What Kind of Dog Is Bingo From Bluey? Famous TV Canines Revealed
The post What Kind of Dog Is Bingo From Bluey? Famous TV Canines Revealed by Chris Dinesen Rogers appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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The TV series Bluey debuted in 2018. The popular show follows the adventures of an adorable puppy named Bluey alongside her family. Bingo, Bluey’s little sister, is an Australian Cattle Dog. Depending on the animal’s coat color, people also know this pup as the Red or Blue Heeler. However, there is a lot more to know about this little cartoon dog. Let’s get into it.
Physical Characteristics of the Breed
The Australian Cattle Dog is a medium-sized breed with a height range of 17 to 20 inches and weighing 35 to 50 pounds. The breed brings balance and power in a compact body. Bingo resembles this description. Accepted color variations of the Blue Heeler are solid blue and mottled or speckled with tan or black markings.
The dog’s ears are pointed and noticeable. Their muscular form extends from their relatively large skull to their muscular neck and deep chest. The Australian Cattle Dog is well-adapted to the challenging environment of Australia and is tolerant of extreme cold or hot conditions. That was one of the goals of selective breeding: to develop a dog that could handle the harsh Australian interior.
The breed also has a smooth, dense double coat that protects the animal from the cold and blistering sunlight. The Australian Cattle Dog is also full of energy, making them well-suited to their job as a herder. They are alert and protective, making them very loyal pets. They are also hard-working animals, focused on their work and charges.
Image Credit: cynoclub, Shutterstock
The Breed’s Origin and History
The story of the Australian Cattle Dog begins with British Isle immigrants who came to the continent in the 1800s. One of the founder breeds was the now-extinct Smithfield. While they were herders, the environment of Australia proved too extreme for these pups. The dog had some desirable traits, so enthusiasts selectively bred the Smithfield with other breeds to help the pup handle the challenges.
Queensland resident George Elliott strived to improve the breed with crosses between varied dogs, such as the Australian Kelpie, Dalmatian, and the native Australian Dingo. Each one brought something unique to the mix, relying on desirable traits for herding. Enthusiasts settled on the name Queensland Heeler for the pup suited to their needs before becoming the Australian Cattle Dog.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) accepted the breed as part of the Miscellaneous Class before formal recognition in 1980. It was initially put into the Working Group before transferring to the Herding Group as a more accurate categorization of the Australian Cattle Dog. After all, that was the motivation for refining the Smithfield to a dog well-adapted to the environment.
Image Credit: Vera Reva, Shutterstock
The Temperament of Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a pleasing mix of personality traits. Remember that this dog is a herder, so they have many characteristics often seen in these breeds. They are independent and problem solvers. They have a keen prey driver to protect livestock and the intelligence to identify threats to the herd. They also functioned as livestock guardians, which accounts for their well-timed barking.
Nevertheless, the Australian Cattle Dog makes an excellent family pet that is good with kids yet protective. They are fiercely loyal to the household and its members. They are trainable, but this breed isn’t the best choice for novice pet owners. This dog needs an individual who understands this breed’s unique needs. That means consistent training with positive reinforcement.
The Australian Cattle Dog tolerates being alone but is sensitive to harsh words and punishment. That speaks to the breed’s loyalty. They are eager to please and anxious for their owner’s praise. They have a high wanderlust potential, making leash training essential. That means you should keep this pup in a fenced-in yard.
This dog wants to be active. If you don’t exercise your pet enough, they may gain weight for an otherwise quite healthy canine. The Australian Cattle Dog needs a job or mental stimulation to be happy. Prospective owners must understand the activity and enrichment this pup needs to thrive. While not as prone to separation anxiety, this pooch can be destructive without anything to do.
Image Credit: everydoghasastory, Shutterstock
Final Thoughts
Bingo from Bluey is a human reincarnation of the Australian Cattle Dog. The character and the dog both have memorable personalities, which probably accounts for the former’s popularity with viewers. We’ve provided a detailed overview of the breed, with particular attention to various traits. How much do you agree with the portrayal of the dog in Bingo’s character?
Featured Image Credit: Property of bluey.tv. All rights reserved to the copyright owners.
The post What Kind of Dog Is Bingo From Bluey? Famous TV Canines Revealed by Chris Dinesen Rogers appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Afollie: Pictures, Info, Care Guide & More
The post Afollie: Pictures, Info, Care Guide & More by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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The Afollie is an interesting hybrid dog breed that combines the dignified and regal appearance of the Afghan Hound with the energetic and extroverted temperament of the Collie. This hybrid carries an air of nobility and grace while also bringing a child-like love of play and affection to the table. The Afollie certainly is a steadfast and loyal companion, but this breed isn’t right for every family.
Breed Overview
Height:
22–27 inches
Weight:
45–75 pounds
Lifespan:
12–17 years
Colors:
Tan, black, white, brown, fawn, brindle, tricolor
Suitable for:
Experienced dog owners, families with children, active couples and families
Temperament:
Affectionate, loyal, sensitive, gentle, ambivert
The Afollie is a designer dog resulting from breeding an Afghan Hound with a Collie. They are very loyal and affectionate toward their humans and can make good watchdogs as they’re quite vigilant and unafraid to alert their owners if intruders are afoot. They may combine the Afghan Hound’s cat-like, aloof, and dignified temperament with the Collie’s lively, gentle, and faithful disposition.
Afollie Puppies
Image Credit: (L) otsphoto, Shutterstock | (R) Ricantimages, Shutterstock
Finding a breeder specializing in Afollies may be challenging. We were unable to find any in our search, but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist. There is just more of a focus on “popular” hybrid mixes, such as Goldendoodles. If you have your heart set on this unique designer breed, you’ll have better luck scouring your local humane societies and animal rescues for pups awaiting adoption.
Afollie Origin & History
Since the Afollie is a hybrid dog breed, their exact history and origin are unknown. However, we do have an established origin story for both of the parent breeds.
Afghan Hounds are one of the oldest breeds in existence. They originated in Afghanistan, where nomadic tribes used them to chase prey. They first arrived in England during the 1900s, and by the 1970s, they had become very popular as status dogs. Nowadays, however, it is rare to see Afghan Hounds outside of the show ring.
Collies originated in Scotland during the 1800s. While the exact rootstock is unknown, some believe the breed was derived from the same ancestors as the Border Collie. Queen Victoria fell in love with the gentle and devoted Collie and added her first to her kennel in the mid-1800s. Between her love of the breed catching the eye of other dog fanciers and the rise of the Lassie movies and television shows in the 1950s, Collies cemented their place in the world as a fine family dog and companion.
Image Credit: Left- WildStrawberry, Shutterstock | Right – claupad, Shutterstock
Temperament & Intelligence of the Afollie
The Afollie is a loyal and gentle companion with a playful and clownish streak. They bond closely with their families, though depending on which parent breed they favor, they may be aloof or excitable around strangers.
Collies are the quintessential extrovert of the canine world. These gregarious dogs actively seek companionship from their owners, have a genuine love of children, and are fantastic adventurers.
Afghan Hounds, on the other hand, are more independent and dignified. They’re gentle and silly but can also be very introverted and shy, especially when socialization wasn’t adequate in their early years.
These intelligent dogs can learn quickly but may become bored easily. They need engaging and varied training sessions to capture their attention and challenge them. The exact intelligence level of the Afollie can vary greatly. Afghan Hounds top the list as one of the “dumbest” dog breeds, at least according to Stanley Coren, an expert in dog intelligence. Collies, on the other hand, crack the top twenty most intelligent dog breeds.
Are These Dogs Good for Families?
The Afollie can make a great family pet, especially if they take after their Collie side in temperament.
Collies are known for their gentle and devoted companionship and their playful side. They’re incredibly affectionate with humans, especially children. Their high energy level makes them ideal playmates, though they also know how to kick back and relax with the family indoors.
Afghan Hounds are very clownish and playful; however, their independent and aloof nature can make playtime frustrating for younger kids who want nothing more than to play with their dogs. These pups tend to be one-family dogs and can be very reserved and aloof toward strangers and guests.
Afollies can be adequate watch dogs, but they’re not great at providing protection. They will happily alert you to anything out of the ordinary, but their alert nature does give them a tendency to be exuberant barkers. However, this can be addressed through training.
Image Credit: (L) David Raihelgauz, Shutterstock | (R) claupad, Shutterstock
Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?
Afollies can get along well with other animals, even cats. The highly social nature they may have inherited from their Collie side allows them to be great companions with other dogs. However, Afghan Hounds are generally just “fine” with other pets. You can increase the likelihood of a harmonious transition into a multi-pet or multi-species home by raising the two animals together. Proper socialization and training will also be critical to this transition.
It is important to remember, however, that an Afollies’ Afghan Hound side may give them a high prey drive. This may make living with smaller animals and pocket pets extremely challenging, as your pup may be prone to giving chase and even attacking them. Supervision will be necessary.
Things to Know When Owning an Afollie
Food & Diet Requirements
Since the Afollie is a high-energy and athletic dog, they’ll need a high-quality diet with superb nutrition to meet their needs. The diet you choose should be appropriate for your pup’s life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, or senior). Your vet may also recommend a diet formulated for large breeds or highly active dogs. They may also suggest food containing omega fatty acids to keep your pup’s coat shiny and healthy.
Since Afollies can be prone to bloat, it’s best to feed two feedings daily as opposed to one to reduce their risk of developing this potentially life-threatening condition.
Image Credit: (L) DragoNika, Shutterstock | (R) Alla Pogrebnaya, Shutterstock
Exercise
The Afollie is an athletic and active dog. If they are more Afghan than Collie, they may prefer spending time inside with their family than going outside on adventures, but they’ll still be naturally active and require a fair amount of daily exercise.
You should expect to provide, at minimum, 90 minutes of exercise per day, but the more you can offer, the better. These pups may do better in homes with a large, secure backyard where they can burn off excess energy between their walks. But don’t leave them in the yard alone for too long, as they may turn to unwanted behaviors like barking if they become bored.
Get creative with the exercise opportunities you offer your Afollie. They will love playing fetch and may even enjoy dog sports like lure coursing or agility. However, since your pup has sighthound blood in their veins, be careful about allowing them to run around off-leash, as they may have a strong instinct to run off in pursuit of prey.
Training
The Afollie may be slightly challenging to train, especially if they inherit the Afghan Hound’s stubborn and somewhat aloof nature. However, their high intelligence and eagerness to please can be helpful during training sessions.
If your Afollie takes after their Collie side, they’ll have a genuine love of learning and training. They’ll want to continue training sessions and challenge themselves well into adulthood. If they’re more like their Afghan parent, teaching basic commands will generally be sufficient. However, many Afghan owners find that no amount of training can out-train their dog’s hunting instinct and break off their instinct to engage in high-speed chases.
Afollies can excel in obedience, agility, and herding, which can be a fun way to bond with your pup and encourage mental and physical stimulation.
Grooming
Your Afollie’s coat will require regular maintenance. At a minimum, you should expect to brush them at least two or three times weekly; however, your pet’s coat length, texture, and exact care requirements will depend entirely on which parent breed they take after.
Collies can either have smooth or rough coats. Smooth-coated pups won’t mat like their rough-coated counterparts, but they’ll still need brushing, especially during the shedding period.
When Afghan Hounds are puppies, their coats are very short and fuzzy and won’t need much maintenance. However, they won’t stay that way forever. These pups will develop long, silky coats that will call for several hours of care weekly to keep them free of tangles and mats. Additionally, they will need regular bathing with dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner to keep their coats healthy and shiny.
Image Credit: (L) Raywoo, Shutterstock | (R) MOAimage, Shutterstock
Health and Conditions
While the hybrid Afollie may be healthier than their purebred parents, they can still be at risk of developing the conditions that plague their parent breeds.
Collies and Afghan Hounds can be prone to conditions that frequently affect large breeds, such as bloat and hip dysplasia.
Collies are particularly at risk for collie eye anomaly, an inherited eye disease affecting the deep structures of the eye. They can also develop MDR1 mutation, a genetic condition that impacts how they process drugs. According to the Collie Health Foundation, the breed may also be at risk for degenerative myelopathy, progressive retinal atrophy, and dermatomyositis.
According to the Afghan Hound Club of America, these dogs can be at risk for chylothorax, a disease that occurs when chyle accumulates in the thoracic cavity. They may also develop necrotic myelopathy and may react to barbiturate anesthesia.
Eye conditions
Dental problems
MDR1 mutation
Degenerative myelopathy
Bloat
Hip dysplasia
Male vs Female
Male and female Afollies differ in size. Males will generally be taller and heavier than their female counterparts. Differences in personality between sexes are primarily anecdotal. For every Afollie owner who says their male is gentle and more affectionate than their female is an owner who says the complete opposite is true of their pups.
Image Credit: (L) Maria Ivanushkina, Shutterstock | (R) VKarlov, Shutterstock
3 Little-Known Facts About the Afollie
1. The Afollie is a working dog.
Both foundation breeds for the Afollie hybrid are born and bred working dogs. Afghan Hounds were used to hunt fast prey like rabbits and gazelle, while Collies were developed as herding dogs to work with sheep and cattle.
2. The Afollie is very sensitive.
The Afollie is a sensitive hybrid dog that generally does not do well with an irregular daily routine, a noisy household, and frequent visits from strangers. They thrive on predictability and prefer spending time in the presence of their families.
3. Afollies are not agressive.
The foundation breeders for the Afollie hybrid are generally not considered aggressive. That said, they may have the potential for mouthiness. This means they may tend to nip, chew, or playfully bite. This is something that can be addressed during training to ensure it doesn’t develop into an unwanted and dangerous habit when your Afollie becomes an adult.
Final Thoughts
The Afollie is a unique hybrid with many redeeming characteristics from both foundational breeds. These gorgeous dogs are intelligent, energetic, and generally quite trainable. Their personalities can range from aloof and introverted to extroverted and sweet. These loyal and affectionate pups bond closely with their family members and are suitable for living alongside other pets and children.
The Afollie combines the striking appearance and regality of the Afghan Hound with the intelligence and outgoingness of the Collie. They are great companions for experienced dog owners who prioritize exercise and time outdoors. The Afollie needs an owner with confidence who can step into the alpha role and be the good role model they need to grow into a well-behaved adult.
Afollies do indeed have much to offer their human families. If you’re seeking an active, loyal, and affectionate dog and have the time and space to meet their high energy needs, this may just be the right breed for you.
Featured Image Credit: (L) Irma07, Shutterstock | (R) Photobox.ks, Shutterstock
The post Afollie: Pictures, Info, Care Guide & More by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Introducing the Dogsters: Maja and Her Two Dogs, Lava & Hela
The post Introducing the Dogsters: Maja and Her Two Dogs, Lava & Hela by Dr. Maja Platisa DVM MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Maja is one of our in-house veterinarians and writers with almost 10 years of clinical experience working with a wide range of species, but now focusing solely on emergency and critical care of small animals – dogs and cats.
She is also a proud owner of two young crossbreed dogs, Lava and a Greek rescue Hela, both female, and a male cat called Miki. She lives in Croatia and loves to travel and spend time outdoors. Meet her pooches!
Maja with Lava on the left and Hela to the right
Since I was a child, I’ve always had dogs. Each and every one of them was special to me and made a dent in my heart when they left. I was particularly heartbroken in 2020 after losing my beloved German Shepherd cross, who was my rock for 10 years, to cancer. After that, I was not ready for another dog for what seemed to be the longest time. Until one little bundle of fluff entered my life in spring 2021 and changed everything. Her name is Lava.
Meet Lava
Lava was only a puppy when she came into my life. And it was the toughest bond to form, as she seemed to be the very opposite of everything my old dog was and everything I expected and needed from her at the time. She was energetic, confident, independent, naughty, mischievous, just so full of energy, and one of the most stubborn dogs I’ve ever had the chance to meet.
For the longest time ever, we struggled to bond and it often felt like it just wasn’t meant to be. It was genuinely the strangest relationship I’ve ever experienced with a dog. After almost 4 years, I learned to read her every quirk, got to know her personality inside and out, and have come to love her for the dog that she is. I can’t imagine my life without her, but it was a tough road to get here.
Meet Hela – Greek Rescue
Hela is a totally different story. I adopted her in 2022 after doing a cat TNR programme in Greece. We found her in a local village, tied to a tree, without food or water. She was skin and bone, and in a terrible health condition. I hadn’t intended on getting a second dog at that time, as Lava was a handful, to say the least, but I couldn’t turn a blind eye to this poor suffering animal.
So she joined my home soon after and although we are still getting to know each other, she has started to come out of her shell, showing the gentle soul that she is, with some minor mischief still well hidden deep within. We have not yet come to trust each other fully, but she has found a place to call her home and has bonded amazingly with Lava and my cat Miki.
Hela on the left, Lava on the right
Now, they seem like two regular, calm dogs, but I can assure you that they’re anything but that. If you are curious to hear how one puppy can drive you crazy, how to gain trust from a fearful rescue dog, how to avoid breaking your arm while walking a dog (yep, been there, done that), and how to have a balanced multi-dog and cat household (actually not that one), stay tuned for our adventures (and epic failures).
The post Introducing the Dogsters: Maja and Her Two Dogs, Lava & Hela by Dr. Maja Platisa DVM MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
How Long Do Alaskan Malamutes Live: Average Lifespan, Data & Care (Vet-Approved)
The post How Long Do Alaskan Malamutes Live: Average Lifespan, Data & Care (Vet-Approved) by Ashley Bates appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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The Alaskan Malamute is a semi-popular dog breed that thrives in cold weather. The thick-coated animals are much like a Siberian Husky, only they’re blockier and sturdier. If you love the look and overall description of the Malamute, you likely wonder more details about the breed before you commit.
One question will surely rise. How long do Alaskan Malamutes tend to live? Ultimately, it depends on several factors relating to genetics, environment, and overall care. Let’s dig into the details of the Alaskan Malamute lifespan.
Alaskan Malamute Average Lifespan
On average, an Alaskan Malamute lives between 10 and 14 years. Several different factors go into the overall answer about this. However, there are averages you should consider.
Sometimes, lifespan is up to fate. A dog might be perfectly healthy and end up getting injured, causing them to pass away. Sometimes death is not so easy to foresee. However, as long as all goes as planned, these guys can have reasonable lifespans.
Image Credit: J. Photos, Shutterstock
How to Care For Your Alaskan Malamute for a Long Lifespan?
The way you care for your dog severely impacts their lifespan. Even though it might not seem like much of a big deal feeding your dog table scraps, skipping vet visits, or letting them slack off on exercise, it can severely impact them beyond what you can see.
If you want to give your dog the best life possible and ensure that they are with you as long as time will allow, here are some areas of care you can’t skip out on.
Feeding & Diet
Giving your dog a complete and balanced species-appropriate diet that is tailored for their life stage is crucial for their longevity. The better the nutrition, the lower the likelihood of them developing certain health conditions as they age. Ultimately, you should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about the specific types of dog food that would work best for your canine.
Generally speaking, this particular breed requires a protein-dense recipe that will nourish their large bodies and help them stay in the best shape. Alaskan Malamutes burn quite a few calories in a day’s time if they get the exercise they need.
Proteins help replenish muscles and keep dogs physically fit. Alaskan Malamutes rely heavily on intense exercise to burn those excess calories. So, if they have too many calories and not enough exercise, it can cause weight gain, but if they don’t have enough calories and too much exercise, it can seriously deplete them and impact many of the different organs in their bodies.
Image Credit: Andrii Spy_k, Shutterstock
Environment
Environment plays a huge role in your Alaskan Malamute’s lifespan. A safe and reliable environment will ensure that they steer clear from dangers and don’t have access to potentially toxic or hazardous elements in the home or on the property.
If they are extremely stressed, don’t exercise, or they’re repeatedly exposed to certain toxins, it can impact the overall health and lifespan of your dog. It is important to provide a dog-friendly space to ensure your four-legged buddy sticks around as long as possible.
Healthcare
Healthcare is extremely important for any dog. The Alaskan Malamute is no exception. These dogs require regular vetting to get ahead of any health issues that might come along, including an annual or biannual check up to make sure your dog is in good health and their vaccination and parasite control is up to date.
It also includes being able to afford emergency visits. More and more families are switching to pet insurance policies these days to combat the ever growing cost of vet care and get peace of mind at all times. If you try to pay out of pocket for these sorts of costs, it can really break the bank.
Routine vet checkups are an unavoidable expense you can plan for, but emergency visits can arise unexpectedly, often leading to treatments and surgeries that may catch you unprepared. It’s always best to have an emergency fund and to prepare for anything.
Image Credit: Pressmaster, Shutterstock
The Life Stages of an Alaskan Malamute
The life stages of an Alaskan Malamute is much like that of any other dog. They are puppies, young adults or adolescents, then mature adults, then seniors. Each one of these life stages means different things for dogs. Let us explain!
Puppies
Dogs are considered puppies until they are roughly 9 months of age. Some dogs are slower to mature than others, and some dogs don’t stop growing until they’re about 2 years old. For the Alaskan Malamute specifically, these dogs are usually done growing by the time they reach 12 months of age.
After that, your dog can continue to fill out, but they rarely get taller. Puppies are extremely active and grow very rapidly. Since this dog is considered a large breed, they will amaze you with how fast they grow and how much they are capable of learning along the way.
Image Credit: Eve Photography, Shutterstock
Young adults
Dogs complete their physical and social maturation during their young adult phase. This occurs in Malamutes approximately between 9 months old and 3–4 years of age. Some dogs are slower to mature than others, and some dogs don’t stop their physical growth until they’re about 2 years old. For the Alaskan Malamute specifically, these dogs are usually done growing by the time they reach 18 months of age.
Mature adults
Adult Alaskan Malamutes will stay roughly the same size, permitting they aren’t gaining or losing a bunch of weight, until they reach seniorhood. You have to be very careful when your dog gets spayed or neutered, as they can often increase in weight if portions aren’t controlled.
Keeping your dog healthy can mean many things when they’re an adult. You might find that you have to switch recipes a couple of times to accommodate for weight gain and other factors.
If your dog is sensitive to anything and their dog food, you might also have to adjust their diet and exercise plan to avoid or manage certain kinds of allergies.
Image Credit: Tatyana Kuznetsova, Shutterstock
Seniors
When your Alaskan Malamute is a senior, this will likely be after they reach about 7–10 years of age. During this stage, you will have to feed your dog a maintenance diet that supports their waning bodies.
Most Alaskan Malamutes will stay very physically fit and strong throughout their senior years, though they may show their age in other ways. To make sure that your dog feels their best, it is still important at this stage to make sure that they have adequate exercise in a day and that they remain an ideal weight.
You know what they say, if you don’t use it, you lose it. That’s very true for your dog’s overall physical health.
How to Tell Your Alaskan Malamute’s Age
The only true way to tell your Alaskan Malamute’s age is if you know exactly when they were born, which is likely to be true if you purchased the dog from a breeder. If an Alaskan Malamute is still quite young, it can be pretty easy for a vet or even yourself to determine how old they are looking at their teeth. It might only be estimations, but you’ll be able to get a pretty good idea. If a dog is already a full-grown adult, it can be a little trickier.
However, you can get your dog thoroughly examined and look for signs that indicate aging. Sometimes, a vet can determine roughly how old a dog is based on the animal’s eyes, for example.
Other times, a rough estimate might be all you have to go by. If you adopt an Alaskan Malamute, they might seem extra old if they have had a hard life. Or in the reverse scenario, they might be extremely puppy-like, which can make it even trickier.
Conclusion
Now you understand roughly how long an Alaskan Malamute lives and all of the different factors that go into it. As you now know, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long any one dog will ever live. Life is a gamble for all of us, including our pets.
However, there are certain responsible things that you can do as an owner to ensure their longevity. After all, you want your dog to be with you as long as humanly possible.
Featured Image Credit: Hanna Borysenko, Shutterstock
The post How Long Do Alaskan Malamutes Live: Average Lifespan, Data & Care (Vet-Approved) by Ashley Bates appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Are Lilies Toxic to Dogs? Vet-Verified Facts, Info & Poison Help
The post Are Lilies Toxic to Dogs? Vet-Verified Facts, Info & Poison Help by Chris Dinesen Rogers appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Flowers may be beautiful, but there are definitely a few out there that can pose serious risks to your pets. If you live with a dog, it’s crucial to know which plants are safe. The lily family (Liliaceae), which includes about 15 genera and roughly 610 species, is particularly concerning. While plants from two genera in this family, Lilium (True lilies) and Hemerocallis (Day lilies), are deadly toxic to cats, their toxicity in dogs remains unconfirmed. The level of toxicity to canines of plants in the Liliaceae family varies across species, with some being virtually harmless while others being highly poisonous. To complicate matters further, some plants that aren’t truly lilies still include the term ‘lily’ in their names, adding to the confusion.
We can definitively say that these plants are more toxic to cats than dogs because of their varying physiologies. The best advice we can offer is to avoid adding any lilies to your garden or as houseplants in your home if you have a pet. Prevention is by far the best cure.
Examples of Toxic Lily Species
Lilies as a group are diverse. We can say most species are perennial bulbs. Many species have showy flowers or are aromatic. Scientists refer to those of the Lilium genus as the true lilies. Many cultivars go by their scientific name, making knowing this information useful.
Dogs are vulnerable to accidental poisoning because of their eating habits. Many pups consume anything they find, making canines more likely to become victims. That’s why we recommend avoiding any lily plant altogether since most accidents occur in the pet’s home. As explained, the degree of toxicity varies with the species. For example, the Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum), which belongs to the Lilium genus, is not documented as toxic to dogs, but it is extremely toxic to cats.
Species of plants in the Liliaceae family that are toxic to dogs—and cats as well—through various toxins include the following:
Tulip (Tulipa species)
Hosta (Hosta plataginea)
Climbing lily (Gloriosa superba)
Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalisspp.)
Lily of the palace or Barbados Lily (Hippeastrum)
Learning about the hosta, or plantain lily, surprised us, given how popular the plant is for landscaping. Hostas contain saponins, which cause gastrointestinal problems in dogs, cats, and horses after eating them. Notably, rabbits and deer can eat them without suffering any ill effects. Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station lists it as one of the least deer-resistant species. However, the takeaway is that toxicity varies with the animal. So, just because wildlife can eat a certain plant doesn’t mean it’s safe for your dog.
Image Credit: Walter Erhardt, Shutterstock
Other Species of Plants Called Lilies
There are a number of plants referred to as lilies but are actually members of different families. “Lily” has come to mean any similarly looking flower, and you’ll notice much variation in this list. Toxic species to dogs that do not belong to the Liliaceae family include the following:
Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis)
Calla lily or Trumpet lily (Zantedeschia spp.)
Wild daffodil or Lent lily (Narcissus pseudonarcissus)
Lily of the palace or Barbados Lily (Hippeastrum)
Peace lily (Spathiphyllum)
Impala lily (Adenium obesum)
Flamingo lily (Anthurium scherzeranum)
We’ve included the scientific names of all these species since many have several common names, further complicating their classification. Some plants have “spp.” after their genus name to indicate that many species exist under that umbrella, including many cultivars. Toxicity exists regardless of the individual species.
Image Credit: nnattalli, Shutterstock
Signs of Poisoning
The variety of plants on our list only scratches the surface of the issues with lilies. The signs of poisoning may also differ because of the specific toxin and its effects. For example, wild daffodils and lily of the palace contain a toxin called lycorine. This alkaloid is responsible for the signs of poisoning that follow the ingestion of this plant: vomiting, nausea, mouth irritation, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
One of the most common signs of poisoning is vomiting. A dog only needs to consume one bulb to show signs of toxicity. The toxin is mainly concentrated in the bulb, however ingestion of the leaves is equally worrisome.
Other plants, such as calla lily and peace lily, contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mouth irritation when ingested or chewed. These crystals can lead to signs like drooling, difficulty swallowing, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, and swelling of the lips and tongue.
Lily of the valley is particularly dangerous since it contains toxins that can adversely affect your pet’s cardiovascular system. Puppies and senior dogs are at the greatest risk. Tulips are also highly toxic because of their tulipalin A and B content, which causes drooling, vomiting, depression, and diarrhea. The highest concentration of these chemicals are in the bulbs and there is no known antidote.
The most common signs of toxicosis include the following:
Vomiting
Drooling
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Lethargy
Abdominal pain
Seizures
Image Credit: Sue Thatcher, Shutterstock
Diagnosis and Treatment
Because of species diversity, there are various mechanisms of action when it comes to accidental poisoning. That, in turn, affects the treatment and prognosis. If you suspect your dog has eaten lilies or any poisonous plant, immediately contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline (888-426-4435).
Collect some of the remaining plants to take to the clinic with you for proper identification, if possible. You can also snap a picture with your smartphone. If your pet isn’t showing signs, your vet may elect to induce vomiting. Further treatment depends on the toxin and will likely include supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and anti-nausea medication.
Prompt action is critical since many flora species contain potentially life-threatening toxins. Complications from accidental poisoning may involve organ damage, requiring additional care and possible hospitalization.
Image Credit: antoniodiaz, Shutterstock
Prevention
Keeping these plants from your garden and home is the best prevention. We strongly urge you to research any species to ensure it is safe for pets. Don’t assume your dog will leave them alone. A bored animal will find things to do, even stuff they shouldn’t, like eating toxic plants. Many are bitter and may deter your pup from ingesting them. However, that’s not a solution nor a wise strategy.
Final Thoughts
Hundreds of lily species exist, with varying degrees of toxicity. For example true lilies and day lilies are highly toxic to cats, while not particularly unsafe for canines. However, other plants that belong to the Liliaceae family are toxic to dogs, and many other plants going by the lily name are also poisonous to dogs and other pets. Therefore, we only recommend pet-safe plants in your home or yard to prevent accidental poisoning. By choosing pet-safe plants, you can enjoy the beauty of nature without putting your beloved companions at risk.
Featured Image Credit: Bhupinder Bagga, Shutterstock
The post Are Lilies Toxic to Dogs? Vet-Verified Facts, Info & Poison Help by Chris Dinesen Rogers appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Are Peonies Toxic to Dogs? Vet-Verified Facts, Info & Poison Help
The post Are Peonies Toxic to Dogs? Vet-Verified Facts, Info & Poison Help by Chris Dinesen Rogers appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Peonies (Paeonia officinalis) offer many benefits for homeowners wanting to add some welcome color to their landscaping. This plant has it all: The flowers are gorgeous, it’s low-maintenance, and it can be pretty forgiving if the conditions are right. Many cultivars exist, allowing you to easily match your gardening theme. But the question remains if peonies are pet friendly.
Sadly, the peony plant is toxic to dogs and cats. The toxin is mainly in the plant’s roots, but it can also be found in petals and stems, making it virtually unavoidable if your pup chews on it. Accidental poisonings are more likely to occur with dogs than with cats, since they’re less picky about what they eat. Pets are also more prone to encounter toxic substances at home.
The Toxicity of Peonies
The problem with peonies lies with a phenol called paeonol. Phenols are aromatic organic compounds found in many plants. Just because they’re found in nature doesn’t mean they’re safe. For example, urushiol belongs to this class of chemicals, which is the resin in poison ivy that triggers skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Research suggests paeonol may have health benefits with its long history of folklore use. However, that doesn’t mean they translate to dogs, even though we share 84% of our DNA with our canine companions. After all, we can eat grapes, chocolate, garlic, and onions without ill effects, whereas these foods are highly toxic to our pets.
Other species of peonies, such as Paeonia suffruticosa have been used extensively in traditional oriental medicine to treat health conditions including diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. Paeonol, the phenolic compound present, is the main component with medical properties and is currently used for its anti-inflammatory activity. While it is very likely that scientists will find new uses for human medicine in the future, what we know is that ingestion in dogs (and cats) can cause toxicity, and they should be kept away from it.
The other concern with paeonol exists with its purported health benefits. One area of research is its effects on the cardiovascular system. That may sound like a good thing, but it also raises a red flag about dosage, side effects, and other adverse outcomes. Remember that scientists conduct many experiments and trials to develop drugs to ensure their safety. We don’t have that assurance with paeonol.
Our research didn’t reveal any adverse cardiovascular issues. However, it’s worth keeping this information on the radar because of paeonol’s potential effects on this system, particularly in dogs with pre-existing conditions.
Image Credit: Maria Evseyeva, Shutterstock
Another Potential Problem With Peonies
If you’ve ever grown peonies, you’re probably well aware of another potential problem with these garden plants: ants. The plant secretes a sugary nectar that attracts the insects, much to the chagrin of many homeowners. Experts assure us that the ants don’t hurt the peonies, with some anecdotal evidence suggesting they help the plants by keeping other insects away while guarding their food source.
This is all well and good if the bugs stay in the garden, but it’s another matter if they find your home, as some people may be tempted to use pesticides to get rid of the ants. That adds another layer of complexity to the toxicity. If you use an insecticide on your peonies, make sure your pup doesn’t have access to the area to play it safe.
Signs of Poisoning
The telltale signs of accidental poisoning are mainly digestive, which could mimic what occurs when a dog eats anything that doesn’t agree with their gastrointestinal tract. They include the following:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
GI distress
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Complications can occur if these signs go without treatment and with ingestion of large amounts. Dehydration and an electrolyte imbalance are possible if the vomiting and diarrhea persist. The longer they continue, the more serious the situation becomes, complicating treatment. Poisonings also are often more dangerous on puppies and senior pets.
Image Credit: Mumemories, Shutterstock
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect your pup has eaten peonies, immediately take your dog to your local vet or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline (888-426-4435). A consultation fee may apply for the latter. We recommend taking a picture of the plant to confirm the identification and subsequent treatment. Remember that the poisoning signs are non-diagnostic. Anything you can do to help your vet will speed recovery.
Your vet may provide additional supportive care to manage complications. That can involve intravenous fluids to restore the animal’s electrolyte balance and medication to control vomiting if needed. Severe cases may require hospitalization to stabilize the dog.
Image Credit: Zontica, Shutterstock
Final Thoughts
There’s no denying the beauty of peonies. They are popular garden plants for a reason. However, like many flora species, problems exist with these plants. They are toxic to dogs and cats, and although accidental poisoning can usually be managed if caught early, it depends on your dog’s health situation and how they respond to treatment. However, prevention remains the best solution. Researching the toxicity of the various species of plants you may want to keep at home is imperative If you want to avoid health issues in your pets.
Featured Image Credit: S.O.E, Shutterstock
The post Are Peonies Toxic to Dogs? Vet-Verified Facts, Info & Poison Help by Chris Dinesen Rogers appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Do These Genes Make Me Look Fat? Ned & Fred Weigh In
The post Do These Genes Make Me Look Fat? Ned & Fred Weigh In by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my five funny dogs, Poppy, Bailey, Kodah, Ned, and Fred.
Despite being the smallest dog in our house by a considerable margin, Ned is also the greediest. If I didn’t think he would make himself ill, I would love to find out just how much food he would eat if given free rein. I suspect it would be a lot. Not so long ago, I thought I was going to have to rush him into surgery when, to avoid losing the piece of steak he had just stolen, he swallowed the large chunk of meat whole. What followed was 5-10 minutes of regret. It was clear from his misery and discomfort that the steak was too big to make it all the way down the esophagus, so I knew that if it didn’t come back up soon we were going to have to go in after it.
Fortunately, Ned saved us the stress of surgery when he managed to reverse peristalsis and eject the too-large piece of meat. Which I had to quickly intercept before he tried to eat it again!
Despite his voracious appetite for virtually anything he can get his paws on, Ned has remained the same size and perfect body condition since he reached adulthood. At 12 months old, he weighed 1.8kg (3.96 lbs). Today, he weighs 1.82kg.
His (not so) little counterpart, Fred, has not been quite so fortunate. He is a larger-framed Chihuahua, so he was never going to be as light as Ned, and at 12 months old, Fred was weighing in at 2.8kg (6.1 lbs). Today, he is tipping the scales at 3.5kg (7.7 lbs).
Small and smaller
It’s In The Genes
You might be thinking that comparing two different dogs is like comparing apples and oranges, but in this case, it’s more like comparing a Granny Smith with a Red Delicious, because Ned and Fred are actually cousins. They have different sires (fathers) and their mothers are sisters.
Ned is quite a lot smaller than both his parents, though he was not the smallest in his litter, while Fred is closer in size to his mother; we jokingly call him the teapot, because he’s ‘short and stout’. Given his larger frame, Fred’s ideal body weight is around 2.8 – 3.0kg, and I am certainly not trying to make excuses for him being a bit on the porky side, but the difference between these little lads certainly lends weight to the argument that genetics play a big role in metabolism and body condition.
Let’s look at the numbers:
Fred
Ned
Weight:
3.5kg
1.8kg
Calorie requirements:
243 kcal
174 kcal
Meals:
156 kcal
156 kcal
Treats:
100 kcal
100 kcal
Sleep:
16 hours
16 hours
Exercise:
2-3 hours
2-3 hours
So while Fred is consuming around 13 kcal over his maintenance budget, Ned is taking at least 82 kcal more than he theoretically should need, and yet, his weight remains perfect.
Fred always waits for Ned to finish.
It’s Not Fair!
Look, I’m not too embarrassed to say that I struggle with my weight. And when I say struggle, I mean that I struggle with the knowledge that the diet and exercise regime I’d prefer to maintain does not give me the figure I would like. I am aware that I could work harder and eat better, but I also get really frustrated by those around me who eat worse and exercise less, yet weigh far less than I do. It would seem that Ned is like one of those horribly annoying people who “can eat whatever they want and never gain weight.” Fred and I, on the other hand, have a bit more in common.
Although he sleeps and exercises as much as Ned, and arguably eats less, when you factor in the extra food that Ned invariably manages to beg, borrow, and steal, Fred should ideally lose around 20% of his body weight.
Fortunately, dogs aren’t too preoccupied with body image or fat-shaming, or at least, I don’t think they are. I don’t believe Fred stands beside Ned, comparing thigh gaps and mourning his lack of bikini-bod, but he will probably notice when his portion sizes are suddenly smaller than Ned’s.
‘Big brother’ Ned
The Struggle Is Real
Life, it annoyingly turns out, is not fair. Some of us need to work harder to stay fit, while others have been blessed with a more efficient metabolism. Seeing how genetics have given Ned and Fred markedly different metabolic rates doesn’t make my struggle with my own weight any easier, but it does go to show that some individuals do have to work harder than others to stay in shape. And that’s got to be worth a few sympathy points if nothing else!
Read her previous article: It’s Not Fair: Why Size Really Does Matter
The post Do These Genes Make Me Look Fat? Ned & Fred Weigh In by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
How to Contact a Vet During a Hurricane: 5 Tips for Immediate Support
The post How to Contact a Vet During a Hurricane: 5 Tips for Immediate Support by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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If you find yourself on the direct path of a hurricane and are simultaneously making decisions about your furry family members who may need veterinary assistance, we are here to help.
These types of storms often require evacuation or taking refuge in interior rooms within your house, but to make this process easier on you, we’ll explore five ways to ensure your pets can continue to be taken care of if you find yourself hunkering down in the middle of one of these storms.
Need Vet Advice Now?
If you need veterinary advice for your pet now, we recommend PangoVet’s TeleVet service. You can have a video consultation with a real veterinarian from the comfort of wherever you are, no travel needed. PangoVet’s vets can provide you with personalized care and advice, and hopefully help ease your mind during a difficult time. Please note they do not offer prescriptions and are not for emergencies.
Top 5 Tips on How You Can Talk With a Vet During a Hurricane
1. Evacuate to a Safe Region Where You Can Access Vet Assistance
Image Credit: Kraeva Olga, Shutterstock
If there are evacuation orders in place, it is in your and your furry friends’ best interest to take these seriously and evacuate to a safe region of your country.
This is especially true should your pet be elderly, chronically ill, or suffer from severe anxiety in storms.
In preparation for evacuation, pack:
your pet’s crate
two weeks to one month’s worth of food
several gallons of water
a first aid kit
your pet’s collar ID
leash and collar
their paperwork and vaccine information
any medication your pet is on
a recent photo of your pet (in case they get lost)
There are pet-friendly hotels and hosted accommodation options across the world, and during hurricanes, you can check with your local civil defense website or helpline for designated shelters outside the hurricane strike zone.
From there, go ahead with the following instructions as best as you can:
Contact your regular vet, let them know your evacuation plan, see if they have any recommendations for a short-term emergency vet in the area you are evacuating to, and enquire about processes regarding your pet’s medical records. Should your regular vet not have any recommendations for vets in that area, a simple Google search and review check of local vets will give you a good idea of your options.
Contact your chosen emergency vet, let them know your situation, anticipated issues your pet may have during this time, and contact details for your regular vet to send medical records to.
Book an appointment or create a plan with your emergency vet.
Contact your regular vet to let them know the contact details of the emergency vet and have your furry friend’s medical records sent before your visit.
2. Discuss Options With Your Vet Before Taking Refuge
In the scenario where you are taking refuge at home rather than evacuating, you can always contact your vet prior to the hurricane making landfall to discuss options.
Your vet should have a well-prepared communication plan in place to keep you informed about the clinic’s status, emergency contacts, and any changes in service availability. Most vets will utilize a diverse range of communication strategies during these times such as social media, text messaging, or phone calls to ensure there are regular updates.
Many vets now have access to patient clinical notes in a cloud-based system and should continue to have access to your pet’s notes during this time so long as internet and power access remain intact.
Your regular vet can provide the most personalized advice and broadest remote medical care possible in these situations. Ask if they have a telehealth platform for phone or video calls and who you can call if they aren’t available. You can create a dependable action plan for emergencies by discussing your upcoming circumstances.
3. Contact a TeleVet Service
Image Credit: Agenturfotografin, Shutterstock
If you have access to cell service or the internet but can’t contact your regular vet in a hurricane situation, a trusted TeleVet service is a fantastic option to speak with a professional and get personalized help when you need it, without having to travel again in the storm.
TeleVets, also known as veterinary telehealth services, provide professional help and discuss your pet’s needs via text messages, photos, and video. They can continue to give medical advice during this time on injuries, allergy relief, sickness, controlling anxiety, and other issues.
Along with professional advice, they can then teach you how to take care of your pet during this time and recommend products or techniques to alleviate symptoms until you have access to a hands-on professional again.
If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet. It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!
4. Portable Satellite Internet
Portable Satellite WiFi Internet Hotspots are a fantastic solution whether you are evacuating or taking refuge. These small devices can travel with you and keep you connected to WiFi via satellites on your phone or laptop should cellular connectivity be inaccessible during the hurricane.
This option will allow you to continue to access the range of online TeleVet services outlined above and through your portable satellite internet, you will continue to have access to phone and video calls or messaging with a professional should you need it. Video calling may be particularly crucial because when you and your vet can exchange visual information, they can better understand the issue, provide more appropriate advice, and guide you as you treat your pet.
5. Get a Satellite Phone
Although a satellite phone might not be the most cost-effective option, they are a fantastic way to connect with your vet or a televet during a hurricane should you need to. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is one of the top-rated ones available.
Satellite phones allow you to make calls from anywhere on the planet, in fact, sailors use them from the middle of the Pacific Ocean, and if they are good enough to make a call out there, they will almost certainly hold up during a hurricane.
However, they don’t come cheap, and buying one will set you back over a thousand dollars alongside the additional cost of calling minutes. Because hurricanes are finite situations, a better option may be to rent one from a company in your area. Companies across America and the world rent out satellite phones for as little as $65 USD per week with same-day delivery. This may well be an avenue worth exploring prior to landfall to ensure reliable communication remains available throughout the hurricane.
Conclusion
You never know if you’ll find yourself in the firing line of the next hurricane or not, so we recommend that if you live near water, ensure you have a plan, communicate with your vet should your pet have a chronic illness, allergies, or severe anxiety, and know your communication strategy should the internet or phone capacities in your area be unavailable.
Most importantly, if there is an evacuation order in place for your area, act early, and take your pets with you if at all possible.
Remember, TeleVets are a click away, and with the magic of modern technology, you and your furry friends should be in a great position to ride out any storm with ongoing support from professionals should you need it.
If you want to read more about disaster preparedness for you and your dog, you can learn more about it here.
The post How to Contact a Vet During a Hurricane: 5 Tips for Immediate Support by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
7 Essentials For Desert Hiking With Dogs
There’s something special about desert hiking with dogs. The serenity and tranquility of the vast landscape is peaceful. But, in the back of your mind, you also know that the place you’re in can kill you if you’re not careful. These tips will help you get the most out of your desert hikes and keep yourself and your dog safe.
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Bailey and I spend a lot of time hiking. And, after spending most of my life in the Midwest, visiting the desert comes with a certain amount of anxiety. The desert commands respect. And desert hiking with dogs means you need to take precautions to stay safe.
When my search for tips and resources came up empty, Bailey became my guinea pig. Together we developed this guide to the gear needed for desert hiking with dogs. Hopefully it makes your trip planning easier!
Essentials For Desert Hiking With Dogs
Bailey thinks the only gear she needs is her ball! But when you’re hiking the desert, there are a few other things you’ll need to pack.
Desert Dog Essential #1: Water
This probably sounds obvious, but when you’re hiking with dogs in the desert you need to pack water. A LOT of water. I alway carry some water for Bailey when we’re hiking. But, being a dog, she sometimes supplements my tap water with samples from streams, lakes, and puddles.
When you’re hiking the the desert with dogs, water is unreliable. A stream that was flowing last week could be totally dry today. So you have to take all the water you and your dog will need during your hike.
You can either carry the water for your and your dog, or let her carry her own beverages with a Ruffwear hydration dog backpack.
Giving your dog an efficient way to drink also helps reduce the amount of water one of you has to carry. My old dog, Duke, would only drink out of a bowl, so whatever he didn’t finish was wasted.
Bailey and I have developed an awesome system, but it took some practice! Every so often, I ask Bailey if she wants water. If she does, she faces me and sits down. Then I squirt water into her mouth from a water bottle.
Since it’s not natural for dogs to drink like this, they might sputter a bit until they get the hang of it. Just go slow and only give small drinks each time.
Using a collapsible water bottle works well. The key is the pop-top, which allows me to create a “drinking fountain” for Bailey. Of course, any water bottle will do, but these roll up for easy storage.
Desert Dog Essential #2: Dog Boots
In Chicago, Bailey had dog boots for the occasional hike in the snow and to protect her paws from the salty winter streets. But in the desert, her boots never leave my backpack.
Since dogs regulate their body temperature through their paw pads, boots aren’t something Bailey wears constantly while we hike. That could cause her to overheat. Instead, I consider them emergency equipment — carried in case of an injury, if the ground becomes hot, or when we encounter uncomfortable trail surfaces.
READ MORE ⇒ Which Dog Boots Are Best For Your Dog?
If you’re hiking with a dog on hot sand, like we did at Great Sand Dunes National Park, dog boots an absolute necessity. We like the Ultra Paws Rugged Dog Boots for their 2nd velcro strap, which really keeps the boots in place. But there are a lot of great dog boot options to choose from.
DO MORE ⇒ Tips For Visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park with Pets
Desert Dog Essential #3: Sit Pad
On longer hikes, you’re likely to stop and take a few breaks. I always carry a small sit-pad for myself – it’s a smaller version of my Therma-Rest sleeping pad. And, after watching Bailey struggle to find a place to rest, I decided to throw one in for her, too.
This may seem like overkill, but the desert is littered with rock shards, prickly brush, and cactus needles. If you’re looking forward to a leisurely lunch along the trail, bring something comfortable for your dog to lie down on. It’s a small investment to make everyone’s day more enjoyable.
Desert Dog Essential #4: Fine-Tooth Comb
This was a brand-new addition to my hiking gear – a special requirement for desert hiking with dogs. A fine-tooth comb allows you to remove cactus spines, goathead thorns, and sand burrs from your dog’s paws or fur quickly and easily. And, as an added bonus, they don’t end up stuck in your fingers! It’s well worth the two-dollar investment.
Desert Dog Essential #5: Tweezers
For cactus spines too small for the comb to catch, splinters, and even bee stingers, a simple pair to tweezers can save the day.
A fun fact I’ve learned (the hard way) is that, even if your dog isn’t bothered, you can get poked by spikes hitching a ride in their fur or hanging on the leash!
READ MORE ⇒ What To Do If Your Dog Gets Stung By A Scorpion
Desert Dog Essential #6: First-Aid Tape
Carrying a good first aid kit when your hiking in the desert with dogs goes without saying. But most don’t come with first-aid tape for pets. This is just as important as carrying Band-Aids for yourself. And you can order it online, or pick it up at any pet store.
The tape is self-adhesive and won’t stick to skin or fur. So you won’t cause your pet additional pain while wrapping or unwrapping their injury. The tape is stretchy, so be sure to apply it as loosely as possible to avoid cutting off the circulation. And get your pet the appropriate medical attention as soon as possible.
READ MORE ⇒ Make A DIY Pet First Aid Kit
Desert Dog Essential #7: Benadryl
Dirty dog secret: Bailey likes to eat bees! Seriously, when things start buzzing around, it’s like she’s part frog. She’s even caught a few. And, so far, she hasn’t had a bad reaction. But just like in humans, your pet’s allergies can start at any point in their life. Adding Benadryl to our first aid kit was important for us both.
At your next vet visit, ask your dog’s doctor whether they recommend giving your pet Benadryl for an allergic reaction. If they approve, confirm the proper dosage. Then put a note with that information in your first aid kit along with the medication, so you’ll have it handy. (Benadryl dosage for dogs is much higher than for humans, so it’s important to know how much to administer.)
READ MORE ⇒ Compare The Top Dog Backpacks
Bonus Tip: Rattlesnakes!
Though they’ll do their best to avoid you and your dog, it is possible to have a rattlesnake encounter when you’re hiking with dogs in the desert. For those of you planning to spend a lot of time on desert trails, or if your dog hikes off-leash, consider vaccinating them for rattlesnake bites.
Having your dog vaccinated will give you more time to get them to a veterinarian if they are bitten. Opinions vary, so talk with your veterinarian to determine what’s best for your dog.
We hope that when you’re planning to go hiking with dogs you find this information helpful. If you have any other desert hiking tips, please share them in the comments below!
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