2 in 1 Dog Shampoo & Conditioner from happytails

Dog Grooming Review - A Merryvaluation
by Angie McKaig

Once you leave behind the cheapo pet "big box" grooming supplies for your pet and start stepping into the world of upscale and/or natural coat care products for dogs, it’s a whole new world, baby. And a confusing one. If you think "all natural" is a hard word to define in the world of human food, just try it with pet grooming unguents and see how far you get.

It’s one of the reasons I’ve always liked and respected happytails™ - because they not just believe in but insist on transparency with the customer. The information they make available about their products - what goes into them, and more importantly why those ingredients are used - is among the most comprehensive in the entire industry.

I’m all about transparency. How am I supposed to make an informed choice if I don’t understand?

This is never more true than with their newest product, InFuzion.

InFuzion is the company’s first (I believe) 2-in-1 product, combining shampoo and conditioner in a single bottle. But it’s much more than that.

The secret, or part of it anyway, is in the little blue and white bubbles: microbeads. They contain conditioning vitamins and are designed to burst up against the skin and roots, and to really penetrate tough coats.

The rest of the formula is incredible: a powerhouse of 14 amino acids (to improve shine, softness and heal skini damage), Jesuit’s Balsam and Brazil Nut extract (to reduce flaking and irritation), Canadian Willowherb (an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant) and three tea tree oils (to reduce itching and redness).

The company makes a one-page info sheet available on their web site about the product which includes a full list of all the ingredients as well as their purpose (it’s a bigger list than we can provide here). Highly recommended particularly for the side-by-side feature comparison of their three main shampoo products and where InFuzion fits in. Makes life much easier for the pet owner trying to decide which one is bets.

The scent is really interesting. The company calls it "Clean Laundry" and it’s definitely got that soft, springtime scent to it. But it’s not overpowering at all - you really have to sniff the fur closely to smell it once the pooch is dry again. (Nobody likes an overpowering scent - least of all, your pooch.)

It wasn’t a hugely frothy lather though it was more than enough to get the princess clean, and it rinsed very clean - one of my sticking points. And the princess’s coat felt gorgeously soft afterwards.

I have to say, though, my favorite part was the 2-in-1 part. The beads looked cool, but it was really convenient to only have to go through one product while dealing with a wet pooch, rather than having to go through two separate steps for cleaning and conditioning.

InFuzion has definitely made a place for itself on the side of our tub. You should check it out.

You can find out more about happytails™ from their web site at www.happytailsspa.com . Tell them Merry sent you!

Click here to read the original article at PamperedPuppy.com

About three years ago I noticed that my Maltese was limping. She was only one at the time, so I thought it was strange for her to have these problems at such a young age. I took her to the vet and it turns out she had a luxating patella which is a problem with her knee, and apparently is common in small dogs.

The vet gave me some powder to put into her food and in about a month I really started to see results. I was amazed as you normally don’t expect for those things to really work so fast! What the vet gave her was collagen and ever since I have been looking for an application in which to offer collagen in a happytails product.

And so it comes to pass we launch Joint Resolution an all natural herbal elixir that lubricates sore, aching joints through our blend of BioCell Collagen II, herbal extracts, and chondroitin. It’s perfect for dogs suffering from degenerative effects of old age, arthritis or hip dysplasia

Some history on arthritis and joint inflammation:

Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis in dogs. Weight bearing joints in hips, elbows and knees are most often affected and the result in often painful inflammation.

Inflammation is the body’s response to tissue injury, irritation or infection. It’s the rush of blood and immune cells to a site of injury for the sake of repair and to signal the need for help. Related symptoms include pain, stiffness, heat tenderness, swelling, fatigue, muscle aches and spasms, and loss of function.

The most common inflammation is joint inflammation and an underlying concern is the impact of inflammation on collagen. This connective tissue helps support blood vessel walls and forms the cartilage, tendons and ligaments. Collagen is diminished with inflammation. A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Pharmacological and Therapeutics showed that collagen had reduced pain and lameness in arthritic dogs and improved the overall activity of the dogs. Collagen Type II is the most abundant protein found in joint cartilage that helps promote new cartilage synthesis and reduces oxidative damage to the joints.

The formula contains a generous amount of Hyaluronic Acid which is an important joint and skin nourishing element which promotes healing and skin tissue rejuvenation. HA is essential in reducing joint friction caused by the joint’s degradation of its natural lubrication.

We’ve also included a blend of herbs in Joint Resolution to work synergistically with BioCell Collagen II including boswellia, devils claw and licorice which all work to reduce inflammation and pain while dandelion is a diuretic to eliminate toxins from the body.

Benefits of Joint Resolution

• Promotes healthy active joints*

• Helps improve joint mobility and flexibility*

• Promotes healthy strong connective tissue*

• Easy to administer

• Liquid absorbs faster into the body than tablets or pills

• All natural- herbs are organic or wild crafted

• A side benefit of collagen is that it promotes healthy skin so

  • A dog may grow a more luxurious coats*
  • healing of skin diseases may be faster*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent any disease.

To learn more about Joint Resolution, click here

BioCell Collagen II® is a registered trademark of BioCell Technology and is the only Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II preparation supported by US Patents # 6,025,327 and 6,323,319 that cover the use and manufacturing of this ingredient. Companies or individuals using any Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II preparation within patented claims other than BioCell Collagen II® in their respective product formulations are infringing on BioCell Technology’s intellectual property.

When it comes to innovative personal care products you no longer have to look to L’Oreal or Shiseido for the latest ingredients and cutting edge concepts. Today the hottest trends are often spotted first in high-end dog products! Whether it’s the use of micro-encapsulated ingredients, new formulas based on state-of-the-art research or just 100% organic food that would be the envy of even the most militant Vegan, these days it’s likely that your dog’s products are more advanced than yours. 

Take InFuzion Shampoo & Conditioner by happytails, a new formula that contains a unique blend of 14 amino acids which were formulated to resemble cell membrane proteins in the hair. They penetrate the follicle, replenish lost moisture and help condition, repair and strengthen. InFuzion also features a swirl of blue beads with micro-encapsulated vitamins right in the formula. 

Kevin Fisher, owner of happytails said, “Dogs usually have much thicker hair than humans, and of course they usually have more of it. In the past you could add any number of great conditioners to your products but they would have a hard time penetrating thick fur, they’d just get rinsed down the drain. InFuzion’s micro beads work their way through the coat and then as you rub they release against the skin delivering the vitamins and conditioners right where they’re needed- to dry and irritated skin.” 
 

Happytails is not the only one leading the way. VivoAnimals of Seattle have introduced several formulas designed to stimulate the production of Nitric Oxide in the dog’s body. Why? Well, research shows that Nitric Oxide regulates blood flow and improved blood flow improves a dog’s health. You may have heard of a drug in the human arena that emerged form the same research; Viagra. 

Even something as basic as food has seen a massive change in the last few years. The distinction between pet food and human food is rapidly evaporating.  In fact you have to look no further than a company called the Honest Kitchen that produces completely organic,  human quality food, in fact the company motto is People Food - Formulated for Pets!  Their foods contains no by-products, added salt or sugar, chemical preservatives, artificial colors or flavors and NO beet pulp, rice, wheat, corn, or soy.  “I wish my diet was this healthy,” Fisher said.

Fisher added, “Today’s pet product creators and formulators are not reacting to the trends in human personal care they’re leading the way forward.”

If this isn’t a case of the tail wagging the dog then it might be a case of the dog wagging the human.

It’s the twenty first Century and pets are all the rage, in fact, some say that dogs are the new humans! Everything from diamond encrusted collars to $500-an-ounce cologne is available for your favorite Fido! But according to experts these days the industry is moving from glitzy to green and all natural. 

“Spring 2008 is nearly upon us, and there are some notable merchandising trends among pet boutiques,” says Bo Nelson owner of WholesalePet.com. “We’ve seen an increasing demand for all-natural, American made, and earth-friendly products.” Nelson maintains that the 2007 pet food/treat recall has inspired buyers to look for products that are safer, higher in quality and friendlier towards the environment. 

Camilla Vitale, a pet industry consultant in the Bay Area agrees. “I promote organic treats like Robbie Dawg, natural spa products and bio degradable poop bags like Doggie Walk Bags. Keep your eyes open for materials made with non-toxic inks and organic fabrics or products made with natural fibers like bamboo or the more commonly known hemp collars like those from Earth Dog,” she added

 “My hot item this year,” Vitale says, “are the Sublimation t-shirts by Kelly Michael. They feature, bright well-defined colors, the artwork is a digital heat transfer, the process uses no ink that can leave behind toxic residue.” 

Nelson from Wholesalepet.com said that he is noticing a trend of getting “back to basics”. “Bling collars, pink outfits and faux fur accessories which were very popular at the start of the decade are giving way to classic designs, the use of higher quality materials, and an increased desire for functionality in products.” 

“In 2008 it’s no longer about the novelty of having really cool products for pets,” says Lorna Paxton, owner of  happytails Canine Spa Line. “Dog owners used to be amazed that there were such cute clothes available for dogs, or such great-smelling shampoos. Now it’s what people expect.”  She adds that in order for products to sell they have to be visually appealing, they have to actually do what they claim to do, and it helps if they perform more than one function. “They have to solve a problem,” she adds.

One new product out this season is InFuzion a combined shampoo and conditioner that boasts 14 amino acids and micro-beads which deliver nutrients directly to the follicle.  “This is a perfect example of a product that is very eye-catching and has multiple benefits,” Paxton says. 

“This year people are traveling with their pets,” says Leslie Houtkooper owner of Puplife.com, one of the industries fastest-growing websites.  She notes that travel-friendly products are hot sellers this spring. “Items like Soggy Paws Dog Towels, Dry Dog Instant Clean, a spray-on bath-replacement and the Backseat Barrier make traveling with your pooch more enjoyable,” she commented.

Another product that Houtkooper recommends, is Sleepytime Tonic. “This is a must have for travelers. It’s an all natural herbal Elixir that not only helps to calm a nervous dog, but can also help prevent car sickness!” So even if it is time to take off the fur and put on the hemp, there’s still plenty of ways to pamper your four-legged companion, not only can you look simply marvelous but you can also help save the planet!

Top Trends

• all-natural, earth-friendly or organic
• American made
• Products that are multi-functional (multi-purpose)
• travel-friendly pet products

Products Resource Guide

• Robbie Dawg- all natural treats- www.robbiedawg.com
• InFuzion Shampoo & Conditioner  www.happytailsspa.com
• Hemp collars from Earth Dog   www.earthdog.com
• Bio degradable poop bags like Doggie Walk Bags www.doggiewalkbags.com
• Sublimation t-shirts by Kelly Michael
• Soggy Paws Dog Towels from Farfetched  www.farfetchedinc.com
• Dry Dog Instant Clean, a spray-on bath-replacement  www.happytailsspa.com
• Backseat Barrier   www.puplife.com
• Sleepytime Tonic helps calm nervous dogs   www.happytailsspa.com

Bo Nelson is the owner and president of WholesalePet.com which is the leading business-to-business marketplace for the pet industry. In business since 2001, WholesalePet.com represents over 175 suppliers of quality, upscale pet products and supports a community of over 10,000 pet product retailers. Visit www.wholesalepet.com PupLife.com, located in southwest

Michigan, was founded in 2003 by husband and wife team Eric and Leslie Houtkooper. PupLife.com is one of the fastest growing online stores featuring the best selection of healthy products for dogs.” Visit www.puplife.com

 Based in Sausalito, California, Blue Rocket Sales is owned and operated by retail veteran Camilla Vitale.  Her extensive experience in marketing, manufacturing, and apparel design can help take any pet industry business to the next level. Visit www.bluerocketsales.com or call 415.382.3320 Lorna Paxton is owner of happytails Canine Spa Line which uses the finest (“better than human quality”) ingredients available to pamper, soothe and beautify today’s harried hound.  The products can be ordered through the company website at www.HappytailsSpa.com or by calling 1-866-HAPPY-20. 

One of the toughest problems to solve are tear stains. You know, those brownish/red streaks down a dog’s face. It’s normal that a dog’s eyes produce tears– clear ones. But some breeds are susceptible to the brown tearstains which are not only unsightly, but sometimes smelly!

The problem is only made worse when all of that moisture around the eyes becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and red yeast develops.The problem is three fold. One is physiology. Some dogs have tear ducts that are too short and there’s not much we can do about that, short of surgery.  

The other parts of the problem are environmental and systemic. And we do have control over these. Many times tear stains are brought on by environmental toxins and pollutants. That’s why if you want to get rid of tear stains wiping the eyes is just the first step.  You have to boost the dog’s immune system or the bacteria will persist and so will the stains.

Some dog owners use bleach, hydrogen peroxide or even pharmaceutical grade antibiotics everyday to cure the problem, but I certainly don’t recommend these options!

I give my dog’s Eyemunity everyday. It’s s an all natural powder that you sprinkle into your dog’s food 1-2 times per day. It helps to boost the dog’s immune system to fight the bacteria that cause the tearstains. It is all natural so it will take a little longer than other “quick fix” solutions but give it about 3 weeks to kick in. The best thing is there are no side-effects except for a healthier dog!  That being said these tear stains are persistant!

I’ve been traveling for a couple of weeks and left the duty of feeding the dogs to my husband who forgot to give them the Eyemunity… so now my maltese, RiQui, has some minor tear stains.  She’s been on the Eyemunity a couple of days and it might take a couple of weeks to kick in.   But when it does, as long as I keep giving it to her, the tear stains do not persist. And I don’t know if it’s a coincidence, but she’s much healthier and happier than she used to be.

The main ingredient is called Epicor, which is a high metabolite immunogen. If you don’t know what that means, watch this video. But in nut shell Epicor is helping the body to fight against bacteria and is quite remarkable.

I have been taking Epicor (I skipped the Eyemunity as I don’t really like the taste of desiccated liver) and have not been sick once in months!

Eyemunity also includes an enzyme blend that helps with swelling and inflammation. Many times when the dog produces tears it causes a bit of inflammation in the eyes which only makes the problem worse. For a list of complete ingredients click here.

If your dog has tear stains there is hope and you don’t have to compromise your dog’s health with harmful drugs or chemicals.

Here’s another amazing video about Epicor, the main ingredient in Eyemunity. It’s a news segment that gives the history of how the product is made, research, benefits and more.

For more information on Eyemunity click here.

And if you’d like to find out if your dog is happy and healthy or plagued by fleas take this short questionnaire.