Don't Believe Everything You Read!

Tea tree oil, derived from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, has recently been criticized for its potential dangers to dogs and cats. A 2014 article by the ASPCA reported on 337 dogs and 106 cats that were exposed to tea tree oil at 100% concentration and suffered toxicity as a result.

However, it is important to note that no essential oil should ever be applied to skin or consumed undiluted, and that the toxicity cases reported were likely caused by poor quality, contaminated, or synthetic tea tree oil.

Unfortunately, the article didn't address why tea tree oil got a bad reputation, how it can be safely used, and when you should use tea tree oil dog shampoo for yeast and bacterial infections. 

So, let's talk about tea tree oil and look at the facts. 

Why does Tea Tree Oil Have a Bad Reputation?

The late 1980s saw a surge in popularity of Melaleuca, which also led to a rise in poor quality, contaminated, and synthetic tea tree oil being marketed. Holistic veterinarian Dr. Melissa Shelton, owner of animalEO and an expert on the use of essential oils in veterinary treatment and animal wellness, states in her book that cases of tea tree oil toxicity have been traced back to poor grade and synthetic substitutes or gross misuse and over-dosage.

"The cases of tea tree oil toxicity that have enough data to trace and research the sources have revealed poor grade and synthetic substitutes or gross mis-use and over-dosage." Dr Melissa Shelton, Animal Desk Reference Second Edition, Essential Oils for Animals.”

 Synthetic "essential oils" are dangerous and should never be used, as they can cause adverse reactions. Many companies sell cheap, synthetic "essential oils" falsely advertising them as pure and organic. These products are not safe for any living being, and it is important to research and invest in high-quality, pure essential oils.

Is Tea Tree Oil Safe for Pets?

Short Answer: ABSOLUTELY!

It is important to understand the benefits and safe use of essential oils, such as tea tree oil, in pet grooming. Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties and is indicated for yeast or bacterial infections of the skin, ringworm, candida, and various other skin conditions. While Tisserand and Young recommended maximum dermal use level is 15% for pure tea tree oil, the typical dilution of tea tree oil in a dog shampoo would be less than 2% and it should be part of a tri-blend of oils for maximum effectiveness. It is recommended to use a concentration of 0.1-1% or even 2% for safe topical application on pets.

Lillian Ruff, a trusted brand in pet grooming, offers a Flea & Tick shampoo formulated with undiluted tea tree oil. Lillian Ruff's carefully crafted shampoo specially formulated for pets provided a safe and effective solution for pet grooming. Trusting reputable brands like Lillian Ruff, that use pure and undiluted essential oils, can provide the safe and effective benefits that tea tree oil is known for. This ingredient has scientifically proven properties that can benefit your pet's skin and coat.

We are all becoming very aware of how Ill-advised it is to accept just about everything that shows up in print these days. The article that prompted our response is a perfect example of misinformation being regurgitated out with very little thought about relevant content sources, actual research or analytical data.

In conclusion, it is important to understand the difference between pure, undiluted essential oils and cheap, synthetic "essential oils" and to use caution when choosing brands that use tea tree oil on pets or for cleaning purposes. Investing in high-quality, brands like Lillian Ruff that use pure essential oils can provide the safe and effective benefits that tea tree oil is known for.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

Cruelty-free pet grooming is becoming an increasingly important topic for pet owners. Many pet grooming products are tested on animals, and many pet owners want to ensure that their products are ethically sourced. In this blog post, we will discuss how to make sure your pet grooming products are cruelty-free and introduce a veterinarian-recommended brand, Lillian Ruff, that is produced in the United States.

First, let's define what cruelty-free means. A cruelty-free product is one that has not been tested on animals at any point in the production process. This includes both the raw ingredients used in the product and the final product itself. Many pet grooming products are tested on animals to ensure that they are safe for use, but there are alternatives to animal testing that can be used to ensure the safety of a product.

CRUEL VS. COOL

CRUEL:  One of the main concerns of non-cruelty-free products is the harm that is inflicted on animals during the testing process. Animal testing is a practice in which products are tested on animals to ensure their safety for use. This can include applying the product to the skin or eyes of animals, force-feeding animals the product, and even performing surgical procedures on animals. These tests can cause significant pain and suffering to the animals involved, and in many cases, the animals die as a result.

COOL: One of the main positive impacts of using a cruelty-free shampoo is that it prevents harm and suffering to animals during the testing process. By choosing cruelty-free products, pet owners can ensure that no animals were harmed in the making of the product they are using on their pets.

CRUEL: Animal testing may not be an accurate indicator of a product's safety for use on pets or animals. Different species have different physiological systems, which means that a product that is safe for use in one species may not be safe for use in another species. This can lead to products being marketed as safe when they are dangerous for the pets or animals that they are intended for.

COOL: Cruelty-free products are often made with natural ingredients that are safe and beneficial for pets and animals. These products may not require animal testing and can be gentler on pets and animals' skin and coat.

CRUEL: Additionally, using products that are not cruelty-free can also have an impact on the environment. These products may use animal by-products, which can contribute to the destruction of natural habitats and ecosystems.

COOL: Cruelty-free products are often more environmentally friendly, as they do not require the use of animals or animal by-products.

HOW DO I TELL?

One way to ensure that your pet grooming products are cruelty-free is to look for products that are made with natural ingredients. Many natural ingredients are known to be safe for use, so these products may not require animal testing.

WHAT DO I CHOOSE?

Lillian Ruff is a veterinarian-recommended brand that is cruelty-free and produced in the United States. They use natural ingredients like Colloidal Oatmeal, Lavender Oil, Aloe, Coconut Oil, Rosemary Oil, Blueberry Extract, Vanilla Extract, peppermint oil, citrus oil, and Matricaria Chamomilla that are beneficial for pet's skin and coat. They also avoid ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and parabens that can be harmful to pets' health.

In addition to being cruelty-free, Lillian Ruff also prides itself on being made in the United States. This means that the company adheres to strict regulations and guidelines to ensure that their products are safe for use. Furthermore, Lillian Ruff also follows environmentally friendly practices and is conscious of their carbon footprint.

In conclusion, choosing cruelty-free pet grooming products is an important decision for pet owners. By choosing cruelty-free products, pet owners can feel good about the products they are using on their pets and can rest assured that their pets are being treated ethically.

Pet grooming is an important aspect of pet care that helps to maintain the health and well-being of our furry companions. However, it can be easy to make mistakes, especially for those who are new to the task. In this article, we will discuss the top 5 most common pet grooming mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Using the wrong tools or techniques

One common mistake is using the wrong tools or techniques for grooming. For example, using a human hairbrush on a long-haired cat can lead to tangles and mats, which can be painful for the animal. It is important to use tools that are specifically designed for the type of coat your pet has. Additionally, using techniques that are too rough or pulling on the hair too hard can cause discomfort and even injury to your pet.

2. Neglecting to groom regularly

Another common mistake is neglecting to groom your pet regularly. Regular grooming helps to remove dirt, debris, and tangles from your pet's coat, which can prevent skin irritation and other health issues. It is important to groom your pet at least once a week, depending on the length and type of coat they have.

3. Choosing the wrong grooming products

Choosing the wrong products for your pet is a common grooming mistake that can lead to a variety of problems. Using products that are not formulated for your pet's specific coat or skin type can cause irritation, dryness, and other issues. For example, using a shampoo designed for humans on a dog can strip their coat of natural oils and lead to dry, itchy skin. Similarly, using a shampoo with harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances can irritate your pet's skin and cause discomfort. Lillian Ruff shampoo is a popular choice among pet owners and groomers due to its high-quality ingredients and gentle formula. This shampoo is pH-balanced and formulated with natural ingredients such as aloe vera and oatmeal, which help to soothe and moisturize the skin. It is safe for use on all types of coat and skin, and is free from parabens and sulfates that can irritate your pet's skin. Using Lillian Ruff shampoo during grooming can help to keep your pet's coat and skin healthy and looking its best.

4. Bathing too frequently

While it is important to keep your pet clean, bathing them too frequently can strip their skin of natural oils and lead to dry, itchy skin. It is generally recommended to bathe your pet once a month, or as needed based on their activity level and the condition of their coat. When giving your pet a bath, make sure to use a gentle, pH-balanced shampoo and avoid getting water in their ears and eyes.

5. Brushing teeth infrequently

Proper dental care is an important aspect of pet care that is often overlooked. Plaque and tartar buildup on your pet's teeth can lead to gum disease and other dental problems. It is important to brush your pet's teeth at least once a week, or as recommended by your veterinarian. In between brushing we recommend using Lillian Ruff Spearmint Breath Spray. This easy alternative to brushing is formulated with a proprietary blend of natural and powerful ingredients that help in breaking down plaque & tartar to reduce oral odor and boost dogs’ immune systems. When incorporated into a daily routine, Lillian Ruff Breath Spray supports healthy dental hygiene to reduce the risk of oral conditions.

Grooming your pet can be a challenging task, especially if your furry friend is anxious or stressed during the process. However, regular grooming is important for your pet's overall health and well-being, as it helps to keep their coat clean and healthy, prevent matting and tangles, and identify any potential health issues early on. With the right approach and some patience, it is possible to groom your pet with minimal stress and anxiety.

Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Start early and gradually: It is best to start grooming your pet from a young age so that they can get used to the process. If your pet is already an adult, start slowly and gradually increase the duration of each grooming session. This will help your pet get accustomed to being groomed and reduce their anxiety.

2. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your pet with treats, praise, and affection for good behavior during grooming. This will help them associate grooming with positive experiences and reduce their stress and anxiety.

3. Choose the right grooming tools: Different pets have different grooming needs, so it is important to choose the right tools for your furry friend. For example, long-haired dogs may require a slicker brush, while short-haired dogs may benefit from a rubber brush. Using the wrong tools can cause discomfort and stress for your pet, so be sure to do your research before selecting a grooming tool.

4. Groom in a calm and quiet environment: Choose a calm and quiet place to groom your pet, away from any distractions or loud noises. This will help them feel more relaxed and less anxious during the grooming process.

5. Use calming techniques: If your pet is particularly anxious during grooming, you may want to try using calming techniques to help them relax. This can include providing a cozy bed or blanket for them to lie on, playing soft music, or using pheromone sprays or diffusers.

6. Take breaks if needed: If your pet becomes overly anxious or stressed during grooming, it is important to take breaks and give them a chance to relax. You can try taking a break and then returning to the grooming process later, or simply stopping the grooming session altogether if your pet becomes too distressed.

Using Shampoos and Conditioners with Essential Oils:

In addition to the above tips, using shampoos and conditioners with essential oils can also help reduce stress and anxiety during grooming. Essential oils have a therapeutic effect and can help relax and calm your pet. Lillian Ruff Shampoos & Conditioners are formulated with some of the best natural extracts and essential oils that can aid in creating a calming and enjoyable grooming experience.  Here are some of the ingredients incorporated into Lillian Ruff Products & their benefits:

1. Lavender oil: Lavender oil is well known for its calming and relaxing effects, making it a popular choice for use in pet grooming products. Studies have shown that lavender oil can help reduce anxiety and stress in pets, making it a useful ingredient in shampoos and conditioners for anxious or stressed pets.

2. Coconut oil: Coconut oil has a number of benefits for pets, including conditioning the coat and skin, preventing dryness and flakiness, and helping to reduce inflammation and irritation. Its soothing properties can also help to minimize stress and anxiety during grooming.

3. Blueberry extract: Blueberry extract is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a beneficial ingredient in pet shampoos and conditioners. It can help to soothe the skin, reduce irritation, and improve the overall health of the coat.

4. Chamomile extract: Chamomile extract is known for its calming and relaxing effects, making it a useful ingredient in pet grooming products. It can help to soothe the skin, reduce irritation, and minimize stress and anxiety during grooming.

5. Aloe: Aloe is a natural plant extract with several benefits for pets. It has soothing and moisturizing properties that can help to reduce irritation, calm the skin, and improve the overall health of the coat.

By following these tips, you can help reduce your pet's stress and anxiety during grooming and make the process a more enjoyable experience for both of you. Regular grooming is an important part of caring for your pet, and with a little patience and the right approach, it is possible to groom your furry friend with minimal stress and anxiety.

It's important to understand how the changing seasons can affect a dog's skin and coat, and to know how to properly groom your dog during each season to keep their skin and coat healthy. Here's a detailed look at how different seasons can affect a dog's skin and coat, and how to properly groom your dog during each season:

Spring:

Spring is a time for shedding, as your dog's coat begins to thin out in preparation for the warmer weather. It's important to brush your dog regularly during this time to help remove excess fur and prevent matting. You should also pay special attention to your dog's skin, as the changing weather can lead to dryness or irritation. Using Lillian Ruff Berry Blue Shampoo & Conditioner can help to keep your dog's skin healthy and hydrated while leaving them smelling fruity and fresh!

Summer:

During the summer months, it's important to keep your dog cool and comfortable. This means regular baths to remove excess dirt and sweat, as well as brushing to help remove any tangles or mats. Avoid shaving your dog's coat too short, as their coat helps to protect their skin from the sun's harmful UV rays.  It's important to use a flea and tick shampoo during the summer months to help protect your dog from these pesky pests. Fleas and ticks can cause a variety of health problems for your dog, including skin irritation, allergies, and even serious diseases such as Lyme disease. By using a flea and tick shampoo, you can help to kill and prevent these parasites from infesting your dog's coat. Lillian Ruff Flea and Tick Shampoo contains natural ingredients that are specifically designed to kill and repel these pests, making it an effective and safe way to protect your dog from these harmful insects. In addition to using a flea and tick shampoo, it's also a good idea to use other preventative measures such as flea and tick collars, topical treatments, and repellents to help keep your dog protected during the summer months.

Fall:

As the weather starts to cool down, your dog's coat will begin to thicken in preparation for winter. It's important to continue brushing your dog regularly to help remove any tangles or mats, and to keep their coat looking clean and healthy. You should also pay special attention to your dog's skin during the fall, as the changing weather can lead to dryness or irritation. Using a conditioning treatment like Lillian Ruff Waterless Shampoo can help to keep your dog's skin healthy and hydrated while keeping them clean between baths during the cold and rainy fall months. 

Winter:

During the winter months, it's important to keep your dog's coat well-groomed to help protect them from the cold. You should also pay special attention to your dog's skin during the winter, as the cold and dry weather can lead to dryness or irritation. Bathe your dog as needed but avoid over-bathing as it can strip their coat of natural oils and lead to dry, itchy skin. When you do bathe your dog, be sure to use a gentle, moisturizing combination of Lillian Ruff Oatmeal Shampoo & Conditioner to help keep their skin hydrated. Using a leave-in conditioning treatment like Lillian Ruff Leave-In Detangler can help by adding extra hydration during the harsh winter months. Professionals recommend using a humidifier in your home to help add moisture to the air and prevent dry, itchy skin.

Overall, it's important to groom your dog regularly throughout the year to help maintain the health of their skin and coat. By following these tips, you can help to keep your dog looking and feeling their best no matter the season.

When selecting any type of grooming product for your dog, it is important to consider your dog's breed, size, age, coat type, coat length, skin type, allergies, sensitivities, and climate. You should also carefully read the ingredient list and select products that are formulated for your dog's specific needs and do not contain any ingredients that could potentially cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Choosing the right pet shampoo for your dog's specific needs is an important decision that can help ensure the health and happiness of your furry friend. Here is a guide to help you make the best choice:

1. Consider your dog's breed: Different dog breeds have different coat types and skin sensitivities. For example, certain breeds such as poodles and schnauzers have a high risk of developing skin allergies and sensitivities, so you may want to use a hypoallergenic shampoo.

2. Take your dog's size into account: larger dogs may need more shampoo to cover their entire coat, while smaller dogs may only need a small amount. Its important to find an effective shampoo where a little goes a long way.

3. Consider your dog's age: Puppies have delicate skin and may need a gentler shampoo, while senior dogs may have dry or sensitive skin that requires a moisturizing shampoo.

4. Think about your dog's coat type: Different coat types may require different shampoos. For example, a shampoo specifically formulated for long-haired breeds may not be suitable for short-haired breeds.

5. Determine your dog's coat length: Shampoo formulations may also vary based on coat length. Long-haired breeds may require a conditioning shampoo to help detangle their fur, while short-haired breeds may not need this added moisture.

6. Consider your dog's skin type: Some dogs may have dry or sensitive skin that requires a moisturizing shampoo, while others may have oily skin that requires a clarifying shampoo to remove excess oil.

7. Check for allergies and sensitivities: If your dog has any known allergies or sensitivities, you should choose a shampoo that does not contain any ingredients that could potentially trigger a reaction.

8. Think about the climate: If you live in a dry or hot climate, your dog may need a moisturizing shampoo to help prevent dry, itchy skin. In humid or rainy climates, a clarifying shampoo may be necessary to help remove excess oil and dirt from your dog's coat.

It is important to carefully read the ingredient list and choose a shampoo and conditioner that is formulated to meet your dog's specific needs. If your dog has any known allergies or sensitivities, it is important to avoid products that contain ingredients that could potentially trigger a reaction.

Lillian Ruff Pet Grooming Products are formulated with natural ingredients and essential oils that can have beneficial effects on your dog's coat and skin. This makes them suitable for pets of all breeds, ages, sizes, coats, and skin types. Here are some reasons why:

1. Gentle on the skin: Natural ingredients and essential oils found in Lillian Ruff Shampoos & Conditioners are less harsh and irritating than some synthetic ingredients, making them suitable for dogs with sensitive skin.

2. Non-toxic: Natural ingredients and essential oils are generally considered non-toxic and may be safer for use on pets compared to some synthetic ingredients.

3. Moisturizing: Natural ingredients Found in Our Soothing Oatmeal shampoo & Conditioner, such as oatmeal and aloe vera have moisturizing properties that can help soothe dry or irritated skin.

4. Antimicrobial: essential oils such as tea tree oil found in Lillian ruff Flea & Tick Shampoo, and lavender oil found in almost all our Shampoos & Conditioners have antimicrobial properties and may be helpful in treating certain skin conditions.

5. Aromatherapeutic: Lilian Ruff uses essential oils to enhance the soothing fragrances of our products. Essential oils like lavender, blueberry, coconut, citrus, & vanilla have pleasant aromas that can help make grooming a more enjoyable experience for both you and your pet.

When it has to be the best…Choose Lillian Ruff!

At Lillian Ruff, we understand that your pets are an important part of your family and that you want the best for them. That's why we are dedicated to providing high-quality, safe, and effective products that help to maintain the health and well-being of your furry friends.

One aspect of pet care that is often overlooked is the pH balance of their shampoo. pH stands for "potential hydrogen" and refers to the acidity or alkalinity of a substance on a scale of 0 to 14, with 0 being the most acidic and 14 being the most alkaline.

Using a shampoo that is not pH balanced for pets can have negative consequences for their skin and coat. Pets have a slightly acidic pH on their skin, around 5.5 to 6.5, and using a shampoo with a pH that is too high or too low can disrupt this delicate balance. This can lead to several skin and coat problems including:

1. Dry, itchy skin: A shampoo with a pH that is too high or too low can disrupt the natural pH balance of your pet's skin, leading to dryness and itching.

2. Dull, lifeless coat: A pH-balanced shampoo helps to maintain the natural oils in your pet's coat, resulting in a healthier, more vibrant appearance. A shampoo that is not pH balanced can strip away these oils, leading to a dull, lifeless coat.

3. Skin irritation and inflammation: Using a shampoo with a pH that is not balanced for your pet's skin can lead to irritation and inflammation, especially if your pet has sensitive skin.

4. Damage to the skin barrier: The pH of your pet's skin plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier, which helps to protect against environmental stressors and keep the skin hydrated. Using a shampoo with a pH that is not balanced can damage this barrier, leading to further skin problems.

5. Increased risk of infection: Disrupting the pH balance of your pet's skin can make it more prone to bacterial and fungal infections, as the pH of the skin helps to control the growth of these microorganisms.

6. Allergic reactions: Some pets may have allergies or sensitivities to ingredients in non-pH balanced shampoos, which can lead to adverse reactions such as redness, swelling, and itching.

7. Decreased effectiveness: Non-pH balanced shampoos may not be as effective at cleaning and conditioning your pet's coat and skin, as they may not be formulated to work effectively with the natural pH of your pet's skin.

On the other hand, using a shampoo specifically formulated to be pH balanced for pets can help maintain the natural pH of their skin and coat, leading to a healthier, more vibrant appearance. These types of shampoos can also be gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation or dryness.

There are several scientific studies that support the importance of using pH-balanced shampoos for pets. One study published in the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association found that using a pH-balanced shampoo significantly improved the skin and coat health of dogs, compared to using a shampoo with a pH that was too high or too low. Another study published in the Journal of Veterinary Dermatology found that using a pH-balanced shampoo was more effective at improving the skin and coat of cats than using a non-pH balanced shampoo.

Veterinarians and dermatologists also recommend using pH-balanced shampoos for pets to help maintain the health of their skin and coat. These experts recommend selecting a shampoo that is formulated specifically for pets, as human shampoos can be too harsh and irritating for animals.

Lillian Ruff is a brand of pet shampoos that are specifically formulated to be pH balanced for pets. These shampoos are made with natural ingredients and powerful essential oils formulated to be safe and effective on pets’ skin & coat. Lillian Ruff Pet shampoos have several benefits for both pets and their owners.

1. Maintains the natural pH balance of your pet's skin and coat: Lillian Ruff shampoo is specifically formulated to be pH balanced for pets, helping to maintain the natural pH of your pet's skin and coat. This can lead to healthier, more vibrant skin and a softer, shinier coat.

2. Gentle and safe for use on all pets: Lillian Ruff shampoo is made with natural ingredients and essential oils, making it gentle and safe for use on all types of pets, including dogs, cats, and small animals.

3. Effective at cleaning and conditioning: Lillian Ruff shampoo is formulated to effectively clean and condition your pet's coat and skin, leaving them looking and feeling their best.

4. Suitable for professional use: Pet groomers and large pet supply stores can confidently use Lillian Ruff shampoo on their clients' pets, knowing that it is pH balanced and gentle on the skin.

5. Trusted by veterinarians and pet owners: Lillian Ruff shampoo is trusted by veterinarians and pet owners alike, making it a reliable choice for maintaining the health and well-being of your furry friend.

6. Gluten Free: being gluten-free is beneficial for pets that have sensitivities or allergies to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Using a gluten-free shampoo can help prevent irritation and other adverse reactions in these pets.

7. Paraben Free: Parabens are a type of preservative commonly found in personal care products, including shampoos. Some studies have suggested that parabens may have harmful effects on human health, and they may also be harmful to pets. By using a paraben-free shampoo, you can reduce the risk of exposure to these potentially harmful chemicals.

8. Sulfate Free: Sulfates are a type of surfactant that is often used in shampoos to create a lather. Some sulfates can be harsh and drying on the skin, and they may also be harmful to the environment. Using a sulfate-free shampoo can help protect your pet's skin and the environment.

9. Tear Free: Tear-free shampoos are formulated to be gentle on the eyes and prevent tearing when applied to the face. This is especially important for pets with sensitive eyes or those prone to tearing.

10. Cruelty Free: Cruelty-free products are those that have not been tested on animals. Many pet owners are concerned about animal welfare and prefer to use products that have not been tested on animals. By using a cruelty-free shampoo, you can feel good about your choice and know that no animals were harmed in the development of the product.

11. Vegan: Vegan products do not contain any animal-derived ingredients. This is important for pet owners who follow a vegan lifestyle or who have ethical concerns about using animal-derived ingredients on their pets. By using a vegan shampoo, you can be confident that the product does not contain any animal-derived ingredients.

In conclusion, using a pH-balanced shampoo for your pet is important for maintaining the health of their skin and coat. It is important to select a shampoo that is specifically formulated for pets and free from harsh chemicals. Consider choosing Lillian Ruff for your furry friend's grooming needs for the best, and safest results!