From our friends at the Washington Humane Society...
Top 10 Pet Faux Paws
To celebrate the Fashion for Paws (F4P) 10th Annual Runway Show, The Washington Humane Society (WHS) has gathered the Top 10 Pet Faux Paws to avoid this season. Be sure to steer clear of these fashion “no-no’s” and check out F4P on April 23, 2016 to stay “in-the-know” on the latest in canine couture!
Dogs Tights
Dog tights are perhaps the greatest pet faux pas, as it breaks the first rule of fashion: functionality. Though a dog in tights may bring a smile to your face, dressing your pup in pantyhose is the No. 1 “no-no” in pet-wear.
Grooming Gone Astray
Taking a pair of scissors to your pet’s fur can result in serious complications beyond a bad hair day. Check in with WHS on the best places to pamper your pet correctly.
Fur Dye Disaster
Coloring your pet’s fur is a huge faux pas as human hair dye contains toxic chemicals that can undermine your pet’s safety. Leave the dye alone and pets will look fabulous all on their own!
Paw-dicure
Trimming your dog’s nails is important in keeping your pet in tiptop shape.“Good grooming habits go a long way,” says Scott Giacoppo, Chief Community Animal Welfare Officer at WHS, “Unclipped nails can lead to joint issues and other health complications.”
If you want to give your pup a full “paw-dicure,” consider these pet-friendly polishes in varying colors!
Tight Collars
“When picking the perfect collar, never sacrifice comfort for style,” says Scott. “Ensure your pet’s collar fits properly and provides a place to hang the animal’s ID, license and rabies vaccination tag.”
Pets Without Proper Vaccinations
Proper vaccination not only keeps your pet healthy and happy, but prevents other animals from getting sick too! Keep your animal’s vaccinations up-to-date and check in with WHS on the proper vaccination schedule.
Bare Paws on Salted Streets
Winter and early springtime is tough on a pet’s paws, especially when snow and ice lead to heavily salted streets and sidewalks. WHS warns, “Salts are harmful if ingested and exposure to de-icing agents can lead to chemical burns on your pet’s paw pads,” advises WHS. “Dog booties or shoes prevent both frostbite and exposure to chemicals.”
Invest in some fashionable pet booties to save your dog or cat from this “bare paw” faux pas!
Small Accessories
Bows, clips, ties are a great addition to a fabulous runway outfit. If you choose to accessorize your furry friend, ensure that each accessory does not pose as choking hazard. As a rule of thumb, WHS suggests: “when in doubt, leave it out!”
Chilly Cats and Canines
Weather-proof jackets and vests are a must for winter and early spring! These fashionable favorites give your pet a distinguished look and provide protection from the harsh weather elements.
Complement Your Pet
Whether you are hitting the catwalk or cruising the park with your pet, try neutral color pallets for pet wear. Gray, black and white are always great “go-to’s” for color-coordinating and complementing your pet’s style.
Note: WHS has recently announced ticket sales for their Fashion for Paws 10th Annual Runway Show (F4P) scheduled for Saturday, April 23, 2016 from 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM at the Grand Hyatt Washington.