Canine Stroke Syndrome

We all know that a stroke is a fatal disease in humans, if not diagnosed and treated in time. Even dogs may develop stroke, but the condition is not fatal in canines, as compared to humans. Canine stroke symptoms too differ, as compared to signs of stroke in humans. Though a rare condition in dogs, it is always better to detect and treat canine stroke at the earliest, so as to avoid possible complications.

Canine stroke is basically classified into two types - ischemic and hemorrhagic. In case of ischemic stroke, the blood supply to certain parts of the brain gets affected due to a blocked artery. Rupture of the artery is the reason for such blocked blood supply in a hemorrhagic stroke. Such blocked blood supply will result in damage to brain tissues, thereby affecting various vital functions of the body. This results in many different stroke symptoms in dogs. So, a basic idea about the various aspects of this canine disease will be beneficial for pet dog owners.

What Causes Canine Stroke Syndrome

Otherwise known as cerebrovascular accident (CVA) or a transient ischemic attack (TIA), canine stroke is a serious medical condition that may cause brain damage and other complications. Now you know that this condition is caused by blocked blood supply to certain parts of the brain and this could be due to a blocked or ruptured artery. There are certain medical conditions that make a dog predisposed to stroke. This includes Cushing's disease, heart disease, diabetes, liver problems, thyroid disorders, brain tumor and hypertension. Even ingestion of rodent poison can lead to stroke in dogs. Other causes include head injury or trauma, lung worms, etc.

While, in most cases, brain damage caused by a stroke is irreversible, treatment for the underlying condition will help the dog to recover from the symptoms. There is another canine health problem that is often misdiagnosed as stroke. This is canine vestibular syndrome, which is caused by inflammation of the nerves that connect the inner ear with the cerebellum. But, in this case, brain damage will not happen. So, proper diagnosis is very much important. As compared to humans, dogs do not develop life-threatening stroke symptoms and the recovery is also much faster.

Symptoms of Canine Stroke

One of the most common symptoms of canine stroke syndrome is tilting of the head to one side. The dog may also lean towards that side while walking. It has also been observed that such dogs eat food from one side of the bowl. The animal's limbs may appear weak and they may falter and fall while walking. They dog may also start moving in circles and will display a change in behavior. Other canine stroke symptoms include loss of control over bladder and bowel movements, depression, confusion, seizures and vision problems. In severe cases, symptoms, like paralysis and vision loss may also happen. In short, the nature and severity of the symptoms may vary as per the severity of the condition and the nature of the affected parts of the brain.

How is Canine Stroke Syndrome Treated

Treatment for a canine stroke may also vary with the underlying condition. If the underlying cause is detected, treatment will be provided for the same, so as to prevent occurrences of stroke in future. Apart from symptomatic treatment (like anti seizure medication), the affected dog may also be administered with anti-inflammatory medication to reduce the swelling of the damaged brain tissues. Intravenous therapy and supportive care will also be provided for such dogs. As compared to humans, dogs have strong possibilities of recovery from a stroke. But, in case of severe damage to the vital parts of the brain, complete recovery may not be possible. Otherwise, good supportive care is all that is needed for the dog to get back in good shape.

To conclude, canine stroke syndrome is a condition that is rare in dogs. However, there are chances that dogs develop stroke that may sometimes result in severe and debilitating symptoms. So, it is always advisable to take your pet dog to the vet, as soon as you notice any such symptom. Early diagnosis and treatment is always beneficial for a fast recovery. This Buzzle article is only for informational purposes and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.

Read More

Dog Ear Infection Symptoms

Being one of the common dog health problems, ear infection can cause severe pain and inflammation of the ear. Dogs can suffer from three types of ear infection, otitis externa or infection of the outer ear, otitis media or infection of the middle ear, and otitis interna or infection of the internal ear. Usually, the external ear infection can be treated easily and is not considered as a serious condition, while infection of the middle and internal ear can present some severe complications. If the internal ear infection spreads and affects the central nervous system, it may also result in death of the affected animal.

Causes of Canine Ear Infection
Several factors can be responsible for this problem in dogs. It can be ear mites, which is most commonly associated with external ear infection, or an excessive growth of bacteria, fungus or yeast in the ear. Even food allergies, allergies to fleas, build up of excessive earwax can cause this infection in dogs. Many times, water can get into the ear of the dogs while swimming, and eventually, create a moist environment inside the ear, favorable for the proliferation of bacteria and fungus. This condition has been observed to be more common in certain dog breeds like, cocker spaniels, the reason being their floppy ears, and presence of excess fur inside the ear.

Canine Ear Infection Signs
These symptoms can vary considerably depending on the severity of the infection, and what part of the ear has been affected. As has been mentioned already, middle and internal ear infections are of more severe in nature, and therefore produce more serious symptoms.

• Redness or tenderness can be found to often accompany this condition. Swelling and inflammation can also be present, along with a foul-smelling, yellow discharge.
• Itching often compels the affected dogs to scratch or rub their ears frequently. Itching can be an important indicator of bacterial infection or presence of ear mites.
• Frequent head shaking and tilting can be the indicators, that the dog is trying to get rid of something in its ear. It could be anything from trapped objects like, grass to water, or excessive earwax produced during ear infection; all of which can force the dog to vigorously shake its head.
• If the infection spread to middle and internal ear of the dog, then the dog may exhibit problems in balancing. Generally mild external ear infection does not cause balancing problems and hence, it can be considered as a symptom of severe ear infection.

Canine Ear Infection Treatment
Its treatment usually depends on the underlying causes. Maintaining hygiene, and cleaning the ear properly with disinfectant can help to treat or control mild ear infections. If bacteria is the causative agent, then along with proper cleaning, application of antibacterial drops will be required. Similarly, for treating fungal infection, antifungal ointments can be used. Along with these medications, some simple home remedies like, apple cider vinegar, garlic can be used in the treatment. They can help to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth in the ear. However, If the infection is of severe nature, then it is better to seek the advice of an expert veterinarian.

Identifying these symptoms can play a crucial role in timely diagnosis and treatment of the condition. To prevent further recurrences of this infection, the pet owner should be very particular about proper dog care with regular ear cleaning and maintenance of general hygiene. This is especially applicable for dog breeds that have floppy ears, and those that love to swim a lot. However, while cleaning the ears, be sure not to insert cotton buds deep inside the ear. This can damage the internal parts of the ear. Also make sure to regularly trim the excess hair present in the ear of your dog, so as to ensure proper ventilation, and prevent bacterial and fungal outgrowth in that area.

Read More

Homemade Dog Food Recipes

Taking care of a pet dog is surely fun as well as a great responsibility too. It is every dog owner's wish to give his pet the best, be it the comfort of a home or the food that he feeds the dog. As the advertisements of commercial dog foods focus on how good they are in enhancing the growth of the canine, more and more pet owners are opting for these foods for their pets quite blindly. Moreover, buying these dog foods from the market saves them a lot of time to prepare food for their dogs. However, what they do not know is that these commercial dog foods are not exactly healthy for the dog and also are said to be main culprit for the occurrence of dog allergies. Hence, according to expert opinion, it is best to avoid these foods and opt for homemade foods.

The advantage of cooking dog food at home is that you know what exactly your pet is consuming and also can take care of its nutritional needs. Here are some recipes that you can easily make at home.

Homemade Dog Feed

Before going into natural homemade recipes, it is important to know about the ingredients that are good for dogs and what must be strictly avoided. Just like human beings, even dogs need the right amount of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. Your dog's diet should include meat, poultry, vegetables, whole grains, eggs, fish, dairy products, etc. On the other hand, you should never feed your dog with foods like raisins, garlic, chocolate, grapes, etc. as these can cause health problems in your dog. Let us look at some healthy recipes that will ensure that your dog will receive all the essential nutrients.

Brown Rice with Turkey

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 16 ounces mixed vegetables, frozen
• 16 ounces brown rice
• 6 cups water
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Preparation

Take water in a large Dutch oven and add rice, ground turkey and rosemary into it. Stir for sometime and then leave the mixture to boil. As it begins to boil, lower the flame and cook for twenty to twenty five minutes. Next, put in the frozen vegetables like carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, etc. and mix well. Cook for another five minutes and take it off the heat. Let the dish cool and then store it in the refrigerator. Making large amounts of this dish and then storing it in the refrigerator will save you lot of time from cooking food for your dog every time.

Chicken Broth Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 ounces chicken broth
• cup finely chopped carrot
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 4 ounces cottage cheese
• 4 ounces amaranth
• cup finely chopped zucchini
• 4 ounces wheat germ
• 2 eggs
• 1 pounds ground chicken
• cup finely chopped spinach

Preparation
Take a sauce pan and cook amaranth and chicken broth together. Once it starts boiling, lower the heat and cook for twenty minutes more. Take it off the flame and allow it cool for sometime. Take ground chicken in a mixing bowl and combine vegetables, cottage cheese, eggs, amaranth mixture, olive oil and wheat germ oil. Stir thoroughly till all the ingredients are fully blended. Spread this mixture into a loaf pan and cook in a 350 degrees F preheated oven for an hour.

Homemade Puppy Food Recipes

If you have just brought a cute little puppy at home and do not know what kind of dishes you can cook for him, here is a homemade puppy food recipe that you can try.

Fishy Dinner

Ingredients

• 1 can salmon, boneless
• 1 boiled potato, chopped
• 3 teaspoons peanut butter
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 stick celery
• 3 tablespoons cornmeal
• 1 carrot, chopped

Preparation

In a large mixing bowl, mix egg, cornmeal and salmon together till they become a dough. Shape the dough in the form of patties and coat both the sides in cornmeal. Take a little canola oil in a pan and fry them till they become brown in color. Take them out and allow them to cool completely. Slice these patties into small pieces and fry them a little with vegetables and cottage cheese. Feed your puppy after it is completely cooled.

Homemade Doggie Treat Recipes

Apart from the daily dog meals, it is also necessary that you know about dog treat recipes which you can feed your canine as snacks. Here are some of them.

Homemade Biscuits Recipe with Peanut Butter

Ingredients

• 4 ounces water
• 2 eggs
• 4 ounces oats
• 2 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 tablespoons peanut butter
• 4 ounces oil
• 16 ounces flour
• 4 ounces cornmeal

Preparation

In a mixing bowl, mix all the dry ingredients including oats, flour, cornmeal together and set aside. In another bowl, combine all the wet ingredients and mix well. Transfer the dry ingredients in the bowl containing the wet ingredients and mix till a dough ball is formed. Shape them in the form of cookies and place them in a cookie tray. Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F. After twenty minutes, switch off the oven and let the cookies remain inside to cool till they becomes firm and crispy.

Soft Biscuits for Dogs

Ingredients

• cup dry milk powder
• 3 jars of baby food, chicken
• cup wheat germ

Preparation

Preheat the oven at 350 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, take all the ingredients and mix well. Shape the dough into small cookies and place them on the cookie sheet. Bake for fifteen minutes till the cookies become brown in color. After they are cooled on the wire rack, keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

These recipes are really easy to make and will not take much of your time. Remember that just like humans, even dogs can get bored of eating the same food again and again and hence, it is important that you add variety to their diet.

Read More

Best Dog Food for Labs

You want the best for your best friend, your pet dog. You want the best trainer to train them, you want them to have the best kennel, you want them to have the best groomed look and when it comes to food, you want them to have healthy dog food, something which will not harm them, something which they will enjoy. The dog food usually varies from one dog breed to another. What a spaniel might like, a beagle may not enjoy it. Hence, if you own a lab, and are looking for the best dog food for labs, then, given below is a list of some of the best dog food brands for your labs only.

Choices on Dog Foods

The dog food varies according to the age of the dog. What the puppy eats will be different from what an old dog eats. Hence, many companies have come up with foods meant for large breeds and puppy breeds. These dog foods contain sufficient nutrients for the proper development of bones and muscles of the dogs and also to build up a good immune system. Hence, it's important that the food contains the proper nutrition for the overall development of your pet.

Homemade Dog Food
Homemade is safe, natural, and if your dog is allergic to something, then you can voluntarily exclude that from their meal. You will also be able to keep a check on the nutrients value and also the calorie level, which is sometimes not possible in the case of food purchased from shops.

Raw or boiled meat is a good option. You can boil either chicken, lamb, or pork and then mix it with rice and give it to your dog. This food is healthy as well as filling. If your dog loves it, then you can also give them raw meat instead of boiled meat. Besides chicken and mutton or pork, you can try out turkey, emu and even fish. Eggs are also favorite food for dogs. They love to eat it. But do make sure that your dog is not allergic to it.

Not all nutrients can come from meat and fish and eggs. You also have to provide your dog with green vegetable diet. Broccoli, carrots, celery, asparagus, cabbage, and lettuce, are some of the top dog food for labs as well as other dogs. They are nutritious and will keep your dog healthy. But these are also responsible for causing gastric problems in your dogs, especially broccoli. If you feel that your dog is suffering from gas problems, then you can exclude the broccoli from their diet.

Avoid foods that contains soy, or corn or wheat. These are to be avoided as they are all common allergens for dogs. They also cause health problems in dogs such as tooth problems and problems in the pancreas. You can try out some healthy homemade dog food recipes at home and give your dog something nutritious everyday.

Commercial Dog Food
If you are going for commercial dog food, then you should always go for the best dog food brands. You should go for something that contains chicken or lamb as the most important ingredient. If the food just mentions 'Meat', then it's best that you avoid that. Some branded dog food also contains corn and bran. These are not some of the foods with allergies, as the corn present in the food, can cause itching, or licking its feet or sometimes getting ear infections. So it's best that you avoid food which contains corns. There are some dog foods for allergies which you can try when your dog starts suffering from allergies. But otherwise, there are some branded dog foods that are the best dog foods for lab. Just make sure that all the important ingredients are present and that your dog is not allergic to any of them.

Homemade food is always the best, but you can also go for the best branded one. Along with a healthy diet and proper exercises, your dog will be healthy; young or old. With proper dog care and diet, your best friend will remain healthy.

Read More

Dog Diarrhea Treatment

Dogs commonly suffer from diarrhea problem which might be caused due to various reasons. Most common cause of diarrhea in dogs is known to be food consumed by them. Eating garbage or other bacteria-filled items might lead to this dog health problem. If your dog is suffering from diarrhea, it is easy to notice the same. Lose, liquid and frequent bowel movements, mucous in the stools are common signs of diarrhea in dogs. It can be painful and you can see a change in your dog's behavior. All you need to do is a proper dog diarrhea treatment and help him have relief from this health problem. There are many ways to cure this dog illness and some of these remedies are mentioned below.

Treatment Options

1. The best home remedy is to keep him on fasting for a day. This will help cure the problem as his gastrointestinal tract gets some rest and time to recover. Next day you can give him a bland diet. This can include one part of boiled skinless white-meat chicken and two parts cooked rice. Remember to give him small quantity of this every four hours. If your dog again suffers from diarrhea after this, take him to a vet.
2. Diarrhea leads to dehydration so you must make sure that he drinks a lot of water. As the ingested food is flushed out of his body quickly, much little water is absorbed in his lower intestines, leading to dehydration. So, place bowls of fresh clean water at places so that he keeps drinking water and stays hydrated.
3. After 24 hours of fasting, you can give your dog a broth of vegetables, rice and small quantity of meat or a bone. This will help in replacing the water, sodium and potassium that might be lost due to diarrhea.
4. Canned pureed pumpkin is one of the best treatment. Pumpkin works wonders for problem of diarrhea in dogs. It helps cure diarrhea in dogs within a few hours of consuming it. Depending upon the size of your dog, give a few teaspoons everyday if your dog is small and give a few tablespoons if your dog is large.
5. After putting your dog on fast for 24 hours you can next feed him some light food. Give him one of these - boiled chicken/ boiled turkey/ boiled or scrambled egg/ boiled or baked potato. Remember to skip seasonings, oils, butters in his food up to 3-5 days. Also, give this food in small quantities 4 times a day. Go on gradually increasing the quantity.
6. You can give him plain yogurt or cottage cheese which will add some good bacteria to his bowels, after 24 hours of fasting. Slowly start feeding him the regular dog food. Do this by adding small amounts of it to his bland diet.
7. Another good home treatment is mixing 1 cups of cooked white rice or same amount of potato with 1 cup of cottage cheese. Before using, remove the liquid from cottage cheese. Try this feed for your dog after 24 hour of fasting, give it in small quantity, 4-5 times a day along with other bland diet.

The above mentioned treatment options will help him get rid of the problem in 1-2 days. If you do not see any improvement in dog's health condition even after 48 hours, you must take him to a vet. Your vet will prescribe the right treatment. He might also give some essential nutritional supplements. Remember to take him to a vet if the diarrhea problem continues or worsens even after giving bland food. You must also limit his physical activities till he recovers, as diarrhea leads to weakness. Also, confirm from the vet what food your dog need to be fed regularly.

Read More

Best Dog Breeds

Dogs and humans share an ancient relationship of harmonious coexistence, the genesis of which can be traced back to prehistoric times. Archeological surveys and excavations have unveiled many interesting discoveries (such as cave paintings) that prove the fact that domestication, training and breeding of dogs and other canines by our cave dwelling ancestors was a common practice even in those primitive ages, way before the dawn of civilization. Since ancient times, Man has deliberately kept dogs possessing a set of canine traits and dog behavior, considered useful by him, together so that they mate to produce offspring having most or all the collective traits of their parents. This process is called dog breeding and this is how we have come to have some of the greatest dog breeds ever based upon the purpose of their breeding.

Even nowadays, breeders of pure and cross breeds follow this method to produce offspring possessing a set of desired/ desirable traits, tailor-made to suit specific human requirements. This is how we have come to have dogs grouped under different breeds. Here is a collection of some of the best breeds of dogs based upon their utility to human beings. I'm sure, any canine lover would agree that the breeds mentioned here, categorized as per their utility, perfectly suit the requirements for which they are bred besides playing the role of the best friend and domestic guardian of the family that owns it. Let's take a categorical look at what are the best dog breeds around. This could be useful if you're planning on getting yourself one but are confused about which breed to get.

Dog Breeds Best Suited for Households with Children

Families that have small children must be very careful while selecting a canine pet. While most dogs are friendly with kids, some bigger breeds, owing to their size, may unintentionally hurt kids by knocking them over playfully. Also, some breeds can get very protective of small kids and may scare off friends and neighbors if they attempt to come close to the child. Certain small dog breeds tend to get jealous of small kids and infants as they feel uneasy at the idea of having to share their owners' attention with the kids. Keeping these things in consideration, here is a list of some of the best dog breeds for children that get along with the kids very well and also prove to be some of the best breeds for families.

• Golden Retriever
• Beagle
• Whippet
• Bearded Collie
• Wheaten Terrier
• Bichon Frise
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Boston Terrier
• Australian Shepherd
• Schnauzer
• Pug (one of the cuddliest, most huggable and cutest dog breeds!)
• Boxer
• Poodle
• Cocker Spaniel
• Pembroke Welsh Corgi
• Irish Setter
• Labrador Retriever (a very calm dog breed, it's patience makes it a favorite pet for families with small kids)
• West Highland White Terrier
• Old English Sheepdog
• Norfolk Terrier

Best Canine Breeds for Apartments

Do you love big, burly, imposing-looking canines but live in a medium-sized apartment with little or no space for outdoor recreation anywhere near? Well, that's sad! As much as you may love the grand idea of being seen at the parks walking a massive Great Dane or an intimidating German Shepherd, what about the other days of the week when your gigantic canine would have to settle with staying locked in what, according to it, is a closed-wall cube while you're away at work? On the other hand, if you think getting a small breed solves it, think again. Many small breeds are known as compulsive yappers and the constant barking can get you into trouble with neighbors! Hmm....so, how to choose a dog breed for an apartment? For a starter, check out the following list of different dog breeds that are considered ideal canine pets for apartments!

• Dachshund
• Beagle
• Chihuahua
• Pug
• Pomeranian
• Basset Hound
• Shih Tzu (one of the best small dog breeds having a sweet temperament)
• Bichon Frise
• Schipperke
• Boston Terrier
• Bull Dog
• Lhasa Apso
• Pembroke Welsh Corgi
• American Cocker Spaniel
• Akita Inu
• Boxer
• Golden Retriever
• Labrador Retriever
• Samoyed
• Cairn Terrier
• Maltese

Best Guard Dog Breeds

The best guard dog breeds are those that have most or all of these characteristics and features - good barkers, massive and sturdy built, aggressive, takes well to training, intelligent, active and agile. These characteristics are very important for alerting the owners of intrusion on their property as well as for attacking and subduing intruders and trespassers. It is also very important that guard dogs be well-trained to follow instructions and proper dog obedience training must be imparted. Otherwise, there may be a risk of injury or accident if the dog refuses to follow its master's orders and continues attacking in an over-excited state. Keeping these considerations in mind, the following guard dog breeds are considered perfect for fulfilling the requirements of security and vigilance of their owner's premises.

• German Shepherd (one of the smartest dog breeds; no wonder they qualify to get ranked as K9 Officers in the police force!)
• Doberman Pinscher
• Rottweiler
• Great Dane (one of the top contenders among large dog breeds)
• Bull Mastiff
• Boxer
• Pit Bull (considered as one of the meanest dog breeds by many)
• Irish Wolfhound (perhaps the largest dog breed around!)

That was a brief overview of some of the best canine breeds with relation to some most common situational requirements. These animals are truly a man's best friend and a dog actually sticks to its owner even when the latter cannot afford to feed or provide proper dog care for it! Indeed, given the atrocities Mankind has been committing, since ages, on Nature and its creature to meet his selfish needs, had there not been canines, who would ever look up to us and love us in spite of our misdeeds and wickedness? On a parting note, I would like to quote W. Dayton Wedgefarth as a means of expressing my gratitude to all canines I've known till now:

I talk to him when I'm lonesome like; and I'm sure he understands.
When he looks at me so attentively, and gently licks my hands;
then he rubs his nose on my tailored clothes, but I never say naught thereat.
For the good Lord knows I can buy more clothes, but never a friend like that.

Read More

Do Pets Have Emotions?

You and I, it's a beautiful world!

There is a movie by the name Hachi - A Dog's Tale, which tells the true story of a lost dog who is taken home by a professor. This dog eventually became so attached to him, that he walked with him to the station every morning, waited till he left and returned home. In the afternoon when it was time for the professor to return home, the dog went back to the station to receive him accompany him home. This happened till the day his master died in college and didn't return home. The dog didn't understand why the professor wasn't coming home, and so he spent the next 9 years returning to the station every afternoon to wait for his master, till someone came to take him back home! He died on the station, while waiting for the professor! Regulars at the station were moved to tears by this display of love, and a statue has been erected in the memory of this loving creature in the Shibuya station! I doubt anyone who watched this movie came out without being deeply moved. Can anyone reading this, please explain to me why a dog would do something like this, if he didn't experience emotions like love, a deep sense of attachment to his master, trust, etc., etc.? When you see or hear stories of animal affections, you can't help but be touched by the animal's love and loyalty for its owners and for others of its species. Simply because these creatures cannot speak and are at our mercy, doesn't mean that they do not feel emotions. In fact, research shows that animals can have a wide spectrum of emotions!

Research and Scientific Conclusions

Sheesh! This is embarrassing...

Science, for all the noise it makes about advancing every day, hasn't yet come to a final conclusion about whether animals have emotions or not. Some studies show that they do, while some others are vague and do not prove anything. But they do not hesitate to conclude that since they cannot confirm the existence of emotions in animals, animals must surely not have any emotions.

Studies have revealed the presence of spindle cells in the brain of chimpanzees, whales and dolphins. These are the cells that control the relationship between our feelings and thoughts, and also control our social behavior. But this is not conclusive proof that these creatures have emotions. People who study behavior - behaviorists - say that what we interpret as emotions in animals, is merely trained response to stimuli, which the animals develop over time, by assimilating the different reactions to different actions.

I'm sorry.. Please don't shout?

Studies reveal that when owners yell at their dogs, the dogs look guilty irrespective of whether they've done something wrong, indicating that it is really difficult to accurately compare emotions and their manifestations, between humans and animals. But researchers of cognitive ethology back up the theory that animals are, indeed, deeply emotional and feel a variety of emotions. Neurons and chemicals found in the human brain, which are associated with feelings, have also been found in other mammals, tipping the scales in favor of animals having emotions.

Time to play?! Woohoo!

Research also shows, that mice are capable of feeling empathy; chimps and dolphins seem really happy when playing; elephants, monkeys, otters and bears appear to grieve and mourn the death of their kind; baboons display quite a temper; elephants suffer from post traumatic stress disorder(!) and exhibit strong maternal instincts; dogs can feel jealousy, anger, shame, embarrassment and even get depressed; cats can cry and are also very affectionate; fish are sentient and have distinctive personalities; whales are quite amorous; mice love having fun just as much as you and I do; and iguanas seek pleasure too...

According to Darwin's theory of evolution, there is continuity in the process of evolution. So the difference lies not in whether or not different species have emotions, but in the degree of emotions experienced by different species.

The Emotional Angle

Keeping aside the scientific aspect of the topic, here are a few incidents which could very well make you wonder whether the question we are addressing is redundant! Read on...

We'll hug each other through this..

There was a video posted on you-tube after the recent tsunami, where a dog was fiercely guarding another injured dog. He wouldn't let anyone come close to his injured friend, and would periodically lick him and gently place his paws on the injured dog's back. The injured dog was eventually treated and they were both kept together. If this doesn't scream love, affection, and a strong protective instinct, I don't know what does!

I'll miss you so much..

Another video is about a bird who was hopping around the dead body of his mate. The bird had died at a busy traffic intersection and his mate refused to leave his side, pecking anyone who tried to get close, and squeaking loudly all the time as if it was crying. This continued for a couple of days till the bird finally gave up and flew away. You are free to draw your own conclusion.

We all know for a fact that lovebirds cannot survive alone. They have to be kept in pairs and if one escapes by chance, the other will eventually die. Why this deep sated need for companionship? Maybe they feel lonely? Just an emotional guess on my part!

That's my baby!

Elephants are known for their strong maternal instincts and elaborate funeral rituals. They move in groups and take care of the younger ones, and refuse to leave behind an injured elephant. This can be proof enough, of their strong sense of belonging and care for each other.

For me, this question is redundant. I, personally, am not one who needs scientific proof for things that I can see with my eyes! All I need, is to see my adorable dog slinking away when my dad yells at him, to burrow his head under his blanket or behind the sofa and sit there till one of us goes and talks to him, to know that he does feel emotions! My neighbor's dog gave birth to two puppies, one of which was still born and had to be buried in the backyard. The new mom used to go scratch the place where her pup was buried and refused food for almost a week! How can you explain this, if animals are not supposed to have emotions?

We don't have emotions?! Here's what I think of that theory!

But there are a few skeptics who believe, that what we imagine to be emotions in animals, is nothing but anthropomorphism - meaning, humans projecting their emotions onto animals (all those who are nodding their heads vigorously at this theory, have to come up with an explanation for the above-mentioned dead professor projecting his emotions on his very much alive dog!). These people, I'd like to invite to my home to try to convince my pet to play with them when he's just been reprimanded, or to look into his big, brown puppy eyes, which look oh-so-sad, when you refuse to give him his favorite treat, and then say with conviction that he doesn't have emotions! Not everything is justified by ink on paper. There are some things you simply have to see, to know and believe, wouldn't you agree?!

Read More

Amazing Facts about Dogs

"Did you ever notice when you blow in a dog's face he gets mad at you? But when you take him in a car, he sticks his head out the window." - Steve Bluestone

Dogs, whose scientific name is Canis lupus familiaris, belong to the family Canidae and are the domesticated form of the gray wolf. There are approximately more than 700 types of dogs of pure breed across the globe. Dogs are very versatile and are of great assistance to perform various kinds of roles for human beings like protection, herding, assisting the military and police to track criminals, as sniffer dogs to detect bombs and other weapons, hunting and very recently helping handicapped individuals, especially the blind. Dog behavior is particularly associated with loyalty towards its owner.

Interesting Facts about Dogs

Dogs are one of the most intelligent animals and can be trained to do any task. They are the best pets one can own, due to their nature of being obedient and lovable.

• There are approximately 450 million dogs found across the globe. This statistics includes stray dogs as well as pets.
• Dogs were first domesticated by the cavemen who lived during the Paleolithic Age.
• Dogs have very sharp ears and can hear sounds up to 35,000 vibrations per second.
• The first fossils of dogs were discovered in the year 10,000 B. C.
• Puppies are usually deaf, blind and toothless when they are born. When a puppy is two to three weeks old, it begins to see. The first milk teeth appears when they are three to seven weeks old.
• Dogs sweat from the pads of their feet. They also breathe through their tongue.
• All the dogs have the same anatomy - 321 bones and 42 permanent teeth.
• The average heart rate of a healthy dog is 120 heartbeats per minute, which is 50% faster than the average heart rate of humans which is 72 beats per minute.
• When a dog wags his tail, it is an indication that he is excited. However, it may not mean that the dogs is trying to be friendly.
• Dogs are not color-blind. They can see color but not as clearly as human beings.
• The nose prints of dogs are unique, just like the fingerprints of humans. These nose prints can help to identify them accurately.
• The basenji, which is an African wolf dog, is the only dog breed in the world that cannot bark.
• Laika, a stray dog, became the first ever astronaut dog to enter space in a space shuttle, the Russian Sputnik II in the year 1967.
• There were two dogs among the few survivors of the ship RMS Titanic, which sank on 14 April in the year 1912.
• The greyhound dogs are the fastest dogs on Earth, which can run at a speed of 45 miles per hour.
• The Great Dane is a breed that has its origins in Germany and is supposed to be the tallest dog.
• One of the fun facts about dogs is that an English mastiff, named Zorba is considered to be the world's longest and heaviest dog. This dog breed weighs approximately 343 pounds and is eight feet three inches long when measured from nose to tail.
• The oldest dog in the world was Bluey, an Australian cattle dog who lived up to the age of 29 years and 6 months.
• The chihuahua dogs are the smallest dogs. Other breeds of small dogs are the toy poodle and Yorkshire terrier.
• The St. Bernard is supposed to be heaviest dog among the other breeds of dogs.
• Contrary to the popular belief, prairie dogs are dogs at all, but are a type of rodents.
• Dalmatian puppies are pure white at birth and develop the black spots on their bodies as they grow older.
• One of William Shakespeare's famous plays, 'The Two Gentlemen of Verona' has a mention of a dog (which is the only dog to ever appear in a Shakespearean play) named Crab.
• There is a place called Barking Sands Beach, which is situated in Kanai, an island in the Hawaii. This place is quite popular for its peculiar dry sands that makes woofing and squeaking sounds similar to a dog barking.
• Theobromine, a substance that is similar to caffeine, found in chocolates can make dogs seriously ill and can even harm them fatally.

Being adorable creatures, dogs are quite friendly with people, unless provoked. It has also been observed that dogs are quite protective of the babies and kids in the household. Truly 'man's best friend', must say!

Read More

Teeth Cleaning for Dogs

Teeth cleaning for dogs is very important to help maintain the dog's dental hygiene. Home dog teeth cleaning care will help minimize the need to visit the vet for professional teeth cleaning. Dental health problems of dogs is a serious health issue that should not be ignored. A vet may clean your dog's teeth under general anesthesia. And the professional dog teeth cleaning cost is an expensive procedure. So the best thing to do is start a home teeth cleaning for dog routine. Once you and the dog get the hang of it, it won't be so complicated or a difficult process.

Teeth Cleaning for Dogs
Dogs can develop a number of dental diseases like plaque, tartar and 'periodontal' diseases. You can carry out regular teeth cleaning to help minimize the occurrence of these dental diseases and the cost of teeth cleaning by a vet.

Brushing the dog's teeth should be an enjoyable process for both you and your dog. You should begin slowly and shower your dog with praises as you brush his teeth. You can buy a pet dog toothpaste that contain different active ingredients. These toothpastes should contain chlorhexidine, hexametaphosphate, or zinc gluconate.

You need to buy brushes, sponges and pads according to the size of the dog's mouth, health of the gums and your ability to clean them. Toothbrushes that are ultra soft and designed specially for the pets should be brought. You can even try finger toothbrushes that fit over your finger for easier grip. Dental sponges have a small sponge on one end of the handle and are softer than the brushes. Dental pads are useful in removing the teeth and gum debris but lack the mechanical action of the brushes.

Professional Teeth Cleaning
The first step involves getting your dog used to the taste of the toothpaste. You need to allow the dog to lick the toothpaste off your fingertips. When he does that, you should shower him with praises. If he does not like the taste, try a new toothpaste. You should carry on with the toothpaste testing till you find the right flavor your dog likes.

Now, it's time to get your dog used to something placed against his teeth and gums. You should apply a small amount of paste on your finger and rub it against his front large canine teeth. This will help both of you get the hang of brushing. Make sure you continue to praise him.

Once your dog is used to the toothpaste and having something against his gums, you need to start using a toothbrush, sponge or pad. You should allow him to get used to the texture of the brush by licking on the toothpaste on the brush. Continue to praise him and make sure he readily licks the toothpaste off the brush for a week or so.

We now move on to the next level of actual brushing of the teeth. You need to speak to your dog in a happy tone and keep praising him till your finish. You need to lift his upper lip very gently and then place the brush at a 45 degrees angle to gum line. Now you need to move the brush back and forth very gently. Once the dog allows you to have several teeth brushed, you should gradually increase the number of teeth you brush. You should make brushing look like a fun game, so that the dog looks forward to teeth cleaning for dogs sessions with anticipation. You should try and carry out teeth cleaning daily. If you cannot do it daily, make sure you carry it out often to help minimize plaque buildup. You can always take your dogs for professional teeth cleaning once in a while to make sure the canine dental health remains in an optimum condition.

Average Cost of Teeth Cleaning
When you bring your dog to a vet for teeth cleaning, he will first advice you to consider a blood work for CBC and chemistry profile. This will help determine any infections or anemia the dog may be suffering, for that is not detectable physically. This will also help the vet understand that all the internal organs are functioning normally. This is because the vet will put your dog under anesthesia before he begins to clean the dog's teeth.

The doctor will put your dog under a general anesthesia. You should not hesitate to ask the doctor which anesthesia will be safe for your pet and any complications that may arise if you own an older dog. Be free to ask and clear your doubts. Once under anesthesia, the vet will conduct a full oral examination. This will help him detect any loose or broken, missing teeth. This examination will also help detect any oral tumors or lesions.

Then the veterinary technician will scale out all the tarter and plaque from the teeth. Then he will polish the teeth and may apply a product called OraVet. This product helps seal the teeth and prevent tartar buildup. Once the technician is done with his job, the doctor will extract any loose teeth present. The vet may even recommend a root canal, if required. The vet may prescribe some pain medications in case of extraction and root canal carried out. Or he may give some antibiotics for gum diseases or infections of the teeth.

Teeth Cleaning without Anesthesia
Many owners opt for teeth cleaning for dogs without anesthesia. But this can lead to many dog health problems like gum diseases and tooth loss. The teeth cleaning without anesthesia will help make the tooth surfaces look bright and clean. The problems that your dog may have too face are as follows:

• The gum lines become tender or sensitive.
• The back of the dog teeth won't be cleaned as the dog will resist it.
• The dog teeth may be cleaned by an untrained personnel. You should keep in mind that in America and Canada, teeth cleaning should be carried out only by a vet or a vet technician under supervision of the vet.
• The dog is at a greater risk of injury due to teeth cleaning without anesthesia.

As you can see, teeth cleaning without anesthesia is cheaper, it may lead to many dental issues. You should only allow a trained professional to clean your dogs teeth.

Average Cost of Teeth Cleaning
The dog teeth cleaning cost can vary between $70 and $350. This depends on the pre-anesthetic blood work and the amount of plaque build up. It also depends on any periodontal diseases, if any. The average cost of teeth cleaning for veterinary pet insurance is $292. Daily brushing of the dog will cost about $30 to $60 per year depending on the dog's size.

Dental care for dogs is one of the utmost important aspects of dog grooming. Dog teeth are just like human's and you should care for them the way you care for your own teeth. I hope this article helps you begin a regular dental routine for your dog.

Read More

Food for Dogs with Diarrhea

One of the most common dog health problems is diarrhea which may result in your canine friends passing unformed, frequent, and increased volume of stool. While there are many causes for diarrhea in dogs, the most common reasons include a sudden dietary change, food allergies, worm infestations or bacterial/viral/parasitic infections. This may lead to an accumulation of dissolved substances in the intestine which in turn causes excess water to move into the intestine along with malabsorption of food, increased secretion of electrolytes by the intestine, or both. The result: the appearance of symptoms like fever, pain, vomiting, dehydration and loss of appetite in conjunction with diarrhea. A change in the food for dogs with diarrhea is believed to be an effective treatment for this problem. Here is a food guide for dogs with a sensitive stomach.

Best Food for Dogs with Sensitive Stomach

For curing an upset stomach in dogs the first step is to withhold the food from your dog for the first 24 hours, giving them nothing but a fresh supply of water. This will help give the digestive system rest and also flush out the bad elements present in the tract.

After the day of fasting, you need to provide some homemade food for dogs. Refrain from giving any commercial dog food just yet. Since natural food for dogs are easy to digest, it is the best food for dogs passing loose stool. The rule of the thumb when considering the food requirements of your dog is that it should be bland, that means, it is completely oil-free and salt-free. A broth with chicken bits is a good bland diet that the dog can have till the diarrhea is cured. Here is a list of some other health food for dogs suffering from diarrhea.

• cooked white rice with no flavorings
• cottage cheese
• boiled chicken (no grease, no skin, no flavorings)
• boiled turkey (no grease, no skin, no flavorings)
• scrambled egg
• boiled egg
• boiled potato
• baked potato

To this bland food you can add some yogurt or some other natural probiotic which will help reduce the bacterial infection which causes the diarrhea in dogs.

Bland Rice and Chicken Recipe

Ingredients
1 cup boiled chicken
1 cup cooked brown rice
4 tablespoons unsalted chicken broth

Directions
Boil the chicken and add it to the cooked rice. Heat the broth and leave it to simmer for 10 minutes. Let it cool before serving it to the dog.

Although homemade food is the best dog food for dogs with gas, you can also try out the fresh dog foods made of pure ingredients sold at specialty dog supplies stores. So, if cooking dog food at home is not an option then you can feed your dog the commercial variants. See to it however, that the ones you have chosen are devoid of any preservatives or by-products.

In addition to a regular supply of homemade food, you have to continue your dog's freshwater supply throughout its sickness. Diarrhea may cause loss of fluids in dogs either through vomiting or lose stool, so dogs with diarrhea tend to get dehydrated very soon. You can help your dog replenish its lost fluids in the body. Make sure that before providing any food or other treatment you seek regular consultations with the veterinarian. Diarrhea in dogs is quite common and may strike any dog. The vets should be able to find out the exact cause of the problem with a series of diagnostic tests. This is essential for recommending the healthiest food for dogs with diarrhea and helping them recover early.

Read More

Pregnant Dog Symptoms

Normally, the dogs achieve sexual maturity at the age of 6-12 months. However, some large breeds have their first estrous cycle at the age of 12-24 months. There are four stages of estrous cycle in dogs such as proestrus stage, estrus stage, diestrus stage and anestrus stage. During the estrous stage, the female dog allows the male dog to mate. If the eggs are fertilized by the sperms from the male dog, then the female dog gets pregnant and an embryo is formed. You should consult the veterinarian to confirm the dog's pregnancy. Generally, normal gestation period in dogs is approximately 58-68 days, with an average period of 63 days. There are certain conditions that can confuse with pregnancy such as mammary gland neoplasia (cancer), pyometra (infection of the uterus), mastitis (inflammation of mammary glands), false pregnancy, or abdominal enlargement due to fluid accumulation or organ enlargement.

There are certain signs and symptoms, from which you know about dog pregnancy. Knowing the symptoms, you will be able to take care of your dog. For the first three weeks of dog's pregnancy, you might not notice any symptoms. The pregnancy symptoms can be divided into different stages. Here are some symptoms of pregnant dog:

Early Signs

Reduced appetite is one of the earliest signs of a dog's pregnancy. The dog feels exhaust easily and becomes less active during gestation. It happens because there are certain changes in the hormonal levels to support the process of embryo production. Growth of nipples is another good indication of dog pregnancy. The nipples of unbred female dog are quite small and the area beneath them is flat. Once the pregnancy is in progress, the breast material is developed beneath the nipples to prepare for eventual milk production. You can also notice some behavioral changes in most female dogs during the pregnancy period. They either show affectionate behavior or desire to be left alone.

Progressing Signs

After one month of pregnancy, the dog shows some progressive signs. You will notice an increase in appetite and decrease after ending the heat period. There is a remarkable weight gain and the dog's abdomen becomes thick. If you gently check the abdomen, you will find it firm and thick.

Late-term Signs

The signs of pregnancy increase remarkably in the last weeks of pregnancy. There is a significant increase in abdomen size. It becomes firm and hard. If the dog carries only one or two pups, then the abdomen is slightly increased, but it is firmer. Smaller breeds generally show more abdomen size as they have small space to hold the puppies. The abdomen of some small breeds literally drags the ground at the end of pregnancy period.

You can notice movement of the puppies during last weeks of gestation. A few days before delivery, there is a definite increase in their movements, as they get into position for birth. Milk production starts and colostrums, the first milk, may leak as the time of delivery comes near. You will notice the nesting behavior of female dog. She will prepare the area where she wishes to deliver the pups.

Knowing these symptoms, you can take a good care of your pregnant dog. You need to feed a special, nutritional diet for healthy mother and puppies.

Read More

Staph Infection in Dogs

Dogs are quite sensitive to infections and that may result from bacteria, viruses, parasites or dog allergy towards certain substances. Staph infection which is caused by bacteria belonging to genus Staphylococcus, is one such bacterial infection which is fast emerging as a major skin disease in canines.

Causes
The probable causes of the staph infection in canines are known to be the following

• Allergies to the dog, from food and dust contact or dog fleas.
• Emotional stress due to poor dog care.
• Poor immune system due to unhealthy diet or a weak immune system in dogs.
• Hypothyroidism or other hormonal problems.
• A poor health record.

Symptoms
The symptoms of staph infection in dogs are as follows.

• Red and ulcerated skin
• The trunk is the most affected part of the dog's body. They may show crusty and hard skin lesion in the belly area.
• Severe rashes on the skin, in the advanced stages.
• The chin, nose and feet are commonly affected areas that may develop rashes.
• Blisters filled with pus and blisters filled with blood are commonly observed.
• Scaling and discolored spots on the skin.
• Lethargy and sluggishness in dog behavior.
• Hair loss at a rapid rate.

Diagnosis
The diagnosis of canine staph infection involves studying the history of the dog's health and earlier skin infections. A complete physical examination is essential in order to investigate all parts of the body, where the skin rashes and other symptoms may exist. The veterinarian can take tests such as skin scrapping and complete blood counts (CBCs), while allergy testing methods can help to diagnose the possible causes.

Generally, microscopic tests of the cell can help the veterinarian to differentiate between the bacterial or fungal infection and give a better understanding of the disease. An intact pustule can be very helpful in knowing the exact cause and hence the treatment for the infection. Another technique that is considered to be fruitful, is the skin biopsy. In the skin biopsy, removal and deep examination of the skin tissue is performed. Refer to a veterinarian, before giving your dog any medication on your own, especially without any prior experience of handling a diseased dog. After all, your pet's dog health is of utmost importance.

Treatment
In most of the cases, the dog is usually given medication on the advise of the veterinarian. The initial measures involve the removal of the hair from the parts that have skin lesions or rashes. Removing hair helps in applying ointments and other creams, that are helpful in improving the condition of the skin. The veterinarian will suggest certain antibiotics that can help to provide relief to the dog, from the skin inflammation and rashes. However, not all antibiotics can be useful, consult the veterinarian before you rush to visit the nearest vet shop. Cleanliness itself is a primary criteria for the treatment of your dog. Wash your dog with shampoos that are specifically meant for the purpose of treating skin infections. Regularly wash your dog when it is under the treatment process, by using antibiotic shampoos like benzoyl peroxide. Apply bandages on the parts of the dog that show wounds or on the scratches that have been formed due to blisters. Don't forget to use antiseptic creams.

Skin staph infection in dogs can occur if there is negligence on the part of the pet owner. So, make sure you keep the area or the dog kennel, where your dog stays, clean and hygienic. During the treatment period, it is advised to keep the dog in a separate area, so that it doesn't affect other animals. Taking proper dog care is essential and regular visits to the veterinarian are even more important. Since staph infection can occur at any age of the canine animal, it is essential for the pet owner to be vigilant and take their animal for medical checkups at least twice a year.

Read More

Herbal Treatment for Pets

Herbal treatment is a reliable way to cure health problems of your pet. Your pet may suffer from various health problems such as itching, hair loss, abscess, infection, gastrointestinal problems, worms, dehydration, ulcers, kidney problems and respiratory problems. Such health problems can be treated with herbs.

Before you start a herbal treatment for your pet, you should keep in mind that pets like dogs and cats have short digestive systems. As a result, they can't digest herbs in a saturated or raw form. Therefore, a tincture form of herbs is used to treat your pet. Herbal tea is an acceptable alternative for your pet. While preparing a herbal tea, boiling water is poured over the herbs and allowed to steep for few minutes. However, before starting any kind of herbal treatment, it is better to consult with the veterinarian.

Commonly Used Herbs

Herbs have antiseptic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying and stimulant properties. They also strengthen the immune system of your pet. By understanding the beneficial properties of each plant, you may use it for relieving your pet off various illnesses. Some commonly used herbs are lavender, basil, aloe vera, garlic, nettle, seaweed, tea tree, licorice, rosemary and dandelion. Basil possesses antiseptic properties. Garlic is also antiseptic and expectorant and it is used to treat the problems related to respiratory system of your pet. Seaweed is a rich source of nutrients. Lavender has relaxation properties. Nettles are used as a stimulant, astringent and diuretic. Dandelion is effective for kidney and liver disorders. Aloe vera has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties.

Herbal Treatment: In Accordance with Problems

• Itching: Flea bite is the common cause of itching in pets. Some animals are allergic to fleabites. Garlic tincture is used to repel fleas. Use natural shampoo containing aloe vera to bathe your pet. You can also make a herbal dip using fresh peppermint, rosemary or pennyroyal. If itching persists and fleas are not responsible, a mixture of Cat's Claw, dandelion root and licorice roots in equal amount for about two weeks can be beneficial for your pet.
• Abscess: Chamomile used in the abscess prevents infection. Peppermint tea is recommended to irrigate an open abscess. However, if the abscess is deep, then it's better to consult the veterinarian.
• Parasites: Cider vinegar repels some insects. Goldenseal and powdered garlic mixed in olive oil are applied on the skin infested with demodectic mange. Large amount of vegetable oil is rubbed on the skin in order to starve the demodex mites off oxygen.
• Ulcers: If your pet is suffering from ulcers, then you may give it nettle, calendula, knotgrass and comfrey, two drops of each twice a day.
• Anxiety and stress: When your pet suffers from anxiety or stress, a combination of extracts of valerian, oats and chamomile is helpful.
• Urinary system: Herbs like horsetail and stone root prevent the formation of urinary stones in your pet. Bacterial cystitis is treated with juniper berry and bearberry leaf. Fennel seed, peppermint herb and marshmallow root help to soothe the urinary tract.
• Digestive health: Herbs also offer an effective treatment for digestive problems in your pet. Most digestive problems in pets are caused by intestinal parasites like Coccidia and tapeworm. Herb of Grace protects your pet from intestinal parasites. Cloves are detoxifying agents, used to cleanse the digestive system. Wormwood supports blood and digestive tract cleansing.

In summary, we can safely conclude that herbal treatment offers an alternative therapy to treat your pet. Your pets, cats or dogs, can get rid of any ailment and lead a healthy life.

Read More

Dog Neutering

The most practical way to control birth of unwanted puppies is by means of dog neutering (castration) and spraying. Both are surgical procedures for sterilization, wherein the former involves removal of testicles in male dogs and the latter refers to removal of uterus and ovaries in female dogs. It is best to let your dogs sprayed at 6 - 9 months of age, before the onset of first heat cycle. While the ideal dog neutering age is when your pet is between 9 - 12 months, prior to development of sexual characteristics.

Information on Dog Neutering

By keeping a male pet dog, don't be in the impression that you are refrained from the responsibility of preventing population of stray puppies or dogs. When owners of both male and female dogs take equal obligation, then only the local pet population can be kept under controlled. Other than controlling unwanted puppies, there are several plus points of neutering a pet dog. Read the following information to understand all about dog neutering.

Procedure
Before the neutering procedure, your pet will be given general anesthesia and sedatives. Positioning on his back, the scrotal area is cleaned and sterilized. After the preparatory steps are done, a small midline incision is made between the scrotal sac and foreskin covering the penis (prepuce). The testicles are pushed (one at a time) at the incision site and excised carefully without injuring the adjacent blood vessels. The cut is then joined with sutures or skin glue. It is quite usual to have a little swelling at the scrotal area.

Aftercare
Immediately after surgery, you should support your pet while climbing upstairs or going to bathroom. After reaching home, feed your pet a homemade bland food. The canine needs proper rest and less physical movements for the first few days. Also, ensure that you check the operation site daily for any infection signs.

Recovery
Dog neutering recovery time lasts usually for a few hours after surgery. However, it may take about 2 weeks time to regain normal activeness and playfulness. After about one week, encourage your dog for going outdoor walks and mild exercises. You may be required to go for a follow-up visit after 10 days, in which the vet will check the healing process and remove sutures (if necessary).

Benefits
As per pet experts, a neutered dog is less aggressive than those intact dogs. Other advantages are decreased incidences of roaming, fighting and leaving urine marks. Besides these, neutering prevents a dog from the risks of prostate and testicular cancers. Overall, it ensures good dog behavior and improved general health.

Complications
Dog neutering side effects and/or complications are very rare, which include anesthesia reactions, excess bleeding, scarring and pain. It is commonly observed that neutered dogs tend to become fat (or overweight) and lazy. In order to avoid these, be a responsible owner and encourage your pet to perform regular exercises. Also, make sure you maintain a strict diet for your pet and never feed extra dog food.

Cost
Depending upon where you reside and the veterinary clinic you have finalized, this procedure costs somewhere around USD 50 - 120. For people with a low budget, animal shelters and non-profit organizations open clinics that perform dog neutering at a very low cost.

No doubt, there are several advantages of getting your pet dog neutered at the prescribed age group. But, it is imperative to understand dog neutering pros and cons, before taking the plunge for your best companion. Consult a qualified veterinarian to clear all your doubts regarding neutering a dog and its effects on the overall health of your pet.

Read More

Harmful Foods for Dogs

Many people are unaware about the foods that should and should not be given to dogs. There are many types of foods which humans eat that can be harmful to dogs, and even prove to be fatal. Dogs can face various health problems if they consume these foods.

Harmful Foods for Dogs

There are many human foods that are harmful to dogs mainly due to the difference in the digestive systems. Let us take a look at some of the food harmful to dogs.

Chocolate
Chocolate can be very harmful to dogs. This is because it contains a large amount of fat, which is not easily digested by dogs, and might result in vomiting and diarrhea. It also has two compounds, namely caffeine and theobromine, which affect the dog's nervous system. You will notice symptoms like excessive urination, panting, restlessness, high blood pressure, and increased heart rate, due to the toxic effect of chocolate.

Alcohol
Alcohol can also be very harmful to dogs. It can be highly toxic and prove to be fatal. All alcoholic beverages contain ethanol, which is poisonous to dogs. If the dog consumes alcohol he may show symptoms like change in behavior, excitement, depression, breathing problems, excessive panting, odor of alcohol in its mouth, and excessive urination.

Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sugar sweetener containing alcohol. It is found in most of the sugar free products such as candy, chewing gum, etc. It is one of the harmful foods for dogs. Excessive consumption of xylitol in dogs will result in low blood sugar leading to weakness. It can also cause seizures. You should take your dog to the veterinarian immediately if you notice these symptoms.

Dairy Products
Dairy products are not too harmful to dogs, but still have some adverse side effects. They contain a high amount of fat and lactose, and dogs do not have the enzymes required to digest them, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Coffee
Coffee grounds or coffee beans are toxic to dogs. The symptoms which occur when the dog consumes coffee are similar to those that occur when he consumes chocolate.

Moldy Food
Moldy or spoiled food can be very harmful to dogs, thus, one should always keep their dogs away from garbage cans. Moldy or spoiled food harms the dog's digestive system and can result in food poisoning.

Yeast Dough
Yeast dough is one of the harmful foods for dogs, as it expands in the dog's stomach, leading to problems like gas and pain. It might also damage the stomach and intestines causing vomiting, depression and lethargy.

Onion and Garlic
Onions in any form (raw, cooked or powdered) are harmful to dogs. Onions contain compounds like thiosulfate and organosulfur, which can cause harm to the dog's digestive system, as the dog is unable to digest them. They can also lead to poisoning. The symptoms that the dog might show after ingestion of onions and garlic are vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and allergic reactions. Consumption of onion may also lead to hemolytic anemia in dogs.

Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can affect your dog's health severely. The effects can be severe and result in kidney failure and even death. The treatment takes a long time. Hence, you should contact the veterinarian immediately if your dog has ingested grapes and raisins.

Mushrooms
Mushrooms have a toxic effect and are very harmful to dogs. If the dog ingests poisonous mushrooms it might show symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach problems or liver failure. Some dogs are even allergic to normal mushrooms which are edible.

Avocado
All the components of avocado are toxic. The toxic substance which is contained in avocado is called 'persin'. The symptoms you will observe when your dog ingests avocado are breathing problems, abdomen enlargement and heart problems.

Nutmeg
Many people are unaware that nutmeg consumption in large quantities can be very harmful and toxic for the dog. The symptoms one might notice after the consumption of nutmeg are seizures, tremors, problems related to the nervous system and also death.

Cat Food and Baby Food
Cat food has high protein and fat content, which is not suitable for dogs. Baby food may contain onion powder, which is one of the harmful foods for dog.

You can also consult a veterinarian for more information on what you should feed your dog. Let's take care of our loyal friends by avoiding these food items in their bowls.

Read More

Dog Ear Mites: Symptoms and Treatment

Ear mites, also known as Otodectes cynotis are crab-like, eight-legged, infectious, microscopic parasites which unlike other mites do not burrow into the skin. They have a life cycle of approximately 4 weeks and can survive for several weeks outside the host. Female mites lay eggs in the surrounding area of the ear or fur.

They are very small in size and you can see them using a magnifying glass. Since a dog's ear is generally dark, warm and moist, it provides a conducive environment for the growth of such parasites along with yeast and bacteria. These mites look like tiny white dots that keep themselves hidden amongst the dark earwax and debris.

Tell-Tale Signs
Dark Discharge: Ear mites live inside the ear canal and they feed on earwax and tissue, because of which their waste is accumulated in the dog's ears. This type of mange discharges a toxic byproduct which makes the earwax appear reddish-brown or black.

Foul Odor: An infestation of ear mites will also make the dog's ear smell bad. The earwax will have a pungent and foul odor, which must be taken note of as an obvious sign of infection.

Hematoma: Sometimes when the condition is left unresolved for weeks, the inner skin of the ear can develop another condition known as hematoma, wherein blood collects and dries up under the skin. This discoloration is often found on the ear flaps of the pet because of the repeated friction being inflicted from the paws during scratching.

Ear Sores: Look out for eruptions behind the ear flap and inside the ears of the pet. These eruptions will look like blisters or scabbed sores. Since the parasite feeds on the skin tissue, such sores are common and can be seen on the pet's face and neck as well. The infestation of this mange can increase the risk of secondary bacterial or yeast infection and thus must be treated with rapidity.

Frequent Head Shaking: Dogs especially, tend to shake their heads back and forth when trying to get rid of something that's irritating their ear, neck, or face. It is one of the behavior which aims at getting rid of the intrusion in the ear or affected area.

Intense Itching: Dogs suffering from mites will tend to rub their head and ears against objects, in order to relieve some of the itching and their frustration. They tend to lick the parts of their body where the mites may have spread, in which case the owner will need to pay more attention to the area where the dog is scratching or chewing its fur the most.

Excruciating Pain: Along with intense itching, the pet will also experience a lot of pain as a result of the infestation. The ears become sensitive to touch, because when these mites bite the skin it gives rise to an allergic reaction which causes the affected area to swell, redden and sometimes ooze a foul-smelling discharge.

Hearing Lapse: Hearing lapse must not be confused with permanent damage. Sometimes, when the infection persists or keeps recurring, the pet's hearing may be temporarily weakened. However, if the condition is left untreated, the mites can eat into the blood vessels within the ear and harm the eardrum. In such a situation, the middle ear might be severely infected and may result in some damage.

Diagnosis
There are many other ear conditions which can cause dogs to portray a similar behavior. Hence, an accurate diagnosis of ear mites is very important for appropriate treatment. Ear mites can be seen with the help of otoscope or auriscope. They can be examined with the help of cell structure analysis using microscope (cytology), radiographs (X-ray), CT scan, and skin tests.

Veterinary Treatment
While treating ear mites, the veterinarian cleanses the dog's ears before applying medications. Cleaning the ears is a mandatory step in treatment, after which the prescribed medication such as ivermectin or selamectin is applied. In case the skin is also infected, a topical medication is applied on the skin. Secondary infections, often require a course of antibiotics in order to treat the condition.

Home Treatment
An ideal way to keep ear mites at bay or to repress the infestation is to clean the pet's ear once or twice a week, depending on the extent of itching. Mineral oil is excellent for removing the buildup of earwax from the dog's ear and killing the mites. You may do so by dabbing the oil on a small cotton ball and gently placing it into the pet's ear. Use your thumb to gently squeeze the cotton into the ear, so that it goes in as it naturally would. Do not try to apply any force whatsoever.

Allow the oil-soaked cotton to absorb the dirt within the ear of the pet. Your dog may try to shake off the cotton but that will only help the oil to spread deeper into the ear, which is the main objective. Remove the cotton after 15-20 minutes and clean the area with a new cotton ball. Repeat this process if needed.
Prevention is always better than cure. Therefore, it is better to prevent a mite infection rather than treating it. Keeping the dog's ears dry after bathing, frequently checking for foreign material and regularly visiting a veterinarian is very essential for maintaining the health of your pet. Also, since these mites can survive without a host, it becomes imperative that the pet's belongings are washed and disinfected regularly in order to prevent a relapse.

Read More