects dogs’ toenails: Symmetrical Lupoid Onychodystrophy.

Freelance writer CJ Puotinen lives in Montana. She is the author of The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care and other books and a frequent contributor to WDJ.
Mary Straus is the owner of the DogAware.com website.

© 2011 Belvoir Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved.

The four boys pictured here are with us in our hearts and we will miss them always.

CH. Jackpot! Money Money Money CGC, ROM (dark brindle looking up)
CH. Jackpot! EZ Keeper Pettybull (on sofa)
CH. Meneer Jackpot du Petit Fripon (EZ Boy)
Seabrooks’ Deuce’s Wild Jackpot! (Newfie)

These are just a few of the glowing testimonials we have received this summer alone. I am looking for that folder where I have lots more…somewhere around here…hmmm….

Hi Kathy — your “clearing spray” is an absolute miracle. We have 3 very hyper pugs and one, in particular, is a real drama queen (actually “king”, since it’s a male dog) and regularly has “fits”. He had one today where he panted, cried, bit at his back leg and threw himself at me regularly. He’s been to about 6 different doctors to diagnose the cause of these ‘fits’ and has had a million evaluations and tests. One doctor even tell us they were seizures and drugged him into a stupor.

Today, he got himself whipped into a frenzy and I was getting close to taking him to the E.R. (when he has these on the weekend we have to go to the pet E.R. and he gets a knock-out shot). Then I remembered your spray had arrived yesterday. I sprayed it over his head for a second or two and he sniffed, looked at me quizzically, and stopped panting. Then he put his head down and within 2 minutes he had stopped panting and within 5 minutes he was asleep. He woke once with a little cry … looking around to make sure I was there and I sprayed once more over his head. He went back to sleep and when he woke up an hour later he was absolutely fine! The crisis passed and we had a great day after that. THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU. Your spray is an absolute miracle. We’ve tried Bach’s Flower Essences before on him but they were only marginally effective. But your product is amazing.”

Yes, I cried like a baby when I received this amazing email. It means so much to me to know that this product has helped this dear Pug have a better life. I am honored and touched.

I just wanted to say Thank You so much for such great products!

My wife placed an order with you and we received it on Tuesday. We appreciate the fast delivery and look forward to using your product which our Vet recommended for our beagle’s neck rash. He raises bulldogs and has a lot of experience with your product.

We were delighted to receive the cards along with the butter. We were also impressed with the presentation and packaging. It’s a delight to receive the order in such regal fashion. Thanks again. Look forward to more orders on line.

Regards
Michael and Pamela

Hi Kathy,
I wanted to tell you that I own 4 Chins and they had the worst nose crust until I tried your sample size of nose butter. It works so well and I need more so I’m buying the larger size today. You asked what photo to put on the cap and all I can say is that my Chins are black and white so maybe the Pug would be close enough. I wish you had Japanese Chins but as long as the nose butter is the same it doesn’t matter.

Thank you for such a wonderful product !
L. P.

Love this stuff!
Etsy Buyer C.C. 9.02.2010

great product and fast shipping.
dkd 9.02.2010 Bulldog Nose Butter for Dry, Crusty, Yukky Noses 1 oz.

Perfect for my Frenchie’s nose! Super fast shipment. Thank you so much!
ing. 9.02.2010 French Bulldog Nose Butter 1 ounce

Thanks for the nose butter! Sooooo much healthier and safer than using Vasoline on my Frenchie’s sweet little nose!
FrenchieMom 8.27.2010 French Bulldog Nose Butter 1 ounce

Awesome Product and fast shipping. Love the little tin!
t.s. 8.26.2010 Bulldog Nose Butter for Dry, Crusty, Yukky Noses 1 oz.

Cute container … quick shipping. Thanks!
2B2 8.14.2010 Bulldog Nose Butter for Dry, Crusty, Yukky Noses 1 oz.

Thank you, great stuff!
frenchbulldogw. 8.06.2010 French Bulldog Nose Butter 1 ounce

I’m really impressed with this product! I never thought such a thing was available. Just started using it and I’m sure it’s just what the doctor ordered! Thank you! It came so fast too!
LP 8.03.2010 Boston Terrier Nose Butter for Dry, Crusty, Yukky Noses 1 oz.

Great product, nicely packaged. My niece already tried it on her pug’s nose and loves it.
s.k. 7.20.2010 Pug Nose Butter 4 ounce

Thank you! My Frenchie loves it.
GBD 7.16.2010 French Bulldog Nose Butter 1 ounce

Love it!
bbc 7.15.2010 Pug Nose Butter 4 ounce

Great stuff! Thanks for the fast shipping too!
glb 7.15.2010 French Bulldog Nose Butter 1 ounce

Works great. Received in timely manner.
ccs 7.06.2010 French Bulldog Nose Butter 1 ounce

Good transaction: quick delivery & the nose butter was exactly as promised. Thanks so much!
MrsB. 7.01.2010 French Bulldog Nose Butter 4 ounce

Thanks. Works well and the dogs love it.
EV 7.01.2010 French Bulldog Nose Butter 1 ounce

No more yukky noses here. Clean, smooth, and easy to apply. Highly recommend.
bwg 6.16.2010 Bulldog Nose Butter for Dry, Crusty, Yukky Noses 1 oz.

super stuff! makes their nose so soft. fast ship, great prices. Also other wonderful stuff.
m.r. 6.15.2010 French Bulldog Nose Butter 2 ounce

Hank looks better already!
f.t. 6.12.2010 Bulldog Nose Butter for Dry, Crusty, Yukky Noses 1 oz.

my bully butter arrived today..yay, i can’t wait for a soft little nose! thank you , I love the tin too! take care,
t.m.

From LiveStrong: Overview of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils, in a number of ways, to promote healing, relaxation and feelings of well-being in the recipient. The most common form is massage, where two or three essential oils are combined with a carrier oil and applied to the skin. Essential oils have many healing properties and can encourage healing and relieve pain and discomfort, however, aromatherapy should never be used as a substitute for medical care.
Aromatherapy works in two ways: the oils are absorbed through the skin and inhaled through the nose. According to the International Federation of Aromatherapists, “Aromatic molecules are inhaled through the nose and transmitted via the Olfactory Bulb to the Limbic System. This is the part of the Brain which influences the nervous and hormonal systems, and which is connected to higher functions such as memory and emotional behaviour.”

The most effective use of the oils is through massage, when the oils are absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin, enhancing healing and relaxation throughout the body.

Essential oils work best together when mixed in a synergistic blend. The website Esoteric Oils defines the term “synergistic” as: “Agents working together and in harmony to produce an effect greater than the sum of the two separate agents.” For example, blending Lavender and Ylang Ylang could be more effective in balancing blood pressure than either of the oils used on their own.

There are a number of ways in which aromatherapy oils can be employed, though all embrace the sense of smell. Three or four drops of oil added to a warm bath or to a vaporizer can produce feelings of relaxation and well-being. Inhalation, such as adding two or three drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water and inhaling for 10 minutes, is very helpful in clearing a stuffy, blocked up nose or easing a cough.

The main benefit of aromatheraphy is relaxation and the reduction of tension in the skin and muscles, especially when associated with massage. The oils can also help to prevent ill health and disease, give support to the system when unwell, and aid recovery. When you are well, regular aromatherapy sessions help to maintain a state of health and well-being.

Aromatherapy can also help to maintain both emotional and psychological health. Lavender and rose oils are uplifting and lighten your mood, while citrus oils help to ease depression. Lavender is also calming, as is chamomile. Jennie Harding states in “The Essential Oils Handbook”: “All essential oil aromas reconnect us with Nature and an inherent state of relaxation that can simultaneously balance and uplift our mood.

You are probably saying…”Chakras, my dog?” and yes, they DO have energy centers and why not? They are energetic beings! I will share a brief overview of the human Chakra system, but once again, there are MANY web sites and books on this subject.

CHAKRAS Chakra is a Sanskrit word meaning wheel. They are centers of whirling energy, located along the center of the body. There are seven Chakras that govern our psychological properties. The three Chakras located on the lower part of the body are our basic survival needs, the four above are more psychological.

The chakras can have various levels of activity. When they’re open, balanced or aligned the Chakras are considered working as they should. Ideally, all chakras would be balanced. Instincts would work with our feelings and thinking. However, this is usually not the case. Some chakras are not open enough (being under-active), and to compensate, other chakras are over-active. The ideal state is where the chakras are completely balanced. This is as true for your dogs as it is for you! Especially since they pick up and take on so many of our emotions.

There are a lot of techniques to balance the chakras. It makes no sense to try to make over-active chakras less active, as they are compensating for other chakras. To restore the compensation they would become over-active again immediately. The chakras they are compensating for must be opened to balance things.

Most agree that there are seven major Chakras and for simplicity’s sake, we will work with that system for now for our dogs. I do feel that additional Chakras are located in their paws and will share information as I gather it. I also

Root Chakra – Color: red Stone/Crystal: Carnelian, red jasper, garnet, ruby (for energy) and obsidian, hematite, jet (for grounding) or clear quartz. The Root Chakra is about being physically there and feeling at home in situations. If it is open and balanced, your dog probably feels grounded, stable and secure and does not distrust people. They are confident and feel they have sufficient territory. If your dog tends to be fearful or nervous, their Root chakra is probably under-active. If this chakra is over-active your dog may be very greedy, a toy or food bowl guarder, possibly obsessed with being secure and resistant change.

Sacral Chakra- Color: Orange Stone/Crystal: Citrine, carnelian, tiger’s eye, clear quartz. The Sacral Chakra is about feelings and sexuality. When it is open and balanced, your dog’s feelings flow freely, and are expressed without being overemotional or frantic. They are open to affection and can be loving and lively. If your dog tends to be stiff and unemotional or guarded, the Sacral chakra is under-active If this chakra is over-active, your dog may tend to be emotional all the time. They will be very emotionally attached to people and may have separation anxiety.

Solar Plexus Chakra – Color: Yellow Stone/Crystal: Citrine, yellow topaz, yellow amber or clear quartz. The Solar Plexus Chakra is about your dog asserting themselves in a group. When it is open, you feel in control and you have sufficient self esteem. When the Solar Plexus chakra is under-active, your dog may be passive and timid. If this chakra is over-active, your dog may be domineering and probably even aggressive.

Heart Chakra – Color: Green for Healing or Rose Pink for Love Stone/Crystal: Malachite, emerald, rose quartz, watermelon tourmaline, rhodochrosite or clear quartz The Heart chakra is about love, kindness and affection. When it is open and balanced, your dog is compassionate, loving and friendly, and you work at harmonious relationships. When your Heart chakra is under-active, your dog may be fearful, cold and distant.I personally do not feel there are over-active Heart Chakras

Throat Chakra: Color: Clear Blue Stone/Crystal: Turquoise, lapis lazuli, azurite, aquamarine, clear quartz. The Throat chakra is about self-expression and talking. When it is open and balanced, your dog will have no problems expressing herself and being understood. When this chakra is under-active, your dog may be introverted and shy. If this chakra is over-active, your dog will tend to bark or vocalize too much, usually to domineer and manipulate.

Third Eye Chakra - Color: Indigo Stone/Crystal: Sapphire, tourmaline, sapphire, sodalite, azurite and clear quartz. The Third Eye chakra is about insight and visualisation. When it is open and balanced, your dog will be intuitive and well balanced between the world of people and that of dogs. If it is under-active, your dog will not be not very good at thinking for herself, and you may tend to rely on you too much and might even get confused easily. If this chakra is over-active, your dog may live in a world of fantasy and only play.

Crown Chakra – Color: Violet or white Stone/Crystal: Amethyst, moonstone, sugilite, sodialite, fluorite, clear quartz. The Crown chakra is about wisdom and being one with the world. When this chakra is open and balanced, your dog is quite aware of the world and her place in it. If it is under-active, your dog may be one of those that just does not fit in. If this chakra is over-active, your dog may worry too much and not take care of her own needs.

Balancing Your Dog’s Chakras

What are you supposed to do NOW? Your dog may fit some of the patterns discussed above and you want your beloved one to be BALANCED! There are a few things you can do quite easily…

Purchase a Blissful Dog Chakra Kit and place ir near your dog’s bed, on top of her crate or wherever it will be close. Of course, do NOT let her chew on it or swallow the stones, that would be dangerous and silly to boot!

I Reiki charge every single stone and item in the Chakra Kit, just to ensure it has all the energy it should!

Use The Blissful Dog Vibrational Essence that corresponds to the issues you are working on. I swear by them and know you will achieve quicker results.

You can also spend more time alone, in a quiet space with your dog. Pet them, even a brief massage and just concentrate on THEM for 10-15 minutes a day. This can be pretty miraculous in itself…the intention is the focus, isn’t it?

This is NOT a website to try and convince you to feed your dog raw Wildebeest or never to give any shots, there are plenty of chat lists and websites for all of that! What I do want to do is share positive new ideas as I continue this exciting adventure of learning.

Here is a quick definition of some of the main modalities used in caring for pets. As my area of knowledge is dogs, I do not feel comfortable in giving advice on cats, PLEASE refer to a feline website.

Also, this information is in NO WAY intended to take the place of regular veterinarian care. Please, seek the advice of a veterinarian. This is an adjunct to regular health care, not in place of.

Vibrational & Flower Essences (Flower, Gem and Environmental Essences) – Essences are high-frequency electrical emissions that have the vibrational patterns of whatever they are made from. This is covered more in the Essences section. Most of us have heard of the renowned Rescue Remedy, well, my The Blissful Dog line of Vibrational Essences was created using the same principles.

Aromatherapy – Uses essential oils that have been distilled from flowers, roots, etc. to help in affect emotional and physical issues. I have discovered YOUNG LIVING OILS and am just thrilled with the results. Click here to go directly to more info on YOUNG LIVING OILS!

Reiki/Energy Healing (Lightarian®, Reiki, Chios Energy Healing, Healing Touch, Therapeutic Touch, Quigong, etc.) These modalities promote physical healing, mental sharpness, and relaxation. Exact procedures may vary from one technique to the next, but all strive to balance the flow of energy/universal life force/Chi by aligning the energy centers called chakras. YES, dogs have Chakras and those will be outlined in that section. I am a Reiki Master and personally Reiki charge every single item associated with my line of products.

Biofeedback: My dear friend, Kelly MacLaughlin is a Biofeedback Expert, as a Certified Biofeedback Specialist dedicated to the health of your pet, she is THE go-to-gal for all things Biofeedback. I have been amazed at the wondrous results achieved with this modality, both on me and my animals (yes, Nyker and the alpacas benefit also!). Her site is Pawsitive Healing (love the name).

Crystal Therapy – In using Crystal Therapy it is felt crystals have metaphysical properties that come from their shape or formation, as well as from the type of crystal it is. Crystals and gemstones are used in essences, elixers and “laid-on” the patient or in grids. This area is fun and fascinating to me, so expect to see a lot more on crystals SOON.

Acupressure – Traditional Chinese medicine that uses a firm, yet light touch to balance the flow of energy (Qi or Chi).

Acupuncture – Traditional Chinese medicine that uses needles to activate a meridian system in the body.

Massage Therapy – The manipulation of muscle, skin and soft tissue to help an animal relax, for pain relief or more flexibility.

Homeopathy – Is “like cures like” and was developed in the late 1700s by Dr. A. Hahnemann. The underlying concept is that substances which cause certain symptoms in a healthy animal can cure the same symptoms in one that is sick.

Herbal Therapy – Uses plants, herbs, roots, barks, berries, flowers to be used as a preservative, to treat symptoms or illness. Many Chinese herb are now widely used on our pets.

Here is a little bit of info on Steve, me and all of our critters. First, a bit about US. I grew up in Mississippi, moved to Dallas after graduating from college and had a blast working in the fashion and then the pet industry. About 14-15  years ago, I took a position in St. Paul as an apprentice graphic designer.

Literally a week after I moved to St. Paul, I met Steve and that was that! I was smitten. I wanted to get married on the second date, he wanted to wait…and wait…and wait, so we finally got married in 2001 (five years after we met). Then Steve decided he wanted to buy a fishing resort and here we are at Dancing Bear Resort! For almost twenty years I bred and showed purebred dogs (Chinese Shar-Peis and then French Bulldogs). Over time I bred many Number One dogs, Top Ten French Bulldogs, Best in Show winners and more under the Jackpot! French Bulldog kennel name. Actually, BOTH of Martha Stewart’s French Bulldogs were bred, born and raised here at Jackpot! Francesca’s mom is Favor and dad is Keeper (may be RIP, I miss Keeper). But over the course of the last couple of years I have just lost the “fire in my belly” for competition, so the Frenchies are our pets now, with no job to do but entertain us all. We still have three Frenchie gremlins and we will never be without a French Bulldog…that is for sure!

We also have  Zoe, our Great Pyrenees and Gio, our English Toy Spaniel. And there is Nyker, the mini-horse who is our #1 apple eater. Of course, we cannot forget Kundun, my pet YAK, yes, a yak! He is two now and lots bigger than in the picture above. We still have three alpacas, just for fun. The chickens, guinea hens and our turkeys round out the bunch.

I have always had a bit of a spiritual, holistic, ok “different” way of looking at things. So, I have enjoyed using more holistic, natural products on us and our animals. I had rubbed some shea butter onto my dry, winter brutalized Minnesota winter legs one day and the Frenches kept trying to lick them…it was creepy (but also nice…hmmmm?). The idea popped into my head that they LIKED the shea butter, so why not make something healthy to moisturize their noses with! My EUREKA moment…not quite like discovering the Earth was round or whatever that was Archimedes did…but it worked for ME! Thus began the tale (tail?) of all the various Nose Butters.