Home » Archive by category "Dog Health" (Page 3)

Help! My Dog Ate _______! What Do I Do?

Dogs explore the world with their noses and mouths, which sometimes means they eat things they should not.  Here, a comprehensive list of common items that are frequently ingested by dogs, as well as what to do in each instance will be discussed. My Dog Drank Alcohol Dogs have a significantly lower body weight than humans and a vastly different metabolism, so even small amounts of alcohol can cause problems in your pet.  Lower-alcohol beverages, such as beer, are less likely to cause harm in your dog; however, hard liquor can be fatal even in small amounts.  Also note that certain pet products like dental sprays can contain a high amount of alcohol (listed as ethyl alcohol), which can become toxic if used in large quantities.  If your dog is experiencing signs of alcohol poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty breathing, or coma you should call the ASPCA Poison...
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How to Spot Eye, Nose, and Ear Disorders in Dogs

The most common health issues  – particularly for purebreds – are eye, nose, and ear disorders in dogs.  In many instances, early detection is crucial for preventing worse problems in the future.  Here, how to spot eye, nose, and ear disorders in dogs will be discussed. Ears The most common eye, nose, and ear disorders in dogs are undoubtedly ear infections among dogs.  This is especially true for pets with floppy ears or excessive hair growth.  Cocker spaniels, beagles, Labrador retrievers, and Bassett hounds are among the most likely to suffer from frequent ear infections. The best way to determine whether your dog has an ear illness is to watch his or her behavior.  Excessive head shaking and ear scratching are two telltale signs that your dog’s ears are bothersome.  Next, peer into your dog’s ear with the help of a flashlight.  If the skin appears red and inflamed, an ear infection is...
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What To Do When Your Dog Has An Upset Stomach

Even though dogs can eat foods that would make most humans disastrously ill, they tend to develop digestive problems from time to time.  Vomiting, diarrhea, and loose stools are common for dogs.  In fact, even something as simple as a slight change to their dog food can invoke gastrointestinal distress.  Unless you suspect that your dog’s upset stomach is a symptom of poisoning or a severe illness, it is not necessary to take your dog to see a veterinarian when symptoms first arise.  Instead, there are a number of remedies that you can try at home when your dog has an upset stomach, which will be discussed here. Fasting The first course of action a pet owner should take when his or her dog has an upset stomach is to enforce a period of fasting.  Do not feed your dog for 8 – 12 hours (6 hours for a puppy), including...
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How to Perform CPR on a Dog

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was first introduced in 1946.  Since then, countless human lives have been saved.  Did you know that you can perform CPR on a dog?  Knowing what to do if your dog is found without a heartbeat or is unable to breathe can save your pet’s life. Step 1:  Evaluate the Situation If you find that your dog is unresponsive, first assess his or her condition using the steps below.  In the meantime, have a friend or family member call your veterinarian.  The vet can provide support while you administer CPR on a dog, as well as prepare for your arrival at the clinic. Is your dog breathing? The first assessment you should make is to check whether your dog is breathing.  Look to see whether your pet’s chest is moving up and down.  An alternative method is to feel for air being passed through the nose or...
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Pet Poison Month: Most Toxic Substances for Dogs

  March is pet poison month; do you know which substances are most poisonous to dogs?  Listed here are the top 8 most toxic substances for dogs that are found in your home and yard. Prescription Medicine One of the most toxic substances for dogs that causes numerous problems each year is prescription medication for humans.  Heart medication, blood pressure pills, antidepressants, and pain medication can all be disastrous for canines.  When you are prescribed medication make sure your pills are stored out of reach from your pet and that each dosage is accounted for each day.  Even one small pill can cause serious problems for a small dog. Flea and Tick Products Even though flea and tick products are generally safe for dogs, improper use or ingestion can lead to pet poisoning.  Always make sure you are giving your dog the proper dosage.  In addition, ensure these products are...
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Product Review: Seresto Flea and Tick Collar

Flea and tick season is almost upon us, and experts are warning that Lyme disease will be especially rampant in 2017.  You have many options in the fight against fleas and ticks, and the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar will be reviewed here. The Bayer Seresto Flea and Tick collar is an adjustable rubber collar that provides 8 months of continuous protection against fleas and ticks for your dog.  This patented technology ensures slow release of pesticide to your dog’s skin.  Unlike other flea and tick collars, this product is odorless and non-greasy.  It also has a safety mechanism that will cause the collar to break should the flea collar become stuck, thus trapping your dog. There are many advantages to this product.  Some owners find that their dogs are sensitive to topical flea and tick treatments, resulting in discomfort or a rash.  The Seresto collar is milder than these...
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Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs

Just like humans, dogs can benefit from using food as medicine.  One of the most popular nutritional supplements that can be found in any grocery store is coconut oil.  The benefits of coconut oil for dogs will be discussed here. What is Coconut Oil? Coconut oil is derived directly from the coconut through a pressing process.  Coconut meat is pressed to extrude the oil, which contains a high amount of healthy acids, vitamins, and minerals.  Most notably, 90% of the fats in coconut oil are comprised of medium chain triglycerides, which have “superfood” health benefits. What are the Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs? Shiny Coat If your dog has a dull coat, coconut oil can be applied directly to your dog’s fur as a natural leave-in conditioner.  Alternatively, coconut oil contains beneficial acids, such as lauric acid, that can naturally improve your dog’s skin and coat condition. Healthy Skin...
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When Can My Puppy Go Outside?

After you bring home a new puppy it is natural to want to begin the socialization process immediately by having your puppy go outside for long walks or to the dog park.  However, many veterinarians and canine professionals recommend waiting until your pet is 4 – 5 months old before doing so. Your Puppy’s Immune System While your puppy is rapidly growing and developing during the first few months of age its immune system is not fully developed.  During this time, your pet will be especially vulnerable to diseases such as Parvo and Distemper, both of which have low survival rates among puppies.  For this reason, many veterinarians recommend that your dog not be introduced to other animals or spend too much time outdoors until 1 – 2 weeks after the puppy’s final vaccination booster, at approximately 16 – 18 weeks of age. Safe Socialization However, not going outdoors or visiting...
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Are Sticks Safe for Dogs to Play With?

Like bones, sticks are widely considered to be an appropriate toy for dogs.  However, illness, injury, and death can occur as a direct result of your dog chewing or chasing a stick.  Are sticks safe for dogs?  The answer, as well as safe alternatives, will be discussed here. Why Aren’t Sticks Safe for Dogs? Dogs interact with sticks in a number of ways.  First, dogs like to chew on sticks.  However, the stick’s surface can be home to parasites, viruses, and germs.  A dog can develop cuts and abrasions in his or her mouth when chewing on a stick, which can become infected if germs or viruses are introduced.  If a dog ingests certain parasites, such as fleas, a tapeworm infection can occur. Next, an owner may throw a stick to a dog during a game of fetch.  While this game is fun, it can become dangerous if the stick...
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How to Choose a Veterinarian for your Dog

The health care we provide our pets is important, whether as a preventative measure or during time of emergency.  One of the fundamental pillars of dog ownership is keeping our pets healthy, and doing so requires finding the best health care possible.  How to choose a veterinarian is described here. Ask for Recommendations The first step in understanding how to choose a veterinarian is to ask for recommendations.  Seek advice from other dog owners, employees at the local pet store, and animal rescues or shelters.  At the very least, these resources can tell you which veterinarians to avoid. Check Accreditations Next, check the accreditations of the veterinarians you are considering.  Look to see that their website carries the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) logo, which means the veterinarian has voluntarily chosen to hold him- or herself (as well as equipment and staff) to the highest standards. If you are looking...
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