In the picturesque region of Southern Italy, where the Mediterranean breeze whispers through centuries-old olive groves, Sandro and Teresa have turned their love for olive trees into a thriving business. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Italian countryside, they have embarked on a journey to produce exquisite olive wood dog sticks. These beautifully crafted dog sticks are a testament to both their passion for the olive groves and their commitment to sustainability and the environment.
From the pruning of ancient olive trees to the final labelling and packaging for transport, this blog takes you on a fascinating journey through the intricate process of creating these unique pet products.
Pruning Olive Trees: A Seasonal Ritual
Olive trees require regular pruning to ensure their health and longevity. Sandro and Teresa meticulously prune their olive trees, adhering to ancient traditions handed down through generations. Pruning not only promotes healthy tree growth but also provides a sustainable source of wood for their dog sticks.
Drying the Wood: A Patient Waiting Game
After pruning, the olive wood must be dried thoroughly. Sandro stacks the branches in open-air sheds, allowing them to cure naturally over several months. This process not only reduces moisture content but also enhances the wood’s rich grain and aroma.
Cutting to Size: Precision and Craftsmanship
Once the olive wood has been properly dried, it’s time to cut the branches into the desired sizes for dog sticks. Each piece is carefully chosen to maximize the wood’s unique patterns and create one-of-a-kind pet products.
Smoothing and Cleaning: Revealing the Wood’s Beauty
The next step involves meticulous sanding and smoothing of the wood. Sandro and Teresa take great care to bring out the natural beauty of the olive wood. Imperfections are removed, and the wood’s lustre is revealed, ensuring that each dog stick is a work of art in itself. At this point even nonna (granny) Maria Teresa is helping by cleaning the sticks to prepare them for the next step.
Coating with Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A Touch of Tradition
In a nod to their rich cultural heritage, Teresa and nonna Maria Teresa coat each dog stick with extra virgin olive oil, a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. This not only enhances the wood’s natural shine but also provides protection against moisture, making the dog sticks more durable and resistant to the elements. And dogs love the smell and texture this gives to the olive wood sticks
Drying Again: Patience Rewarded
After the application of olive oil, the dog sticks are left to dry once more in the sun of Southern Italy. This step ensures the oil is fully absorbed into the wood, creating a smooth finish and enhancing the aromatic qualities of the olive wood.
Labelling and Packing: The Final Touch
Once the dog sticks have dried, they are carefully labelled, with each one receiving a stamp of authenticity. Sandro and Teresa take pride in their craftsmanship and quality assurance, ensuring that each dog stick is of the highest standard. The finished products are then meticulously packed for transport.
