Why do you use buckwheat and flaxseed?
 
Buckwheat is a hard seed and lasts longer and holds its moisture better than other grain.  It is also harder to scorch in the microwave.  Flaxseed also holds its moisture extremely well.  We use flaxseed for our smaller products because it is a smoother grain and softer to the touch.  Our flaxseed and buckwheat pillows can both can be heated or frozen.

Since the grains you use produce moist heat, what are these benefits compared to the dry heat of most electric heating pads?
 
Moist heat therapy is more effective than dry heat therapy because it penetrates more deeply, which increases the effect on muscles, joints, and soft tissue.  A warm compress or hot water bottle may relieve pain and ease stiffness by relaxing muscles.  Dry heat, such as electric heating pads and saunas, draw out moisture from the body and may leave the skin dehydrated.

What is moist heat therapy good for?
 
Moist heat therapy helps soothe a wide variety of muscular ailments and is the perfect solution for all types of stress, pain, and tension.  Customers report our moist heat therapy products have been integral in an assortment of treatments from daily stress reduction and sports injury therapy to quadriplegic pain and even autism therapy.

When do I use my product for Heat Therapy and when do I use it for Cold Therapy?
 
It is generally recommended to use heat therapy for muscle and general relaxation.  Moist heat increases circulation to the area and speeds recovery by bringing in fresh blood cells and removing wastes.  If one has just experienced an injury, and swelling, bruising, or inflammation exists, cold therapy is the preferred application by most during the initial 48 hours after the injury.

Why do you use lavender?

Based on our research, lavender is universally appreciated as a wonderful scent that most people enjoy for relaxation.  Additionally, it is one of the least allergenic herbs.  Lavender’s extremely low allergen potential, coupled with its unmatched popularity make our lavender products the most favored items among all of our clients.

What are the properties of lavender?

Lavender has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy, and does indeed appear to have antiseptic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-convulsive, and last but certainly not least, anti-depressant properties.  Internally, Lavender is believed to be of benefit for a multitude of problems, including stress, anxiety, exhaustion, irritability, headaches, migraines, insomnia, depression, colds, digestion, flatulence, upset stomach, liver and gallbladder problems, nervousness, loss of appetite. It is also often used as a breath freshener and mouthwash and is also helpful in menstrual cramp relief.

How long does the lavender scent last?

The lavender scent may be strong at first but will gradually diminish.  With average use (2-3 times a week) the scent will remain for about a year.  Heavy use may dry the herbs more quickly.  The scent can be refreshed by misting the animal or the herbal insert lightly with lavender linen water.  Let the insert air dry before heating in the microwave.

Why do you only use Lavender and not multiple herbs?

We find similarities in comparing our products with a great meal.  Too many flavors detract from the wonderful taste of what was cooked.

How do I heat my animal?

Place in a clean microwave on a towel.  Heat in 30 second intervals until desired warmth is reached.  The heating time will vary with the type of microwave.  For our large animals, begin with 1 to 1 1/2 minutes of heating.  Increase the heating time in 15 second increments up to a total heating time of 2 minutes.  Do not over heat.  Do not block microwave's vent while heating.

Rotate the animal during the heating process.  If you have a turntable microwave, make sure the animal is turning.  It is a good idea to flip and shake the animal halfway through the heating cycle.  Always test for hot spots and overall temperature before using.

Why is the product moist when it comes out of the microwave?

Animals will have more moisture after the first few heatings because the herbs are fresh.  Surface moisture normally dissipates quickly.  If the animal is too moist, try heating for less time, remembering to heat on a towel.  After several heatings, the moisture will decrease.

How long does each product stay warm?

The heat retention varies somewhat between animals, depending upon the amount of grain inside. 

How do I freeze my animal?

Place animal inside a sealable plastic bag and place the bag inside the freezer for 1-2 hours.

How do I clean my animal?

Most of our animals have herbal inserts that can be removed to allow for washing of the fur.   Open the Velcro and remove the herbal packet.  The fur should be washed by hand using a mild soap and then fluffed with a hair dryer.

For our animals without removable inserts (Jack Bear, Fairbanks Moose, Laraby Lab, Poker Pony, Bear Hug, and Snoozy Dooz), the fur can be surfaced washed with a mild soap.  Do not submerge animal in the water.  Fluff with a hair dryer.

Are the animals safe for children?

Our animals have been safety tested for children 3 years and above.  Please consult your doctor if you or your child has any medical conditions, such as diabetes or neurological/circulatory problems before using.

Cautions
·         Do not use in conventional oven

·         Do not use on sensitive skin

·         Do not use on an open wound 
 

Source: Wikipedia

Many episodes of pain come from muscle exertion or strain, which creates tension in the muscles and soft tissues. This tension can constrict circulation, sending pain signals to the brain. Heat application eases pain by:

• dilating the blood vessels surrounding the painful area. Increased blood flow provides additional oxygen and nutrients to help heal the damaged muscle tissue.

• stimulating sensation in the skin and therefore decreasing the pain signals being transmitted to the brain

• increasing the flexibility (and decreasing painful stiffness) of soft tissues surrounding the injured area, including muscles and connective tissue.

As many heating pads are portable, heat may be applied as needed at home, at work, or while traveling. Some physicians recommend alternating heat and ice for pain relief.

As with any pain treatment, a physician should be consulted prior to beginning treatment.