What a Woodland Walk Taught Me About Active Dogs and Everyday Care

April is Active Dog Month, and if your dog is anything like mine, every month is active dog month, although at the grand old age of 12 she has slowed down a lot. But for many of us, dog ownership is all about long walks, traipsing through the mud, noses in everything and the odd eventful moment which requires some sort of tlc as a result! 

Last spring, I took my collie for a walk through our local woods, 2 Mile Coppice. It’s a beautiful spot, especially in spring, buds, bluebells, birds (and brambles), I am sure you can picture the scene. We did our usual route, nothing unusual, but when we got back home, something wasn’t right.

She was clearly distressed, panting, constantly scraping her paws on the carpet, and unable to settle. There was no cut, no visible stings or wound. But she was not okay, and as anyone with a dog knows, seeing them uncomfortable is genuinely upsetting.

There wasn't much I could do really, it was early evening, everywhere was shut but I decided to pop on some of my Soothing Salve . I knew it wouldn't do any harm being all natural and not really knowing what I was treating, my options were limited, I kid you not - the results were nothing short of miraculous, within five minutes, she was calm. And then… fast asleep! When she woke up she was absolutely fine.

Looking back, it was early spring and that means nettles, thistles, and other prickly, itchy things just starting to emerge. Chances are she’d trampled through a patch of something irritating and her paws were itching which was driving her mad (and me).

Why am I telling you this?

Because it reminded me of why I make these products, and why small touches of care matter so much.

Whether you're a groomer, a trainer, you run a dog friendly holiday cottage, want to sell your own range of products, or you simply want to offer your clients something thoughtful and practical, products like a paw balm or herbal salve, they aren't just nice extras. They’re useful.

They're the sort of thing your clients will reach for in moments just like mine. And when they do, they'll think of you,  the business that gave them something genuinely helpful.

It’s not about making a fuss or being everywhere online. It’s about being there when it counts. That’s brand visibility. That’s trust. That’s how loyalty is built.

So if you're wondering whether a small branded balm or salve really makes a difference, I promise you, it does. Since moving across to white label only I have had several messages saying things like 

I love your skin balm product ( dark green tin) and have been using it regularly on my rescue staffie. Unfortunately he is practically bald and your product keeps his skin moisturised and nourished. Other brands just don’t seem to cater for his condition. 

In fact, I am almost wondering if I should offer these products at retail again as well as white label - but that is a topic for another day (I did however make up a batch for this particular lady - always happy to try and help) My point it however, sometimes it’s the little tins that bring the biggest relief. 🐾

Want to look more at white labelling for your own dog business? I'm always happy to chat it through just pop me an email to enquiries@thedogandi.co.uk Keri.