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.
GoPetFriendly may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.
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!
Visit our Amazon store to learn about more products we rely on to make traveling with pets easier, safer, and more fun!
The post 7 Essentials For Desert Hiking With Dogs appeared first on GoPetFriendly.com.
Pebblebee Tracking Device Reviews2 2024: An Expert’s Breakdown
The post Pebblebee Tracking Device Reviews2 2024: An Expert’s Breakdown by Emily Muller 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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We give Pebblebee Trackers an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Being a pet owner is no small feat. As much as you love your best bud, they can give you a run for your money, especially if they’re a runner or an escape artist. After all, there are few worse feelings than losing your four-legged soulmate, and few better feelings than knowing where they are at all times.
If you’ve experienced the dread of losing your pet (even for a few minutes), you might’ve considered getting a tracking device like the ones developed by Pebblebee. Pebblebee is an innovative company that makes tracking devices to help you find items that commonly go missing. While their products are often used to locate stationery items, like keys and wallets, they can also be used to keep an eye on four-legged family members and track their location.
I tested out Pebblebee’s products for my dog, Micah, and they’ve been handy gadgets to have. Not only do they provide real-time data about Micah’s location but they emit a tone to help me find him if he goes out of sight. If you’re looking for a reliable way to track your pet, Pebblebee’s trackers are a great option.
At a Glance: What We Received
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Best Overall 
|
 |
Pebblebee Clip |
Easy to use Keychain attachment Built-in speaker |
CHECK PRICE |
|
 |
Pebblebee Tag |
Small Lightweight Water-resistant |
CHECK PRICE |
|
 |
Pebblebee Card |
Thin Convenient Rechargeable |
CHECK PRICE |
About Pebblebee
What Is Pebblebee?
Pebblebee is a tech company that makes tracking devices for personal items, like wallets, backpacks, and phones. The idea for the company was born in 2012 when a toddler’s knack for hiding important items inspired these aerospace engineers to create an easy way to find them. After a year of developing and testing their products, Pebblebee was founded with the mission to “Track What Matters Most”.
Since their founding in 2013, Pebblebee has created several user-friendly smart trackers to help you locate your missing items, including the Pebblebee Clip, Tag, and Card. Whether you’ve lost your car keys, your wallet, or your four-legged friend, Pebblebee helps you stay connected to the important things in life.
Who are Pebblebee’s Trackers Best Suited For?
The devices are perfect for anyone who wants to track their furry friend’s whereabouts and are ideal if your dog has a habit of escaping your yard or bolting out your front door. Even if your pet is extremely well-behaved, these are great to use if you want to keep an eye on your pup and have peace of mind that they’re safe.
Key Features
Dogs love having the freedom to explore, but letting them off-leash can come at a price if they wander too far. With Pebblebee’s trackers, you keep an eye on your pet from your phone and initiate an alert melody to help you find them if they go missing.
How it Works
All three devices function the same way–they’re rechargeable trackers that attach to whatever item you want to track and have recall features to help you locate the item if it goes missing. For pets, the trackers can easily be clipped onto their collar or slipped into your dog’s go-bag during travel.
To use the tracker, download Pebblebee’s app and follow the in-app directions to create an account. After you log in, you’ll be prompted to add a device. To do so, place your phone near the tracker and click the Pebblebee logo button on the tracker twice. The device will beep, which lets you know it has been activated.
At this point, you can complete the setup process through the Pebblebee app or hop over to the Apple Find My app or Google Find My Device app to finish adding the device to your phone. From there, you can track your pet’s location and use the alert features if needed.
Tracking App
There are a few ways you can track your pet depending on your network and personal preference, including:
- Pebblebee app (iOS and Android)
- Apple Find My app (iOS)
- Google Find My Device app (Android)
All three apps show a map of the tracker’s location and have several settings you can personalize based on your preferences. A few of these settings include sharing your pet’s location with a family member or friend and turning on notifications to alert you when the device is found. If your furry friend does go missing, you can use your phone to initiate a loud beep to help you find them or get directions to your pet’s location based on where the device is pinging.
As an iOS user, I used Apple Find My for all three devices, and it worked great!
Contents
The following is included in each box:
| Pebblebee Clip: |
|
| Pebblebee Tag: |
|
| Pebblebee Card: |
|
Shipping and Returns
All orders are processed within 1-2 business days. How fast your order arrives depends on where you live.
Returns are accepted within 15 days of the delivery date and you are responsible for return shipping costs and a 20% repackaging and restocking fee.
Our Reviews of the Pebblebee Products We Received
1. Pebblebee Clip
The Pebblebee Clip has a circular design with a built-in hole at the top and comes with a carabiner-like ring for easy attachment. The hole is perfect for looping onto a traditional key ring and the carabiner is great for securing onto your dog’s collar. It also comes with a green LED light that lights up around the edge of the device when you charge it or pair it with your phone.
Since the Clip is Pebblebee’s only product that comes with a keyring attachment, it’s one of the easiest to secure onto your pet. Because of this, it was my favorite device to use with Micah. Micah is a 54 lb Standard Goldendoodle and didn’t seem to mind wearing the tracker on his collar. However, it is bigger than traditional pet ID tags and might be a bit cumbersome for small pets.
The Pebblebee Clip costs $29.99 for iOS and Android.
- Rechargeable
- 12-month battery life
- Snap-on keyring
- Lightweight
- Innovative design
- 500ft Bluetooth range
2. Pebblebee Tag
The Tag is Pebblebee’s smallest and most discrete device. It’s designed to stick onto items like remotes and slip into compact areas like a coat pocket. Because of its size, it’s perfect for attaching to small dogs and cats without being bulky. Since it’s Pebblebee’s only product to come with a silicone strap and double-sided adhesive tape, you can attach it to almost anything (pet collar, pet travel bag, dog backpack, etc.). It looks sleek too, which is a nice bonus!
The tag was my second favorite because of how small and compact it is. The silicone strap looks nice on a dog collar, and the device is super lightweight. The only downside is the silicone strap doesn’t fit well on large dog collars. I had to find one of Micah’s thinnest collars to slide it onto, and even then, it was a tight fit. That said, I could see this being a favorite for anyone with small pets.
The Tag costs $29.99 for iOS and $34.99 for Android.
- Track location
- Loud melody
- Emits LED light
- 8-month battery life
- Compact
- 300ft Bluetooth range
3. Pebblebee Card
This is Pebblebee’s largest tracker and is designed to fit in narrow spaces like wallets, pockets, and bags. It comes with a magnetic charger and has LED lights on the front that light up when you pair it to your phone or charge it. Out of the three devices, the Card has the longest battery life (up to a year and a half on a single charge), which is impressive, especially since other trackers only last a few days.
While this isn’t the easiest device to attach to your pet, it’s the perfect tracker to keep in your dog’s travel bag or slip into a backpack when you’re on the go. I like putting the Card in Micah’s travel bag when I take him on road trips.
The Pebblebee Card costs $29.99 for iOS and $34.99 for Android.
- Slim design
- iOS and Android compatible
- 18-month battery life
- No subscription needed
- One year warranty
- Doesn’t easily attach to pet
Our Experience With Pebblebee
I have a Goldendoodle named Micah who loves to hike and go on solo adventures in my backyard (I live on several acres). Even though he’s great about checking in with me, he can disappear pretty fast. After hearing about Pebblebee, I was curious to see how their trackers would work in helping me keep an eye on him.
I tried out the Pebblebee Clip, Tag, and Card, and all were amazing in their own way. They were easy to connect to my phone, and it only took a few minutes before all three were up and running.
The Pebblebee Clip was the first tracker I tried and it ended up being my favorite. It was the easiest one for me to use since I could easily clip it onto Micah’s collar before going outside (the snap-on keyring was one of my favorite features!). I also love that it resembles an ID tag since it blends in with Micah’s tags and looks classy on his collar.
Next, I tried the Pebblebee Tag. This is by far the most versatile tracker due to its small, compact size. Since it comes with adhesive tape and a silicone strap, it can be attached to just about anything you think of and is perfect for sliding onto a pet collar. The only drawback is the strap is too small to fit on thick collars. I was able to fit it onto Micah’s 1” collar (very snugly), but anything bigger than that would be too big. Small dogs and cats shouldn’t have a problem though!
Last, I tried the Pebblebee Card. I love slipping the Card into Micah’s travel bag for road trips. This isn’t one I would attach to Micah since there’s not a great way to clip it on him, but it’s a great option to throw in any bag carrying your dog’s travel gear or pet essentials.
When the trackers arrived, I initially planned to use them as a safeguard while hiking or traveling. But honestly, these are great gadgets to use every day. The devices are reliable, lightweight, and low maintenance, and they have a long battery life (8-18 months depending on the device, which honestly blew my mind).
The app works great too. As an iPhone user, I like that Pebblebee works with the Apple Find My app. Through Apple Find My, I could track Micah’s location, set off a loud buzzer to find him, or get directions to his location if he wandered too far.
When looking at cost, the devices range from $29.99 to $34.99 and are competitively priced compared to similar tech gadgets. They don’t require a subscription to use either, so you’re not locked into an ongoing expense, which is fantastic.
Overall, I love having a way to check in on Micah’s whereabouts, and it gives me peace of mind to know his location if he goes out of sight.
Conclusion
Pebblebee’s mission is to help people stay connected to what matters most, and that’s exactly what Pebblebee’s tracking devices allow you to do. The Tag and Clip are small enough to attach to your dog’s collar and the Card is perfect for slipping into a bag of pet essentials. You can track all the devices from your phone, and initiate a sound and light to help you locate your furry friend if they go missing. I love having a way to track Micah and nothing beats the peace of mind it gives me to know where he is and that he’s safe.
The post Pebblebee Tracking Device Reviews2 2024: An Expert’s Breakdown by Emily Muller 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.
What Kind of Dog Is Mackenzie from Bluey? Breed Facts & Explanation
The post What Kind of Dog Is Mackenzie from Bluey? Breed Facts & Explanation 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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If you have a child right now, you will know all about Bluey! It’s all the craze these days, competing with predecessors like Blue’s Clues and Dora the Explorer.
If you’ve watched it with your children, you may be able to pinpoint that Bluey and Bingo are Australian Cattle Dogs. But how about the other dogs, like Mackenzie? What kind of dog is Mackenzie? We have all the information you could want about Mackenzie’s breed!
What Dog Breed Is Mackenzie?
Mackenzie is a Border Collie. Mackenzie came in with the originals, first appearing in Season 1 of Bluey on the episode “Fruitbat”. This little boy dog moved to Australia from New Zealand. Mackenzie is a straightforward little dog that loves herding and jumping.
Very popular in Australia, the Border Collie is often used in competition and show to herd sheep and do a variety of other agility related tasks. The Border Collie is considered to be the smartest of all dog breeds and is highly revered for their keen intelligence and ultra awareness. In the show, Mackenzie is a fun-loving little dog with high energy.
Much to their breed design, the Border Collie is also very high in energy and ready to learn the next new thing.
Let’s Learn About Border Collies
Since we already know quite a bit about Mackenzie from Bluey, let’s learn a little bit more about the Border Collie breed itself.
After all, it’s exciting to see a fictional dog and think that it would be a perfect addition to your family, without realizing the overall intensity of owning the breed.
Border Collie Pups
Border Collie puppies will be extremely all over the place and eager to explore! These dogs have a thirst for knowledge and will bounce around from every stimulating scene to the other. These dogs will be very fast to learn, so don’t be afraid to teach them very early on. They will master concepts like potty training and basic commands in just a few short months, impressing you every day with their keen intelligence.
It is always best to find a reputable breeder. This ensures that your dog comes from a good bloodline with solid genetics. Steer clear of backyard breeding operations and puppy mills. Make sure that anyone you purchase a dog from is knowledgeable about the breed and has given the dog the proper vetting and care prior to you bringing the dog home.
Border Collie Physical Characteristics
Border Collies are very agile, medium size dogs with sturdy bodies. These dogs are masters at agility, touting lean muscles and quick speeds.
They can come in a variety of colors. The most popular look for a Border Collie is black and white. They tend to have medium to long flowing coats.
Border Collie Personality
Border Collies are very adventurous, eager to please, affectionate, and curious. They are ready to take the world by storm. Border Collies absolutely love running around and would benefit from a fenced in backyard. Keep in mind that these dogs are herding dogs. They have a tendency to herd other animals and even small children. For this reason, we recommend them for children, age, 6 and older.
The Border Collie is revered again and again for their intense intelligence. These dogs can pick up just about any concept anyone is willing to teach them. They are thirsty for new information and will soak it in every chance they get.
If a Border Collie is well-socialized and active, they will likely be very mannerly dogs. However, if you don’t work with your Collie the way you should and they have a lot of downtime with nothing going on, they might develop separation anxiety and anxious tendencies.
The Border Collie works best in homes with lots of space to roam and many exciting activities happening in a day. The Border Collie is not for families who are gone most of the time or have very limited time to commit to training or exercise.
Border Collie Diet
Border Collies burn quite a few calories in a day. For this reason, it’s incredibly important to give them a high calorie, protein-dense recipe that will replenish what they lose in a day. Wet canned food and dry kibble are still viable options.
However, we highly recommend reading ingredients labels to ensure quality so they get the best diet possible. You can always go for fresh, raw, or homemade meals, permitting you clear it with your veterinarian first.
Border Collie Exercise
The Border Collie needs plenty of exercise! These exercise-intensive dogs love nothing more than their time out of the house. They will accompany you on car rides, hiking adventures, vacations, and dog park visits.
On average, these dogs can sometimes require up to 2 hours of exercise in a day. Be sure you’re the kind of person who likes to be on the go enough to keep up. Otherwise, it’s incredibly important to give them a large fenced-in area where they can explore.
Since Border Collies are so agile and active, they can easily jump fences and dig under enclosures. Always secure the area—especially for untrained dogs.
Border Collie Training
A Border Collie will benefit very much from training. They will soak it up, enjoying each moment spent with their person. A Border Collie can pick up just about any concept or willing to teach them, but they do require a lot of experience.
These dogs might not be the best choices for novice owners due to their exercise and mental stimulation needs. Sometimes, because of the dog’s training needs, many owners elect the help of a professional. Professional trainer rates may vary and training techniques will be different from person to person.
Border Collie Health
The Border Collie was bred to be a very healthy dog. They are definitely hardy and quick to heal, so if you are looking for the chance of having lower-cost vet bills, they might be a fabulous choice.
However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that that will be the case with every dog. They are susceptible to several environmental and congenital disorders and illnesses. Here are some of the most common:
- Hip dysplasia
- Obesity
- Epilepsy
- Thyroid issues
The key to ensuring your Border Collie has the best health is to take them to their annual vet checkups. If anything starts to develop, your vet can get ahead of it. Plus, if you have their health monitored, you can change their diet and exercise plan around accordingly.
Conclusion
Now you understand that Mackenzie is a Border Collie. If you love McKenzie, you now understand more about his overall breed, and you can probably pinpoint whether or not you’d like to have one for yourself.
Border Collies are just most assuredly not for everyone. However, many folks can find room in their hearts for this loyal, athletic breed.
Featured Image Credit: Property of Bluey Wiki. All rights reserved to the copyright owners.
The post What Kind of Dog Is Mackenzie from Bluey? Breed Facts & Explanation 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.
SAVING LIVES NATIONWIDE IN LOVING MEMORY OF ANGEL
The post SAVING LIVES NATIONWIDE IN LOVING MEMORY OF ANGEL appeared first on Stand Up For Pits Foundation.
Abyssinian Sand Terrier Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Origin & History
The post Abyssinian Sand Terrier Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Origin & History by Grant Piper 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 Abyssinian Sand Terrier is one of the rarest and most mysterious dog breeds. They only sport hair on the top of their head and the very tip of their tails. Some Abyssinian Sand Terriers are completely hairless. That makes them highly unique. They are also incredibly rare. Abyssinian Sand Terriers have not been seen in modern society for decades leading some to wonder if they’ve gone extinct. All of this intrigue fuels one of the most interesting dog breeds in the world.
Breed Overview
Height:
15–20 inches
Weight:
20–40 pounds
Lifespan:
12–15 years
Colors:
Black, gray, bronze, sand, mottled
Suitable for:
People who enjoy rare or eclectic breeds, those looking for a hairless dog
Temperament:
Brave, loyal, eager to please, loving, protective, peaceful, quiet
The Abyssinian Sand Terrier is also known as the African Hairless Dog. It is speculated that this breed originated in Africa. Some people claim that the Abyssinian Sand Terrier was the first hairless dog and is the progenitor of modern hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested Dog and the Mexican Hairless Dog. That means that even if the Abyssinian Sand Terrier is truly nearing extinction, its genetics and traits are still alive and well in current dog breeds.
Abyssinian Sand Terrier Breed Characteristics
The Earliest Record of Abyssinian Sand Terriers in History
The exact origins of the mysterious Abyssinian Sand Terrier are not known. Abyssinian Sand Terriers are a very old dog breed, thought to originate in Eastern Africa. Abyssinia is now modern-day Ethiopia, but it is unclear if this is exactly where these dogs originated. Old exploration logs from the colonial era mention Abyssinian Sand Terriers in detail and claim they used to exist in large numbers. There are old photos of Abyssinian Sand Terriers that still exist. These pictures date back as recently as the 1940s and 1950s, but after that, the breed slowly dwindles and eventually vanishes from the record.
Today, the breed is incredibly rare, even in Africa. In fact, they have been labeled as an extinct breed by some. There are no modern examples of Abyssinian Sand Terriers existing in the modern Western world, and if there are any more records of this breed, they have been lost over time.
How Abyssinian Sand Terriers Gained Popularity
Abyssinian Sand Terriers were never the most popular dog breeds out there. In fact, these dogs were never really domesticated and were considered “semi-wild.” Despite this, Abyssinian Sand Terriers were thought to be extremely calm. They were routinely described as peaceful or tranquil. Abyssinian Sand Terriers were eager to please and relatively intelligent. They never barked.
In fact, some people reported that the dogs would only bark if taught to do so by humans and given treats for doing so. It is thought that they got along with humans and learned to live alongside them but were never really kept as pets.
There are slim chances that you might be able to find these dogs still in existence in rural parts of the African continent. That means that getting your hands on an Abyssinian Sand Terrier is essentially nil. If the experts are to be believed, they might truly be extinct, and therefore getting one of these dogs is, sadly, impossible.
Formal Recognition of Abyssinian Sand Terriers
The Abyssinian Sand Terrier has never been formally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or any other kennel clubs. This is due to the fact that no one knows for sure if they even still exist. However, it is thought that we may have this breed to thank for other hairless dog breeds, such as the Chinese Crested, which is recognized by the American Kennel Club and others.
Top 8 Unique Facts About Abyssinian Sand Terriers
1. Abyssinian Sand Terriers Could Be Extinct
According to various compendiums of dog breeds, there are no readily available examples of living Abyssinian Sand Terriers. In the West, where dog breeds are heavily tracked, traded, and loved, there is no Abyssinian Sand Terrier known to be under human care. There are also no known breeders of Abyssinian Sand Terriers. There could be some examples still living in rural portions of Africa or in their semi-wild state alongside ranchers and shepherds in Africa.
2. Abyssinian Sand Terriers Are the Likely Ancestor to All Current Hairless Breeds
Genetic studies of hairless dog breeds and the Abyssinian Sand Terrier have shown a strong connection between the hairless gene. That means that even if the Abyssinian Sand Terrier is extinct, their genes live on in other common hairless dogs. There are numerous hairless dog breeds that have robust populations around the world. Interestingly, many current hairless breeds originate from Central and South America yet still retain a fairly strong genetic connection to the Abyssinian Sand Terrier.
Image Credit: Zuzule, Shutterstock
3. Native Abyssinian Sand Terriers Were Semi-Wild
While many people today value dog breeds for their potential as family companions, many dogs were bred for a specific job or adapted out of a certain environment. Native Abyssinian Sand Terriers were what many people call “semi-wild.” They did not live inside with their people, but they would follow them around as they worked outside. Abyssinian Sand Terriers would accompany people on hunting trips and accompany shepherds on long walks with their herds. These dogs bonded with people on a more primitive level, but they often didn’t live inside with native African farmers like we would imagine dogs do today.
4. They Are Thought to Be Very Easygoing and Got Along Well With Other Animals
The Abyssinian Sand Terrier got along well with other animals, including other dogs. The calm nature of the Abyssinian Sand Terrier lends itself to getting along with both people and pets alike. They are not too big and did not show many signs of aggressive tendencies. They would get along with their owners, children, and strangers.
5. They Never Really Relied on Humans for Food
Abyssinian Sand Terriers existed in their highest numbers in a time before traditional dog foods. They would have eaten food scraps and whatever small morsels they could have hunted and caught on their own around the house.
6. They Are Thought to Be Very Relaxed
Abyssinian Sand Terriers would need moderate amounts of exercise. As curious dogs, they enjoyed playtime and new situations. However, their calm demeanor meant that they were also happy to simply lay on the couch and relax.
7. They Are Thought to Be Intelligent and Easy to Train
Despite not really being kept as pets, Abyssinian Sand Terriers were easy to train due to the combination of their intelligence and willingness to please.
8. Most Health Issues Stem from Their Lack of Hair
Abyssinian Sand Terriers would be far more prone to catching skin related diseases than other dogs, including mange, allergies, dry skin, skin cancer, sunburn, and more. The lack of fur also makes Abyssinian Sand Terriers prone to hypothermia. They wouldn’t do well in cold climates. Abyssinian Sand Terriers originated in warm parts of Africa and are not designed for cold weather climates.
Do Abyssinian Sand Terriers Make a Good Pet?
It is thought that the Abyssinian Sand Terrier would make a good family dog, if they do still exist and could be fully domesticated. They were thought to be quiet, calm, and friendly. They were also easy to train, which means that a good owner could easily mold an Abyssinian Sand Terrier into a fantastic canine companion.
Final Thoughts
The Abyssinian Sand Terrier is one of the most enigmatic and rare dog breeds in the world. There are no living examples of the Abyssinian Sand Terrier living in the Western world as pets. There might be examples still living in Africa as wild or feral dogs in the brush, but there are no Abyssinian Sand Terriers under human care that we know about. Despite that, these dogs are still extremely interesting and provide a unique genetic and historical background that can be traced to our modern world.
See Also: 8 Hairless Dog Breeds: Info, Pictures & History
Featured Image Credit: Linda Hughes Photography, Shutterstock
The post Abyssinian Sand Terrier Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Origin & History by Grant Piper 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.
What Is the External Extraction Technique (XXT) & Why It Could Save Your Dog’s Life
The post What Is the External Extraction Technique (XXT) & Why It Could Save Your Dog’s Life 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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If you’ve ever witnessed your dog choking, you know how terrifying and traumatizing it can be. Learning the proper techniques to help your pup in a choking event can be the difference between life and death.
The external extraction technique (XXT) is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment for choking dogs, but we’re willing to bet you’ve never heard of it. If you’re serious about learning everything you can to save your pup’s life in a choking event, keep reading. We’re going to answer all your questions, including “What is the XXT maneuver?” and “When is XXT recommended?”
How Does It Work?
Let’s take a closer look at the steps you need to follow to perform XXT successfully. We also recommend checking out the videos on YouTube of veterinarians performing this procedure, especially if you’re a visual learner.
The Steps on Performing XXT: Procedure One
1. Assume the Proper Starting Position
Place the choking dog on their back to perform the external extraction technique. Their neck and airway should be straight and parallel to the floor. Depending on the dog’s breed and size, you may have to straddle their ribcage but don’t put too much pressure on them. A second person can be helpful if someone is nearby, as they can help hold the pup’s back limbs.
2. Identify Body Landmarks
From this overhead position, you should be able to identify the location of the trachea and the object that’s lodged inside of it. You may even feel the ball in your dog’s throat.
3. Position Fingers
Form an open diamond shape with your hands and place them on both sides of your dog’s trachea below the lodged object. There should be a slight gap between your thumbs. Your middle fingers should push into the “V” notch of your dog’s mouth to help open their jaw.
4. Dislodge the Object
Using your thumbs, lock out your arms and push the ball down and up toward the mouth in a J-stroke motion. This pressure, if applied to the right spot, should then eject the obstruction from the mouth.
5. Rescue Breaths
If your dog doesn’t start breathing when the object is dislodged, provide two mouth-to-snout rescue breaths. It’s essential to keep your dog’s neck straight so there’s a clear pathway from their nose to their lungs. Close their mouth and blow twice into their nose.
Image Credit: Przemek Iciak, Shutterstock
6. Begin CPR
If your dog is still not responding after the rescue breaths, begin CPR immediately. Check our blog for step-by-step instructions here.
7. Seek Veterinary Care
Even if you manage to save your dog from choking, you should still take them to your veterinarian for examination. This is especially true if you’ve performed CPR, as they need to be checked for chest trauma.
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!
What Are the Different Types of the External Extraction Techniques?
There is a second XXT procedure called the PullGrip alternative. What sets the two techniques apart is your body and finger placement. You’ll still need to use a fair amount of pressure and perform a J-stroke to dislodge the ball, just from a different perspective.
The Steps on Performing XXT: The PullGrip Alternative
1. Assume the Proper Starting Position
Lay the dog on their back and position their head in an in-line position. Their airway should be parallel to the floor with the spine, nose, and ears, all forming a straight line.
You will want to position yourself in front of your pup, so you’re facing their snout.
2. Identify Body Landmarks
Feel for the lodged object by examining the outside of the trachea.
3. Position Fingers
Use your thumbs to grip the cheeks or lips and open the lower jaw vertically. Your fingers should be on both sides of the trachea below the lodged object.
4. Pull
Pull your fingers against the object while you press down and out through your pup’s open mouth. Like the other technique, this step involves a “J” stroke.
Where Is It Used?
The external extraction technique is particularly useful in three instances:
When there’s a complete airway obstruction
When it is a ball or similar round object that is lodged
When the dog is unconscious
Advantages of the External Extraction Technique
There are two main advantages to using XXT over other techniques when faced with a choking dog.
First, it’s safe for the owner to perform the procedure as the method is done externally. Pet owners have suffered injuries, including finger amputations, while trying to retrieve an object lodged in the back of their dogs’ throats.
Second, trying to dislodge an object from the throat with your fingers can push it further back.
Disadvantages of the External Extraction Technique
The external extraction technique works when performed properly in the right circumstances. As we mentioned above, XXT is most useful if your dog is experiencing a total airway obstruction, choking on a ball or round object, or unconscious. The technique may be less useful in other applications.
XXT requires some level of confidence and calmness to perform it as designed. Unfortunately, choking emergencies aren’t known for their tranquility, which can make performing XXT properly tricky. However, any technique an owner tries to save their dog from choking can be less effective if performed in a high-stress situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who created XXT?
The first person to describe this technique was James Herriot, a British veterinary surgeon and author who wrote about XXT in his memoir, which was published in the 1970s. However, Dr. Tim Crowe, a veterinarian and founding American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care member, brought this technique to the forefront of modern veterinary care.
What else can I do to help my dog in an emergency?
We highly recommend finding a pet-centric first aid course if one is available in your area. Knowing what to do in an emergency will not only provide peace of mind but could also be the difference between life and death for your dog. The American Red Cross offers online cat and dog first aid training. Meanwhile, St. John’s Ambulance provides an in-person equivalent for Canadians.
How can I prevent my dog from choking in the future?
The most important thing you can do to ensure your dog doesn’t choke on balls or other objects in the future is to supervise them to ensure they’re engaging in safe play. You can also choose toys that are aligned with their breed size and capabilities and make it a point to thoroughly inspect all toys regularly for damage or cracks.
Conclusion
Seeing your dog choking on an object is a terrifying experience for both you and your pup. Fortunately, complete airway obstructions are rare, but if you do believe your dog is suffering from one, you now know what needs to be done to save them.
If you’re not already familiar with pet first aid techniques, we highly recommend educating yourself. You never know if you might need to use the external extraction technique to save your dog’s life.
Featured Image Credit:
The post What Is the External Extraction Technique (XXT) & Why It Could Save Your Dog’s Life 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.