December 2025 Pawsitively Pets issue to publish online | Page 15

400 Fox Street, Avis • 570-753-5887 / www. smilingsammys. com Ask the Groomer...

Cindy ' s Smiling Sammy Boarding & Grooming, Inc.

BOOK NOW FOR SPRING!
Call us to come and take a tour through our boarding facilities!
• State-of-the-Art Boarding Facilities for Dogs and Cats
• Blankets and Toys provided( or bring your own)
• Climate-Controlled Kennels- fully heated or air-conditioned
• Long-term or short-term boarding
• Doggie Day Care( complete with playroom, cots, toys, & TV)
• Puppy Socialization
• Grooming of small to extra large breeds, including show dogs
• New puppy customers get a free nail clipping and toy
400 Fox Street, Avis • 570-753-5887 / www. smilingsammys. com Ask the Groomer...
Question: " Is it safe to dye my dog ' s fur? I ' d like her to look festive for the holidays!"
Answer: It can be dangerous to dye your dog’ s hair, depending on what you use, how it’ s applied, and the dog’ s health and temperament. Human hair dye contains chemicals like ammonia, peroxide, and p-phenylenediamine( PPD), which are toxic to dogs. Dogs can absorb chemicals through their skin or ingest them when licking their fur. Even“ pet-safe” dyes can trigger itching, redness, swelling, or burns, especially on sensitive skin( ears, belly, around eyes). Dogs often find the dyeing process stressful- the smell, restraint, and bathing can cause anxiety. If your dog licks its fur afterward, it may swallow small amounts of dye, which can upset the stomach or worse. If it’ s purely decorative( e. g., for a photo or holiday), follow these safer alternatives: Use only pet-specific, FDA-approved dyes designed for animals( available from reputable brands). Spot test first on a small patch of fur to check for reactions. Avoid sensitive areas like the face, genitals, and paws. Never use permanent or human hair dye on your pets. Consult your vet before applying anything, especially if your dog has skin issues or allergies. Better Alternatives: Use temporary color sprays or pet-safe chalks that wash out easily. Costumes, sweaters, or accessories( like bandanas or colored harnesses) are much safer ways to decorate your dog, and there is such a great variety available!
Just fill in the entry form below and mail to:
Paws Pets P. O. Box 99 Avis, PA 17721
Entry Deadline 12 / 22 / 25.
WIN A SNUGAROOZ HOLIDAY PET TOY!
Name: __________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________ City / State / Zip: ____________________________________________ Phone: __________________________________________________ Email: __________________________________________________
Pawsitively Pets-- December
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