Monday, November 24, 2008
Senior Dog Health Tips
By: Jane Dinunzio
The transition from a young pup to senior canine is a slow transition. Although it is natural, there are certain things you can do to help relieve or slow down some of the problems that come with your aging dog.
These are natural normal signs of elderly dogs, and are inevitable. Depending on the breed and size of your dog, the rate of aging can be quite different. For example at 10 years of age, a dog under 20 pounds is approximately equivalent to 56 human years. Compare the same aged dog (10 years old) that is over 90 pounds, and they are equivalent to approximately 78 human years.
Vets usually consider a small dog to be senior citizens around the 12th year. A large breed dog reaches the same stage around their 7th year. This is according to a report from Tuft's University.
Using established guidelines to determine when your dog starts entering their golden years will help to understand any changes in behavior and health. Keeping regular checkups with your vet is also most important as your dog ages, as any irregularities can be found early.
Signs of aging and tips to help keep your senior pet as perky as possible are:
Difficulty getting up from lying down, or limping and difficulty moving could indicate arthritis. Your vet can help recommend supplements or proper modified exercise routines to relieve discomfort, and increase mobility. Usually the proper supplements such as glucosamine will relieve mild arthritis symptoms.
Although graying hair and drying skin are quite normal in aging canines, a nice daily massage and a regular grooming routine can help your senior pet's skin condition improve. Also, because of the slowing down in daily routines for your senior dog, this can be your special bonding time set aside to make him/her feel special and also break up a boring day and give you both something to look forward too.
Certain breeds such a Labrador Retrievers are also known to be genetically predisposed to arthritis and hip problems. Different breeds have different genetic problems that you should be aware of when you first adopt your puppy, so you can look for signs of the problem as they age.
Excellent nutrition from puppy hood will help delay or decrease the speed of which the aging process proceeds. Your dog's life will definitely be shortened if he is overweight because more diseases and illnesses are likely to be caused by obesity.
The dog's environment should be kept clean and free of parasites, fleas, and ticks. This will certainly help increase the chances of a longer life.
Vision and hearing ultimately become diminished in your aging dog. Try not to startle your dog by changing his environment (moving furniture, changing the location of his bed, etc.). With diminished hearing you will have to attempt to get your dog's attention in other ways, such as clapping your hands, or standing in front of him and using hand motions.
Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite needs to be checked out immediately by your vet.
Also a sudden increase in appetite, especially with no weight gain involved may indicate diabetes. Also a sudden increase in thirst is also a sign of diabetes. This also needs immediate attention from your vet.
Excessive panting in your senior dog may indicate heart disease. If this continues for more than a day this is another reason to get to the vet as soon as possible.
As with any dog, diarrhea and vomiting lasting more than a day needs to be checked right away.
And finally, and possibly the worst problems to watch out for in your aging dog are the behavioral changes. Just as when we deal with our elderly family members who have dementia or Alzheimer's, dealing with a pet with drastic personality changes can be traumatic for both of your. Some symptoms to watch for are: Confusion, lack of attentiveness, disorientation, roaming in circles, barking for no reason, elimination accidents and being withdrawn. Also uncharacteristic aggression may start in old age. Try to keep your old dog's environment as stable and unchanging as possible as this may help.
It is difficult to watch the deterioration slowly change our robust, vibrant and active puppy into a slow moving, tired and sometimes cranky family member. The transition to the "golden years" do not need to be traumatic if you watch carefully and notice the gradual changes. As they happen, taking care of them will minimize their severity, and your dog can be eased into senior status with minor problems. We can always enjoy our pets at any age, just as long as our expectations change with their needs.
I found this helpful chart here to convert your dog's age into comparable human years. You can see from the chart that different size dogs age at different rate. Find out how old your dog is!
Labels: pets/dogs
Friday, November 21, 2008
Dog Cataracts - An Owner's Guide to Cataracts in Dogs
By: D. Swain
Cataracts in dogs is one of the most common eye conditions. Cataracts form when the lens in the eye becomes cloudy. This will lead to reduced vision. As the condition worsens, vision loss can become significant.
Causes
Dog cataracts can occur for any number of reasons. Genes play a major role as most dogs who develop this condition did so because they inherited it. Some puppies are even born with them.
Other common causes include diabetes mellitus, trauma, infection, and normal aging. In most situations, cataracts form in both eyes. However, if the condition is caused by an infection or trauma, there may be only one eye affected.
Treatment
The preferred method of treatment for cataracts in dogs is surgery. Surgery involves removing the entire lens in your dog's eye. It will then be replaced with an artificial lens.
Surgery is only a viable option if the condition is still in an early stage. If it is advanced, your dog won't likely be a good candidate to have the surgery done.
Untreated
Dog cataracts should always be treated as early as possible. If the condition is left untreated, it will cause severe inflammation to develop inside your dog's eye. As long as the cataracts are there, this inflammation will continue. This requires that your dog take anti-inflammatory eye drops as long as they are present.
In addition to the medicated eye drops, you will need to take your dog to have an eye exam on a regular basis. The disease can sometimes lead to glaucoma or a detached retina.
In addition to valley fever, there are many other diseases that can affect your dog such as canine bordetella. Any responsible owner should want to know the causes and symptoms of some of these conditions in case they affect your dog. Dog-illnesses.com provides all of the information you need about a wide range of diseases. So, stop by right now to learn about some of these conditions like canine lymphosarcoma.
Labels: pets/dogs
Monday, November 17, 2008
How to Select Quality Dog Food
By: Robert Kokoska
Even a great depression or recession could not deter people from spending millions on dogs and dog food. Statistics say Americans still keep a major chunk of their income for dogs. This shows the importance they give for their pets. In many homes, dogs have become an extension of the family and great priority is given for their wellbeing. As the market is flooded with different brands of dog food it is really difficult to select quality food. Since the age we live in is an age of marketing, where big companies flourish deploying marketing professionals who have their own way of luring the gullible. The resulting companies and marketing industry thrive in the name of pets. So it is really important to look into the credibility of pet food before buying it.
Animal protein, grains, bacteria cultures, probiotics and antioxidants are a must in dog food. A dog that feeds on quality food out-lives dogs fed on lower quality foods. Debate is going on strong whether dog food should be protein rich or not. While some argue that dogs are omnivores and can go about with out additional protein while others say it is essential for their growth. There is a general belief that too much protein can lead to renal failure. But whatever be the contention, protein is essential along with vitamins and minerals. One thing you have to pay attention to, is the quality of the meat.
Low quality protein is difficult to digest and can cause serious ailments. So it has to be avoided at all costs. As most companies use corn gluten to increase crude protein levels, you have to be extra careful before choosing protein rich food for your pet. Since fake products have entered the fray, it is advised to be alert and not to be hoodwinked by the false claims of business tycoons. As there are no regulatory measures to protect dog food, adulteration becomes easy.
Many canned foods contain harmful chemicals and preservatives intended for shelf life. More than that, most of the dog foods use euthanized or carcass as raw material. In many cases they use corn and soy to increase the protein which is not suitable for dog as it causes indigestion. The best dog food has become a rarity as more and more manufacturers cut costs on a daily basis. Their integrity regarding love for the animals is questionable as they are more concerned with the fattening of their wallet. At least the premature deaths of dogs place them in a bad light.
The best dog food should contain only two grains with ample protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and essential oils. Make sure that the protein is from chicken and not from soy or corn. As vitamins and minerals are needed for the supply of oxygen the best dog food should contain adequate amount. A healthy diet should include dry food. Though canned foods claim wholesomeness, nothing can beat the homemade stuff. Even if the dog likes canned food, if it is given crumbs it will eat eventually. It is a false notion that dogs don't eat vegetables. In fact they relish it. The fiber content is good for the health of the canine.
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Labels: dog/pets/puppy
Health Issues in Older Dogs
By: Joseph M. Sabol
You think of a 5 year old as very young, however, when your dog turns 5, he is beginning to enter his senior years. Your dog will begin to experience the same health issues as his human family. As you begin to notice changes in your dog's appetite and behavior, schedule an appointment with the veterinarian for a complete evaluation. This exam will give the vet an overall picture of your pet's health by determining potential problems, addressing and treating current problems, and supporting you in caring for your aging companion.
Changes take place in your dog which effect activity level, appetite and digestive system, hearing and vision, skin and coat and behavior. Your dog's activity level slows down because his metabolism slows by about 30%. Your best friend may still show an interest in active play, but arthritis will cause him pain and decreased mobility. Today there are prescription drugs to deal with arthritis, similar to the medicines we take. Only your vet can decide if these drugs will be appropriate for your dog. High quality, human grade pet vitamins have been shown to support the overall health and wellness of dogs by providing essential Omega fatty acids, antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients.
The decreased activity level and slower metabolism will naturally effect your pet's appetite as well as his calorie requirements. There are many high quality pet foods that are specially formulated for senior dogs. They provide complete nutrition but with a lower fat and calorie content. The decreased fat content may result in your dog's skin and coat becoming dry. A dietary supplement, in the form of a high quality pet vitamin will help maintain your dog's healthy skin and coat.
One of the most noticeable signs of aging is the clouding of a dogs eyes. This is caused by cataracts and is more common in some breeds, such as Boston terriers. There are veterinary specialists that can treat cataracts. Glaucoma is caused by an increased pressure in the eyes. It can be very serious, but if detected early, it can be controlled.
Another issue in aging pets is dental disease. Gums become infected and teeth become loose. This can not only be painful, but it can lead to more serious health issues. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the gums and cause cardiac or kidney problems. Have your veterinarian check and clean your pet's teeth and if necessary infected teeth can be removed and the dog prescribed antibiotics.
It is hard to see our best friend decline from an active, energetic playmate to a slower, less vigorous housemate. With proper care and nutrition and continued love and support from his family, your dog's senior years can be a pleasant, happy time.
Joseph M. Sabol is a world class Doberman breeder. Please go to http://petvitamins4u.com or to http://theroadhousedobes.com for further information
Labels: pets/dogs
Saturday, November 15, 2008
How to Uncover a Serious Illness in Your Dog
By: Sean S. Fredrick
Serious illness can overcome a seemingly healthy dog in a short while without proper observation and prompt action. Detecting early signs of illness is essential for proper care and treatment of most canine maladies. Dogs, like humans will exhibit common signs such as lethargy, weakness, and irritability.
Dogs overcome by illness will walk slowly, sleep often, and walk with their ears and tails down. Gray and cloudy eyes, discolored nose or tongue, or discharges from their ears and other areas should alert you to problems. Don't take chances with their health, as many canine ailments will overcome them in a much shorter time than human ailments will to you or I.
The quickest way to determine if your dog is sick is to look at their nose which should be clear and free of any discharge. Vomiting and diarrhea are also signs of a stomach or digestive condition. Slow and Labored breathing and movements, especially when attempting to stand up can be a sign of organ or kidney failure and should be addressed immediately with your veterinarian.
While bathing or handling your dog be sure to check the skin for injury, bruising, or hair loss. Excessive scratching, problems with walking and balance, and frequent urination can be caused by a variety of bacterial infections. The general mood or energy of the dog can be a great gauge of their health. Any sudden drop in activity or excessive sleeping should be noted and communicated to your veterinarian immediately.
Healthy dogs will have clean skin, bright eyes, and a pink tongue and gums free of unusual colors or discharge. Their temperature will be around 102°, and will take about 20 steady breaths per minute. They will be able to jump to their feet on command with little or no difficulty. Their bowel movements should be consistent, and they will have a good appetite.
Remember that you and only you are the first line of defense against any disease that your dog may struggle against. Constant care and awareness of your pet and their health will ensure their long and happy existence.
For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.
Labels: pets/dogs
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
The Way to Free Your Dog From Fleas and Ticks
By: Sean S. Fredrick
Fleas and ticks are common and potentially dangerous. Deer ticks in particular can carry devastating Lyme disease and need to be removed as soon as they are discovered. Fleas can be carried by a rats and other wild animals, which can easily be transferred to those pet dogs that live and play near heavily wooded areas.
Preventing fleas and ticks from finding a home in your pets her and skin requires little work and some common sense. Observe your pet and how frequent they scratch and in what areas. Frequent scratching causing bruises and abrasions is the first clue to flee and tick infestation. A common area to find this kind of injury will be around the ears. Inspect the ears carefully especially down inside the ear canal with a small flashlight.
While there are several types of flea and tick deterrents on the market, a large infestation particularly in the ears will require a visit to the veterinarian's office. Ticks will embed themselves deep into the skin creating an area of redness and bruising. Ticks will tend to bury their head into the skin first feeding on the blood of the animal while sometimes leaving their bodies exposed on the outside of the skin.
Properly removing a tick from the skin can often times just be a simple matter of using a pair of tweezers and gently pulling on the ticks body until it releases itself. Be sure not to use too much pressure as to pinch and tear the skin causing a bigger problem. Larger and more extreme infestations should be handled by a vet and with proper medication.
Fleas also bite into the skin feeding on the blood of whatever animal there on. A flea infestation can best be handled by a medicated shampoo applied daily until they are gone. Dogs that spend much of their time around densely wooded areas, or in areas with a high amount of rats will be most at risk for fleas and ticks.
Frequent bathing and observation of the skin and fur will assist in determining if fleas and ticks are present. Flea collars can help, but it is better to keep your pet dog out of trouble areas. Children also are susceptible to flee bites especially when in constant close contact with your pet. With a little observation and common sense, a small flea or tick will not grow into a very large problem.
For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.
Labels: pets/dogs
Monday, November 10, 2008
Tips For the Proper Care and Cleaning of Your Dog's Ears
By: Sean S. Fredrick
Your dog's ears are one of the most sensitive parts of their body, vigorous activity, horseplay, and simply running through the woods around your house can cause nicks, scratches, and bruises which can develop into a far more serious injury. Contaminants such as dirt, leaves, excess earwax, and mites must be removed for the proper health and avoidance of ear infection.
An ear infection has the potential to rapidly spread throughout the cranial cavity, causing problems with balance, hearing loss, and even deafness. All it takes is a little preemptive care and attention to avoid such a catastrophic condition. Regular cleaning is the key, and proper cleaning methods must be used as to avoid unintended injury.
A thorough cleaning and inspection is especially important after any violent incident involving another animal, because ears and noses are the most prone to injury. Rabies and other diseases are normally spread through open wounds and saliva, so be sure to visit your vet after such an occurrence.
Proper cleaning up your dog's ears is essential to their health since hearing is one of the most important of their senses. The ears are extremely delicate so gentle and thorough methods are required. This cleaning should be done every few days especially for those dogs that spend frequent time outdoors in rough wooded areas.
One of the first steps for long-haired breeds is to trim excessively long fur from around the ear canal. Not too much because fur also acts as protection of the ear canal. Clean under floppy ears removing contaminants such as dirt, grass, and leaves. Check for cuts and abrasions in this area as well since this is a critical area for long eared dogs.
Gently clean the inside of the ear canal with a cotton cloth and warm water. Mineral oil on a clean cotton cloth can assist in removing excess earwax and oily buildup. Never insert any objects such as a cotton swab directly into the ear canal because you may cause a serious injury if your dog happens to jerk or move their head suddenly. When bathing take care as to not let this soapy water enter the ear canal where as this may cause an infection.
Inspect your dog's ears frequently for cuts, open wounds, and other bruising. Minor irritations such as fleas and ticks can cause incessant scratching and further injury. Watch for problems with balance and hearing, these are signs of an unseen ear infection. Consult your veterinarian if these symptoms arise.
Follow the proper cleaning and care procedures and insure that common and preventable ear injuries and conditions are avoided. Loving care and observation of your dog's health will make for a long and healthy relationship!
For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.
Labels: pets/dogs
Saturday, November 08, 2008
Simple and Safe Ways to Give Medication to Your Dog
By: Sean S. Fredrick
Giving medication to your pet dog will be an inevitability during the course of their lives. Oral medication is commonly prescribed and administered by the owner at home. But this can be easier said than done especially with large pills and foul liquid medicine.
So what is the proper method for ensuring they take their medication? Pills can be tricky because they must be placed deep into the throat without causing choking or vomiting. The first step is to calm your dog down and get them to sit in a comfortable place near you.
Keep a towel handy for any mishap that might occur and position yourself as to limit their movements without holding down too hard. Now you must ensure that you can keep their mouths open by placing your hand over the bridge of their nose and gently squeezing the cheeks so as to gently hold their mouth open. Once you have them in this position it is essential to place the pill as deep as possible to the back of their tongue, once the pill is positioned release their cheeks and allow their mouth to close while gently holding their head up so the pill can slide down her throat easily.
Liquid medication will normally come with an applicator bottle and a long nozzle. Giving liquid medication will use a similar method by gently holding the dog still and applying the dosage by squeezing the proper amount into the pockets of skin between their teeth and lips. Do not hold your dog's head high for this as to ensure the liquid will not run down their throat and cause choking.
After giving any type of medication in this way you should be sure that your dog drinks plenty of water as to aid in its digestion. It is advisable to consult your veterinarian for the proper procedure for giving different types of medication. Injections and other types should be handled by your veterinarian unless otherwise specified. Giving medication to your pet will be a quick and easy routine once you master the proper method.
For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.
Labels: pets/dogs
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Toilet Training Your Dog
By: Lara Lee
The most essential training that every dog owner has to carry out for his dog is his toilet training. It is also one of the most essential aspects in your dog's life. If you do not train him in this regard, you should be ready to clean every nook and corner of your house where he might pee or pass stool. You cannot blame your dog for not using the proper place if you have not trained him. Apart from this, you would not like your expensive furniture or linens with strains of urine. It is easy to toilet train your dog than to continue cleaning his wastes.
To begin with, you need to identify when your dog feels the need to use the toilet. You must remember that puppies do not have much power over their bladders and bowels so you must take them to the toilet. It is advisable that you take your puppy to the toilet after eating, drinking, after waking, playing or exercising. It is also recommended that you take him for toilet before putting him to bed. You should also feed your dog on fixed timings. This schedule will also help you to know and establish his potty timings
You can study your dog's body language to know when he feels the need to use the toilet. If you find him sniffing, circling round or holding the tail high, you can guess that he needs to use the toilet.
To train your pet properly, you musty know that it is a time taking process and cannot be done in two to three days. In the beginning, you may have to face certain unpleasant accidents when your dog will pee here and there. If you hit or shout at him, it will not really help. Being a dog trainer, you need to have patience. You require consistency and determination to train your pet.
In case if he fails to use toilet in spite of all your efforts, you must take him to he vet as he might be suffering from some illness.
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Labels: dog/pet/puppy
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