It’s that time of year again for warm weather romps in the park and hiking trips in the country with our favorite four-legged pals. For many people, this time of year also means it’s time to pull out the Frontline to protect their beloved pooch from dastardly fleas and disease-carrying ticks. For others, the thought of harsh pesticides is troubling, but so too is the thought of flea infestation or Lyme disease. What are our options and how can we make the safest and most informed decision for our pets?

When it comes to flea and tick protection, Frontline Plus is the most recommended flea & tick control product by conventional veterinarians. Frontline contains the pesticide Fipronil. Once it is applied to your pet, between the shoulders, it is stored in the oil glands under the pet’s skin. The pesticide then continuously reapplies itself to the skin and hair through the hair follicles. Frontline boasts that its products are water proof (and self-grooming proof, for cats) and last for a month. According to Frontline’s website,”From the very first application, Frontline kills 98″“100% of existing fleas in less than 24 hours and continues to provide fast-acting, long-lasting flea and tick control.” Frontline also claims to kill 100% of ticks on your pet within 48 hours. However, make note that Frontline does not repel fleas and ticks ““ it only kills those that come in contact with (or rather, bite) your dog. Frontline also warns on its label that “individual sensitivities, while rare, may occur after using any pesticide product for pets.” These sensitivities cannot be predicted, so use caution and discuss with your vet what to do in case your pet does have a bad reaction.

The problem with Frontline, aside from the rather questionable aspect of putting pesticide into your pet’s glandular system, is that the insects must bite your pet before coming in contact with the poison. The ticks die sometime within a 48 hour time-frame. During that time, your dog can be infected with Lyme, Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, etc. So what’s the point? Frontline is a product that will help prevent your dog from causing flea infestations in your home and it will lower the possibility of diseased ticks harming the people that live with the pets. It doesn’t eradicate the possibilities ““ just lowers them.

K9 Advantix is another product marketed through vets for dogs. (Manufacturer advises, this product should never be used on cats!) K9 Advantix is for protection against fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. It contains the pesticides Imidacloprid and Permethrin. Unlike Frontline, K9 Advantix does repel ticks and mosquitoes, aside from killing them (the Permethrin is the repellent). It does not repel fleas, though it does kill them once they come in contact with your pet. Unlike Frontline, K9 Advantix can actually help protect your dog from being bitten by disease-carrying ticks, because of the repellent. K9 Advantix also claims to: repel and kill mosquitoes before they can bite, stop fleas from biting in less than 5 minutes, kill 98-100% of fleas within 12 hours, kill reinfesting fleas within 2 hours, and kill flea larvae in the dog’s surroundings. It seems like K9 Advantix is the better option over Frontline, but bear in mind this product is also administered into your dog’s glandular system, so if you are just freaked out by the thought of that, perhaps the all-natural solutions are your best option.

Nowadays there are more all-natural, commercial flea and tick remedies than ever. There are collars, sprays, shampoos and even recipes to make your own sprays, using essential oils. I’ll share a couple of my own recipes that have proven effective in flea and tick control.

Fresh Lemon & Rosemary Spray (For Dogs and Cats)
1 fresh lemon, thinly sliced
2 cups of filtered water
1 sprig of fresh rosemary

Place lemon slices and rosemary in a long, glass Pyrex tray. Cover with water and let sit overnight. In the morning, pour the liquid only into an empty spray bottle. Store unused spray in the refrigerator to keep it fresh, and use within two weeks.

The village of La Jolla, in San Diego, has always served a niche consumer. Its boutiques have sold St. John sportswear even before Angelina Jolie’s generation gave it a second look. Resident white-gloved ladies who lunch have their personalized note card designs cataloged for reorder at the neighborhood stationer. It is no wonder then that Muttropolis has found such a happy home on Girard Avenue, La Jolla’s posh and pretty main drag.

This high-end pet accessory store caters to those who pamper their furry loved ones with everything from gourmet liver treats to stylish puppy porters. On the Saturday I visited, the place was packed, and people were filling their baskets with everything from gifts for cat lovers to dog beds that look like flowers. We were very charmed and impressed by these beds, featuring a leafy surround that makes your prized pooch the “bud” on this cleverly contrived pet product.

Here’s our haute list of Muttropolis “must haves”:

1. Twist “˜n Treat by Premier

Built on the popularity of the microwavable Hot Pocket, the Twist “˜n Treat puts all the fun inside. You simply unscrew the two plastic pieces to fill the toy with kibble treats then close it back up again. For longer playtime, screw it tight. For instant gratification, keep the opening wide. Either way, your dog will love tackling the Twist to get to the Treat.

2. Loofah Bone

The popularity of this one is a little surprising, as there isn’t any meat smell to keep your dog going, but Cindy assures that the loofah bone is a winner. It relies on the innate pleasure of destruction””and cleans teeth in the meantime. Dogs chew at the natural loofah as they would a rawhide, and the plant-based toy disintegrates into a beneficial vegetarian treat.

3. Dr. Noys Pet Toys

Available in a series of plush animal shapes, Dr. Noys Pet Toys stimulate the animal with a reassuring squeak. Softer, friendlier versions of the classic rubber newspaper or hamburger, Dr. Noys Pet Toys come with replaceable squeakers, so the fun never has to end (until you inevitably get tired of the squeaking and retire the plush).

Photos by Marie Bargas

You’re a femme fatale, with a pooch in tow. As always, you’re de rigueur, decked out in satin and pearls, or your chicest shabby jeans. You play in Dolce & Gabbana, work in Prada, and sport Versace now and then for evening. But something’s missing. Girl’s best friend hasn’t a thing to wear. So. Where do the haute dogs go? Fifi and Romeo.

Famous fashionistas and their furry babies have been customers since 1998. Designer Yana’s creations have been featured on Oprah, CNN, VH1, MTV, E!, Telemundo and FOX’s “The Simple Life 1 & 2″. Signature pieces created for LEGALLY BLONDE and LEGALLY BLONDE 2: RED, WHITE AND BLONDE, have already been knocked off by lesser pet stores.

Inside this charming pink and black retro-styled atelier no expense has been spared in order to provide both you and your pet with a delightful, luxury shopping experience.

Exclusive sweaters, T-shirts and fashions of all styles and themes are designed on the premises and fill the space of this classic boutique.

From collar-and-leash ensembles to custom sunglasses, you will want to stuff your doggy bag with the latest in bling for sweetie. And speaking of bags, there are pet carriers galore in all shapes, sizes and fabrics for doggy’s, and your, traveling pleasure.

As you know, no look is complete without luxury grooming essentials and fragrances. Fifi and Romeo’s carries its own line of original fragrance for your furry ami. To be sure, a hint of scent always compliments any ambience and makes meeting unforgettable, but Cheechee fell in love with Fifi & Romeo’s perfume bottle plush toy.

Located conveniently across the street from the luxurious Peninsula Hotel, Beverly Hills’ own Beverly Hills Mutt Club is already at the top of the shopping list for celebrity and VIP dog owners in residence at the hotel and in the surrounding uber luxe residential area. Sandra Bullock has been in lately toting her new pup Tripod, a rescued Chihuahua with only three legs and glamour girl Tracy Bingham and The Gogo’s Jane Wiedlin have recently exchanged doggy kisses with Tatiana, the store’s adorable Chihuahua mascot.

The charming boutique atmosphere, is the heart child of Owner Sandy and her beautiful daughter Celina, who were inspired to create a membership club and store front in Beverly Hills where dog owners could choose to join the Mutt Club or just shop from time to time. Residents and tourists alike are amazed and delighted by the selection of high quality, high fashion goods and services.

Club membership is fast becoming a must-have for Beverly Hills townsfolk as the Mutt Club Membership offers extras and privileges befitting their favorite haute dog.

The $250.00 Premium Gold Package includes:

A One Year Gold Membership Certificate which entitles you to an automatic 10% discount on all products as well as:

*A Personalized Polished Brass Dog Tag
*A Retrieval Service for lost dogs with our toll free phone number on the back of your dog’s tag
*A Silver Plated Beverly Hills Mutt Club Key Chain
*Personalized Doggie Treat with your dog’s name on it
*A Special Doggie Toy
*Concierge Service for your Pooch

And, a 15-minute communication therapy session with Dr. Kim Ogden, animal communicator. Dr. Kim Ogden – Avrutik is an Animal Communicator who has helped thousands of animals and their human companions from around the world. (www.kimogden.com). She communicates with animals through her intuitive abilities, and relates to the animals by thoughts, feelings and mental pictures. Dr. Kim has appeared on ABC World News with Peter Jennings, ESPN, NBC, CBS, WMAQ, WGN, and Fox TV. Her work has been featured in Animal Wellness, So Cal and Whole Life Times magazines. She has been a guest on The Aware show (KFMT) with Lisa Garr, The Poppoff Show (KAHI) with Mary Jane Popp, Healthy Living (KRLA) with Dr. Gene and has consulted with the animal friends of Linda Blair, Sheena Easton, Billy Blanks (Tea Bo creator), and KOST FM’s DJ, Carolyn Gracie. She is a frequent guest on radio shows throughout the country and writes for Animal Wellness magazine. Dr. Kim gives classes and lectures on Animal Communication throughout the United States.

Cheechee (my Chihuahua) and I come back again and again to browse through the Mutt Club’s fabulous inventory of designer doggy fashion, accessories and goodies. Cheechee strolls Rodeo Drive often in her Pink Bubble Gum Harness Dress with matching pink leash. But, lately we’ve been eyeing the Mutt Club’s selection of Ed Hardy Doggy wear and designer doggy bags and we may just get the Ed Hardy Cotton T with crystals added for more bling for summer at the beach. Other adorable clothing charmers include a Pro-Style Basketball Jersey and Camo Tank tops. We also haven’t been able to decide if we prefer the Ed Hardy Dog Carriers or want to splurge on a decadent Serpent Pink Dog Carrier that matches my python handbags and boots.

A quick spray and brush down with the Mutt Club’s Hollywood Vanity Bahamian Spritzer keeps Cheechee’s coat sleek and chic for those walks in the city in between trips to the groomer.

For more information log on to: store.beverlyhillsmuttclub.com/index.html

Finding gifts for the pet lover who has everything is difficult, especially when you want to give them something their furry friends will enjoy as well. Fortunately, there are two new CDs from K “n” D Men that are purr-fect for any occasion.

“Doggie Dog World” and “Kitty Kat Kingdom” are unique compilations whose combination of light, synthesized jazz and somewhat random dog barks and kitten meows will make anyone’s tail””metaphorical or otherwise””wag. They certainly brought a smile to my face. Some tracks have lyrics, but most focus on the music, which is written by the prolific team of Papa Kash (Kaikoo Zartoshty), Elton Ahi and Demetric Collins, whose credits include pieces from “The Last of the Mohicans” and “Billy Madison.”

I popped “Kitty Kat Kingdom” into my CD player at home and cranked it up. Unaffected at first, my feline children became quite interested when one of their friends began to call from the stereo. They settled down until he spoke again. As the disk spun on, they became excited about the calls, eventually perching by the stereo to try to capture them. It was a sight, let me tell you. And anything that can keep Gaston from chewing on my laptop for a while is a welcome distraction.

The tracks range from “Cat Jam,” an upbeat electronic composition, to “Doggie Doggie Doggie World,” a verbal tribute to man’s best friend, and celebrate the furry friends with which we share our homes (well, the four-legged ones, at least). The CDs are meant to express the musicians’ adoration for animals and enlighten others about their value to humanity. Part of the proceeds support Pasado’s Safe Haven, a Washington sanctuary for abused animals. The Haven’s mission alone justifies the $16 cost of the CD.

“Doggie Dog World” and “Kitty Kat Kingdom” are available online at www.weloveanimalspublishing.com.

Designer Andrea Levine is a warm, good-natured animal lover who has successfully combined her passion for her pets with her love of jewelry. For her growing fan base of chic pet owners the advent of Levine’s breakthrough collection’s arrival in retail stores this Spring and early Summer means that they don’t have to wait for their orders. Levine’s sparkling ensemble of diamond pave dogs (in several breeds), cats, horses and her signature diamond pave paw print are a delightful treat for the eyes and should be a favorite among specialty boutiques who cater to the elite. Now that pets are already the ultimate celebrity must-have accessory as evidenced by the new pack of toy dogs frolicking happily through the pages of the magazines like: Paris Hilton’s Chihuahua – Tinkerbell, Nicole Richie’s Toy Pomeranian – Foxxy Cleopatra, and Jessica Simpson’s Maltese ““ Daisy, it’s no wonder that the tables have turned and newest to-die-for accessories are diamond pave “pets”.

Formerly available only through the internet, Levine’s bejeweled designs have been building a brisk business among pet lovers who just have to have her pieces. Upon first sight I simply melted over Levine’s diamond pave Chihuahua. My Chihuahua, Cheechee, is first and foremost in my heart, so it’s only natural that I’d want her diamond pave image dangling luxuriously on a white gold chain around my neck. Now I’ve got a diamond collar to match hers. And why not? We’ve always had matching outfits, since the first day I walked her as a pup on Rodeo Drive. Levine understands that the market for bejeweled neckwear isn’t reserved for pets alone and has responded with a collection that combines the glamour of diamonds with our affection for our furry friends.

We stroke them, pick them up, shake their paw and wrestle with them; our pets are certainly no strangers to being touched! But there is a touch that can transform your pet from a Nervous Nellie Nipper, or Boisterous Barking Babykins, to a well-adjusted, confident member of your household. (Pretty Perfect Percy?) Did I say a touch can do that? Well, a TTouch, to be exact.

First developed in the 1970′s by Linda Tellington-Jones, TTouch (short for Tellington Touch) began as a way to further the bond between people and horses through touch and positive training. The technique has evolved since then to become a valuable tool for dogs, cats, and just about any creature on this planet — including us. Through the use of circular touches and lifts of varying pressure and degrees of contact (some touches use the whole hand and some use just finger tips), TTouch awakens the body on a cellular level, promoting heightened awareness, healing and a deep bond between toucher and touchee. The touches and lifts are mostly named after the animals on which Tellington-Jones developed them, (like the Clouded Leopard or Python Lift) or for the way the touch resembles an animal behavior (like the Lick of the Cow’s Tongue or Raccoon Touch).

TTouch also employs movement exercises, utilizing special leashes, obstacles, labyrinths and body wraps to train and challenge pets to become more aware and consider all of the options available to them. This is a wonderful thing for those dogs that are relying on a particular behavior that just ain’t working! (No, Fido, barking all day ISN’T working to bring Mommy home quicker, but here are some acceptable options for how to express yourself…)

The best thing about TTouch is anyone can do it. The practitioners don’t present themselves as “gifted healers” with “powers beyond your comprehension.” When you book a session with a TTouch Practitioner, you’re going to learn some TTouch! Once you learn some basic touches, lifts and exercises, you can start helping your pets with everything from obsessive licking to thunder storm phobia. It’s all fairly easy to learn and with just a little practice, you too can do the Lying Leopard and Tarantula Pulling the Plow on your own special Fuzzy Lumpkin. (Hey, I can make up names, too!)

At a recent TTouch workshop here in New York, I watched an adorable 3 year old Shiba Inu that had been badly abused by her previous person transform from a withdrawn, insecure pooch to a significantly more confident dog with the help of a body wrap. The instructor literally wrapped an ace bandage loosely around the dog like a Christmas bow, and as the dog walked with this new sensation, we could see her renewed body awareness before our very eyes. Her tail, which previously hung limply to the side like a wet noodle, was suddenly upright and wagging, like a Shiba Inu tail should be! I also witnessed a very clingy dog who could barely walk beside her owner without whimpering and jumping to be picked up, start walking on her own four paws while looking at the world around her with curiosity, thanks to the body wrap, some leash work and the labyrinth (a short maze-like trail set up with sticks for the dog to walk through).

After the workshop, I spoke with local TTouch practitioners Mary Cummings-Bruce and Peggy Marino Marks of Mindful Tails. Mary and Peggy work all around the greater tri-state area, going to clients’ homes to work with their pets. Their consultations begin with a phone interview to discuss challenges, goals, etc., and then your first session will be scheduled. Sessions are $85 per hour, with the first session usually running about 90 minutes, at no extra cost. During the sessions, they work on your pets as well as teach you how to do TTouch, so you can continue the work on your own. It generally takes an average of three sessions with the pros to accomplish more permanent results.

TTouch is an incredible gift for both pet and person. Imagine seeing your cat out from under the bed when company comes over and finally proving to your friends that you do, in fact, have a cat. Imagine walking your dog past another dog on the street without dislocating a shoulder or choking your dog. Imagine developing an amazing new way to communicate with your pets about unwanted behavior that brings you closer, rather than damaging your relationship. It’s all possible through TTouch!

For more information about TTouch, please see the TTEAM website at: tteam-ttouch.com

Depending on breed or size, that little ball of fluff may be a rambunctious puppy and not reach adulthood for anywhere from nine months to two years. The bigger your dog will be as an adult, the longer he’ll stay a puppy – and the more patience you’ll need. An 18 month-old Labrador Retriever is likely to have more energy – than a Yorkshire Terrier of the same age.

Making your own puppy pack will be a great start to your puppy’s life. This can include:

* Food and water bowls that fit your pup’s smaller mouth
* Adjustable Quick-Klip collar with a nametag
* Cotton or nylon lead
* Appropriately-sized Gumabones or other chew toys
* Plush toys or a soft, squeaky toy for your pup to cuddle with to remind him of his littermates, and rubber toys with holes to fill with treats to keep pup occupied
* Small treats such as Chewy Tasty Snacks to use as a quick “good dog!” reward
* Puppy Shampoo and a soft-tipped pin or slicker brush
* Chew Stop® to spray on off-limits chewing areas such as the legs of furniture, or other precious and/or dangerous objects
* Nail trimming kit. If you get your pup used to having his nails trimmed as a little tyke you’ll have a much-easier time of it later on when he’s stronger and more agile.
* Puppy Cage for housetraining your new pup or a comfortable Pet Den, which can also be used for traveling with your pet
* Dental Supplies to keep your pup’s teeth clean and healthy
* Books on puppy care and behavior

Seven hints on giving your dog a great start in life

1. Research your breed (or in the case of mixed breed pups, the predominant breed). Breeds have certain characteristics and knowing these will help you choose appropriate toys and treats for your pup. A good breed book is always an asset.

2. Have a strategic housebreaking plan for your puppy and be consistent. It will make a great deal of difference in the future if you do it correctly in the beginning. Decide whether you are going to use a crate or cage to train your pup to “go” outside, or housebreaking pads (such as Piddle Pads®) to teach pup to go in a certain area inside. Consult your puppy care book for particulars.

3. Plan now to train your puppy in obedience. Your relationship with your pup will be much better if you allow time in your life for training classes. When he is old enough enroll him in a “puppy” class.

4. What kind of food was your pup fed before you got him? Purchase some of the same food the breeder was feeding even if you are going to switch his diet. We strongly recommend dry food, and that it is fed in its dry form. When you begin to switch your puppy’s food, be sure to do it gradually so as not to upset puppy’s tender stomach.

5. Start a complete preventive health care plan for your pup. This includes regular vaccinations, annual veterinary visits as well as flea and tick prevention. A regular heartworm preventive will protect your pet against heartworm. Your veterinarian may prescribe a heartworm medication such as Heartgard® Plus, which treats roundworm and hookworm infections as well.

6. Start getting your puppy acquainted with dental care right away. Use a Dental Clens® Pad wrapped around your index finger to gently scrub your pup’s teeth. Then advance to special canine toothbrushes and toothpaste. Drs. Foster & Smith Dental Care System has everything you need to start right. This will help you begin a regular dental plan that you can use throughout life and will save you money in dental bills later.

7. Start a regular ear-cleaning program. Don’t wait until your puppy’s ears are so dirty that infections can take hold. Ear Clens® Pads or Ear Clens® Solution can make the job easier.

Don’t forget to use a dash of patience and a large dose of kindness when you deal with your pup. This is probably the single most important thing you can do to begin a great relationship with your future adult dog. www.drfostersmith.com.

We are not the only ones who may have some stress during the holiday season – our pets, generally sensitive to our moods and feelings as well as the changes in routine, may also be under some unusual stress. And like us, some animals exhibit stress in the form of fears and phobias. Before the holiday season starts and before guests begin to arrive is a good time to work on some fears and phobias that may manifest themselves during this time.

Fear of different people and/or children
Children are great big bundles of energy to a dog and groups of people at parties are not much different. During the holidays your dog may be encountering both situations quite a lot and you are best off getting your dog used to them before they come around.

Dogs that are not used to children or other visitors may either act shy, go into hiding, or even become aggressive. The best way to deal with this is to start getting your dog used to strangers before the holiday season starts.

First, invite one person that the dog is fond of who does not live with him come to the door and have him distribute a treat and quietly pet the dog. Then bring in several people the dog is familiar with so he’ll get used to a group. Add one person that the dog does not know, all the while praising the dog and giving him treats when he shows good behavior with guests. Add a child and then more children until the dog is familiar with a group. Remember to always supervise children with dogs.

Fear of noises
The holidays may bring with them a lot of noise. Of course unless you live in certain areas of the country, thunderstorms are not likely to be a problem at this time. But if you have a particularly sensitive dog, even the banging of pots and pans during Thanksgiving can cause anxiety.

A noise phobia may be traced to a particular bad experience of a noise, but often, no triggering event can be ascertained. The owner’s attitude can influence the severity of the fear. Similarly, if the owner attempts to comfort the animal, the animal interprets it as confirming there really is something to be afraid of. The petting or comforting is really positive reinforcement of an undesirable behavior.

Products such as valerian and chamomile Ultra-Calm and Rescue Remedy have been used with some success. These two therapies take effect within an hour of administration, and should be given prior to the fear-producing event.

Never underestimate the power of exercise
Your pet should receive vigorous exercise daily. Having a regular exercise schedule can help with many different types of anxiety and fears. The exercise will help to tire the animal, both mentally and physically, and may make her less responsive to the fearful things. In addition, exercise has the effect of increasing natural serotonin levels, which can act as a sedative.

Whether your pet has fears or not, the holiday season is a time to really pay attention to your pet. It will do you both a world of good.

For more information on pet care visit www.drfostersmith.com