Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
Moving is one of life's most stressful experiences -- and it can be equally upsetting for dogs. Changing your pooch's familiar environment can disrupt his feelings of safety and security, instilling anxiety that you might be abandoning him. He may feel confused and demonstrate behavioral issues in the new home, such as trying to establish his territory by frequent urination or becoming too frightened to come out from under your bed. Take steps before and after the move to help make a smooth transition for your dog.
Dogs and people are able to form close emotional bonds, which is one reason why dogs can read our emotions. When a beloved human companion is sad, a dog will often shower her with licks or kisses. If she's happy, her dog might romp around or pick up a favorite toy to encourage her to play.
You've probably watched and wondered as Daisy tilted her head and adjusted her ears, picking up some sound that was beyond your range. It's well-known that dogs have excellent hearing. Daisy's superior hearing makes an excellent alarm system, which is great for both of you.
Torticollis, or cervical dystocia (also called wryneck), in dogs has many causes, from birth injury to nerve disease, but once the cause has been determined and eliminated, if possible, treatment for residual muscle spasm is generally much the same. Both home and professional therapies can be highly effective.
Aggression in dogs is symptomatic of another underlying issue. Pain, fear, anxiety and dominance can all illicit aggressive behavior or tendencies. Though any dog can develop these issues, previous abuse and poor socialization increase the risk of anxious, aggressive behavior. Relieving your dog’s anxiety through homeopathic remedies lets you focus on behavior training and desensitization. Regardless of the remedy you choose, remember that aggression is a serious behavioral issue that requires collaborative work with your veterinarian and a certified behaviorist or trainer.
Dog acupressure is a developing field, and there are multiple levels of practice within the field. Acupressure, a form of massage rooted in Asia, operates on the principles that energy travels through the body in a network of channels and that applying pressure to certain points in this network can influence the functions of specific body organs or systems. Acupressure is being applied increasingly for general health and well-being in the animal world and is much touted for dogs and horses, especially those in competition or in professions such as law enforcement and rescue.
When a dog's shoulder joint becomes damaged due to arthritis, injury, heredity or a degenerative joint disease, bone spurs called osteophytes form. These osteophytes form at the meeting of bones at certain joints, in some cases causing pain for a dog and decreasing his range of motion. Depending on the underlying cause for your dog's shoulder osteophytes, therapy, supplementation and surgery may be necessary to treat the condition.
Nandina is a type of shrub that you may unknowingly have in your backyard. This plant, also known as sacred bamboo or heavenly bamboo, can be toxic to your furry companion. All parts of nandina, including the leaves, stems and berries, can make your dog very ill. If you suspect your pooch has consumed an unfamiliar type of plant, take him directly to your veterinarian. Collect a small sample of the shrub to take to the vet, if possible, so he knows exactly which plant your dog ingested and the proper antidote.
Dogs needs routine health care in order to remain at their best. One part of a dog’s needs that is often overlooked is dental care. Many owners don’t realize their dogs have a dental problem until it is too late. In such cases, the dog may develop gum disease and need some teeth pulled without your awareness. Such procedures are expensive, and they can put your dog at risk. But you can avoid such problems if you'll take steps to keep the dog’s teeth free of plaque. You can accomplish this using easy, natural means.
Ringworm is a skin problem caused by fungi. These fungi, called dermatophytes, are zoonotic. They spread the contagious infection between animals and humans. When your dog is infected with dermatophytes, he carries the fungi even if he shows no signs of dermatophytosis or skin infection. Treatment is important for the dog’s comfort and to stop the infection from spreading to other pets and people.
Hot spots make a dog's life miserable. Formally known as moist eczema, the bacterial skin lesions commonly called hot spots cause affected dogs to constantly scratch, lick and chew in an effort to gain relief. While the old purple standby gentian violet can provide relief, be careful -- gentian violet can stain, so wear old clothes when applying it. Although gentian violet aids in healing hot spots, always consult your veterinarian before beginning any course of treatment, as hot spots can become infected.
A seroma is a collection of fluid in a "dead" or empty space in body tissue. It can occur as a complication following surgery, trauma or even an injection. It appears as a bulge or swelling under the skin near the trauma site and is filled with serum, which is the clear liquid part of blood when the solid parts -- red cells, white cells and clotting agents -- are filtered out by the surrounding tissue. Most seromas can be treated successfully at home, and many require no treatment at all.
Termidor is the brand name of a fipronil liquid termite and ant insecticide. Termidor’s manufacturer, BASF, estimates that over 4 million houses in America use Termidor perimeter barriers. It must be used underneath the soil around a home or inserted into holes in the foundation in order to be effective. Spraying it on the lawn or yard is useless.
Gardenias, or Gardenia jasminoides, are broadleaf evergreen shrubs that bear glossy, deep green leaves and white waxy flowers with a strong, intoxicating fragrance. Winter hardy in USDA Zones 8 to 11, gardenias are a common landscaping plant in southern areas of the United States. Gardeners in areas with colder winters often grow gardenias as potted plants so they can overwinter indoors. Whether a landscape or a potted plant, gardenias commonly suffer from fungal and bacterial leaf spot diseases that can make the foliage look unattractive.
A dog -- with very rare exceptions -- spends a lot of time outside during its day-to-day existence, whether to relieve itself or to play and explore. As a result, it can get its coat dirty and matted, especially dogs with longer coats. These mats, if left intact, can cause irritation to the dog and can lead to infection from incessant scratching or biting from trying to remove the matted fur. Weekly brushing of your dog should eliminate the development of most matted fur, but additional tools may be necessary to remove more-serious accumulations.
Indoor and outdoor dogs shed when it is time to replace their coat for the season. However, excessive shedding can mean a larger problem with skin and coat health. For dogs that have excessive shedding, a committed three-layer approach will have any dog's coat glistening in no time. The best treatment for hair shedding on dogs is to know and understand your dog's grooming and nutritional needs for healthy skin and coat.
While antibiotics remain a primary mode of treatment for dogs suffering from lesions, abscesses or other skin-related infections, pet owners can also treat the wounds through other means. In severe cases where the infection cannot drain from the wound, a veterinarian may need to perform surgery while the dog is under anesthesia to remove the infection. Take the dog to a veterinarian immediately for a professional opinion on how to best care for any wounds that surface.
There are several different types of tapeworms, but they are all very similar. The most common tapeworm is the flea tapeworm, Dipylidium caninum. Fleas serve as a host for tapeworms, and when a dog ingests a flea or its eggs, as can happen when grooming itself, the tapeworms hatch in the dog's digestive system. Other tapeworms can be ingested in similar ways; other types are found in raw meat. Tapeworms attach themselves to the dog's intestinal tract and absorb nutrients through their skin, causing the dog to become malnourished and lose weight. Other symptoms include diarrhea, scooting on the carpet…
Similar to their human counterparts, dogs can be susceptible to common eye ailments such as conjunctivitis or other eye infections. Treating dogs afflicted with eye ailments often requires the use of an ophthalmic solution or ointment such as neomycin and polymyxin b sulfates and dexamethasone. Commonly known as Neo-Poly-Dex or NPD ophthalmic ointment, the solution is a combination of an antibiotic and an anti-inflammatory medication. After being diagnosed by a veterinarian, a dog can get a prescription for this medication.
Boxers are born with long, curved tails, but owners cut the tails to give the boxer a more intimidating and powerful look. Other owners cut the tail to give the dog the "boxer look." The result is a small tail that stands straight up. Cutting a boxer's tail is also known as docking, and it is illegal in many countries. Despite protests from boxer owners and animal rights activists, docking is legal in the United States. The right time to cut a boxer's tail is ultimately up to the individual owner.
Hot spots are sores that develop on a dog's skin. It resembles an eczema rash that is weeping or pussy. Hot spots are also referred to by the names moist eczema and summer sores. Hot spot are a common concern for dog owners because dogs can acquire them easily and even a small sore can quickly become larger and more serious. With the proper care, however, hot spots do not pose a significant threat to your dog's health.
Constipation can cause abdominal discomfort for your dog, but natural remedies can usually alleviate the symptoms. The best natural constipation remedies for dogs are bulk-forming laxatives. These substances work by absorbing water and swelling in the colon, making your dog's stools softer and larger. The larger stool in the colon causes intestinal contractions and bowel movements. Always talk to your veterinarian when you change your dog's diet.
Panalog ointment is a topical treatment that contains a combination of ingredients which fight off yeast (anti-fungal), decrease inflammation (corticosteroid) and treat infections (antibiotics). It is available in two forms: ointment and cream. While Panalog cream is only used to treat inflammation and infections of the skin, the ointment is more versatile and is used to treat both skin and ear disorders.
Dog owners tend to think the worst every time something unusual appears on their pets. If a cloudy spot appears in a dog's eye, glaucoma is the first thing to run through an owner's mind -- but nothing is further from the truth. While glaucoma is a possibility, many things can cause cloudiness in a dog's eyes. Your veterinarian can help you determine the cause of cloudy spots in your dog's eye.
Sandflies are parasites that infest canines and other animals. Contrary to what their name suggests, sandflies are not found in beach areas, but in gardens and thick wooded areas. If untreated, dogs with sandfly infestations can develop a serious disease called leishmaniasis. Leishmaniases can be fatal, and can be transmitted to humans. There exist different treatments for sandflies, but none of these treatments are authorized for use in the United States.
Dogs are known to be very expressive but when it comes to pain, the signs are often subtle or hidden. According to Petmd.com, dog owners must trust intuition and be very keen observers to know if their pet is in pain so that appropriate treatment can be given. Dogs may suffer acute or chronic pain. Acute pain comes from sudden injury, surgery, infection or inflammation. Chronic pain usually develops slowly and lasts longer. Fortunately, various types of pain medication are available for dogs.
E. Coli, also known formally as Escherichia coli, is a bacterial infection in the lower intestine. This infection can harm humans and other mammals. Dogs, primarily puppies, can succumb to the negative side effects of an E. coli infection if not treated properly. The term for an infection stemming from E. coli is colibacillosis. It requires medical attention by a veterinarian as soon as symptoms are discovered.
Dogs, like humans, are prone to muscle injuries. A pulled muscle in a dog is damage to its soft muscle tissue and can be caused by a variety of activities. While recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury, you can expedite your dog's rehabilitation by being well-versed in the symptoms and care of a canine pulled muscle.
Dogs can incur a number of common sprains. Some are mild and can be treated with rest, while others require surgery and a lengthy recovery process or physical therapy. Veterinarians have a number of tools at their disposal to diagnose and treat sprains and other injuries in canines. Once a diagnosis is made, the veterinarian can determine a treatment plan.
Just like their human owners, man's best friend can succumb to eye infections. After a visit to the veterinarian and diagnosis, a dog owner can help their pooch get better with the right medication. Ophthalmic eye ointment is often used as the treatment for these canine eye problems and must be properly applied to work effectively.
Clavamox is an antibiotic for dogs and cats. According to Pfizer, the manufacturer of Clavamox, the drug is the first, and still the only, potentiated penicillin approved for use on cats or dogs. The penicillin in Clavamox can kill the bacteria that lead to flu-like symptoms, including the sniffles, in dogs.
Vinegar and mineral oil are two natural home ingredients commonly used in a dog's ears to treat ear mites or yeast infections. When used correctly, they are both safe and effective for dogs. Ear mites spread quickly and can result in ear infections, so early treatment is important.
Homeopathic remedies work on the principle that "like cures like" --- for instance, oil and debris in the ear is cleaned using a cleaner that contains oil. Homeopathic remedies are also holistic, taking the whole dog and illness into consideration. Homeopathic ear washes for dogs are effective against mild infections and normal debris; they also prevent severe infections from cropping up.
Probios, or probiotics, are administrated to pets, farm animals and even people for digestion problems. When given to calves, they are usually for treatment of calf scours or diarrhea. Studies are mixed on the effectiveness of probiotic treatment. A University of Illinois study suggests it might be effective in calves facing heat stress. Information on how often to give probios to calves can be usually be found on technical sheets inserted in the product package or on the product label.
Boldenone is an anabolic steroid. It began as a horse steroid, under the brand name Equipoise, and has since gained popularity among human bodybuilders as well. The boldenone product designed for dogs is called Vebonol, and was developed in Germany. While boldenone has been shown to increase a dog's speed and musculature, it carries the health risks of any steroid use.
Chewing and teething is a natural behavior for all dogs. Chewing and teething can destroy furniture, clothing and electronics. If you would like to keep your dog from teething on your possessions, there are several things that you can do. You don't have to keep your dog secluded while it is teething. You can cure it yourself with little hassle.
Arthritis is a painful condition caused by swelling in the joints. Regardless of your dog's breed, arthritis is a common issue that many dog owners face as their pet ages. There are safe remedies that will help your dog ease the discomfort and stress it is under because of its arthritis; some of these remedies require a trip to your veterinarian while others are home remedies.
Many over-the-counter medications intended for humans can also be used to treat your pets. However, it is very important you check with your veterinarian before administering any human medications to your cat or dog. What's harmless to you can be lethal to an animal. Famotidine is one such drug that, when administered properly, can be used on your dog.
In harsh economical times, keeping chickens is a viable and cost-effective option of producing eggs. These feathered friends are proving ever popular among people struggling to meet their rising groceries bill or those wishing to supplement their income with the sale of eggs. Chicken owners should always be on guard for mange, which can devastate a flock of chickens and cause a reduction in egg numbers.
Aloe vera is known to have healing properties to which dogs may respond positively. Although aloe vera is commonly used topically to treat skin conditions, dogs can also take the medicinal herb internally to gain particular health benefits. When your canine has an ailment, seek medical advice from your veterinarian and talk to your vet about whether aloe vera is right for your dog. Although aloe vera is all natural, it should not be a substitute for professional help.
Pneumonia is a serious infection in the lungs, typically caused by the presence of fluid or some other foreign material. Aspiration pneumonia occurs when a dog inhales fluid into its lungs and is most common among dogs who have vomited and then inhaled their own vomit. This potentially life-threatening condition is treated with antibiotics and, in severe cases, dogs may need artificial respiratory devices until the pneumonia is gone. Stopping antibiotic therapy before the antibiotics are gone is extremely risky and can result in pneumonia that is much more difficult to treat.
Dogs that suffer from flea allergies exhibit crusty papules along the spine and at the base of the tail. The pet's owner may notice spots of black flea defecation near the bumps or see live fleas in the dog's fur. Some dogs fastidiously clean themselves and remove all physical evidence of the fleas, but the allergy symptoms remain.
Just like a human, a dog can develop diabetes mellitus, or sugar diabetes. When this occurs, the islet cells in a dog's pancreas can't make enough insulin. If left untreated, diabetes in dogs --- just as in humans --- will eventually lead to death. Fortunately, canine diabetes can be treated with daily insulin injections. However, injecting a dog with insulin requires a proper technique to ensure the safety of all involved.
Sugar or glucose in the blood provides energy for the dog and is measured in milligrams per deciliters. The normal sugar levels in dogs are between 75 and 120mg, according to PetMD. Elevated sugar levels in the dog's blood are also known as hyperglycemia. The condition causes excessive thirst, lethargy and increased frequency of urination. Elevated blood sugar is commonly caused by diabetes, but there are also other conditions that may account for hyperglycemia.
Water in a dog's ear is usually caused from a swimming excursion. It's important to dry your pet's ears as soon as possible because if water is left in them it can cause an infection. When you remove the water you're also cleaning the ear and removing excess dirt or wax that might accumulate. If your dog goes swimming regularly it's a good idea to clean its ears out about once a week to prevent any moisture buildup.
It can be frustrating to have a dog with itchy skin. Dogs will scratch the affected area constantly and that can lead to hair loss. There are many causes for itchy skin and hair loss in a dog so it can be a challenge to pinpoint the remedy. Taking the necessary steps to eliminate the causes with natural remedies is a great way to ensure you are taking a holistic approach to your pet's health.
Small bacterial overgrowth syndrome takes place in the small intestine of a dog. As with any disease or illness in a pet, SIBO should be checked out by a veterinarian and treated. SIBO is a little more complicated than other disorders affecting dogs, as the disease can be caused by several factors, which must be treated in order to remedy the problem.
Dogs most often develop bursitis as the result of physical trauma or an autoimmune condition. Bursitis occurs when the small small, fluid filled sacks located at the joints become inflamed or infected. These sacks are known as bursae. Although in some cases bursitis is chronic, it usually responds well to treatment. If you suspect that your dog may have bursitis, take him to the vet.
Numerous factors can result in super hyperactivity in your dog, including environmental, psychological or behavioral problems. Regardless of the source, a dog who regularly becomes hyperactive can damage items in your home or even accidentally nip or bite at you. A hyperactive dog also will tend to bark loudly, creating a disturbance for others in your home or even your neighbors. You can employ a few simple techniques to calm your hyperactive dog and train it to avoid this behavior.
Pen-Aqueous is an antibiotic (penicillin G and procaine) for cattle, sheep, horses and pigs. Pen-Aqueous is most commonly used to treat pneumonia, shipping fever, erysipelas, strangles and other pathogenic organisms. However, before you administer Pen-Aqueous to any livestock, it is important to have a diagnosis from a veterinarian to determine the pathogen and the duration of treatment. The correct way to use Pen-Aqueous is via intramuscular injection.
