I was researching for information about holistic pet care and read through many excerpts of many excellent books on the subject. I’ll probably do a review on one or two of them in the future. I happened upon this book that is the title of my blog article today. Although it is about holistic care, it is more of a story of a woman whose dog had cancer and she turned towards holistic care to treat him. Through easy to understand dialog and story telling, she takes us on a journey of the connection we as pet owners have with our animals. But that unless you own one you would never understand what it is we are talking about or feeling for our animals. In fact some people look at the true animal lover as a different species of a human being sometimes. They just don’t get how we can treat our pets as children and therefore, a very important part of our lives. “For God sakes Barbara, she’s just a dog.” We are accused of placing human emotions and love on our canine companions that should only be reserved for other humans. But in this writer’s case, many times I love my dogs more than SOME people. If that makes me crazy, I wear the title proudly!
When we share love with an animal, we experience that love on a whole other dimension. It is not the same as the love we share with other humans. With human love come conditions. If only you would get a better job, or lose weight, or were younger, or prettier, or smarter, maybe I could love you. If you loved me, you would do what I asked you to do. Why can’t you do better, why can’t we have more, why don’t you do this or that? With our dog, we are fine just the way we are. No conditions expected. You are you and isn’t it great to be loved just the way you are? This is the love that a human receives from their dog, unconditionally, and no questions asked, they just adore us. This is why we experience the loss of these non-judgmental companions so deeply. Who else will ever love us like this again? That’s why when they leave us; they surely take a part of us with them. There is something truly missing in our lives when we no longer receive this unconditional love. We long for it. We miss it.
From the book:
Deeply compelling, The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood shows that love knows no bounds and spirit is bigger than form. When the student is ready the teacher will appear, sometimes camouflaged as a four-legged companion."-- Rev. Deborah L. Johnson, author of The Sacred Yes and Your Deepest Intent
"If ever there was a doubt in anyone's mind that animals can heal us, then The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood will dispel that notion. A blessing to read and a gift to share!"-- Christy Crabtree, Animal World USA Magazine
"The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood underscores the fact that the bond many of us develop with our pets is an incredible, inspirational thing that does not necessarily end with loss. This highly readable, intimate book is nothing less than a testament to that attachment." -- Larry Cox, Tucson Citizen Newspaper
Product Description
. DO YOU LOVE YOUR PET as much as some people love their children?
. DO YOU FEEL MISUNDERSTOOD by others when it comes to how deeply you cherish your pet?
. ARE YOU EMBARRASSED to reveal how much you miss an animal that has passed away?
YOU ARE NOT ALONE. HELP IS HERE
Journey with Nadine M. Rosin into the emotional healing and self-awareness she develops over nineteen years through the unconditional love of her dog, Buttons. Join them as they explore the world of holistic pet care to successfully heal canine cancer. Experience how Nadine copes with grief and loss, and ultimately discovers a continued spiritual connection with Buttons after death. This is her story. It is only one version of a story shared by millions of pet parents.
Inside the first few pages of this marvelous book the author quotes a song that I remember from my teenage years (oh so many years ago) and after reading them again, I realized having heard them growing up, I never really appreciated them until now and how it reflects about the human/animal love relationship. It’s called: “I’LL NEVER FIND ANOTHER YOU.” Here are the lyrics:
(Tom Springfield)
There's a new world somewhere
They call The Promised Land
And I'll be there some day
If you will hold my hand
I still need you there beside me
No matter what I do
For I know I'll never find another you
There is always someone
For each of us they say
And you'll be my someone
For ever and a day
I could search the whole world over
Until my life is through
But I know I'll never find another you
It's a long, long journey
So stay by my side
When I walk through the storm
You'll be my guide, be my guide
If they gave me a fortune
My treasure would be small
I could lose it all tomorrow
And never mind at all
But if I should lose your love, dear
I don't know what I'll do
For I know I'll never find another you
If a man in his lifetime has never been loved by a dog, he has been robbed of knowing what it truly is like having never been judged and accepted for the imperfect person that he is.
My rating: “The Healing Art of Pet Parenthood” – (4), holistic pet care – (3 – 4)
Showing posts with label holistic dog care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label holistic dog care. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
DOG BREEDING PROBLEMS - (Conclusion)
Mastitis is an inflammation and infection of the mammary glands. I only had this happen once to one of my bitches. It was very painful for the bitch and lots of work for me. One of my breeder friends is going through this now with one of her “first time mother” bitches. It got so bad for her bitch that she was bleeding and now she has had to take the puppies off of the mother at two weeks of age and has been bottle feeding the new babies.
Mastitis if localized to one gland by show no signs of illness. If it spreads throughout the mammary gland, she may show signs of illness. The bitch’s mammary glands should be checked daily for signs of warmth, pain or hardness. Her milk should also be checked daily for color and consistency. If the bitch has mastitis her milk may be off color and clumping. She may run a fever and even refuse to nurse her puppies. Upon diagnosis of the condition, treatment will depend on the severity of the condition. Treatment may include antibiotics, hot packing the affected glands and milking out the affected glands. If the milk remains normal, the puppies can continue to nurse from the affected gland.
When the uterus gets an infection and inflammation it could be caused by a condition known as Metritis. The symptoms will usually be noticeably 3-7 days postpartum and include fever, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, lack of appetite, listlessness, lack of maternal instincts and decrease in mild production. A diagnosis is confirmed through blood work and x-rays. The reason an x-ray is done is to make sure that no fetuses have been retained. The treatment for a bitch that has metritis is antibiotics and fluid therapy. Having the bitch spayed is curative if she is able to handle the surgery.
Pyometra is an infection in the uterus in which the uterus fills with pus. This is typically seen 2-12 weeks after a heat cycle. The symptoms you may see are vomiting, listlessness and an increase in drinking. If the cervix is open, a discharge from the vagina is seen. If it is closed then no discharge is seen. A diagnosis is made by a physical exam, blood work and x-rays. Ideally a vet may want to spay the bitch. If the bitches’ condition is caught early enough, she will need to be stabilized before surgery is attempted. If the breeder wants to keep this bitch for breeding, antibiotic therapy could be tried, but it usually is not successful.
Subinvolution of placental sites occurs when the uterus does not fully repair itself after delivery. This results in a vaginal discharge beyond the normal six weeks postpartum. Usually treatment is not necessary as the bitch is healthy and able to become pregnant again.
Because subinvolution of the placental sites, metritis and pyometra may all have a vaginal discharge, a proper diagnosis is necessary as metritis and pyometra need to be treated.
When uterine prolapse occurs, the uterus is pushed out of the body through the vagina. Treatment consists of manual replacement of the uterus or an ovariohysterectomy (spay).
Normally in a bitch the size of a German Shepherd, retained placentas a rarely a problem. Usually the placenta is passed within 15 minutes of each puppy and the bitch may eat it. Treatment may include an oxytocin injection.
Sometimes a mother will show a lack of maternal instinct for her puppies. I have never had a bitch do this although I had one bitch that was what I call a “dense” mother. She’d nurse and clean her puppies just fine, but lack of normal German Shepherd intelligence is something she didn’t display when it came to taking good care of her babies. She was very people oriented and cared more about you coming in to greet and pet her than nursing her babies. She would stand up in the whelping box and step all over her puppies. I leased this bitch and although beautiful in breed type, she was in “another world” when it came to true German Shepherd intelligence.
Some think that a lack of maternal instinct for a bitch to care for her puppies is due to genetics and the amount of maternal drive the bitch’s dam showed for her offspring or it could be illness or stress due to the owners own level or stress or poor environment. Sometimes a first time mom will need several days to find out what her role is being a mother and will need assistance from the owner in helping her until she does. She may need to be made to lay down for the puppies to nurse and be praised when she shows interest in the puppies. If she is going to come around and care for the puppies, it should occur within several days.
Also sometimes if a puppy is very large or is not positioned in the birth canal correctly, the bitch may have a difficult time delivering the puppy. I’ve seen puppies stick their little heads out of the birth canal only to be sucked back up inside the mother again. This always makes me nervous. You have to wait until the bitch produces another contraction and many times you will find yourself having to gently grab the puppy and pull when she is having a contraction. This can be painful and a tough birth for her and hard on you if you are delivering the puppies by yourself. It’s always better if you have the assistance of someone else so that they can hold the bitches head while you gently remove the puppy. No matter how gentle you are, the “momma” dog is going to feel pain.
So although most German Shepherds don’t have too many problems when it comes to whelping a litter, sooner or later you will run into one that does. Good luck and here’s wishing all of you happy and healthy litters of newborns! Oh yeah, the next time a pet person asks you “Why do you charge so much money for your puppies,” show them this article!!!!! Who ever said there was money to be made breeding dogs hasn’t tried it yet.
From the book: BREEDING BETTER DOGS....DogRead book of the month March 2002 This book was chose to be on the prestigious 'DogRead' ... as a book selection of the month. We only do 12 books or videos a year. The author comes on line for the whole month to answer questions on the book. To be selected for this group means the book or video MUST be one of the very best it its field. treshell owner DogRead..........This is an exceptional book. Easy to understand, gets you involved and interested in a subject that might scare a few away. I love it and often go back to remind myself of the basics.
My rating: Breeding should be done by educated breeders: (4)
Mastitis if localized to one gland by show no signs of illness. If it spreads throughout the mammary gland, she may show signs of illness. The bitch’s mammary glands should be checked daily for signs of warmth, pain or hardness. Her milk should also be checked daily for color and consistency. If the bitch has mastitis her milk may be off color and clumping. She may run a fever and even refuse to nurse her puppies. Upon diagnosis of the condition, treatment will depend on the severity of the condition. Treatment may include antibiotics, hot packing the affected glands and milking out the affected glands. If the milk remains normal, the puppies can continue to nurse from the affected gland.
When the uterus gets an infection and inflammation it could be caused by a condition known as Metritis. The symptoms will usually be noticeably 3-7 days postpartum and include fever, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, lack of appetite, listlessness, lack of maternal instincts and decrease in mild production. A diagnosis is confirmed through blood work and x-rays. The reason an x-ray is done is to make sure that no fetuses have been retained. The treatment for a bitch that has metritis is antibiotics and fluid therapy. Having the bitch spayed is curative if she is able to handle the surgery.
Pyometra is an infection in the uterus in which the uterus fills with pus. This is typically seen 2-12 weeks after a heat cycle. The symptoms you may see are vomiting, listlessness and an increase in drinking. If the cervix is open, a discharge from the vagina is seen. If it is closed then no discharge is seen. A diagnosis is made by a physical exam, blood work and x-rays. Ideally a vet may want to spay the bitch. If the bitches’ condition is caught early enough, she will need to be stabilized before surgery is attempted. If the breeder wants to keep this bitch for breeding, antibiotic therapy could be tried, but it usually is not successful.
Subinvolution of placental sites occurs when the uterus does not fully repair itself after delivery. This results in a vaginal discharge beyond the normal six weeks postpartum. Usually treatment is not necessary as the bitch is healthy and able to become pregnant again.
Because subinvolution of the placental sites, metritis and pyometra may all have a vaginal discharge, a proper diagnosis is necessary as metritis and pyometra need to be treated.
When uterine prolapse occurs, the uterus is pushed out of the body through the vagina. Treatment consists of manual replacement of the uterus or an ovariohysterectomy (spay).
Normally in a bitch the size of a German Shepherd, retained placentas a rarely a problem. Usually the placenta is passed within 15 minutes of each puppy and the bitch may eat it. Treatment may include an oxytocin injection.
Sometimes a mother will show a lack of maternal instinct for her puppies. I have never had a bitch do this although I had one bitch that was what I call a “dense” mother. She’d nurse and clean her puppies just fine, but lack of normal German Shepherd intelligence is something she didn’t display when it came to taking good care of her babies. She was very people oriented and cared more about you coming in to greet and pet her than nursing her babies. She would stand up in the whelping box and step all over her puppies. I leased this bitch and although beautiful in breed type, she was in “another world” when it came to true German Shepherd intelligence.
Some think that a lack of maternal instinct for a bitch to care for her puppies is due to genetics and the amount of maternal drive the bitch’s dam showed for her offspring or it could be illness or stress due to the owners own level or stress or poor environment. Sometimes a first time mom will need several days to find out what her role is being a mother and will need assistance from the owner in helping her until she does. She may need to be made to lay down for the puppies to nurse and be praised when she shows interest in the puppies. If she is going to come around and care for the puppies, it should occur within several days.
Also sometimes if a puppy is very large or is not positioned in the birth canal correctly, the bitch may have a difficult time delivering the puppy. I’ve seen puppies stick their little heads out of the birth canal only to be sucked back up inside the mother again. This always makes me nervous. You have to wait until the bitch produces another contraction and many times you will find yourself having to gently grab the puppy and pull when she is having a contraction. This can be painful and a tough birth for her and hard on you if you are delivering the puppies by yourself. It’s always better if you have the assistance of someone else so that they can hold the bitches head while you gently remove the puppy. No matter how gentle you are, the “momma” dog is going to feel pain.
So although most German Shepherds don’t have too many problems when it comes to whelping a litter, sooner or later you will run into one that does. Good luck and here’s wishing all of you happy and healthy litters of newborns! Oh yeah, the next time a pet person asks you “Why do you charge so much money for your puppies,” show them this article!!!!! Who ever said there was money to be made breeding dogs hasn’t tried it yet.
From the book: BREEDING BETTER DOGS....DogRead book of the month March 2002 This book was chose to be on the prestigious 'DogRead' ... as a book selection of the month. We only do 12 books or videos a year. The author comes on line for the whole month to answer questions on the book. To be selected for this group means the book or video MUST be one of the very best it its field. treshell owner DogRead..........This is an exceptional book. Easy to understand, gets you involved and interested in a subject that might scare a few away. I love it and often go back to remind myself of the basics.
My rating: Breeding should be done by educated breeders: (4)
Thursday, May 6, 2010
SO IF NOT THE GERMAN SHEPHERD, WHAT THEN?
Sometimes people ask me why I own the German Shepherd Dog. Why not another breed? Couldn’t you love another breed as much as you do your German Shepherds? Why did you choose this breed of dog instead of another? And yes, I could love another breed of dog because I love animals although there are probably a few breeds I might not enjoy owning for one reason or another.
I have always favored the larger breed of dogs. I always thought that a dog isn’t a dog unless he was this big macho looking animal. I always felt a dog should look like a dog and not be this teeny tiny little thing no bigger than a cat. Well that was then and this is now. Some of those little dogs, what they lack in size make up for in personality. Some of them have a heart close to a German Shepherds. If I didn’t own German Shepherds, what would I own instead?
Well as I get older, I can certainly appreciate the smaller breeds of dog. A large dog can be a challenge especially if he’s an energetic one. The size and strength of a large dog would dictate that he better be well behaved and trained or one can find them difficult to handle.
If I were to own another breed of dog and a German Shepherd wasn’t available to me, what then would I consider to have this breeds boldness, power, loyalty and trainability? Well I really don’t know too much about other breeds although I’ve been around many of them. I confess, although they are the breed of dog that gets the worst press, I love the Pit Bulls. Of the couple that I’ve been around, I find them one of the most affectionate breeds of dogs. I adopted a little mixed breed female when I lived in Georgia. I loved that little precious baby. And my nephew owns a six month old mixed Pitt Bull. He is the most loving and mischievous little fella I’ve ever seen. So yes, this is a breed that I wouldn’t mind owning although I’d be worried that some authority figure would come and take him away because he was labeled as “dangerous!”
There are other large breeds of dogs that I love the looks of, but I don’t know what their personalities would be living with them. I was always curious about the Doberman Pinscher because of their loyalty and protectiveness to their owners. I like the feel of their smooth short coat. One thing I always felt looking at these dogs is that they had this cold, dark look to their eyes. Whereas, a German Shepherd can and should have a dark eye as well, but their eyes I always thought was warm and intelligent looking. That said, I used to be a manager in an office in Connecticut. One day a client came in and he brought his female Doberman with him. I didn’t know what to expect from her. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that she was a real sweetheart and she enjoyed me petting her. So I found out, you can’t always judge a “book by its cover.”
I love the looks of the Newfoundland, but don’t like dogs that “slobber” and if I go crazy with all the hair that the German Shepherd sheds, I can’t imagine what it would be like living with this “wooly bully” of a dog. But they are sure handsome! They look like a bear! One of the hallmarks of this dog’s personality is that he is a sweet dog. He’s also supposed to be intelligent which is important for me. I can’t live with a dumb dog. I love a smart dog and one that learns quickly.
I guess one of the reasons that I’ve always liked the larger dogs is that they command respect. They make heads turn. I’m proud walking down the street with one of my German Shepherds by my side. The German Shepherd male that is pictured at the top of my blog…..the dark headed boy, “Rajah”, he would stop traffic when I walked down the street with him. No, I’m not kidding. I literally had people that were driving down the street, stop their cars and talk to me about him. Someone once said they had a female that they’d love to breed to him. When I took him on the show grounds, people would always inquire about his bloodlines. So I must feel proud with the dog that is attached to the end of the leash.
Now if I were to have a small breed of dog, which ones would I find appealing? I’ve always liked the terriers because of their spunk and attitude, although some of them can be very stubborn. I’ve always admired the “Westie” because of their obvious beauty. They say that the Corgi has the heart of a German Shepherd only in a smaller package. They’re supposed to be very intelligent. I love the looks of the “Havanese” dog. I also like that they are non-shedding and good for allergy suffers like me. I always enjoy looking at the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, or PBGV’s when I see them on television at the Westminster Show. He’s supposed to be outgoing, but independent.
I think I would like to own a smaller breed so I could just pick him up and take him in the car with me. I’m afraid he would become very spoiled because I’d probably end up making a big baby out of him. I guess some of us have a tendency to do that with smaller dogs. We want to “mother” them to death.
And then there are the mutts. Could I own one of those "mixed" breeds staring back at me from behind a shelter door? You betcha I could. And yes, I could own a mutt because some of them are the most beautiful and affectionate dogs. So I guess you could say I love most dogs. Call me a snob though, but I don’t think I could own a downright homely dog unless he had a personality that made him beautiful. I really like a noble looking dog and one that is pleasing to the eye. However, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and some dogs that I might not find appealing, others think they are “God’s gift to the world!”
So getting back to our beautiful German Shepherds……I think one of the reasons that they are so popular is that they really possess the total package. They are all dogs rolled into one. If you are looking for a handsome dog, could you not have a more handsome looking dog than the German Shepherd? If you are looking for intelligence, there are very few dogs that does all this breed of dog does. They lead the blind, help defend our country, protect our streets from criminals, visit the sick and elderly in the hospitals, baby sit our kids, guard our homes and probably has made more Hollywood movies than any other breed of dog. Truly beautiful, truly versatile, truly noble………really why look anyplace else when the German Shepherd has it all?!
So yes, I could love another breed of dog but like the dog that I love (the German Shepherd), my heart would always remain loyal to this breed. So what about you? Do you own other breeds as well as your German Shepherds? And if not a German Shepherd, what breed of dog would you enjoy owning?
My rating: The German Shepherd Dog: (4), other breeds of dogs: (4), mutts: (4)
I have always favored the larger breed of dogs. I always thought that a dog isn’t a dog unless he was this big macho looking animal. I always felt a dog should look like a dog and not be this teeny tiny little thing no bigger than a cat. Well that was then and this is now. Some of those little dogs, what they lack in size make up for in personality. Some of them have a heart close to a German Shepherds. If I didn’t own German Shepherds, what would I own instead?
Well as I get older, I can certainly appreciate the smaller breeds of dog. A large dog can be a challenge especially if he’s an energetic one. The size and strength of a large dog would dictate that he better be well behaved and trained or one can find them difficult to handle.
If I were to own another breed of dog and a German Shepherd wasn’t available to me, what then would I consider to have this breeds boldness, power, loyalty and trainability? Well I really don’t know too much about other breeds although I’ve been around many of them. I confess, although they are the breed of dog that gets the worst press, I love the Pit Bulls. Of the couple that I’ve been around, I find them one of the most affectionate breeds of dogs. I adopted a little mixed breed female when I lived in Georgia. I loved that little precious baby. And my nephew owns a six month old mixed Pitt Bull. He is the most loving and mischievous little fella I’ve ever seen. So yes, this is a breed that I wouldn’t mind owning although I’d be worried that some authority figure would come and take him away because he was labeled as “dangerous!”
There are other large breeds of dogs that I love the looks of, but I don’t know what their personalities would be living with them. I was always curious about the Doberman Pinscher because of their loyalty and protectiveness to their owners. I like the feel of their smooth short coat. One thing I always felt looking at these dogs is that they had this cold, dark look to their eyes. Whereas, a German Shepherd can and should have a dark eye as well, but their eyes I always thought was warm and intelligent looking. That said, I used to be a manager in an office in Connecticut. One day a client came in and he brought his female Doberman with him. I didn’t know what to expect from her. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that she was a real sweetheart and she enjoyed me petting her. So I found out, you can’t always judge a “book by its cover.”
I love the looks of the Newfoundland, but don’t like dogs that “slobber” and if I go crazy with all the hair that the German Shepherd sheds, I can’t imagine what it would be like living with this “wooly bully” of a dog. But they are sure handsome! They look like a bear! One of the hallmarks of this dog’s personality is that he is a sweet dog. He’s also supposed to be intelligent which is important for me. I can’t live with a dumb dog. I love a smart dog and one that learns quickly.
I guess one of the reasons that I’ve always liked the larger dogs is that they command respect. They make heads turn. I’m proud walking down the street with one of my German Shepherds by my side. The German Shepherd male that is pictured at the top of my blog…..the dark headed boy, “Rajah”, he would stop traffic when I walked down the street with him. No, I’m not kidding. I literally had people that were driving down the street, stop their cars and talk to me about him. Someone once said they had a female that they’d love to breed to him. When I took him on the show grounds, people would always inquire about his bloodlines. So I must feel proud with the dog that is attached to the end of the leash.
Now if I were to have a small breed of dog, which ones would I find appealing? I’ve always liked the terriers because of their spunk and attitude, although some of them can be very stubborn. I’ve always admired the “Westie” because of their obvious beauty. They say that the Corgi has the heart of a German Shepherd only in a smaller package. They’re supposed to be very intelligent. I love the looks of the “Havanese” dog. I also like that they are non-shedding and good for allergy suffers like me. I always enjoy looking at the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, or PBGV’s when I see them on television at the Westminster Show. He’s supposed to be outgoing, but independent.
I think I would like to own a smaller breed so I could just pick him up and take him in the car with me. I’m afraid he would become very spoiled because I’d probably end up making a big baby out of him. I guess some of us have a tendency to do that with smaller dogs. We want to “mother” them to death.
And then there are the mutts. Could I own one of those "mixed" breeds staring back at me from behind a shelter door? You betcha I could. And yes, I could own a mutt because some of them are the most beautiful and affectionate dogs. So I guess you could say I love most dogs. Call me a snob though, but I don’t think I could own a downright homely dog unless he had a personality that made him beautiful. I really like a noble looking dog and one that is pleasing to the eye. However, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and some dogs that I might not find appealing, others think they are “God’s gift to the world!”
So getting back to our beautiful German Shepherds……I think one of the reasons that they are so popular is that they really possess the total package. They are all dogs rolled into one. If you are looking for a handsome dog, could you not have a more handsome looking dog than the German Shepherd? If you are looking for intelligence, there are very few dogs that does all this breed of dog does. They lead the blind, help defend our country, protect our streets from criminals, visit the sick and elderly in the hospitals, baby sit our kids, guard our homes and probably has made more Hollywood movies than any other breed of dog. Truly beautiful, truly versatile, truly noble………really why look anyplace else when the German Shepherd has it all?!
So yes, I could love another breed of dog but like the dog that I love (the German Shepherd), my heart would always remain loyal to this breed. So what about you? Do you own other breeds as well as your German Shepherds? And if not a German Shepherd, what breed of dog would you enjoy owning?
My rating: The German Shepherd Dog: (4), other breeds of dogs: (4), mutts: (4)
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
WHAT KIND OF DOG OWNER ARE YOU?
WHAT KIND OF DOG OWNER ARE YOU?
By
Barbara J. Galasso
1) When you get up in the morning, you…..
a) Take care of the dogs first and you and the family last.
b) Take care of the family and yourself first and the dog last.
c) Neither. You stay in bed till 10:00 o’clock, get up and drink 3 cups of coffee and
then with one eye open and the other still shut, you let them out of their crates.
2) When you buy dog food for your dog…..
a) You don’t buy dog food. You cook for him.
b) You read labels and make sure it’s premium grade or all natural.
c) You feel the cheapest brand will do.
3) When you buy supplements for your dog….
a) You make sure it’s holistic and human grade.
b) You make sure it’s a good value for your money and will still do the job.
c) What supplements? His no-brand dog food is good enough!
4) When you buy toys for your dog….
a) You make sure he has one to chew on, one to tug with, one to catch with, etc.
b) You make sure he’s entertained with one or two toys.
c) His “toy” is trying to bite the tail from the dog that’s in the next run.
5) When you exercise your dog…..
a) You road work him with a car or bike a few times a week.
b) You take him for a walk down the street or in the woods.
c) Exercise? Hell, let him fence run the kennels. You’re too busy watching the
“soaps!”
6) When you groom your dog….
a) You’ve bought a special tub, a special table, hair blower, clippers, shampoos, etc.
b) He goes in to the bath tub, using the same shampoo & conditioner that you do.
c) Grooming? (Scratch, scratch *&%)….What’s that?
7) When you show your dog….
a) You hire the best handler, pay him top prices & bonus’s…nothing is too good for
your dog!
b) You hire a good handler and even a young up and coming one.
c) You ask the kid down the street who mows your lawn if he’s free this week-end.
8) The kind of car you drive to a dog show in is….
a) The top of the line van or motor home. You believe in traveling in style.
b) A nice SUV or mini-van that’s comfortable for you and your dog.
c) What ever happens to be running at the time and has gas in it that’s sitting in your
driveway.
9) When you breed your bitch….
a) You choose the top stud dog that money can buy. You do expensive testing, pay
airfare to get her to him & back and set up a custom made whelping box.
b) You choose a stud that you can afford hopefully in your area.
c) You breed her to her brother in the next run.
10) When you sell your puppies you….
a) Advertise them in a top publication and tell all your breeder friends about them.
b) You advertise them in the local paper as well as on your website.
c) You hang a sign out on the front tree…”Puppies for sale, highest bidder takes them
all!”
SCORE:
Mostly (a’s) – You live, breathe, talk, walk, and dream dogs. You’re a true dog person. You can’t believe there’s any other kind of person. Perhaps that’s why you don’t have too much in common with most people unless they’re show dog people. You adore your dogs and your dogs adore you. They come first and they are very spoiled and you wouldn’t have it any other way. Your home, your life and your social circle centers around your dogs. Guess one could say, “You’ve gone to the dogs.”
Mostly (b’s) – You truly love your dogs and realize they have a place in your life, but they aren’t the only thing that matters. They are included in your life, but they are not your whole life. (See example in the mostly a’s section above). You enjoy them and want the best for them, and you make sure you give them an excellent quality of life, but they do not come before yours and your families needs. (Again see the mostly a’s section above). You take your wins graciously, and accept your losses as it being part of the game. Life is good for you and your dogs because you have struck a harmonious balance.
Mostly (c’s) – Not one of your dogs is more important to you than your own needs. Nothing will prevent you from watching your soap opera’s, and no dog is going to use your “Evening in Paris" cologne to smell better than you do. Your dogs live around your schedule even if that means he went to bed at 8:00 the previous evening and will have to wait until 10:00 the next morning to be let out. You don’t exercise him because you’re talking on the telephone all day when your soaps are not on. You wonder why he’s not doing more winning in the show ring than he does. You’re pis--- off at the judge for not putting him up, you’re cranky with the kid who mows your lawn for not winning with him and you’re jealous of the ones who are winning. Your1988 Dodge pick-up breaks down on the way home from the show and you vow never to go to another one again……..and you curse to yourself wondering why Mostly a’s and Mostly b’s avoid having anything to do with you.
My rating: Mostly a’s or b’s: (4), mostly c’s: (1)
NO PART OF THIS ARTICLE MAY BE USED OR REPRINTED WITHOUT THE PERMISSION OF THE AUTHOR!
From the book: DOG OWNER'S HOME VETERINARY HANDBOOK...Open the front cover and the first two pages you see contain the Index of Signs and Symptoms, from Abdomen (painful, swollen, distended, and tucked up) to Weight loss, Wheezing, and Whining (continual). There's a comprehensive index in back, of course, running the gamut from Abortion to Zinc-Responsive Dermatosis, which is all very useful, but when your pooch is in pain, it's great to be able to turn, with the minimum of folderol, to the page that says to relax, it's nothing a bit of extra grooming won't fix, or alternatively to hightail it over to the vet hospital. It's a wonderful reference for any dog owner, with chapters on emergencies (such as burns, dehydration, and poisoning), as well as worms, infectious diseases, skin care, and canine eyes, ears, and nose. There are chapters on the digestive, respiratory, and circulatory systems, the nervous, musculoskeletal, and urinary systems, plus dog sex, whelping, puppy pediatrics, geriatrics, and chapters on cancers and medications. In short, it covers every health dimension a dog owner might want to know more about, identifies the possible causes, helps you determine the severity of the condition, and indicates what treatments or actions to take to best insure your dog's good health.
By
Barbara J. Galasso
1) When you get up in the morning, you…..
a) Take care of the dogs first and you and the family last.
b) Take care of the family and yourself first and the dog last.
c) Neither. You stay in bed till 10:00 o’clock, get up and drink 3 cups of coffee and
then with one eye open and the other still shut, you let them out of their crates.
2) When you buy dog food for your dog…..
a) You don’t buy dog food. You cook for him.
b) You read labels and make sure it’s premium grade or all natural.
c) You feel the cheapest brand will do.
3) When you buy supplements for your dog….
a) You make sure it’s holistic and human grade.
b) You make sure it’s a good value for your money and will still do the job.
c) What supplements? His no-brand dog food is good enough!
4) When you buy toys for your dog….
a) You make sure he has one to chew on, one to tug with, one to catch with, etc.
b) You make sure he’s entertained with one or two toys.
c) His “toy” is trying to bite the tail from the dog that’s in the next run.
5) When you exercise your dog…..
a) You road work him with a car or bike a few times a week.
b) You take him for a walk down the street or in the woods.
c) Exercise? Hell, let him fence run the kennels. You’re too busy watching the
“soaps!”
6) When you groom your dog….
a) You’ve bought a special tub, a special table, hair blower, clippers, shampoos, etc.
b) He goes in to the bath tub, using the same shampoo & conditioner that you do.
c) Grooming? (Scratch, scratch *&%)….What’s that?
7) When you show your dog….
a) You hire the best handler, pay him top prices & bonus’s…nothing is too good for
your dog!
b) You hire a good handler and even a young up and coming one.
c) You ask the kid down the street who mows your lawn if he’s free this week-end.
8) The kind of car you drive to a dog show in is….
a) The top of the line van or motor home. You believe in traveling in style.
b) A nice SUV or mini-van that’s comfortable for you and your dog.
c) What ever happens to be running at the time and has gas in it that’s sitting in your
driveway.
9) When you breed your bitch….
a) You choose the top stud dog that money can buy. You do expensive testing, pay
airfare to get her to him & back and set up a custom made whelping box.
b) You choose a stud that you can afford hopefully in your area.
c) You breed her to her brother in the next run.
10) When you sell your puppies you….
a) Advertise them in a top publication and tell all your breeder friends about them.
b) You advertise them in the local paper as well as on your website.
c) You hang a sign out on the front tree…”Puppies for sale, highest bidder takes them
all!”
SCORE:
Mostly (a’s) – You live, breathe, talk, walk, and dream dogs. You’re a true dog person. You can’t believe there’s any other kind of person. Perhaps that’s why you don’t have too much in common with most people unless they’re show dog people. You adore your dogs and your dogs adore you. They come first and they are very spoiled and you wouldn’t have it any other way. Your home, your life and your social circle centers around your dogs. Guess one could say, “You’ve gone to the dogs.”
Mostly (b’s) – You truly love your dogs and realize they have a place in your life, but they aren’t the only thing that matters. They are included in your life, but they are not your whole life. (See example in the mostly a’s section above). You enjoy them and want the best for them, and you make sure you give them an excellent quality of life, but they do not come before yours and your families needs. (Again see the mostly a’s section above). You take your wins graciously, and accept your losses as it being part of the game. Life is good for you and your dogs because you have struck a harmonious balance.
Mostly (c’s) – Not one of your dogs is more important to you than your own needs. Nothing will prevent you from watching your soap opera’s, and no dog is going to use your “Evening in Paris" cologne to smell better than you do. Your dogs live around your schedule even if that means he went to bed at 8:00 the previous evening and will have to wait until 10:00 the next morning to be let out. You don’t exercise him because you’re talking on the telephone all day when your soaps are not on. You wonder why he’s not doing more winning in the show ring than he does. You’re pis--- off at the judge for not putting him up, you’re cranky with the kid who mows your lawn for not winning with him and you’re jealous of the ones who are winning. Your1988 Dodge pick-up breaks down on the way home from the show and you vow never to go to another one again……..and you curse to yourself wondering why Mostly a’s and Mostly b’s avoid having anything to do with you.
My rating: Mostly a’s or b’s: (4), mostly c’s: (1)
NO PART OF THIS ARTICLE MAY BE USED OR REPRINTED WITHOUT THE PERMISSION OF THE AUTHOR!
From the book: DOG OWNER'S HOME VETERINARY HANDBOOK...Open the front cover and the first two pages you see contain the Index of Signs and Symptoms, from Abdomen (painful, swollen, distended, and tucked up) to Weight loss, Wheezing, and Whining (continual). There's a comprehensive index in back, of course, running the gamut from Abortion to Zinc-Responsive Dermatosis, which is all very useful, but when your pooch is in pain, it's great to be able to turn, with the minimum of folderol, to the page that says to relax, it's nothing a bit of extra grooming won't fix, or alternatively to hightail it over to the vet hospital. It's a wonderful reference for any dog owner, with chapters on emergencies (such as burns, dehydration, and poisoning), as well as worms, infectious diseases, skin care, and canine eyes, ears, and nose. There are chapters on the digestive, respiratory, and circulatory systems, the nervous, musculoskeletal, and urinary systems, plus dog sex, whelping, puppy pediatrics, geriatrics, and chapters on cancers and medications. In short, it covers every health dimension a dog owner might want to know more about, identifies the possible causes, helps you determine the severity of the condition, and indicates what treatments or actions to take to best insure your dog's good health.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
ARE WE MAKING OUR DOGS SICK?
Over the last few decades there has been a tremendous increase in chronic ill health of our pets. Our animal’s immune system has been compromised and we’re seeing more and more illnesses that were rare just a few decades ago. The illnesses that we are seeing now are chronic skin and ear allergies, digestive upset, thyroid, adrenal and pancreatic disorders, seizures, gum and teeth problems, degenerative arthritis, kidney and liver failure, and cancer. Something else that we are seeing a lot of is a record number of behavioral and emotional disorders including alarming and unexplained fears and aggression, as well as difficulty focusing and paying attention when being trained.
The two biggest factors in our pet’s health problems has been the severe overuse of vaccines and nutrient poor and toxin filled commercial foods. Instead of finding out the cause of the disease, we have suppressed the symptoms with antibiotics, cortisone and related drugs. This can mean that the disease progresses and goes deeper. Homeopathy offers a viable alternative in truly curing pets and making their bodies healthier.
Our dogs are just like us humans that are affected by the health hazards on our planet. They too are bothered by pollution, poor nutrition, stress and unhealthy lifestyles just like we are. These days, emotional and psychological problems like depression, anxiety, ADHD and behavioral problems are just as prevalent in pets as they are in their owners. Like us they suffer from physical ailments such as diabetes, arthritis, chronic fatigue, digestive disorders, cystitis, kidney and liver disease, skin disorders, obesity and thyroid dysfunction. Perhaps we can help our pets live a healthier and longer life by making lifestyle changes and using natural medicine.
Some holistic veterinarians believe that most dogs will eat anything that they can get their mouth on if they are lacking in the nutrition to supply them with adequate energy. To help ensure a wholesome diet with the appropriate nutrients avoid diets that are made of inferior ingredients or ones that are made using high heat for processing and choose a diet for your dog that is comprised of human quality whole food ingredients.
In my research, according to Dr. Francis M. Pottenger's nutritional studies (and I quote) “A regular diet of cooked or canned foods causes the development of chronic degenerative diseases and premature mortality. Professor Jackson of the Dept. of Anatomy, University of Minnesota, has shown that rats fed for 135 days on an 80 percent cooked food diet resulted in an increase pancreatic weight of 20 to 30 percent. What this means is that the pancreas is forced to work harder with a cooked food diet. "Although the body can manufacture enzymes the more you use your enzyme potential, the faster it is going to run out..." wrote Dr. Edward Howell, who pioneered research in the benefits of food enzymes. (End quote).
In the wild, predators will first seek the stomach contents and organ meat of a killed animal. Partially digested fermented grass is what comes out of the stomach and intestines of the dead animal. It is the food that the dead animal had eaten that day and not yet passed out as manure. It is full of all types of beneficial microbes and enzymes as well as omega 3 from the grass. Animals like the coyotes, foxes, and wolves all feast on it.
Feeding your dogs foods that are fresh or raw will contain the highest level of enzymes. Enzymes are what assist in your dog’s digestion. Internal enzymes are damaged by factors, such as chlorine in drinking water, certain medicines, air pollution and chemical additives.
Scientists believe that mineral deficiency subjects our animals to more diseases, aging, sickness and destruction of their physical well-being than any other factor in personal health. Veterinarians that are concerned about nutrition and the role it plays in our animal’s health are beginning to recommend to their clients that they supplement their animal’s diet with a daily dose of flaxseed oil, fish oil and other nutrients for optimum health and vitality. Your dog’s food should provide all of the nutritional components which are necessary for his healthy organs and systems that produce a healthy, strong body. A properly functioning body does an amazing job at preventing disease and healing itself, and to do this it requires the energies and nutrients of a well-balanced diet. It means we need to pay better attention to what we are offering our dogs in his diet. We need to read and understand the labeling on our dog’s food.
In addition to the beautiful coats and a decrease in some skin disorders flaxseed has proven beneficial in other areas of the dog’s health as well. It serves as a source of valuable energy, keeps less desirable saturated fats mobile in the blood stream, increases oxygen uptake to the cell, decreases recovery time from strenuous exercise, and prevents and heals worn and chaffed paws. Numerous studies conducted on animals and humans show that flax has powerful anti-tumor properties and may reduce tumor size by 50%.
Why do dogs eat grass? It seems that they have a craving to eat earth - particularly clay.
If your dog had access to wheatgrass, he would readily eat this. It seems that wheatgrass juice is the nectar of rejuvenation, the plasma of youth, and the blood of all life. The elements that are missing in your body's cells - especially enzymes, vitamins, hormones, and nucleic acids can be obtained through this daily green sunlight transfusion. When people have utilized Wheatgrass juice in their daily diet, they have benefited in numerous ways: cleansing the lymph system, building the blood, restoring balance in the body, removing toxic metals from the cells, nourishing the liver and kidneys and restoring vitality. What this all points to is a healthier way of life. Maybe this is indeed, the way that Mother Nature meant us to eat instead of feeding ourselves and our animals on preservative and chemical loaded foods.
It seems that Magnesium as well as certain other minerals can be a valuable addition to your dog's diet ensuring they have a healthy body. If you have an ill dog that is stressed or irritable, magnesium supplementation could be a very helpful addition to his daily diet. Magnesium can be very beneficial for your dog's heart. Even when mild, Magnesium deficiency can increase susceptibility to various types of neurological and psychological stressors in dogs. Mild magnesium deficiency appears to be common among dogs with disorders considered functional or neurotic and appears to contribute to a symptom complex that includes sleep disorders, irritability, hyper-arousal, spasm of striated and smooth muscle and hyperventilation.
Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are responsible for basic cellular health in all body tissues and are fundamentally important for all animals. Many researchers consider EFAs to be as vital to our health and our pets' health as vitamins and minerals. A dog immune system functions the same as ours. EFAs play a major role in the maintenance of healthy coat and skin for cats, dogs, and horses. Without essential fatty acids in our diets, cells can not be formed or function efficiently. Like we do, animals also use EFAs to produce hormone-like substances called eicosanoids, which are involved in many important biological functions in the body. Essential fatty acids are the building blocks for prostaglandins which work to regulate hormones, immune and nervous systems plus cardiovascular function. This is why these fatty acids are called essential fatty acids.
Holistic foods, treatments and supplements for our dogs is becoming increasingly popular especially after so many dogs and cats became sick or died from the pet food recall of a couple of years ago. Concerned animal lovers have looked for a better way of taking care of their beloved companions. More and more breeders have decided not to vaccinate their dogs as much as they used to as more studies and research has indicated that more is not necessarily better for the welfare of our animals. Many breeders have switched the food that they feed their dogs after better educating themselves to the danger of some of the ingredients listed on the side of the bags of commercial foods. The more we know about what it is that we are putting inside our dogs, the more we are contributing to the health and longevity of our best friends.
My rating: holistic health care: (4), holistic dog food: (4), Vibrant Pets: (contains flaxseed which you visibly can see right in the supplement): (4)
The two biggest factors in our pet’s health problems has been the severe overuse of vaccines and nutrient poor and toxin filled commercial foods. Instead of finding out the cause of the disease, we have suppressed the symptoms with antibiotics, cortisone and related drugs. This can mean that the disease progresses and goes deeper. Homeopathy offers a viable alternative in truly curing pets and making their bodies healthier.
Our dogs are just like us humans that are affected by the health hazards on our planet. They too are bothered by pollution, poor nutrition, stress and unhealthy lifestyles just like we are. These days, emotional and psychological problems like depression, anxiety, ADHD and behavioral problems are just as prevalent in pets as they are in their owners. Like us they suffer from physical ailments such as diabetes, arthritis, chronic fatigue, digestive disorders, cystitis, kidney and liver disease, skin disorders, obesity and thyroid dysfunction. Perhaps we can help our pets live a healthier and longer life by making lifestyle changes and using natural medicine.
Some holistic veterinarians believe that most dogs will eat anything that they can get their mouth on if they are lacking in the nutrition to supply them with adequate energy. To help ensure a wholesome diet with the appropriate nutrients avoid diets that are made of inferior ingredients or ones that are made using high heat for processing and choose a diet for your dog that is comprised of human quality whole food ingredients.
In my research, according to Dr. Francis M. Pottenger's nutritional studies (and I quote) “A regular diet of cooked or canned foods causes the development of chronic degenerative diseases and premature mortality. Professor Jackson of the Dept. of Anatomy, University of Minnesota, has shown that rats fed for 135 days on an 80 percent cooked food diet resulted in an increase pancreatic weight of 20 to 30 percent. What this means is that the pancreas is forced to work harder with a cooked food diet. "Although the body can manufacture enzymes the more you use your enzyme potential, the faster it is going to run out..." wrote Dr. Edward Howell, who pioneered research in the benefits of food enzymes. (End quote).
In the wild, predators will first seek the stomach contents and organ meat of a killed animal. Partially digested fermented grass is what comes out of the stomach and intestines of the dead animal. It is the food that the dead animal had eaten that day and not yet passed out as manure. It is full of all types of beneficial microbes and enzymes as well as omega 3 from the grass. Animals like the coyotes, foxes, and wolves all feast on it.
Feeding your dogs foods that are fresh or raw will contain the highest level of enzymes. Enzymes are what assist in your dog’s digestion. Internal enzymes are damaged by factors, such as chlorine in drinking water, certain medicines, air pollution and chemical additives.
Scientists believe that mineral deficiency subjects our animals to more diseases, aging, sickness and destruction of their physical well-being than any other factor in personal health. Veterinarians that are concerned about nutrition and the role it plays in our animal’s health are beginning to recommend to their clients that they supplement their animal’s diet with a daily dose of flaxseed oil, fish oil and other nutrients for optimum health and vitality. Your dog’s food should provide all of the nutritional components which are necessary for his healthy organs and systems that produce a healthy, strong body. A properly functioning body does an amazing job at preventing disease and healing itself, and to do this it requires the energies and nutrients of a well-balanced diet. It means we need to pay better attention to what we are offering our dogs in his diet. We need to read and understand the labeling on our dog’s food.
In addition to the beautiful coats and a decrease in some skin disorders flaxseed has proven beneficial in other areas of the dog’s health as well. It serves as a source of valuable energy, keeps less desirable saturated fats mobile in the blood stream, increases oxygen uptake to the cell, decreases recovery time from strenuous exercise, and prevents and heals worn and chaffed paws. Numerous studies conducted on animals and humans show that flax has powerful anti-tumor properties and may reduce tumor size by 50%.
Why do dogs eat grass? It seems that they have a craving to eat earth - particularly clay.
If your dog had access to wheatgrass, he would readily eat this. It seems that wheatgrass juice is the nectar of rejuvenation, the plasma of youth, and the blood of all life. The elements that are missing in your body's cells - especially enzymes, vitamins, hormones, and nucleic acids can be obtained through this daily green sunlight transfusion. When people have utilized Wheatgrass juice in their daily diet, they have benefited in numerous ways: cleansing the lymph system, building the blood, restoring balance in the body, removing toxic metals from the cells, nourishing the liver and kidneys and restoring vitality. What this all points to is a healthier way of life. Maybe this is indeed, the way that Mother Nature meant us to eat instead of feeding ourselves and our animals on preservative and chemical loaded foods.
It seems that Magnesium as well as certain other minerals can be a valuable addition to your dog's diet ensuring they have a healthy body. If you have an ill dog that is stressed or irritable, magnesium supplementation could be a very helpful addition to his daily diet. Magnesium can be very beneficial for your dog's heart. Even when mild, Magnesium deficiency can increase susceptibility to various types of neurological and psychological stressors in dogs. Mild magnesium deficiency appears to be common among dogs with disorders considered functional or neurotic and appears to contribute to a symptom complex that includes sleep disorders, irritability, hyper-arousal, spasm of striated and smooth muscle and hyperventilation.
Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are responsible for basic cellular health in all body tissues and are fundamentally important for all animals. Many researchers consider EFAs to be as vital to our health and our pets' health as vitamins and minerals. A dog immune system functions the same as ours. EFAs play a major role in the maintenance of healthy coat and skin for cats, dogs, and horses. Without essential fatty acids in our diets, cells can not be formed or function efficiently. Like we do, animals also use EFAs to produce hormone-like substances called eicosanoids, which are involved in many important biological functions in the body. Essential fatty acids are the building blocks for prostaglandins which work to regulate hormones, immune and nervous systems plus cardiovascular function. This is why these fatty acids are called essential fatty acids.
Holistic foods, treatments and supplements for our dogs is becoming increasingly popular especially after so many dogs and cats became sick or died from the pet food recall of a couple of years ago. Concerned animal lovers have looked for a better way of taking care of their beloved companions. More and more breeders have decided not to vaccinate their dogs as much as they used to as more studies and research has indicated that more is not necessarily better for the welfare of our animals. Many breeders have switched the food that they feed their dogs after better educating themselves to the danger of some of the ingredients listed on the side of the bags of commercial foods. The more we know about what it is that we are putting inside our dogs, the more we are contributing to the health and longevity of our best friends.
My rating: holistic health care: (4), holistic dog food: (4), Vibrant Pets: (contains flaxseed which you visibly can see right in the supplement): (4)
Thursday, December 31, 2009
JACK FROST NIPPING AT THEIR NOSE!
I get pictures my friends send to me of their dogs frolicking in the snow and it’s like “Yee Haw” they’re having a grand old time for themselves! I let my dogs out. They do their business and they come sit at the back door waiting for me to let them in again! Granted the temperature is only 27 degrees, but come on guys, you should be having a ball in this stuff! So anyway, I wanted to write about some precautions to take in the winter months in taking care of our dogs.
The first thing the dog owner considers is the temperature outside. I don’t let my dogs stay out in freezing or below freezing temperatures. Maybe that’s why they’re jumping on the back door waiting for me to bring them back in again! I know some of you keep your dogs outside because you say they have beautiful coats because of the cold temperatures. Most of the time, we don’t have to take the same precautions as another dog breed owner might have to do. The German Shepherd carries the thick undercoat to help keep him warmer in weather like this. However, their coats won’t prevent them from getting frostbite on their ears, feet or tail. I notice if my dogs are out in freezing temperatures, they will come back inside and shake their heads because their ears are so cold. Forget about my house dog being outside for too long a time in this cold. Last week she was outside with me when I was cleaning the dog run. She loves to play on the back deck while I clean up her and her daughter’s mess! Anyway, when I was done and came up on the deck, she was shaking. So she is definitely not one that I could leave outside for any length of time. She’d freeze to death. She’s used of the warmth of the heater in the house.
Sometimes an owner will provide extra warm bedding for their dog. My girl has her own rugs that she lays on. Some people will provide a warm blanket in their dog’s crate if this is where they sleep. My one girl, I can’t put anything in her crate, because she starts to eat it. She eats anything she can get her mouth on! None of my dogs are finicky eaters, but she’s the “chow hound!”
Another thing of concern is that some dogs love to lie next to something that is providing them with warmth. For instance, a fireplace, a heater, or vents, etc. Sometimes they snuggle up too close to these things. Avoid space heaters and lamps and place baseboard radiator covers to avoid unnecessary burns. Fireplaces also pose a major threat and a pet-proof system should be used to insure that your dog doesn’t get burnt. My house dog loves to lie right next to the vent in the floor where the heat comes out.
Sometimes we think that our dogs need more food in the winter months. They don’t need an extra layer of fat, unless they live outside. Many times the cold temperatures bring on lazy behaviors and in that case the dog would need fewer calories. Our dogs still need the appropriate exercise. If he’s not getting enough exercise because of the weather conditions, you may want to adjust his food consumption so he doesn’t put on unnecessary pounds. That’s why it’s important to make sure you are feeding your dog the highest quality dog food and supplements to insure a healthy coat and to keep his energy level good for these cold months.
Dogs can dehydrate just as quickly in the winter as summer. Although many dogs eat snow, it is not an adequate substitute for fresh water. If your dog has a water bowl outdoors, check it often and break ice that may form on top. I empty their water bowls every day after I remove the ice and give them clean fresh water to drink.
Keeping your dog clean and well groomed is just as important in the winter as any other time of the year. Your dog needs a clean, well-groomed coat to keep him properly insulated. This is especially important if your dog lives outdoors. After bathing, dry your dog adequately, especially before allowing him outdoors.
It’s important to protect yours dog’s feet. Dogs walk through snow, slush, salt and chemicals and are very likely to sustain an injury to their foot pads unless protected. Now I know you’re not going to see the German Shepherd in dog booties like you might find for the smaller breeds. It’s important to clean your dog's feet every time he comes into the house. Use warm water and clean between the toes really well to remove debris and salt. You can apply a salve to prevent the dog’s feet from cracking. Avoid using any chemical ice-melting compounds or rock salt on your sidewalks, driveways or dog kennels that your dog may contact.
Another important thing to do is to shovel and clear the snow where your dog spends most of his time outdoors. Snow can be a lot of fun but it can also be dangerous for your dog. Snow that’s piled high near fences pose escape hazards that even well trained dogs often can't resist. Keep snow cleared away from fences to prevent your dog from climbing over. Snow and ice often accumulate on rooftops and if the sun is out or as temperatures rise, this accumulation can fall and injure your dog. Be careful when you’re playing outside with your dog. He’s not aware of the dangers of slippery footing. He can run after a snowball that you may throw for him and slip and fall and pull a tendon or worse. Accidents happen so quickly.
Most dog owners know to keep their animals away from toxic exposure. But sometimes we forget. We go in the garage and our dog is following us and this is where the problem can start. We’re not paying attention to the dog. Our mind is somewhere else. With winter comes antifreeze from automobiles. Antifreeze is sweet in taste and dogs will readily lick or drink it. Antifreeze is extremely toxic and just a small amount can be fatal for them. Keep your dog out of the garage and off the driveway where they may encounter antifreeze or other harmful chemicals.
The same precautionary measures that we take in the summer months when it comes to leaving our dogs in the car should also be observed in the winter months. Freezing cold temperatures are the main concern during the winter. Also if the car is left running during the winter (especially in the garage), carbon monoxide poisoning is a real threat.
Pay special attention to the senior dogs or ones who have arthritis during the cold weather. The cold will often aggravate these conditions. It is very important to maintain an exercise regimen with your arthritic dog, but be mindful of slippery surfaces. Insure that he has a warm, dry area to rest when he returns home. Try the adding a Hip & Joint supplement to lubricate the joints and ease the discomfort of arthritis. Vibrant Pets has two formulas that address this condition. Just like people, dogs are more susceptible to other illnesses during the winter weather. As you normally would do, if you see anything out of the ordinary, contact your veterinarian.
So there you have it. Just as we have to be more careful in the winter, so too must we be with our dogs. The snow blankets the earth in a white sparkly diamond dust that begs you to come out and play. It can be a fun time for all, but do make sure you use caution for both you and your dogs before stepping out in the Winter Wonderland!
P.S. I want to know why the little black spider that has lived outside on my small back window is still alive in this freezing cold weather??? When oh when is he going to die and go to “buggy” heaven already??? Does he not know that I’m tired of looking at him with all his “yuckiest ugliness?”
My rating: feeding dogs a top food for the winter months: (4), supplementing him with vitamins, etc. (4)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)