Distemper
A dog with distemper will have a fever spike of 103-105 degrees. A second spike may occur with loss of appetite, listlessness, watery discharge from eyes and nose and a dry cough may accompany these symptoms. The dog will have seizures and may have hard pads on its feet. It is a very serious condition.
Hepatitis
This condition effects the liver, kidney and the lining of blood vessels. Dogs with hepatitis may have a fever and won't eat. There may also be passing of blood or he may vomit blood. The dog's belly may be tucked up and there is a swelling of the liver. The eyes may be sensitive to light; there may be bleeding gums, jaundice and/or "blue" eyes (cloudy cornea).
Rabies
There are two types of rabies - Vicious and Paralytic. Animals with vicious rabies will act boldly and attack. Those with paralytic rabies have trouble with muscle coordination, will have excessive drooling and act "dumb." The law requires owners to have dogs vaccinated for rabies and it should be done when the dog is 12 -24 weeks old.
Parvo Virus
This is a common condition that might be found in puppies from 6 - 20 weeks old. Symptoms include profuse diarrhea with mucous or blood, depression and/or lethargy, vomiting and a "tucked-up" abdomen. Dehydration develops very quickly so seek medical attention immediately. Untreated Parvo Virus results in a sloughing off of the intestinal lining.
Corona Virus
The signs of Corona Virus may be varied. There may be acute diarrhea or no signs of diarrhea. Diarrhea often times is yellow/orange in color and is foul smelling. Dogs will display a loss of appetite, depression and vomiting. Dehydration is also common.
Leptospirosis
Dogs can pick this up from drinking water from puddles and streams. If left untreated it causes liver and kidney damage. Severe jaundice is usually present and fever, lethargy, depression, muscle pain, diarrhea and blood in the urine can also accompany it. If the virus gets into the blood stream it will cause the kidneys to swell and shut down. People can also be affected by this disease.
Lyme Disease
Dogs get this by being bitten by a deer tick. Symptoms include a sudden onset of lameness, and swollen joints that are painful to the touch. If left untreated Lyme disease can affect everything including the heart, limbs, etc.
Ringworm
Ringworm is recognized by a scaly, crusty circular patch. Dogs tend to lick and scratch at the infection site. The patch is identifiable from the red circular rind and hair loss surrounding the area. Humans can also be affected by ringworm.
If you're not sure if your dog is sick, but he or she doesn't seem or act "right," err on the side of caution and make an appointment with your vetrinarian. Your intuition may save your pet's life.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Save your pet's life: bloat
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus - commonly known as Bloat
Bloat is a life-threatening condition and requires immediate veterinary assistance for proper diagnosis and treatment. If not treated immediately it can quickly take your dog's life.
This ailment is commonly seen in deep-chested breeds, such as Basset Hounds, Doberman Pinschers, and Great Danes. It is caused by an intake of gasses and fluids that aren't released. It often happens by eating too quickly, gulping water, and/or strenuous exercise after a meal.
Gasses and excess fluid trapped in the stomach expand, causing a distention (bloat) of the stomach, which is readily visible from the appearance of the dog. The distention of the stomach causes it to flip possibly a full 360 degrees and the spleen may rotate. Symptoms may include:
In order to prevent bloat from happening, feed your pet smaller meals, broken up over the course of the day particularly if you have a large, barrel-chested breed like those mentioned above. Avoid exercising your dog immediately after eating and limit water after exercise to avoid gulping.
Once bloat happens, it is common that it may happen again. Owners of deep-chested breeds that have a history of bloat may consider having the stomach stapled to abdominal muscles to prevent future problems. This preventative step should only be taken under the advisory of one or more veterinarians.
Bloat is a life-threatening condition and requires immediate veterinary assistance for proper diagnosis and treatment. If not treated immediately it can quickly take your dog's life.
This ailment is commonly seen in deep-chested breeds, such as Basset Hounds, Doberman Pinschers, and Great Danes. It is caused by an intake of gasses and fluids that aren't released. It often happens by eating too quickly, gulping water, and/or strenuous exercise after a meal.
Gasses and excess fluid trapped in the stomach expand, causing a distention (bloat) of the stomach, which is readily visible from the appearance of the dog. The distention of the stomach causes it to flip possibly a full 360 degrees and the spleen may rotate. Symptoms may include:
- Restlessness
- Distended abdomen
- Glassy eyes
- Unproductive retching/dry heaves
- Excessive panting
- Salivating
- Arrythmia
- Pale gums and mucous membranes
In order to prevent bloat from happening, feed your pet smaller meals, broken up over the course of the day particularly if you have a large, barrel-chested breed like those mentioned above. Avoid exercising your dog immediately after eating and limit water after exercise to avoid gulping.
Once bloat happens, it is common that it may happen again. Owners of deep-chested breeds that have a history of bloat may consider having the stomach stapled to abdominal muscles to prevent future problems. This preventative step should only be taken under the advisory of one or more veterinarians.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Making man's best friend even better II
Does your dog still:
For owners who would like to continue beyond Basic Obedience training, an advanced class may be available. This should cover in-motion commands and commands from a distance. This sets the foundation for your dog’s off-leash conditioning.
Your dog should learn:
Some dog trainers offer a "sleep over camp," where your dog stays with a certified trainer, taking care of your dog's daily needs along with advancing his training during the course of his stay.
Your dog should learn:
- Bark excessively?
- Pull on the leash?
- Destroy household items?
- Jump on people?
For owners who would like to continue beyond Basic Obedience training, an advanced class may be available. This should cover in-motion commands and commands from a distance. This sets the foundation for your dog’s off-leash conditioning.
Your dog should learn:
- Proper behavior and socialization
- To heel by your side
- Automatic sit and hold the sit
- Down and sit by your side
- Down and sit from a distance
- Down and stay command
- Come
- Place
- Down and sit in motion
Some dog trainers offer a "sleep over camp," where your dog stays with a certified trainer, taking care of your dog's daily needs along with advancing his training during the course of his stay.
Your dog should learn:
- Proper behavior
- Socialization skills
- Crate training
- House breaking
- On leash commands with hand signals
- All basic obedience commands and in-motion commands
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Making man's best friend even better I
Does your dog:
Look for a personal trainer with years of experience. Programs should not be a textbook format. Your trainer will show you techniques that will be tailored specifically for your dog's personality. With that in mind you will see fast results that will last.
A good trainer will provide private classes with purposeful distractions, such as toys and other dogs on site so your dog will have positive experiences with another dog.
Puppies, dogs that are under 20 weeks of age, are at the most impressionable time in their lives. It is much easier to teach good behavior than it is to break bad habits. In a 45-minute consultation you should learn how to prevent bad behaviors from starting and to stop current negative behaviors.
The initial consultation should help you learn about your puppy’s personality. Basic commands such as sit, come, place and how to walk without pulling on the leash would be reviewed. Behavioral problems along with house breaking would be covered as well.
When a dog is at least 16 weeks old, basic obedience training is the first step in solving a behavioral problem. Obedience training is your dog's education on how to coexist with humans. It establishes a line of communication between you and your dog.
A basic training program should cover basic commands like:
- Bark excessively?
- Pull on the leash?
- Destroy household items?
- Jump on people?
Look for a personal trainer with years of experience. Programs should not be a textbook format. Your trainer will show you techniques that will be tailored specifically for your dog's personality. With that in mind you will see fast results that will last.
A good trainer will provide private classes with purposeful distractions, such as toys and other dogs on site so your dog will have positive experiences with another dog.
Puppies, dogs that are under 20 weeks of age, are at the most impressionable time in their lives. It is much easier to teach good behavior than it is to break bad habits. In a 45-minute consultation you should learn how to prevent bad behaviors from starting and to stop current negative behaviors.
The initial consultation should help you learn about your puppy’s personality. Basic commands such as sit, come, place and how to walk without pulling on the leash would be reviewed. Behavioral problems along with house breaking would be covered as well.
When a dog is at least 16 weeks old, basic obedience training is the first step in solving a behavioral problem. Obedience training is your dog's education on how to coexist with humans. It establishes a line of communication between you and your dog.
A basic training program should cover basic commands like:
- Sit
- Down
- Place
- Heel
- Come
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Caring for your dog in the summer II
Sunscreen
Boston or Bull Terriers, and other white, shorthaired dogs or dogs with pale ears or noses need special care in the summer months. If your dog is white or has a pale nose or ears, buy some sunblock for your pet. Apply it to vulnerable spots every day. Because dogs have a natural inclination to lick off anything that is applied to their fur and skin, use a sunscreen that is known to be non-toxic to dogs. Your vet will be able to advise you if you are not sure which product to buy.
Swimming
Many dogs love the water. If your dog has never been swimming, try slowly introducing him to a lake, a pond or a pool. Get in the water with your dog as he builds confidence. Throw a toy or a stick a small distance away from you and encourage him to retrieve it. Or, bring another dog with you who loves the water and watch as your pet learns to swim by keeping up with his friend. If you want to be even more comfortable, purchase a life vest made especially for pets. The vest has handles to help you lift your dog into and out of the water. Finally, don't forget to rinse your dog with clean, fresh water after he's been swimming to be sure to get off any chemicals or bacteria.
By following these simple guidelines (including those regarding heat and hydration), you and your pet will surely have a more fun and safe summer!
Boston or Bull Terriers, and other white, shorthaired dogs or dogs with pale ears or noses need special care in the summer months. If your dog is white or has a pale nose or ears, buy some sunblock for your pet. Apply it to vulnerable spots every day. Because dogs have a natural inclination to lick off anything that is applied to their fur and skin, use a sunscreen that is known to be non-toxic to dogs. Your vet will be able to advise you if you are not sure which product to buy.
Swimming
Many dogs love the water. If your dog has never been swimming, try slowly introducing him to a lake, a pond or a pool. Get in the water with your dog as he builds confidence. Throw a toy or a stick a small distance away from you and encourage him to retrieve it. Or, bring another dog with you who loves the water and watch as your pet learns to swim by keeping up with his friend. If you want to be even more comfortable, purchase a life vest made especially for pets. The vest has handles to help you lift your dog into and out of the water. Finally, don't forget to rinse your dog with clean, fresh water after he's been swimming to be sure to get off any chemicals or bacteria.
By following these simple guidelines (including those regarding heat and hydration), you and your pet will surely have a more fun and safe summer!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Caring for your dog in the summer I
With summer just around the corner, it's important to know how to best care for your dog.
As the weather becomes increasingly warm, many dogs like to lie in the sun, swim, or play freely with their owners. Heat exhaustion, dehydration and sunburns are common and can become serious very quickly.
Heat and Hydration
Pay special attention to your dog’s food and drink during the summer. On hot days, when dogs lose more moisture through panting, dogs may drink more than usual. Keep checking that your pet has plenty of fresh, clean water. It's probably a good idea to put an extra bowl of water outside if your dog spends time in the yard. Remember, water will evaporate more quickly from bowls when the weather is hot, so always be sure there's plenty of water and that it's changed frequently.
When you take your dog for a walk in the summer, particularly when the weather is hot, carry some extra water for your dog, and a bowl. Stop frequently to allow your pet to have a drink. Wrapping a cool pad or wet bandana around your dog’s neck before heading outside can help her stay cooler and avoid heat exhaustion.
Never, ever, leave a dog in the car when it is hot, even with a window open. Don't be fooled into thinking you can quickly pop into a store and your dog will be fine in the car. In the summer, parked cars, even if they are in the shade, can heat up like ovens in a very short time. Panting is not efficient enough to cool the dog in such conditions. Dogs can quickly suffer from heat exhaustion if they are exposed to extreme heat for too long.
Strenuous exercise in hot, humid weather can also cause heat stroke. The symptoms are obvious – restlessness, panting excessively, and drooling. Dehydration is another severe condition if not treated immediately. Dogs suffering from dehydration may have a loss of skin elasticity and their mouths may become dry and tacky with thick saliva. If the dog is not treated immediately it can become a very serious condition.
If you suspect that your dog is suffering from heat exhaustion, lower its temperature by bathing it in cool - not cold - water and wrap a damp towel around the dog. This is a serious medical emergency and you must seek veterinary attention immediately.
As the weather becomes increasingly warm, many dogs like to lie in the sun, swim, or play freely with their owners. Heat exhaustion, dehydration and sunburns are common and can become serious very quickly.
Heat and Hydration
Pay special attention to your dog’s food and drink during the summer. On hot days, when dogs lose more moisture through panting, dogs may drink more than usual. Keep checking that your pet has plenty of fresh, clean water. It's probably a good idea to put an extra bowl of water outside if your dog spends time in the yard. Remember, water will evaporate more quickly from bowls when the weather is hot, so always be sure there's plenty of water and that it's changed frequently.
When you take your dog for a walk in the summer, particularly when the weather is hot, carry some extra water for your dog, and a bowl. Stop frequently to allow your pet to have a drink. Wrapping a cool pad or wet bandana around your dog’s neck before heading outside can help her stay cooler and avoid heat exhaustion.
Never, ever, leave a dog in the car when it is hot, even with a window open. Don't be fooled into thinking you can quickly pop into a store and your dog will be fine in the car. In the summer, parked cars, even if they are in the shade, can heat up like ovens in a very short time. Panting is not efficient enough to cool the dog in such conditions. Dogs can quickly suffer from heat exhaustion if they are exposed to extreme heat for too long.
Strenuous exercise in hot, humid weather can also cause heat stroke. The symptoms are obvious – restlessness, panting excessively, and drooling. Dehydration is another severe condition if not treated immediately. Dogs suffering from dehydration may have a loss of skin elasticity and their mouths may become dry and tacky with thick saliva. If the dog is not treated immediately it can become a very serious condition.
If you suspect that your dog is suffering from heat exhaustion, lower its temperature by bathing it in cool - not cold - water and wrap a damp towel around the dog. This is a serious medical emergency and you must seek veterinary attention immediately.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Pet care options during vacation time
Pet Sitting Services
Sometimes you want personalized, in-home care for your pet. A one-on-one residential pet sitting service would be an option, where your pet is treated like a member of the family. The pet sitter invites your pet or pets to stay in his or her home for the duration of your vacation. There may be a discount if you only need an overnight stay (for a weekend trip).
Maybe you feel more comfortable leaving your pet at doggy day care than leaving him alone all day. Maybe you need somewhere to take her when the cable guy comes by. Some caregivers will even pick up or drop off your pet for day care services.
Pet visits to your home are another option. The pet sitter can come to your home once or several times a day depending upon your typical schedule. This will allow your pet to keep it's normal routine, remain safe and comfortable and still receive exercise and personal care.
Leashrly Life provides all these services, plus pet exercise and dog obedience training. Check out the website at http://www.leashrlylife.com/.
Sometimes you want personalized, in-home care for your pet. A one-on-one residential pet sitting service would be an option, where your pet is treated like a member of the family. The pet sitter invites your pet or pets to stay in his or her home for the duration of your vacation. There may be a discount if you only need an overnight stay (for a weekend trip).
Maybe you feel more comfortable leaving your pet at doggy day care than leaving him alone all day. Maybe you need somewhere to take her when the cable guy comes by. Some caregivers will even pick up or drop off your pet for day care services.
Pet visits to your home are another option. The pet sitter can come to your home once or several times a day depending upon your typical schedule. This will allow your pet to keep it's normal routine, remain safe and comfortable and still receive exercise and personal care.
Leashrly Life provides all these services, plus pet exercise and dog obedience training. Check out the website at http://www.leashrlylife.com/.
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