In my last post I recommended getting your dog a "Puppy Cut" for the summer. If you decide to give them a short haircut, be sure to protect your dog's skin from the sun with 'Pet Sunscreen.'

Pet Sunscreen is SPF 15, non-ily, non-irritating, water soluable and contains no silicone. Protect your dog from sunburn, apply sunscreen!

Click here to buy a bottle today!

Posted by Michele and Charlie in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Here are a few tips for keeping your dog cool in the dog days of summer:

• Keep dogs indoors in a well ventillated room - air conditioning is a plus!
• Give your dog a "Puppy Cut" (short hair cut). This especially helps if your dog has long hair. It also helps against ticks and fleas. Ask your local groomer about getting a "Puppy Cut".
• If you keep your dog outside, be sure they have plenty of water. Make sure the water is in the shade. Also, be sure to have a second bowl of water placed outside as a back-up, just in case the first bowl is accidentally knocked over. Place the 2nd bowl at a different location then the first.
• Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening (about an hour after the sun sets), when it is cooler outside. Besides being cooler, the pavement will not be as hot and will not burn the pads of their feet.
• Heat Exhaustion is very common with dogs in the summer. Signs of heat exhaustsion - rapid breathing, heaving panting, and salivation. Don't be nervous if your dog is panting. This is a way dogs cool themselves down (since they don't have sweat glands). If you see your dog having a heat stroke, bring them to a cool place, place cool wet towels on them, and call your vet.
• Don't leave your dog in your car without leaving the car "ON" with the "AC". Leaving the windows cracked when it's hot outside will not do the trick. Cars heat up quickly in the summer and dogs will overheat.
• Don't bring your dog to the beach. It is too hot for them. They will experience heat exhaustion and dogs do sunburn! So leave them at home with the AC on. They will be much more comfortable.

I hope these tips help! Just use your knoggin and be aware of your dogs behavior in the summer.

Posted by Michele and Charlie in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Tea Tree Oil is a natural antiseptic, germicide, antibacterial, fungicide. Many people use tea tree oil for acne, athlete's foot, eczema, psoriasis, and many types of infestations such as lice, mites, mosquitoes, etc.

Recently a friend of mine applied Tea Tree Oil on his dog. His dog had a slight rash and he thought that Tea Tree Oil would soothe and help cure the rash. However, what happened was that his dog fell into a state of paralysis (he became uncoordinated and unable to stand up). He rushed his dog to the vet and was informed that Tea Tree Oil can cause toxicosis on pets!

I did some reasearch on the web and found some interesting facts (see list below). I came across a lot of websites that recommend using Tea Tree Oil on your pets to treat flea infestastions,  to cleanse ear wax, skin rashes, etc. But I would highly recommend against it after the incident my friend had with his dog and reading the following facts:

1. Tea tree oil contains 50-60% terpenes, toxicity is "similar to other essential oils such as eucalyptus oil.
2. Toxicosis in humans has resulted from ingestion of 0.5 to 1 cc tea tree oil per kg of body weight.
3. Dogs and cats with tea tree oil toxicosis will appear weak, obtunded, uncoordinated, ataxic, and usually have muscular tremors.
4. There is no antidote. Treatment involves general detoxification, supportive care, bathing with mild detergents, using activated charcoal if ingested.

Source: Task Force for Veterinary Science

Posted by Michele and Charlie in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

For those of you who have little dogs, in particular, Yorkshire terriers, shit zhus, or maltese, you must be aware of a liver condition called liver dysplasia sometimes caused by a portosystemic shunt.   I have a 6 year old maltese who was diagnosed with this sometimes fatal condition at ten months.  Luckily I had litter box trained my maltese as he had no obvious systems other than a dark red urine.  Sometimes dogs with this a condition will have seizures or chase their tail, lethargy, loss of appetite and bile vomiting but Canoli showed no signs other than the urine color.  He had plenty or energy; however, he was very little (also can be a sign) but my breeder told me he was just a tiny maltese.  At the immediate sign of the red urine I took Canoli to my vet who did a urine analysis, which was positive for ammonia crystals ( usually a sign) and then a bile acid study which was conclusive for liver dysplasia.  I then took him to a specialist in Frazier, Pa. (Dr. Sadanaga) who recommended surgery on my little 3 lb dog.  The surgery was to tie off the shunt and hope his liver did not sprout another one. Apparently, surgery is the only cure for this condition. After  the surgery, the vet told me his liver had atrophied quite significantly. Fortunately, the shunt was tied and he did not sprout another one and his liver has now rejuvenated to a normal size.  Within six months of his surgery he doubled his weight.  Important to remember sometimes the teacup dogs are so small because they be dogs with this condition. If you are going to purchase a tiny dog, you might want to consider having your vet do a urine analysis and possibly a bile acid study to make sure your dog doesn’t have this condition.  It is a condition which is congenital and can be life threatening. It is not only costly it is very hard on the dog and such little dogs run the risk of not making it through the anesthesia. 

Posted by Canoli's Mom in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My little Canoli had problems last year with his anal sacs.  (For those of you who are unaware as to what are anal sacs.  They are two tiny little holes next to the anus and can sometimes fill up and create problems for your dog. They actually do not really serve a purpose these days but were used to a mark a dog's territory many years ago.) Canoli's had to be emptied several times and then I was told he might have to have them removed.  Often times a groomer will empty the sacs when you take your dog to be groomed.  I took him to a surgeon who recommended that his sacs be removed. I did research on the internet and luckily found a lot of information. As it turned out Canoli didn’t have anywhere near the problems other dogs have with anal sacs and in fact, they were not inflamed according to the symptoms and pictures. Suggestions were to put hot compresses on the butt off and on several times a day. I followed their suggestions and it’s been since last year and Canoli has not had any additional problems. When he appears to be flipping his head back towards his butt I know he’s uncomfortable and I immediately apply the compresses for several days and this has worked for him. If he doesn’t seem any better, I take him to the vet and have the sacs emptied. I was glad I didn’t put him through unnecessary surgery.

Posted by Canoli's Mom in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Be sure to continually check the Menu Foods Recall list, since their has been additional pet foods that have been added (even though Menu Foods has not updated the date on their recall page): MENU FOODS RECALL LIST

Their has been reports leaking out that Menu Foods knew about the potential problem since December 2006:

Starting in December, concerns began filtering back to the company through toll-free customer lines about the "cuts and gravy" style pet food. (Chronicle Herald)

Menu Foods performed their first test on a lab animal on Feb. 27th. That animal died on March 2nd from these tests.

Menu Foods told the FDA it received the first complaints of kidney failure and deaths among cats and dogs from pet owners on Feb. 20. It began new tests on Feb. 27. (AP)

Why did they wait a month before they recalled the pet food? If they knew about their poison since December 2006, why did they wait 3 months before they did their first test? Why did they not report it to the FDA in December and save hundreds of animals lives!  It is being reported on petconnection.com that they have received 600 reports of food-related poisoning, 241 deaths to date.

Who is Menu Foods? What do we know about them? Why should we trust them?  I did a little digging and I did not like what I found. PETA recently did an undercover study on Menu Foods. The conditions they reported were of neglect and of animal suffering.

Many of the dogs had swollen and inflamed paw pads from walking on the slatted steel for months on end. Most of their toenails were so long that they could hardly walk without slipping. Our investigator videotaped one dog who had such severe injuries from the slatted flooring that both her hind legs were cut to the bone. (PETA)

I personally never thought about all the companies that were involved when purchasing my dog food. I basically looked for products that were healthy and mainly organic for my dog. I always read the back of the packages to make sure their were no by-products and to view the ingredients. However, my tune has slightly changed and now I'm taking more stock on what my dog eats and who is manufacturing it. I especially will not be purchasing any items that came from Menu Foods (Menu Foods only manufactures wet (canned) dog and cat foods). Ask your local supermarket which pet foods are manufactured by Menu Foods, and also review the recall list to obtain a list of companies that ARE associated with Menu Foods. Also, here is a list of dog companies that do not test on animals: http://www.iamscruelty.com/notTested.asp

Posted by Michele and Charlie in Amazing Dog News • Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

Most dog owners have heard "Don't feed your dog chocolate."  However, have you ever heard "Don't feed your dog grapes or raisins!"

Recently veterinarians have reported that grapes and raisins are poisonous to dogs. If ingested they can cause severe kidney failure.  The cause of these toxins are not yet clear. However, they do believe that the agents lie within the grape/raisin flesh and not the seed (since the toxicity has been associated with seedless grapes).

If you dog eats grapes or raisins seek vet assistance immediately. The proper treatment is for a vet to admit IV fluids for 36 to 72 hours.  If you are unable to get to a vet quickly, you can attempt to induce vomiting by giving your dog a tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide by mouth.  This will usually make your dog vomit in 5-10 minutes.  For more information on the toxicity of grapes or raisins, see the ASPCA APCC Web site, http://www.apcc.aspca.org.

Some dogs seem to not to be affected by grapes. However, its best NOT to continue feeding them grapes or raisins.  No one really knows what the minimum dosage is before kidney failure occurs. Currently reported, the lowest recorded amounts that caused kidney failure in dogs (for grapes) are 0.3 ounces of grapes per pound of body weight and 0.05 ounces per pound (for raisins).

Kidney failure in dogs is very dangerous and the chances for survival are a 50/50 chance. Prognosis is good if caught immediately after a dog has eaten the grapes or raisins.

So pass this info on to all your friends!  Especially with the spring/summer months ahead!

 

Posted by Michele and Charlie in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Since I am in the promotional mode here is something we had done the same time Lola was spayed.  While she was under sedation a rice size glass capsule micro chip was injected between her shoulder blades. Activated by a hand held reader/scanner a serial number appears. This number is registered to us with all contact info and phone numbers.

Hoping we never to having to rely on it, there is always a chance for some unknown reason it could come in handy. Check out this link and learn about microchipping.

We will soon have the option to use this for ourselves. Uses include personal identification, PIN numbers, key less entry, medical and allergy history and more.

In 2002 it was approved by our government  for human applications, soon we will all be scanned like a bunch of carrots.   Click the Logo for information.

Posted by Louis in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBacks (0)

Pet Insurance Link                                               

Visit this Website/link and see what you think. I have always wondered what do you do when the costs of expensive high tech treatment becomes necessary to maintain your pets life.

Pet insurance is used more extensively in Europe by dog owners.

Ask your Veterinarian and do some research on your own for more information. As I learn more this subject will expand. If anyone has experience please add your comments and share your ideas and input.

A big reason pets are put down is because of the high cost of health care.

Posted by Louis in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The FDA (Food and Drug Aministration) has just recently approved this drug, which will cost a dog owner around $1 to $2 a day. However, this doggie diet pill also has some bad side effects: loose stools, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy and loss of appetite. And if a human ever decided to try out Fido's diet medication, the side effects are nasty (and dangerous)!

My opinion - stop feeding your dog excessive treats, keep him on a healthy diet, and increase his daily exercise. You shouldn't give your dog any drugs unless absolutely necessary. Diet pills for dogs? It is the most outrageous thing I have ever heard!

Posted by Michele and Charlie in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBacks (0)

Exercise
Exercise is important. Even though it is cold outside, it is important to take your dog on his daily walks. If your dog shivers when he is outside, I would recommend putting on a jacket or sweater.

Anti-Freeze
Anti-freeze (Ethylene Glycol) is a HUGE hazard. Highly toxic, it has a sweet taste that appeals to dogs and cats and can be deadly in doses as small as a teaspoon for a large dog.

The toxin is rapidly absorbed and your dog can become sick within an hour. Symptoms: vomiting and diarrhea, increased thirst, seizure, and lack of coordination. If you think your dog has been poisoned from antifreeze call your vet immediately!

Spilled anti-freeze should be flushed from driveways to avoid even tiny puddles that pets could lick. Make sure all antifreeze is capped and kept away from your pets reach. A safe alternative to Ethylene Glycol antifreeze is available, it is called propylene glycol. It might cost an extra few $$, but when it comes to our dogs safety - money is no object!

Paw Check!
Dogs pads can become very sore and cracked in the winter months. A major reason for this is the salt on sidewalks used for de-icing. After taking your dog for a walk, be sure to wash his/her pads with warm water and dry them thoroughly. Another great alternative are dog booties - however a lot of dogs won't let you put them on or tend to rip them off.

If you dog loves to play in the snow be sure to keep their hair around the pads shorts. When hair is too long, snow sticks and causes ice balls to form around the toes. This is very uncomfortable for your dog and the ice balls are sometimes difficult to remove. Keeping their nails short will also help from snow to get stuck in their feet.

Also, Halite, the chemical salt that melts the ice on the pavement and sidewalks is also poisonous. Sand is a great alternative.

Arthritis and Winter
The cold weather aggravates arthritis. Arthritis usually appears in middle age and older dogs, but it can also appear in young dogs as well - especially if your dog has broken or fractured a bone recently. The bone is most likely susceptible to arthritis after the injury is healed. Orthopedic heated beds help with joint problems and are also great for warm beds on cold winter nights.

Fireplaces and Space Heaters
Dogs will be attracted to the heat sources when its cold outside. They will tend to snuggle up against your space heater or fireplace. However, beware of hot surfaces or flying embers and sparks. We don't want our little pooches to catch on fire! Dogs can easily knock over a space heater which could start a house fire. Fireplaces can cause dry skin and respiratory problems. So be sure to keep your fireplace screened and train your doggie to stay a safe distance from the heat source!

Food and Water
When your dog is outside in the cold they will burn more calories and become hydrated more quickly. Be sure to give your dog a bit more food (but not too much extra..we don't want to have to put her on a diet come spring time). Also, be sure they have plenty of water available. Be sure the water is unfrozen. It is best to use a plastic pet bowl in the winter, so their tounges don't stick to metal dishes in the cold.

So embrace these winter months. Keep your dog warm, comfortable, and safe! Summer is right around the corner!

Posted by Michele and Charlie in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

What I discoverd were these "Bella's Hot/Cold Pain Relief Packs." They are very easy to use and stay securely in place on any part of your dog. Directly after her surgery I used the 'cold' packs to reduce the swelling. Currently I use the 'hot' packs to alleviate the pain and increase blood circulation. These packs seem to help with her process of recovery.

You can find out more about these packs at the following link: Bella's Hot/Cold Pain Relief Packs

Posted by Michele and Charlie in Dog Health & Nutrition | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)