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Hydration Powders & Drinks - What are the benefits?

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 20:25:16 GMT

I have plethora of hydration powders and drinks at home, in the salon, in the car for when at agility competitions and on dog walks but why ....

Why Hydration Powders and Drinks Can Benefit Your Dog

Keeping your dog properly hydrated is one of the most important aspects of maintaining their overall health and wellbeing. While fresh, clean water should always be your dog's primary source of hydration, hydration powders and electrolyte drinks can provide additional support during times when your dog needs it most.

What Are Hydration Powders and Drinks?

Hydration powders and electrolyte drinks are specially formulated products designed to help replenish fluids, minerals, and electrolytes that dogs may lose through exercise, hot weather, stress, illness, or recovery from medical procedures. These products typically contain key electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which help support normal bodily functions.

Key Benefits of Hydration Supplements for Dogs

1. Promotes Faster Rehydration

When dogs become dehydrated, they lose both water and essential electrolytes. Hydration supplements help replace these lost fluids and minerals, supporting quicker recovery and helping your dog regain normal hydration levels.

2. Supports Active and Sporting Dogs

Dogs that participate in agility training, long hikes, sporting events, or vigorous play can lose fluids through panting and exertion. Electrolyte-enhanced drinks can help support hydration and recovery after intense physical activity.

3. Helps During Hot Weather

Hot temperatures can increase the risk of dehydration and heat stress. Hydration drinks may provide additional support during summer months, especially for breeds that are more sensitive to heat.

4. Assists Recovery During Illness

Vomiting, diarrhoea, and certain illnesses can cause dogs to lose significant amounts of fluids and electrolytes. Rehydration products are often used to help support oral hydration during recovery and encourage fluid intake.

5. Encourages Picky Dogs to Drink More

Many hydration drinks are formulated with appealing flavours that can tempt even the fussiest dogs to drink more. Improved hydration can be especially important during warmer weather, after exercise, or when travelling.

6. Goat's Milk: A Tasty Hydration Booster

For dogs that turn their noses up at plain water, goat's milk can be an excellent way to increase fluid intake. Many dogs find the rich, creamy taste irresistible, making it a popular option for picky drinkers. Goat's milk can be offered on its own, poured over food, frozen into treats, or mixed with water to create a more enticing drink. In addition to helping with hydration, goat's milk contains naturally occurring nutrients that can complement a balanced diet.

7. Supports Normal Muscle and Nerve Function

Electrolytes play a crucial role in muscle contractions, nerve signalling, and fluid balance. Maintaining healthy electrolyte levels helps support your dog's overall physical performance and wellbeing.

Easy Homemade Hydration Drink Recipes for Dogs

If you'd prefer a natural, homemade alternative, these simple recipes can help encourage your dog to drink more while adding extra flavour and nutrients.

Chicken Broth Hydration Drink

Ingredients:

500ml water
2 tablespoons low-sodium chicken broth (dog-safe, no onion or garlic)

Method:

Mix the broth into the water.
Serve fresh or chilled.
Store unused portions in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Goat's Milk Hydration Mix

Ingredients:

1 part goat's milk
2 parts water

Method:

Mix well and serve in your dog's water bowl.
Gradually increase dilution if your dog is new to goat's milk.
Perfect for encouraging picky drinkers.

Frozen Summer Hydration Cubes

Ingredients:

250ml water
100ml goat's milk or low-sodium bone broth

Method:

Mix ingredients together.
Pour into ice cube trays.
Freeze and offer as a cooling treat during warm weather.

Bone Broth Recovery Drink

Ingredients:

250ml dog-safe bone broth
250ml water

Method:

Combine equal parts broth and water.
Serve warm or cool.
Ideal after exercise or during recovery periods.

A Word of Caution

Hydration supplements should complement, not replace, fresh drinking water. Most healthy dogs meet their hydration needs through regular access to clean water and a balanced diet. When making homemade hydration drinks, always avoid ingredients that are toxic to dogs, including onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, xylitol, and excessive salt. If your dog shows signs of serious dehydration, such as lethargy, dry gums, weakness, sunken eyes, or ongoing vomiting and diarrhoea, seek veterinary advice immediately.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose a hydration powder, electrolyte drink, bone broth, goat's milk, or a homemade hydration recipe, the goal is the same: helping your dog stay hydrated and healthy. These options can be especially useful during hot weather, after exercise, during recovery, or for dogs that need a little extra encouragement to drink. A well-hydrated dog is a happier, healthier, and more energetic companion, and sometimes something as simple as a tasty hydration boost can make all the difference.

The Great Dog Poo Bag Dilemma

Sat, 08 Aug 2026 21:27:02 GMT

Why I Changed My Mind

For years, I thought I was doing the right thing by buying biodegradable dog poo bags made from corn starch. Like many environmentally conscious dog owners, I assumed "biodegradable" automatically meant better for the planet. Then I had a conversation with a warden at my local nature reserve that completely changed my perspective.

When cleaning up after our dogs, most of us want to minimise our environmental impact. It seems logical a biodegradable bag would be the best choice. After all, if the bag breaks down naturally, that must be better than using conventional plastic, right? The reality, however, can be more complicated.

The Warden explained many biodegradable and compostable dog poo bags only break down properly under specific industrial composting conditions. When they end up in landfill, or worse, are discarded in natural environments, they may not decompose as effectively as consumers expect. In some cases, they can also contaminate recycling or waste streams if disposed of incorrectly.

Perhaps most importantly, dog waste itself is not something that should be composted in standard composting systems due to the bacteria and parasites it can contain.

Following that conversation, I decided to switch to dog poo bags made from recycled materials. Whilst they are not recyclable after use, they do give a second life to plastic that has already been produced.

This approach focuses on reducing the demand for virgin plastic rather than relying on claims of biodegradability. The bags are strong, reliable and, importantly, make use of materials that might otherwise become waste.

The truth is there is currently no perfect dog poo bag. Every option has environmental trade-offs.

Virgin plastic bags require new raw materials.
Biodegradable bags may not break down as expected in real-world conditions.
Compostable bags often need specialist facilities.
Recycled plastic bags still ultimately become waste after use.

For me, using bags made from recycled materials feels like the most honest and practical choice. I'm making use of existing resources while ensuring that my dog's waste is disposed of responsibly.

The biggest environmental win is not necessarily choosing the bag with the most appealing marketing claims. It's using whatever bag you choose correctly:

Always pick up after your dog.
Dispose of used bags in the appropriate waste bins.
Never leave bagged dog waste hanging in trees or beside paths with the intention of collecting it later.
Consider the full lifecycle of the product, not just the claims on the packaging.

My conversation with the nature reserve warden was a useful reminder that environmental decisions are often more nuanced than they first appear. Sometimes the greener choice isn't the one with the greenest label.

As dog owners, we all want to do the right thing. The key is staying informed, being willing to learn, and recognising responsible disposal matters just as much as the type of bag we choose.

First Aid Kits

Sat, 08 Aug 2026 18:36:52 GMT

How many dog first aid kits do you have? ��

I actually have three, although each contains a different level of kit depending on where it's kept. One stays at home, one lives in the car, and another comes with me on walks.

As a minimum on a walk I always like to have a few essentials close at hand:

Vet wrap
A couple of tampons (surprisingly effective for helping control bleeding)
Antiseptic spray or cream, such as Leucillin or Sudocrem
Saline solution
Antihistamine
Antiseptic wipes
Iodine sticks for cleaning wounds
Blood-stop swabs to help manage minor bleeding
Sachet of canine electrolyte solution or rehydration powder

The home kit is naturally the most comprehensive, with enough to deal with minor cuts, grazes, stings, torn nails, and other everyday mishaps until we can get proper veterinary advice if needed.

Between the home kit, the car kit, the walking kit, and the extra supplies for trips away, I sometimes think my dog is better prepared for emergencies than I am. Add in probiotic paste for digestive upsets, salt crystals for mixing up larger volumes of saline, spare leads, towels, water bowls, and treats, it's a wonder there's any room left in the car.

But I'd rather carry it and never need it than find myself wishing I'd packed it when something goes wrong. After all, our dogs have a habit of seeking out trouble when we're least expecting it! �� Being prepared doesn't mean expecting the worst. It simply means you can act quickly and confidently if your dog gets into trouble.

How many first aid kits do you have for your dog, and what are the items you wouldn't be without? ��

It started with a dog, supported by a lion & Beetle

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 17:43:42 GMT

Recently, I’ve groomed a couple of dogs who are being fostered due to their owners being unwell in hospital or in respite care. Both are have come about via The Cinnamon Trust (Registered Charity, No. 1134680).

The Cinnamon Trust is a charity based in Cornwall who have a nationwide network of volunteers to help the elderly and infirm with their pets; assisting with the animal's exercise or husbandry, trips to the vets (& dog groomers) or temporary foster care. They maintain a Pet Friendly Care Home Register which details care and retirement residences that accept pets and also have their own home sanctuaries if there are no other options.

Before I joined the realms of dog ownership, I volunteered for them as a dog walker at the weekends. I walked a variety of breeds; German Shepherd, Greyhound and Cocker Spaniels. Some were only for a short period of time but others continued for a number of years. I believe the owners were extremely grateful their dogs were being taken out, but also the chance for a chat with a different face each week.

I notice the Charity are looking for volunteers, although not specifically in the south east. If you, or know of a family member, friend or colleague who may be interested in volunteering, follow this link . It my be opportunities are not immediately available but good things come to those who wait!

NB - If you're wondering what's behind the Title; the Charity was named in memory of the founder's (Mrs Averil Jarvis) pet dog - Cinnamon and the Patrons are Virginia McKenna (an actor known for her role in Born Free) and Sir Paul McCartney (a member of the Beetles).

Decisions, decisions ... action

Wed, 13 May 2020 19:07:43 GMT

Open for business but not as we know it!

Back in the middle of March, after a lot of thinking and reading conflicting information from Government bodies and those in the industry, I made the tough decision to close and help "flatten the curve".

Once again in the middle of this month, I find myself doing a lot of thinking and reading conflicting information from Government bodies and those in the industry. This time I made the decision to reopen and help make your dogs a little more comfortable, be able to see or touch up home grooms!

Whilst I do believe the risk of catching Covid-19 is fairly low as it is known canines can not be infected by the virus, they can however be a mechanism of transfer via their fur.

In order to reopen, I've put in place a few extra hygiene measures for both my safety and yours.

I am trialling a one-way system; arrivals via the external door and collections through Lillico store. Hopefully this will reduce the chance of you crossing paths as one dog arrives / leaves.
I have appropriate PPE (gloves, face mask, apron) to prevent the virus, should it be present, transferring to me.
There will be a crate at the 'entrance' for you to put your dog(s) in and remove harnesses and leads. Please keep their collar on and I will put it through my UV steriliser. I will spray your dog with Leucillin and then retrieve them using my slip lead and carry out a quick health and coat check prior to you leaving. Hopefully this will reduce the chance of you and I falling within the required 2m social distance.
I will not ask you to sign the standard Declaration Form. For existing clients, I will trust your previous signature still applies and for new clients, I will seek your verbal agreement.
As soon as possible, I will bathe your dog to wash away any virus should it be present and then continue the groom as usual.
On finishing the groom, I will place your dog in a crate at the 'collection point' where you can greet them and fit their harnesses and leads. I will have given you a collection time and would appreciate if you can be prompt.
I would prefer if payment be made using Contactless but cash is acceptable.
Of course, future appointments can be made but I will confirm by phone / text rather than hand you a business card.
Between each groom, I will be cleaning the crates, bathing area, floor and the grooming table using a Safe4 disinfectant that has been certified to kill Covid-19. I will also be steriliser the equipment, including leads.

Unfortunately, with extra measures being taken, and considerably more hair growth, the grooms will take me longer. I will be unable to make as many appointments in one day as I had done previously. I appreciate your support and patience and hope you can bear with me a little longer whilst I reschedule you all back in. I do have a list I'm working through of those who were postponed plus those of who have made contact since. Along with the length of time since the last groom, I am also using a 'Condition of Dog' rating (see below).

I look forward to being in contact soon and hope to bring a smile to your face when you see your #FreshlyCoiffedCanine.

Don't be a statistic

Sat, 03 Aug 2019 18:30:48 GMT

Microchips

Last weekend, I was renewing my emergency dog first aid certificate. To help familiarise ourselves in finding the femoral artery, Chris the instructor for Dog First Aid Kent had brought along a willing volunteer, his rescue dog - Cody. In conversation, he mentioned the centre from where he’d obtained her from had said approx. 30% of dogs that pass thru Kent re-homing centres could be returned to their owners if microchip details were up-to-date. That is a staggering statistic.

Since 6th April 2016, it is a legal requirement for your dog to be microchipped however, the registered contact details could be that of the breeder, a previous owner, the rescue centre or of course there may not be a chip at all.

On collecting your dog, the microchip details should be provided but that may not always be the case. If you don’t know whether your dog has a microchip and / or the microchip number, a vet, dog warden or rescue centre would be happy to run a scanner over them.

If you don’t know which database the number is registered to – use the Check-a-chip website which should provide you with a contact number. I found the Government website to be very helpful too. It provides a list of the recognised databases that meet their criteria.

If you dog isn’t microchipped - The Dogs Trust offer a free service at their rehoming centres (excluding Basildon), although you may need to make an appointment.

In America, Thursday 15th August is being recognised as National Check the Chip Day. However, don’t wait until then, check the chip today !

PS - It is also a legal requirement for your dog, whilst in a public place, to wear a collar which must bear the owner’s name and address, via a tag if necessary.

Feeling Hot Hot Hot

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 20:47:00 GMT

There is much debate amongst dog groomers as to whether clipping off double-coated breeds helps to keep them cool. However, what most of us agree upon is if the fur is matt and undercoat free, the heat is able to be dispersed more easily.

The other thing to consider when clipping off, and this is regardless of dog breed and coat type, their fur does provide protection from the sun. If you're going short, please provide plenty of shade, or try and keep the sun-worshippers from lying outside for long periods of time.

What is perhaps a little known fact is dogs sweat thru their paw pads. Keeping them free of hair is a straightforward* way of helping them keep a bit cool - along with plenty of fresh water, dampened towels ....

I'm more than happy if you wish to bring your pooch in for a pad fur trim - just give me a call / drop me a text in advance so I know to expect you - 07305 984827.

*I won't say easy as I know how 'ticklish' feet can be!

Grass Seeds

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 14:54:32 GMT

Not as innocuous as you may think!

From first hand experience, I declare it is rather wet for June. For a few days last week, I was standing in a field sporting wellies, wet weather gear and a hat. For the horticulturists amongst you, I can hear you say - " it is good for the garden though". I can't disagree but where plants grow, so do weeds!

Recently when I've been 'prepping' (bathing, drying and brushing out) dogs, I have found a variety of grass seeds. Not so hazardous you may think but the ones with points can pierce the skin and travel. The outcome could vary from a mild skin irritation to surgery to remove the offending object.

If you've walked through areas with particularly long grasses, please take the time when you get home to run your hands through your dogs fur, along their legs, body and especially paying attention to their ears and between their toes. It may save you a trip to your local veterinarian!

Pom-poms

Fri, 03 May 2019 10:57:27 GMT

Derived from the French word - pompon [ornamental tuft]

I can imagine when you collect your dog after it's groom you look and wonder why a pom-pom. Well, as I'm launching the colour for May, it seemed an opportune moment to explain.

Why bother with anything. Yes it is a gimmick I suppose but for me, I believe it finishes off the groom. I liken it to what a bow or ribbon adds to gift wrapping. Your dog leaves K9C, freshly coiffed, neat and tidy. If you leave it on for a few outings, it could also be a talking point and therefore a bit of brazen advertising!

Some of you may have noticed, I've tried other embellishments too - foam flowers and printed ribbon. I decided against the flower idea as the colours were restrictive, and my dog Boxley ate them! I do like the printed ribbon but it doesn't always fit the wide collars. I wondered if I could make my own bows but my needlepoint isn't great and I tried following YouTube videos using glue and double-sided sticky tape too! I settled on pom-poms. Using the new generation of pom-pom making gadgets now available rather than the 'cardboard doughnut' method - they take next to no time to make. I can make in any size to suit the dog, change the colour and the band will fit most collars or harnesses. I am a little thwarted with those of you who use slip leads but where there's a will .....

Other groomers use bandanas, bows, ties etc. and are usually themed; Christmas, Valentine, Easter, Halloween. However, I found in working a reduced week, there are not so many opportunities for themes Instead, I've chosen to use the colours of the monthly birthstones:

January - Red garnet (Deep Red)

February - Amethyst (Purple)

March - Aquamarine (Light Blue)

April - Diamond (White with sparkly bits)

May - Emerald (Green)

June - Alexandrite (Light Purple) or Pearl (Cream)

July - Ruby (Red)

August - Peridot (Light Green)

September - Sapphire (Deep Blue)

October - Tourmaline (Pink) or Opal (white multi-colour)

November - Topaz (Yellow)

December - Tanzanite (Blue)

What can you use the pom-poms for - Christmas tree baubles, sew together to make a garland, used as filler to transform a plain vase into a table centre piece .... [answers on a postcard]!

The only downside, most of my lunchtimes and evenings are spent making pom-poms!

Happy Birthday to ... Canine Coiffures

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 10:21:53 GMT

A year, that just doesn't seem possible.

Wow, a year has passed since Lillico's Spring Open Day on the 14th April 2018 and Canine Coiffures' inaugural day.

As is mandatory for birthdays, there were cakes, balloons and games (but no jelly and ice cream though).

Congratulations to Amanda Stephens for her guess of 298 and winning the jar of 305 treats, and yes I did count each and every one in. The question is, will she count each and every one out?!

The raffle of a free groom in support of Smokey Paws was won by Emma and one of her two pooches, Fudge or Margot. In the process, a great total of £56 was raised and helps their 'Paws for Breath' campaign; to get a pet oxygen mask on every UK fire appliance (https://www.gofundme.com/f/smokey-paws-pet-oxygen-masks-paws-for-breath-campaign).

The last year wouldn't have been possible without help. My parents who helped with setting up K9C's studio and still continue to be on hand with laundry, printed photographs and providing emergency kettles when the equipment fails! My friends who relentlessly promote my Facebook and Twitter pages (@k9coiffures). Lillico's who continue to support this venture. Finally to my clients and their dogs.

Yesterday's last groom was Ted the Bedlington Terrier - my 188th . I'm looking forward to number 189 and all that follow thereafter.

#ShoppingList

Fri, 01 Feb 2019 15:06:57 GMT

#FreshlyCoiffedCanines, #CanineCoiffures, #K9C, #DogGroomingMaidstone, #DogGroomingLillico

You may have noticed my social media messages are beginning to resemble a hashtag shopping list. There is a method in the madness, or so I've been lead to believe.

In a darkened room somewhere, social media gurus have undertaken research into the optimum times and content to Tweet / Gram / Post. Whether it reflects the dog grooming industry in Kent’s County town, I don’t have a clue.

In essence, these hashtags are a 'search engine' that will highlight Canine Coiffures to potential clients.

If you see a post, an occasional Share would be very much appreciated.

Christmas time, mistletoe and wine .....

Bethagrainger@yahoo.co.uk (Beth Grainger) — Fri, 21 Dec 2018 12:24:14 GMT

It is that time of the year when it is OK to lie back, relax and indulge. I'm sure you will have seen it repeated in various social media posts but I would just like to reiterate the possible dangers our Christmas delicacies could have on our pooches. If your dog is anything like mine and has an efficient hooter, they can sniff anything edible at a 100+ yards. Please keep the chocolates, fruit cake, mince pies and nuts up high. Along with the glorious floral displays we all have all had made(!) of poinsettas, holly and mistletoe.

For those of you who have visited Canine Coiffures in December, I hope you liked the fragrance I used - Salted Caramel Spice. However, I think may nasal neurons may have been over exposed. I don't think I'll be eating anything faintly salted caramel-like for a while.

Finally, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. For many years now, I have made a charitable donation instead of sending Christmas Cards. This year, I sent some food pouches to Dogs on the Street ( www.dogsonthestreets.org) which Newnham Court Veterinary Group are coordinating. #AllDeserveAXmasDinner

Enjoy the time with your family, and long walks with your dogs.

Please note, I'm back at Lillico's on Saturday 5th January, but able to take your bookings over the phone (07305 984827) in the interim.

6-Months In

Bethagrainger@yahoo.co.uk (Beth Grainger) — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 12:16:58 GMT

Who'd a thought it!

There was a lot to celebrate last week, my own pooch Boxley turned 2 and it was my half year 'anniversary' of Canine Coiffures.

Where has that 6 months gone. It was back in December when I first approached Lillico's Country Store and enquired of their interest in offering a dog grooming service to their customers. I opened on their Spring Open Day - 14th April.

I am so grateful for Lillico's taking that leap of faith with me but also you who have done the same. You entrust me with the care, and grooming of your family pet (s). I hope I have proved that trust is well founded.

On Saturday evening, I raised a glass to the many more months to come.