Thursday, February 26, 2009

Are Dog Strollers Luxury or Necessity?

It is never ridiculous to think about your dog's welfare and safety. Who would dare to disagree?

A lot of dog owners probably think that putting a dog inside a stroller is a useless idea, but they are definitely wrong. They dismiss the fact that dog strollers can bring a lot of benefits and advantages for both pets and the owners in terms of transporting a dog from one place to another.

If you want to protect your dog from many possible dangers in the outside world, buying a stroller is a practical option to ensure the safety of your dog while providing huge amount of comfort and convenience. You can also easily carry your senior pets or dogs with disabilities using this type of dog carrier.

Nobody wants to bring large dog with a fractured leg, right? It is a very difficult endeavor and risky at the same time for the condition of your dog. Caring for a disabled or injured dog will be a lot more manageable if you use a stroller.

Indeed, strollers for pets are not luxury items, most especially for physically challenged k9s. Older dogs will definitely feel more comfortable whenever you put them inside a stroller.

For dog owners who love taking a long walk in the park or around the block, a pet stroller is more than a necessity. If you are worried about your dog getting away or lost when you’re walking in the streets, you can prevent such unlikely incidents from happening by using a dog stroller. Dog strollers are also a healthy solution if you reside in an area where it isn't too safe to walk. Many outdoorsy dog lovers have heralded the use of a dog stroller as a fantastic way of incorporating dogs into their workouts.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Is Your Pet Overweight?

Your Pet's Weight Matters

Just like with humans, the primary cause of pet obesity is too much food and too little exercise. Obesity presents cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and digestive dangers to your pet's health while also increasing the risk for diabetes, arthritis, fatigue and heat intolerance. In all overweight dogs and cats, the body structure ages prematurely and can reduce the lifespan of your pet.

Checking Your Pet for Weight Gain

By monitoring changes in your pet's body, you can identify additional pounds early. Here are a few areas to check:

* Run your hand over your pet's hips. You should feel the bumps of two pelvic bones without applying pressure.
* Place your thumbs on your pet's back and run them along the backbone with your fingers over the ribs. You should be able to feel the bumps of the ribs without applying any pressure. If you can see the ribs or they are protruding, your pet is too thin.
* Push your thumb and index finger into the flesh at the side of the neck above the shoulder and pinch together. Your fingers should not be more than a half inch apart.
* When you look at your pet from the side, the abdomen should not be hanging down
* When looking at your pet from above, you should be able to see a waist behind the ribs

Making Changes to Reduce Obesity Risk

The first step is to consult your veterinarian. He or she will be able to provide you with a detailed feeding and exercise plan if necessary. Ask about regular follow-ups to ensure the plan is working. Here are other things to help reduce weight gain:

* Don't misinterpret an empty bowl as an empty stomach. Even if your dog or cat "cleans their plate", make sure you are controlling portions appropriately.
* Make time for extended exercise. Playtime alone or outside is not enough. Schedule a play session or a long walk to help keep your pet's muscles toned.
* Pay attention to the fat and calorie content in the food you buy. Fats are an energy source, but excess fat adds pound quickly. Similarly, look for low calorie diets that offer the same quality ingredients found in higher calorie foods.
* Don't let your pets snack on your table scraps.

To promote your own health along with the health of your pets, explore ways that you and your dog or cat can exercise together. Some canine breeds can be great company for a long walk or jog. Keep in mind, cats prefer frequent periods of intense activity rather than longer exercise sessions.

Contributed by Pet First Health Care

Thursday, February 5, 2009

How To Treat Dog Arthritis

Dog arthritis, a canine illness characterized by a pain in the joint, is a common problem among senior or old dogs. It comes with age and mostly affects large dog breeds. A dog with arthritis or hip dysplasia faces difficulty in moving, jumping or playing and also shouts in pain when tapped.

There are many ways to cure a dog with arthritis, ranging from herbal remedies to pain relief medications. But whichever treatment option you choose for your beloved canine, just make that you to seek the advice of your veterinarian first to know which treatment is most applicable for your dog’s condition.

A dog with arthritis often experiences severe pain. To address this, vets prescrible anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin and carprofen, both of which are helpful in minimizing pain and inflammation caused by arthritis. These drugs can significantly lessen the inflammation at the nerve endings, giving relief to your dog comfortable for some time. Other drugs such as steroids prednisone dexamethasone and anti-inflammatory medicines are also given to alleviate pain and reduce swelling of joints.

You can also feed your dog foods rich in omega 3 & 6 fatty acids. Fish oil, for example, is a natural anti-inflammatory agent, which is essential to reducing pain where inflammation is present.

For best results, any medical treatments need to be matched with proper dog diet. A dog with arthritis needs nutritious and well-balanced food in order to maintain the proper weight for his age and boost his immune system. Your dog must also get exercise on a regular basis to improve his strength and metabolism. Even if your dog is old, he still needs to move around and exercise. Walking the dog around your backyard or neighborhood 2-3 times daily will help him feel better in the long run.

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Tuesday, February 3, 2009

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Monday, January 26, 2009

Kid Friendly Dogs

Parents are smart to research which dog breeds are best for their children. Below are a few breed suggestions and tips as you consider which breed will function best in your family.
  • Labrador Retriever - Labs are a very popular family dog. Generally this breed is non-aggressive, and it's playful, easygoing demeanor makes it a great fit for children of all ages.
  • Golden Retriever - Similar to Labs in personality, Goldens are mild mannered and enjoy being around families and other people. These dogs are easy to train are gentle with children.
  • Beagle - Despite a Beagle's bark, they are also non-aggressive. Beagles are great around people, but don't like being left alone. Watch out for Beagles' boredom to lead to behavior problems if left alone for too long.
  • Basset Hound - This breed is good with children of all ages. They are known for their docile nature and gentleness. Their long backs need to be supported when they are picked up, and an eager child can accidently injure them.
  • German Shepherd - This dog is good for older children. They are playful, loyal dogs with considerable size and strength. Start training your German Shepherd early; without training they can quickly become a handful.
  • Cocker Spaniel - These lap dogs are sensitive and sweet and enjoy the attention of children. Cocker Spaniels are obedient with training and friendly around people.
  • Poodle - The standard sized Poodle is intelligent and eager to please. Labradoodles are a mix of Poodle and Labrador Retriever and can be a great alternative to a Lab for children with allergies to pet dander as Labradoodles are a hypoallergenic breed.
  • Cairn Terrier - This sturdy breed is great for families that prefer a smaller dog. Cairns are about 10 inches tall and weigh about 13 pounds and are good with children.
  • Pug - This affectionate breed loves being part of a family. Outgoing and mischievous, they make playful companions for children.
Keep in mind this list is not exhaustive. Each dog is an individual and can be an exception to the rule. With that in mind, here are a few breeds to be more cautious of around young children and toddlers.
  • Dominant and Willful Breeds - Rottweilers, Chow Chows, Coonhounds, Border Collies and Weimaraners all have personalities that make them difficult to train. These dogs may function better in homes with older children.
  • Toy Dog Breeds - Young children may play too roughly with Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas or other breeds under 10 pounds causing serious injury to the dog. Small dogs can also be more temperamental around children and may snap at them.
Contributed by Pet First Health Care
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Monday, January 19, 2009

Guide To Raw Diets For Dogs

A raw dog diet, as the term suggests, is a kind of diet which is composed of raw and uncooked food with no hidden ingredients and fillers. It is usually a combination of raw meat, eggs, meaty bones, some types of vegies and a few portion of usual dog kibble.

There is no denying that a raw dog diet is much better than commercial dog food. Why is that so? A raw diet for dogs contains ingredients that are fresh, natural and organic. This means that you can improve your dog's health if you constantly give him raw food.

Dull coats and skin, for instance, will look more shiny and healthy looking. It is also a good way to prevent dog's bad breath. Dogs under a raw diet can also enjoy better digestion and stamina.

By choosing a raw dog diet, your dog will lose unwanted fat and increase his muscle mass. This not only makes your dog look so much better on the outside, it also boosts your canine's metabolic rate, as well as his activity levels and life span. Not only that, buying fresh vegies, bones and organ meats are a lot less expensive than purchasing premium commercial dog food. For those who want to save money, it's really a cost-effective alternative.

So what types of food are part of a raw dog diet? Any part of a chicken is good for your canine. However, do not give him the bones. These can splinter and harm his internal organs. Turkey and quail are healthy too. Beef meats should also be included in your dog's diet. Unlike chicken, you can include the bones from beef or buffalo for your dog can digest them.

Raw diets can be given to puppies but be extra careful. Puppies can't chew bones like an adult dog can. Raw dog diet will also never be complete without vitamins. Your dog will be a lot healthier if feed him vegetables, fruits and whole grains.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Brushing Your Pets' Teeth At Home

Importance of Oral Care

According to the American Dental Society, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age three. This can lead to even more serious health problems including heart, lung and kidney disease. Ensuring your pet receives proper dental care from an early age is critical.

In addition to oral examinations and dental cleanings performed by your veterinarian, there are several things you can do to ensure the mouth of your dog or cat stays healthy.

Brushing at Home

Brushing your pet's teeth daily helps prevent a multitude of oral and other health problems. It is best to introduce dental home care early with your new puppy or kitten. During your first veterinary visit, request a demonstration of how to properly and effectively brush your pet's teeth.

Below are step-by-step instructions on how to brush your pet's teeth at home.

1. Start with a healthy, comfortable mouth by having your veterinarian perform a dental cleaning. Existing problems may cause pain leading to an uncooperative dog or cat.
2. Start slowly by letting your pet become comfortable with you working inside their mouth with your finger. Gently rub along the gumline. Start at the front and move toward the back upper and then lower teeth and gums.
3. Pull his lip up to rub the outside of the teeth and gums.
4. Pull his head back gently to encourage him to open his mouth so you can clean the inside of his teeth.
5. Repeat on the opposite side of the mouth.
6. After your dog or cat becomes comfortable with your finger, place gauze over your finger and rub their teeth in a circular motion.
7. When your pet can handle the gauze, introduce a toothbrush during the next brushing session. It is important to make this switch because a bristled toothbrush cleans below the gumline where gauze or pads cannot reach.
8. Apply the bristles at a 45 degree angle to the surface of the tooth. Using small, circular motions, brush around the outside of the teeth ensuring the bristles get under the gumline. Brushing the sides of the teeth is not as important, as dogs and cats typically do not have tartar build-up between teeth like humans do.
9. Gradually add toothpaste designed for dogs or cats. Do not use people toothpaste or baking soda as both can upset your pet's stomach.
10. Place your hand over your pet's muzzle gently squeezing from the top.
11. Help keep your pet calm by praising your pet, speaking reassuringly and keeping the brushing sessions short. Remember, you will not always have a perfect teeth brushing session, but it's important to be consistent and keep trying.

Other Considerations for a Healthy Mouth

Hard food and teeth cleaning biscuits can help keep your pet's mouth clean in between brushings.

You should also be sure to regularly examine your pet's mouth for signs of periodontal disease. Brownish teeth, consistently bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums and pus between the teeth and gums are all warning signs. If your dog or cat has these symptoms, consult your veterinarian.

Contributed by Pet First Health Care