Ask the Experts: Spring 2025
by Colne Life magazine
Local experts answer your questions
Meet ALISON WHALLEY from
Sophie Drake from Barrowford asks… What treats should I give my dog?
Alison says…
When choosing treats for your dog, natural options are always the best choice. At Wags and Whiskers, we offer a wide range of natural treats for dogs of all ages, from puppies to
Meet older dogs. Our selection includes treats for sensitive tummies, dogs with allergies, or those with trouble chewing. One popular option is camel rolls – dried camel skin chews that are low-fat, gluten-free, and great for dogs with sensitivities. Buffalo treats like Buffalo Tripe are also gentle on the stomach. For a shiny coat, try our salmon skin rolls, which are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They promote healthy eyes and brain development and help clean teeth.
Though off-putting to some, hairy ear treats are natural dewormers, while our hairy deer legs provide the same benefit and also offer a bone for dental health.
We pride ourselves on offering treats without chemicals or hidden nasties—just simple, dried natural goodness. We also have high-fat treats for dogs who need to gain weight.
If you’re new to natural treats, try our Wagnificent Treat Box for a selection of different options. Remember to always supervise your dog while treating!
Meet CAROLINE STEPHENSON from
Units 10 and 11 Shackleton Hall Arcade, Colne BB8 0LG
01282 786727
Danny Chapman from Colne asks…My hair is thinning on top. What should I do?
Caroline says…
Embrace it! Thinning hair is a natural part of ageing, influenced by hormones and genetics. If your dad or grandad experienced hair loss, chances are you will, too. While sudden or dramatic hair loss can sometimes signal an underlying issue and may be worth checking with a doctor, for most men, it’s completely normal and nothing to worry about.
Rather than fighting it, why not own the look with confidence? Many men find that a shorter style, a textured crop, or even going fully bald can be incredibly stylish. A clean-shaven head, paired with well-groomed facial hair, can create a sharp, masculine look.
At Upper Cuts, we specialise in helping every man feel his best. Our all-women team offers expert advice, whether you want a modern, tapered cut, a buzzed look, or just a style that works well with thinning hair. We never judge – our goal is to make sure you leave looking fresh, stylish, and feeling great. Whatever your choice, we’re here to help you rock it with confidence!
Meet DR. TOM FRIAR from
Yasmin Fletcher from Colne asks… When do I start brushing my baby’s teeth?
Tom says…
This is a simple one as soon as they start coming through the gums! It can be a challenge initially – they do love to chew the brush. Just use a thin smear of adult or children’s toothpaste.
It’s likely they will swallow some of the toothpaste, but don’t worry—it’s not a problem. Just try your best. As long as the paste gets in their mouth and in contact with their teeth, it will strengthen them from the get-go.
At what age should children start seeing a dentist?
Again, the answer to this is really straightforward: The dentist can start to look for any problems at an early stage. Also, beginning to see the dentist when we are young is important because it helps us acclimatise and get used to the experience. Then, if we encounter any problems later, we will have a better capacity to cope with the treatment. It takes time to build trust and confidence. It is better to invest early and start building a long-term relationship.
Meet PHIL HOWLETT F.B.D.O from
Norway House, 60 Albert Road, Colne, BB8 0AD
01282 859775
Mary Clough from Trawden asks… Why are my eyes sore and dry, and what can I do to help?
Phil says…
Dry, itchy, gritty, sore red eyes are common symptoms of dry eye syndrome, which is more prevalent during the winter months.
Staring at your phone, long periods on a computer, or watching TV reduces the blink rate, leaving the eye’s surface more prone to drying. These irritating symptoms can sometimes even affect your vision.
I have watery eyes; surely they can’t be dry?
We call this ‘evaporative dry eye’; it is when the tear quality is waterier. The tears don’t stay in the eye; they can flow down the cheeks. Therefore, your eyes become sore, and your eyelids can be red because the surface of the eye is dry, and more tears are produced to combat the dryness.
There are a few handy tips that can help with dry eyes, such as a post-it note on your computer reminding you to blink or the 20:20
rule – after 20 mins on the screen/phone, look out the window for 20 seconds and remember to have a proper ‘full’ blink. Try eating more oily fish, leafy green vegetables, or flaxseed oil in your diet.
For more information about sore eyes, call in and see us.
Ask local experts your questions and get professional advice by emailing your questions to info@northernlifemedia.co.uk!
ColneLife March/April/May 25
