I’ll admit it. Though I have real human children, I often tell people that my dog Ella was my first born. For the birth announcement of my first real child, I dressed my 85 pound boxer (pictured above)in a big doggie diaper and included her photo on the note to friends and family sharing the news of the new addition. Ella has her own special bed with egg crate padding, more toys than I can keep track of, and is often fought over by the grandparents when determining who will get to keep the “grand-dogger” while we travel.

When she was just a puppy, we found that poor Ella had some serious allergies causing her to require very special (and expensive!) food, treats, toys and bath products. Through the years she has gone through various phases of likes and dislikes with the few things that she can tolerate without adverse reaction. We of course, obliged by indulging her whims.

It seems that my plight with my beloved Ella is not unique. Based on similar issues with her beloved pooch “Ruger”, Tonda Woodling developed dog treats with canine allergies in mind.

Tonda, in collaboration with my favorite local chef (Michael Falcone of The Funky Lil’ Kitchen in Pottstown, PA) created a line of dog treats out of healthy ingredients that are 100% natural and human grade. These treats are grain free and hand baked in a health board regulated kitchen!

All ingredients used in these yummy treats are carefully selected based upon their hypoallergenic nature, natural attributes and flavors. For even the most allergy sensitive of dogs, these treats contain no gluten, no corn, wheat or soy, no meat or dairy, no added salt or sugar, no artificial colors or flavors, and no preservatives. The treats come in two varieties: peanut butter oatmeal, and toasted coconut. In addition, they are sold in recycled and reusable steel tins and biodegradable/compostable refill bags. They get the betterworldbuys.com paw print of approval for planetary positive pet products and are something worth barking about!

Do you have a pampered pooch with allergies you’d like to tell us about? Try out our hungry puppy treats and share your comments and ideas on how to help our allergy prone furry friends.
As Tonda says, “Lets face it, our dogs are not only our best friends, they are part of our family and they deserve the best!”

According to a recent article in Elle, “Natural and organic makeup is not just for vegans and those with sensitive skin anymore. The next generation of products is perfect for women who don’t want to sacrifice luxury.” Fed up with my existing skin care regimen (the wrinkles resulting from a lack thereof), and thinking that my skin deserved some luxury, my colleague Mollie and I went in search of a quality skin, hair and cosmetic supplier that we would feel good offering to you, our readers and clients.

After weeks (and I mean weeks!), of sifting through false claims, shabby products, and a few possible options, we found the perfect products and are excited to share them. Our new line is produced by Shear Miracles, and is simple, natural, refreshing and rejuvenating!

Made in small batches to ensure freshness and potency, this new line is made with all organic and wild crafted ingredients, using no artificial colors, preservatives, synthetic chemicals or solvents. In addition, these products are not tested on animals. Mollie and I sampled many of the products, and are now so pleased with their results we are switching over from our previous routines. Our personal favorites are the Reality Check Anti Aging Organic Cleanser and Moisturizer and the body butters.

In addition, my dog Ella was thrilled with her this week bath using the Healthy Paws Flea & Tick Shampoo that left her flea free and smelling fresh and clean! Ella has very sensitive skin and several allergies so I’m happy to report she did very well with the healthy Paws formula and didn’t have the dry flaking skin issue that normally follows her monthly scrub down.

In keeping with some guidelines in the New York Times Best Seller “The Green Book” by Elizabeth Rogers and Thomas Kostigen, this new line is made, “from oils made from the seeds of fruits and nuts instead of from the refinement of petroleum” (Rogers & Kostigen, 2007). Our new lipstick is made “from plant derived ingredients” and the mascara is also in keeping with The Green Book’s recommendation that it be “made from plants and minerals instead of from petroleum products” (Rogers & Kostigen, 2007).

Even though the leaves are falling, our new line of environmentally responsible skin, hair and cosmetics are in full bloom. We know it is often difficult to try new things, but we’re so sure you’ll love this new line that we’re offering 10% off of any of these new items in the Planetary Pampering section for Her, Him, Baby or Pet from now until November 30. Try these new products and consider stocking up at these introductory prices for holiday gift giving. Type in the coupon code “2Indulge” when checking out to receive these great products at our introductory rate of 10% off regular prices.

Are there any special skin care tips that you would like to share for him, her, baby or pets? If so, please comment on our blog and share your thoughts and insight on the topic.