Dogs

February 21 2022

Beyond Brushing: What you need to know about dental health

Of course, pet owners should brush their dog or cat’s teeth to prevent abscesses, jaw damage, and heart disease – in addition to simply keeping them healthy. This is also the first step in avoiding tooth loss and systemic infections.

There are other methods in addition to brushing teeth for those dogs who resist or aren’t particularly in favor of brushing their teeth.

Dog tooth wipes can be an easier option. Use them by rubbing the wipe against your pet’s teeth, but just know they will not be as effective in the crevices between teeth.

Dog dental treats. These specifically remove plaque buildup and will clean your pet’s mouth, which also freshens up their bad breath. Try different sizes, shapes, and flavors!

Dental treats will keep your pet’s mouth clean in addition to exercising their jaw muscles. Dog chews occupy your dog and keep them from chewing on other things but also benefit their oral health as well. By gnawing, your pet will scrape the plaque off its teeth. Some chews contain vitamins or enzymes for better dietary health. For pets who don’t need the extra calories, look for rubber or nylon toys.

Their diet also plays a factor – dry food (kibble) is less likely to become stuck between teeth, especially with larger kibbles. The friction of eating will clean the enamel and strengthen teeth and jaw muscles.

Regular pet checkups at your veterinarian should also include dental cleanings. Pets with anxiety can be anesthetized so they are more comfortable. Check their teeth yourself visually by lifting their lips and opening their mouth. You’ll be able to quickly notice any sores or plaque buildup. You can work with your pet to get them accustomed to having toothbrushes and your fingers in their mouth for oral checks, especially if you start young.

February 10 2022

Loose Leash Walking

Dogs, Training Tips

Dogs do not just simply know how to leash-walk calmly by your side without pulling, so this skill needs to be taught. For dogs who pull, this technique can transform walks from having to fight your dog to enjoying the process.

Before you begin, know this will require patience, consistency, and dedication to seeing it through. The process will likely feel tedious or monotonous as you redefine this experience for both of you.

Beyond reducing pulling against your arm and the leash, this will also minimize tantrums, constant marking, and leash reactivity. You will be instructing them on listening to you, versus paying attention to other things around them. Key characteristics are these:

✓ Zero leash tension.
✓ Walking next to your side, not in front of you.
✓ Sniffing or marking on command.
✓ Ignoring stimuli – other dogs, people, and noises.

You’ll need a few things such as a small pouch of easy-access treats for rewarding your dog and, of course, treats. You can even replace meals in their bowl with feeding them throughout the day during training sessions. Dogs are typically food-motivated and eager to please this way.

Clickers can effectively signal a behavior you want. Use very structured walks – no sniffing, no greetings, no marking. In the beginning, give them an opportunity to use the bathroom but then the remainder needs to be structured. You also need to be mentally present – not talking, texting, or listening to music, just walking the dog. This teaches leadership and following you.

Begin with these steps, and consult a trainer for more in-depth advice:

1. Start with indoor sessions to avoid distractions. The places where they show most excitement (front door, back door, etc.) are where to practice structured walking until they learn you’re going for a walk.
2. Reserve outside time for potty and structured play in your yard only until they learn they cannot whine or throw tantrums.
3. Use time not route or distance, and walk in circles or figure eights. This removes opportunities to pull, react to animals, or become distracted by noises.

If you continue in the direction your dog is pulling, it interprets as rewarding them. Change direction when they pull or add opposing tension to teach coordinating with your movement. Lastly, vary your speed to ensure they are focused on you.

woman with curly hair holding a white dog

December 2 2021

Dogs & Hypothyroidism: What Owners Should Know

Dogs, Health Tips, Pet Care

What is hypothyroidism, and how do you diagnose your dog? Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. While easy to diagnose and treat, it can be overlooked without regular vet checkups. The cause remains unclear; however, with some vigilance and care, you can manage this with your dog.

The thyroid gland, like in humans, is butterfly-shaped and found in the neck next to the windpipe. It’s part of the endocrine system, and the hormones it produces make cells function normally through metabolism. Simply put, metabolism refers to how fast or slow cells burn food so cells turn it into energy. From there, it enables your dog’s body to circulate blood, contract muscles, breathe, and ensures their nerves and brain function properly.

Symptoms. Most commonly, this affects dogs between four and ten years of age and can be related to autoimmune disorders which shrink or inflame the thyroid tissue. Hypothyroidism will affect major parts of their body, from gastrointestinal to nervous and circulatory systems and possibly the reproductive system as well.

Look for these signals:

► Excessive tiredness, dullness, or depression
► Abrupt weight gain
► Infections of the skin
► Seizures
► Intolerance to cold
► Excessive shedding, dandruff, or a dull coat
► Uncharacteristically-long heat cycles for unspayed females
► Weakness or neuromuscular problems
► Stiff walking
► Loud breathing

Risk factors. Although there don’t appear to be any genetic causes, some larger breeds tend to be more likely to contract hypothyroidism. Spaying and neutering have many benefits, but one small drawback is this seems to slightly increase the risk of developing this disease.

Treatment options. With proper treatment, your dog will return to their normal energy level and personality! An inexpensive oral supplement will mimic the effect of the gland, but it’s imperative to balance the amount. And then follow up with proper nutrition.

November 23 2021

Identifying Diabetes in Your Pet

Cats, Dogs, Health Tips, Pet Care

Similar to humans, dogs and cats can become diabetic with the inability to produce the insulin required to regulate blood sugar, but what are the indicators of diabetes to watch for? Here are some signs and when to contact your veterinarian.

Overweight animals have a greater chance of becoming diabetic. Read our post on ideal body weight to learn how to manage your pet’s weight. For overweight pets, your vet will have tips on how to safely adjust their food intake and increase their exercise for optimum health and to avoid diabetes.

However, older pets also are more susceptible to diabetes, typically emerging in dogs between seven and nine years of age. Related to the above point about their weight, older dogs especially reduce their exercise which can translate to additional pounds, increased glucose levels, and insufficient insulin levels. Some breeds are more prone to this disease, though, in addition to unspayed females.

One of the most common indicators is excessive, constant thirst which makes them urinate more frequently, often in the house or their bed. Take note of how much water they’re drinking, but don’t reduce it as they need that to stay hydrated. Pet owners sometimes expect a urinary tract infection to be the cause of the accidents. Regardless, when owners see changes like this, contact your vet for a checkup.

Is your pet sleeping more than is typical? Lethargy could also be a key indicator – the tiredness is called “diabetes fatigue”.

Has your pet lost weight recently? Dramatic and sudden weight loss could also point to an issue of which your vet should be aware. Since the body can’t access the glucose from food (because it stays in the bloodstream instead of going to cells), your pet will likely show greater hunger than is typical, combined with not gaining weight. Take care of overweight pets who lose weight quickly though, as it might be due to health problems and not simply becoming healthier.

Early detection and intervention are key to keeping your pet healthy and improving the quality of their life – as well as avoiding diabetic problems with eyesight and blindness or other infections.

October 22 2021

The Case for Adopting a Dog

Dogs, Pet Care

Some prefer to use dog breeders in order to get the dog they think they want, but adopting a dog could be a better route for your family. Here are some reasons to visit your local shelter and bring home a furry friend during national adopt-a-dog month.

Saving lives.

Most shelters must euthanize a number of pets each year due to an over-abundance of animals and limited space. Taking in new strays or surrenders constantly means shelters are typically low on available space. By adopting, you save your dog plus make room for another to be rescued.

Deep connection.

Shelter dogs aren’t less capable of giving love and affection to their new owner but more. You’ll very likely develop a strong bond with your shelter rescue.

Becoming more active.

If you’re wanting a more active lifestyle, a shelter dog could be the answer! Read our posts on dog walking and how it improves your physical health, reduces your stress, and benefits your new dog’s health and wellbeing too. Find a dog who matches your ideal level of activity – from leisurely strolls once a day to running, biking, or marathon training.

Lower cost.

Dog breeders and pet stores charge a premium, and you could be encouraging poor breeding habits. Shelters charge a nominal fee for the adoption, typically including a spay or neuter, micro-chipping, and up-to-date vaccinations. For a purebred dog, research carefully, meet the puppy’s parents, and ask your vet for reputable breeders.

Health.

Purebred dogs can have a host of genetic problems, leading to expensive vet care across their lives. Most shelter dogs are mixes of several breeds, resulting in unique looks and personalities along with fewer inherited issues. You could end up with a healthier pet companion!

Your health insurance.

Many health insurance companies have begun to reward policyholders who keep track of their steps. For those who primarily sit at a desk, having a rescue companion will get you up, moving, and potentially earn you bonuses.

Dog training.

Yes, puppies are cute…and come with sleepless nights, accidents, damage to belongings, and a lot of need for instruction on how to be a good companion. Many shelter dogs have already gone through the biting and chewing phases, and are likely already house-broken. Beyond acclimating them to you and your lifestyle, it might mean less of this type of training.

Shelter dogs will spend the first three to six months adjusting to their new environment. Be patient with them! You’ll see their personality emerge over time, and you’ll have saved a life and gained a loyal companion.

April 7 2021

How to Interact Safely and Prevent Dog Bites

Dogs, Safety

Any dog, regardless of breed, age, or size, is capable of biting under certain conditions. However, knowing what to look for and how to approach them can mean the difference between a positive interaction and a dog bite. April 11th begins Dog Bite Prevention Week, and so here are some thoughts for reducing biting behavior or incidents.

First, why do dogs bite? Injured animals tend to bite out because they feel threatened or afraid, an instinct present even in the most domesticated pets. What is termed aggressive behavior might simply be a dog defending itself or its territory. Taking a dog by surprise can also result in biting, and those breeds prone to herding or protection can interpret running away as an invitation to chase you.

Abandoned, abused, or easily startled animals might bite more readily, as will a mother caring for her puppies. Waking a sleeping dog or sneaking up to take them by surprise likely will also provoke biting.

How do you prevent dog biting? Training. For your own dog, engage in deliberate training with positive rewards for good behavior, redirecting your dog away from problematic behaviors as they occur.

Socialization. Expose your dog to various situations, noises, and people to get them used to meeting and being around other places and things. When dogs aren’t properly socialized, they can become aggressive out of fear or discomfort.

Neutering. Have your dog spayed or neutered as soon as possible. Intact dogs tend to bite more and exhibit hostile behaviors due to the hormones which make them more territorial.

How do you recognize a dog who is about to bite?

Look at the dog’s body language for clues. If they are growling, showing their teeth, and snapping, it’s probably wise to back off. Other cues include raised fur, a rigid posture, and rapid tail wagging – not to be confused with happy tail wagging which is relaxed, with a wide, sweeping arc that moves their body at the same time. A high tail, moving back and forth in a narrow, stiff arc, with an erect and rigid body means the dog is feeling threatened or uncomfortable.

Lastly, interact safely with other people’s dogs by asking permission, approaching slowly, and letting the dog approach you to sniff first. If cornered, avoid eye contact, stay still, and wait until the dog loses interest; then walk away.

Positive veterinarian doctor communicating with cute dog's owner in medical office

February 25 2021

Why Should I get my Female Pet Spayed?

Cats, Dogs, Farm Animals, Ferrets, Health Tips, Kittens, Pet Care, Rabbits

Pet overpopulation troubles many places around the country, especially from stray animals. How can you work to reduce this problem? By spaying or neutering your cat or dog. It’s a simple solution, but some people question why it’s necessary.

My cat is an exclusively indoor pet. Pets tend to be escape artists, sneaking out the door underfoot. They can then become difficult to find and if not spayed and in heat, might find a partner to breed. Owners then end up with unwanted kittens to feed, provide veterinary care for, euthanize, or give away. This also increases their tendency for becoming injured from cars or fights with other animals. Side note: this is also why rabies vaccinations are important, even for indoor pets.

Health risks for unspayed female pets. As pets age, reproductive organs also age, bringing with them more medical issues. For female cats and dogs, risks for uterine infections and breast cancer increase exponentially. In 50% of female dogs and 90% of female cats, these diseases will ultimately claim their lives.

Other issues with intact female pets. When female dogs and cats are in heat, they become vocal and can urinate more frequently than typical (marking). This time lasts, on average, for four to five days out of every three weeks. You’ll also need hygiene products during their menstrual cycles such as diapers and pads, and she might need to urinate more frequently.

When is the best time to spay? To avoid unwanted behaviors developing, most vets advise to spay prior to your dog or cat’s first heat; however, older pets benefit as well and will live a longer, healthier life.

What about the cost? Unplanned veterinary expenses add up fast. You’ll also need additional food, toys, pet beds, and yearly checkups, potential surgical procedures, and ongoing vaccinations. A simple spay is far less costly than all of those for the lives of multiple other pets. In addition, check into local county resources which might offer them at a lower cost.

Myths about spaying and neutering. A spay procedure will not make them fat! Overweight pets are a product of overeating and infrequent exercise. Monitor food intake and give them plenty of activity.

Can’t I use this to teach my children responsibility or the miracle of birth? There are a multitude of other ways to do both of these, and without putting additional strain on your household from more pets and the associated costs. Look to videos, books, and online resources instead.

February 4 2021

Dental Disease in Pets

Cats, Dogs, Health Tips, Kittens, Pet Care

As with people, taking care of dental health also benefits your dog or cat. Yes, pets can have dental disease, where plaque, bacteria, and tartar build-up on the teeth and get trapped by the gums. This causes severe pain and infection, but addressing it early is key.

What does dental disease look like? First and foremost, bad breath – and no, this is not normal. Teeth can also show yellow tartar buildup, and gums might be swollen and red. Your veterinarian should include dental evaluations in annual exams. Pets with advanced dental disease might display irritability, lethargy, and a decreased appetite.

How is dental disease diagnosed? X-rays reveal what might not be apparent when simply looking at your pet. Using anesthesia, your vet will take radiographs to ascertain the extent and how to treat it. Then they will thoroughly clean your pet’s teeth in a safe and comfortable way, removing the plaque from beneath the gum line where it thrives.

Why use anesthesia? Many pet owners reject dental procedures due to a fear of anesthesia; however, your pet will be awake and very likely agitated at the lights, instruments, and being held down. Using anesthesia means your vet can safely and effectively complete the procedure without the risk of causing your pet additional stress.

How do you care for your pet after the procedure? Afterward, your vet might prescribe a numbing medication so your pet can recover without being in constant pain. In addition, some simple at-home care will ensure oral health and reduce the need for surgeries later on.

How can you prevent dental disease? For newly-acquired pets, your vet should begin to address oral health at the first visit, watching as puppies’ or kittens’ adult teeth emerge and addressing any issues early. Regardless of your pet’s age or when they joined your family, brushing their teeth regularly is a big part of preventative care.

Look for pet toothpaste, not human ones which contain ingredients toxic to animals. Pair this with pet food which preserves oral health, especially those approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). Too-hard products like synthetic bones might actually cause tooth fractures. And keep up with your pet’s yearly checkups! In this way, you can actively prevent problems and expenses which compound over time, the longer they go unnoticed or undetected.

keep your pet safe when travelling by car

January 4 2021

How to Keep Your Pet Safe When Travelling

Dogs

British seatbelt inventor George Cayley could not have predicted in the mid-nineteenth century just how important these would become. Patented in America in 1885 by Edward J. Claghorn for use in taxis to keep tourists safe, the seatbelt didn’t become optional on passenger vehicles until the mid-1950s. in 1963, Congress passed laws requiring seatbelts to reduce injuries from accidents.

Many states now require restraints to pets while you’re driving due to their ability to distract you from the road and also to prevent pet injuries in a collision. However, opting to have your pets riding in crates might be sufficient. Loose, tethered, or crated, most states prohibit dogs from roaming in a truck bed.

Flipping your child safety locks on can prevent your dog from opening a window and jumping out. Though dogs do enjoy riding with their heads out the window, their eyes can catch – and be damaged by – flying debris, or they can leap out while the vehicle is in motion. But think about how, without seatbelts, car accidents can eject humans. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that dogs would get thrown from the car as well, with 80 pounds quickly becoming a 2400 pound projectile at 50 mph.

Should you use a dog seatbelt or a harness that attaches to the car’s seatbelt? Either one, but know this is a specific type of harness, not the one you use to attach to leashes. Dog seatbelts, which attach to the car’s seatbelts, allow your dog a little more ability to move, lie down, sit up, all without distracting the driver.

Harnesses will keep your dog safer, though, by spreading the sudden-force impact to prevent jolting your dog’s body, which results in much less potential for injury. Look at specialty pet shops, or ask your veterinarian for suggestions, ensuring the one you choose carries a certification

Both will protect your dog better than with a seatbelt alone.

But how to get your dog used to it? Before your long trip, put your dog in the car for a few minutes at a time, securing them with the harness. After a few of these, when your dog looks more comfortable, go for a short drive and work up to longer ones.

December 23 2020

Winter Walks: Protecting Your Dogs Paws

Dogs, Pet Care

Most locations will receive snow, ice, or a wintry mix of weather over the next several months, and this can make your walks uncomfortable for your dog. What can you do? Keep reading for our best tips!

Bundle up! Your dog’s fur coat might look warm; however, some breeds don’t tolerate cold weather or precipitation well. Having some coats and hats for your pup not only keeps them comfortable but also gives them some fashion style, which can make walking them more enjoyable.

Increase visibility! During overcast days, dark-colored fur especially can make your pet hard to notice. Look for reflective leashes and collars, and purchase brightly-colored coats. If they happen to escape, this might make it easier to spot them.

Clear the way! Even dogs can slip on ice, so shovel and clean off your sidewalk and driveway for them. Regular de-icing salt will burn your dog’s paw pads, so look for a pet-safe ice melt product.

Use paw protection! Dog boots and paw wax will keep your pup’s paws from feeling the burn of ice or salt, as well as protect them from frostbite. Boots will prevent paws from being numb from the cold and from ice accumulating between toes.

Stay hydrated! During this dry time of the year, it’s easy for both people and pets to get dehydrated. Give your dog ample water before and after your walks. You might think they can just eat snow, but it can hold bacteria which will make them sick. And while being bundled up keeps them warm, it also can make your dog pant. This leads to more dehydration, as heavy breathing releases moisture needed to stay hydrated.

Dry off afterward! Keep a supply of towels near your home’s entryway to wipe down your dog’s fur and paws. Snow or ice residue gets caught in their fur, which leads to excessive licking or chewing which will irritate their skin further. Hairdryers can be used as well, to finish drying your dog’s fur.

Check for frostbite! Which areas should you look at? Any exposed skin – ears, nose, tail, and footpads. That skin will appear paler and colder than other areas, even after being inside for a while. It might eventually turn red and swell. Call your vet if you suspect frostbite.