Ask Dr. Paola: Monday December 2, 2024
The post Ask Dr. Paola: Monday December 2, 2024 by Dr. Paola Cuevas MVZ (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.
Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being.
Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your dog, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your canine companion. Have a question? Send it in here!
Help! My Dog is a Afraid of My House!
“We had a repairman at our house yesterday and since then our dog is afraid to walk through rooms where the man was. My husband was there the whole time and Arlo was not on the rooms with the man. The area where the man worked were closed off to the dog so there was no contact.” – Michelle
Hi Michelle,
This is unusual unless Arlo is not used to seeing unknown visitors in your house. One possibility is that Arlo was afraid of loud or unusual noises from hammers or machinery used in the repairs. Arlo might also be reacting to specific scents used in different chemicals such as glues, oils, or paint. You did not mention Arlo’s history but there might be a negative association with these smells and since dogs rely on their sense of smell to navigate the world, scents can trigger fear responses.
Regardless of it, the best advice is to give him some time, and hopefully, this will pass. You will then need to try to figure out the exact trigger and start actively desensitizing Arlo so he can learn that novel stimuli (people, noises, scents, etc) are nothing to be afraid of. If the repair man is to ever return, take this as an opportunity and get him to offer Arlo a couple of treats while entering your home. You can also anticipate days with new visitors and use some calming techniques beforehand.
Best wishes!
Dr. Paola
Help! My Rescue Dog Is Scared of Everyone!
“When Rosco, our one-year-old rescue, sees new people he shakes. With men, he runs away. The other day my nephew was let him out, and when he went to let him back in, Rosco jumped the 4ft fence. The dog will not come to anyone but me and my niece. We got him for her to help with her anxiety. We have one cat that will not come in the house any more because Rosco chases that cat, but not the other. He is getting along with my 4 other dogs. Thinking of giving he back to rescue, though we don’t want to. We have fallen in love with Rosco, but this behavior needs to change if possible. Waiting for help.” – Diane
Hi Diane, rescue dogs can be a challenge as their past might have scarred their perception of the world. The big challenge with these pups is to teach them to trust, and depending on the history of abuse, some of them might never be totally open to strangers, while others will eventually learn to tolerate them while being wary. Your advantage is you have identified the triggers, strangers, and men. You can start to slowly work on changing Rosco’s perception of men by creating a history of positive associations with men. Find ways to get a man to be familiar with and offer Rosco positive experiences, for example, you can have your nephew serve them dinner from a distance. This would be a great and easy starting point. Give him time to understand that this man means good news before you try to push more proximity.
It is important to note that a rescue dog needs help with his own fear and anxiety and it is not recommended as an emotional support or therapy dog. Those dogs need to be emotionally stable themselves.
Chasing one cat away is a different problem. But reading that he came to a household with other 4 dogs and 2 cats, I think he is doing very well for a rescue dog. You will have to focus on one problem at a time. And remember that rescues take some time to settle in.
Best of Luck!
Dr. Paola
Help! My Dog Won’t Stop Chasing His Tail!
“My dog has this hilarious yet somewhat concerning habit of chasing his own tail, especially when we have guests over. It’s cute at first, but he’ll spin around in circles for minutes on end, and sometimes he even barks at his tail and gets so intense about it we have to remove him from the room to snap him out of it. I can’t tell if he’s just bored, attention seeking, or if he’s trying to entertain himself. Is there something behind this ‘tail-chasing mania,’ and should I be worried, or is it harmless?” – Dale, dad to Border Collie Hal
Hi Dale! By the way you describe this as hilarious first, I think there is a possibility that Hal got reinforced for chasing his tail in the past. If you think about it from his perspective, visitors come in and remove his human’s attention from him. Tail chasing may have started as a way to deal with the anxiety, and then Hal learned that if he chases his tail, he can have his human and his visitors’ attention and laughs.
It is possible that visitors are his cue. You should start to use positive reinforcement techniques to teach Hal how to be calm with or without visitors. If you are willing to you may even teach him a few tricks to impress your visitors in a more positive way. After all, it sounds like he loves to be the star of the show!
Best wishes!
Dr. Paola
- View past week’s questions here: November 25
- Click here to submit a question
The post Ask Dr. Paola: Monday December 2, 2024 by Dr. Paola Cuevas MVZ (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.
9 Great Pet Friendly Trips To Avoid Crowds
Vacations are fun … but they’re better with your best friend. And choosing a pet friendly destination that isn’t over-run with tourists will really allow you to get away from it all!
Start making your plans, but don’t call the kennel or schedule a sitter for your dog or cat. We’re giving you the inside scoop on nine great pet friendly trips to avoid crowds, so you and your furry travel buddy can really relax.
Pet Friendly Trips To Avoid Crowds
Big Bend, Texas
Big Bend isn’t on the way to anywhere else, so you have to make an effort to get there. And that means fewer people do. Plus, with amazing scenery, friendly locals, and a pet friendly ghost town, you’ve got the makings for a fantastic pet friendly trip!
The diversity of Big Bend is its biggest draw. Massive canyons, vast expanses of desert, forested mountains, and an ever-changing river provide a stunning variety of landscapes to admire. One of the best places to experience all the area has to offer is Big Bend National Park.
Unfortunately, the National Park doesn’t allow pets on any trails, on the river, or in the backcountry. However, leashed pets can walk the 200+ miles of dirt roads running through the park – and most of them get little very little traffic! Jeep trips, a scenic drive along the Rio Grande to Presidio, and exploring the little communities are other popular activities.
Pet friendly campsites are available year round at Big Bend National Park and at many private campgrounds in the area. You’ll also find many, many pet friendly vacation rentals and Airbnbs in Big Bend. And there are four pet friendly hotels within easy driving distance of the National Park.
READ MORE ⇒ Visiting Big Bend With Dogs
Dixie National Forest – Southern Utah
If you’re looking for pet friendly trips where you can really stretch out, it’s hard to beat Dixie National Forest. Covering almost 2 million acres, it would take a lifetime to explore the 1,600 miles of trails, hundreds of miles of scenic drives, 500 miles of fishing streams, and 90 lakes within the park’s boundaries. And the best part is … every square inch is pet friendly!
The stunning scenery of southern Utah is something to behold. But if you’re traveling with pets, the area’s most popular attractions – Bryce and Zion National Parks – will leave you disappointed. Both of these national parks have strict pet regulations.
Fortunately, Dixie National Forest provides plenty of options! We highly recommend the Red Canyon Trail, a five-miler with plenty of ups and downs that winds through the incredible hoodoos.
Dixie has 18 seasonal campgrounds, which are generally open from May through September. If you’re planning to travel outside camping season, the town of Panguitch has several pet friendly hotels which provide good access to the park.
READ MORE ⇒ Pet Friendly Things To Do In Dixie National Forest
Florence, Oregon
Florence has all the amenities that make a shore town fun, but without the inflated price tag and touristy atmosphere. The locals are friendly and the pace is relaxed, though you and your pet will find plenty to do!
You can take a drive down to explore the Oregon Dunes, hike the Sweet Creek Trail past eleven waterfalls in the Siuslaw National Forest, or rent a kayak and watch for otters as you paddle the Siuslaw River.
Be sure to visit Cape Perpetua, where you and your pet can walk over ancient lava flows that formed the coast in this part of Oregon. All 26 miles of trails here are pet friendly, so you’re sure to find something that suits you. If you’re looking for the best view, climb nearly 800 feet to the overlook, where on a clear day you can see 70 miles of coastline!
Florence boasts a surprising number of pet friendly restaurants for a town this size. There are also several pet friendly vacation properties. And the Best Western welcomes two pets per room, including cats and dogs up to 80 pounds.
READ MORE ⇒ Pet Friendly Day Trips from Florence, Oregon
Fort Worden State Park – Port Townsend, Washington
Located on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, Fort Worden was an active military base until 1953. Now it’s a truly unique 433-acre state park overlooking the Puget Sound.
While exploring twelve miles of pet friendly trails, you’ll find bunkers and gun batteries atop strategic hilltops. Of course, your pet won’t want to miss the two miles of sandy beaches. And bring the canoe or kayak, because the park has two convenient boat ramps.
You can choose to stay in one of the park’s two pet friendly campgrounds, or opt for a truly unique pet friendly vacation rental experience. Three dozen Victorian houses which comprised the original barracks have been renovated into vacation accommodations, and five of the units welcome pets!
All of this is just a few miles from the quaint fishing village of Port Townsend. With historic buildings, a lovely marina, and great eateries, it’s a great choice for pet friendly trips.
READ MORE ⇒ Seeing Washington’s Olympic Peninsula With Dogs
Hudson Valley, New York
For those looking to be dazzled by spectacular vistas, prepare yourself for the Hudson Valley. Just 90 minutes north of Manhattan, where the Hudson River cuts along the backbone of the Catskill Mountains, you’ll find rolling hills, quaint villages, and plenty of wide-open spaces to explore.
During your visit, plan to spend a day at Bear Mountain State Park. You’ll want to pack a picnic and pull up a bench while you admire the view. When the weather cooperates, you can spot Manhattan’s skyscrapers on the horizon!
After lunch, hit the Appalachian Trail on the east side of the mountain. It includes 800 stone stairs and is considered one of the most beautiful trails built in the last fifty years. And be sure to take a stroll around Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where many famous (and some infamous) people have been laid to rest.
There is no shortage of lodging options for pet friendly trips to the Hudson Valley! From Kingston to Newburgh to Tarrytown, you’ll find campgrounds, hotels, and vacation rentals ready to welcome your furry family members.
READ MORE ⇒ More Pet Friendly Things To Do In The Hudson Valley
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Take the ferry to Mackinac Island, and you’re in for a special treat! At just 3.8 square miles, this jewel sits in Lake Huron between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas, about a 15-minute ferry ride from shore.
Eighty percent of the island is preserved within Mackinac Island State Park, and personal automobiles have been prohibited here since 1898. Pets, however, are very welcome! You’ll find ferries, lodging, restaurants, horse-drawn taxis, guided carriage tours, and bike and kayak rentals for cats and dogs eager to explore.
Though camping isn’t allowed on Mackinac Island, there are three pet friendly lodging options to choose from. Mission Point Resort has beautiful grounds and a restaurant with pet friendly patio, and welcomes pets for an additional per-stay fee of $100, plus tax. Park Place Suites offers three condo units in the heart of downtown, which come complete with a yard. They charge an additional pet fee of $30 per night. Sunset Condos offers more seclusion and fantastic views of Lake Huron and the Mackinac Bridge. Their pet fee is based on the size of your pet – less than 40 pounds is $75 per stay, more than 40 pounds is $100 per stay, and two pets over 40 pounds are $150 per stay.
READ MORE ⇒ Mackinac Island Is Michigan’s #1 Pet Friendly Destination
Natchez Trace, Tennessee to Mississippi
For off-the-beaten-path pet friendly road trips, there’s nothing like the Natchez Trace! Stretching 444 miles from Nashville, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi, it’s a blissfully quiet, billboard-free retreat from other American highways.
Along the way, more than 100 exhibits, interpretive signs, and marked trails provide archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic insights.
The Trace is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, because there’s something to sniff around every bend! And when it’s time to really stretch your legs, 28 pet friendly hiking and self-guided trails are just steps away.
Appreciating the changing landscapes is another enchanting part of the Trace. From thick forests, to boggy cypress swamps, over 2,000 types of plants live and bloom along the route. The drive is especially lovely during the spring bloom and the colorful fall foliage.
The only overnight accommodations you’ll find on the Natchez Trace are primitive national park and forest campgrounds. However, there are plenty of pet friendly lodging options in the towns and cities just off the Trace. If you’re traveling at one of the more popular times of the year, reservations are recommended.
READ MORE ⇒ Traveling The Natchez Trace With Dogs
Paradise Valley, Montana
Many of our national parks see millions of tourists every year, but few visitors spend much time outside the park borders. This is definitely true of Yellowstone National Park, and it makes Paradise Valley the perfect place for a pet friendly trip that avoids crowds!
As the Yellowstone River flows north out the border of the park, the landscape opens up and mountain peaks frame the view. The beauty of the valley beckons you outdoors, as the river tumbles over perfectly worn stones. And there are plenty of activities to choose from!
The Yellowstone is a world-class fly fishing river with many access points along it’s shores. Wildlife viewing is always exciting in this part of the country, with antelope, big horn sheep, bison, elk, mule deer, and white-tailed deer often seen from the roads. And the hiking is spectacular, with the Gallatin National Forest offering spectacular pet friendly trails for both serious hikers and those just out for a stroll in nature.
Between privately-owned and national forest campgrounds, finding a place to pitch your tent isn’t too difficult here. And Gardiner and Livingston both have several pet friendly hotel options. If you’re willing to drive a bit further, Bozeman offers even more pet friendly lodging.
READ MORE ⇒ Pet Friendly Activities Near Yellowstone National Park
St. Johnsbury, Vermont
If there is a Mecca for dogs, it’s Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury. This 150-acre off-leash playground for pups was the vision of artists Stephen and Gwen Huneck. The property has a pond, hiking trails, and a pet friendly art gallery. But the heart of Dog Mountain is the chapel, with its pews carved with dogs on the ends and stained glass windows celebrating the gifts dogs bring to our lives.
Over the years pet lovers have contributed tributes, pictures, letters, and notes to their departed pets, covering the walls several layers deep. The result is a masterpiece beyond description.
Nestled along the banks of the Passumpsic and Moose Rivers, the picturesque town of St. Johnsbury has more bridges than traffic lights. And it makes a perfect base camp for exploring Vermont’s Green Mountains and New Hampshire’s White Mountains.
If you get a clear day, be sure to take the drive up Mount Washington. At 6,288 feet, it’s the highest peak in the Northeastern United States.
The Fairbanks Inn in St. Johnsbury offers pet friendly rooms with a $25 per night pet fee, and there are many camping options in the area.
READ MORE ⇒ Dog Mountain Is Vermont’s Best Pet Friendly Attraction
We hope this gives you some ideas for places you can take your pets to avoid the crowds and enjoy a relaxing getaway. If you have some favorite destinations for off-the-beaten-path pet friendly trips that you don’t mind sharing, please leave a comment below!
The post 9 Great Pet Friendly Trips To Avoid Crowds appeared first on GoPetFriendly.com.
MAXX CROSBY CHOOSES THE STAND UP FOR PITS FOUNDATION AS HIS “MY CAUSE MY CLEATS” CHARITY!
The post MAXX CROSBY CHOOSES THE STAND UP FOR PITS FOUNDATION AS HIS “MY CAUSE MY CLEATS” CHARITY! appeared first on Stand Up For Pits Foundation.
📣LADIES AND GENTLEMAN📣 We could not be more thrilled to announce Viola has been ADOPTED!!!!!!!🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
After nearly a year Viola is finally home! This inherentlhy good soul was horrifically failed by society, the shelter system and a “rescue” which is beyond sickening. It has been a very very long, hard and extremely costly road to get Viola to her happily ever after and we would not change thing. It was worth it all. We want to thank Viola’s beautiful family for picking her. Huge thanks to Viola’s exceptional and dedicated foster, Heather who has been vital in this massive life saving effort. We want to thank Sheila from @mad_mutts for her dedication to Viola for all these months and to the temp fosters who helped along the way. Thanks to Libby at @thelibertydognetwork and @juliajones_healthyliving for all your help with this magical land seal and a massive thanks to everyone one of you who donated items from her wish list and made monetary donations. Saving Viola’s life cost SUFP over $82,000.00. This is the most we have ever spent on one dog and while we would not change a thing it’s important to remind everyone this could have been avoided had a responsible and reputable rescue with a plan and resources pulled her from the shelter. Viola will never know or feel pain again. She will be loved and adored for the rest of her life. We will be checking in on Viola regularly and look forward to providing updates when we get them.
Viola, like all pit bull type dogs was born inherently good. She always deserved to be seen, respected and protected. We are honored we were able to give her that chance and we will never stop fighting for these dogs. They are all deserving of the care and love Viola recieved and ask you all to remain dedicated to pit bull type dogs and do more if you can. Become an approved foster, adopt, volunteer, donate, educate, advocate and keep sharing dogs so they too can be seen. Please aslo take a moment to celebrate this MASSIVE WIN. Viola overcame all the odds and now gets to live the life she always deserved.
The post 📣LADIES AND GENTLEMAN📣 We could not be more thrilled to announce Viola has been ADOPTED!!!!!!!🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 appeared first on Stand Up For Pits Foundation.
Happy Small Business Saturday
Small Business Saturday ALL Cookies & Treats are $8.99 …
The History Of Small Business Saturday:
Small Business Saturday encourages Americans across the country to support local small businesses.
The day infuses money back into our local economies, promotes vibrant and diverse communities, and celebrates the important role of small businesses in the national economy
While there aren’t specific sales projections for Small Business Saturday 2024, here’s some information about the event and what it can mean for small businesses:
Holiday spendingThe National Retail Federation (NRF) predicts that holiday spending in 2024 will be between $979.5 billion and $989 billion, which is a 2.5–3.5% increase from 2023. The average person is expected to spend around $902 on holiday items, which is about $25 more than last year.Small Business Saturday shoppersThe National Retail Federation also predicts that 64.4 million people will shop on Small Business Saturday in 2024, which is about half the number of shoppers expected on Black Friday.Small Business Saturday is an annual event that takes place on the Saturday following Thanksgiving (this year, November 30, 2024). First observed in 2010, Small Business Saturday has become an important day to show appreciation for the small businesses that are the backbone of our nation’s economy.
Small Business Saturday encourages Americans across the country to support local small businesses.
The day infuses money back into our local economies, promotes vibrant and diverse communities, and celebrates the important role of small businesses in the national economy.
Sticks & Stones May Break Your Bones…and Seriously Injure Your Dog
The post Sticks & Stones May Break Your Bones…and Seriously Injure Your Dog 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.
I’m probably showing my age here, but I remember if I ever came home from school, crying about what some horrible person had said to me, my mother would always tell me to say the same thing: Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.
Honestly, it’s like she wanted me to get bullied.
Of course, we all know now that it’s usually the name-calling that does the most damage to children, but it is the sticks and stones that can really hurt your dog.
It’s All Fun and Games…
How many times have you watched a dog gleefully chase a stick that has been thrown by their owner? Or seen a dog that, for some unknown reason, enjoys carrying and chewing stones? These very common and seemingly innocent activities can have serious consequences for your pet.
Show me a vet who hasn’t had to treat a stick injury, and I’ll show you a vet who has only been on the job a few months. And you don’t have to look very far to find a story about a dog that’s ended up in surgery for eating a stone…or in this case, 2.6 lbs of them! You might think I’m being a bit of an alarmist, but trust me, this advice could save you thousands of dollars in vet bills, and maybe even save your dog’s life.
In my time in clinical practice, I have personally treated around:
- 15 dogs with fractured teeth from chewing stones
- 10 dogs with intestinal blockages caused by stones
- 5 dogs with stone and gravel constipation
- 5 dogs with mouth injuries from sticks
- 3 dogs with penetrating stick injuries
- 2 dogs with sticks wedged in the top of their mouth
- hundreds of dogs with severely worn teeth from chewing stones
of these,
- Dozens required dental surgery
- 7 required abdominal surgery
- 3 required sedation and enema
- 3 required surgical exploration
- 2 needed a specialist referral
- 1 died
Not one of these dog’s owners were cruel, neglectful, or guilty of mistreatment. They just underestimated, or didn’t realize, what could go wrong.
Sticks…
Let’s face it, when a dog is racing after a stick, they’re not thinking to themselves:
“Right, now I want to catch this stick, but I need to make sure I grab it on the side so it doesn’t poke me in the mouth, and be really careful I don’t fumble and land on it, in case it ends up in my chest.”
They’re thinking:
“Stiiiiiiiiick! Get it! Get it! Faster! Get it!”
…or something along those lines!
We can’t expect our dogs to anticipate and avoid all the ways this game can go wrong, particularly if we aren’t, either. No one expects their dog to become impaled during a simple game of fetch, but it does happen.
…and Stones
I had one patient, many years ago, that had been opened up six times to remove stones, as well as some other inedible items. Yes, six. She was a lovely dog with a lovely owner; she just could not be left unsupervised. In the end, she had to wear a cage muzzle virtually 24/7 (it was either that or install a zip!).
Apart from being the potential cause of a surgical emergency, stones are also a common cause of broken and severely worn teeth.
You might be surprised to learn that the trusty tennis ball is also a major culprit when it comes to wearing down teeth, so you might want to think again before letting your dog carry them around and chew on them for hours.
Solutions
I’m the first to admit that stopping dogs from picking up and chewing stones can be a really tough one – we can’t watch them every minute of every day. For the dogs that are completely addicted to the habit, it may be worth going down the route of muzzle training. It’s not an ideal solution, but it beats having them wear their teeth down to the gum, ending up under the surgeon’s knife, or worse.
Most of the time, dogs chew sticks and stones (and other objects) out of boredom, so it can just be a matter of finding the right substitute, which may take some time. Too often, people offer their stone-chewers a chew toy and give up when their dog rejects it. You only have to spend a few minutes in the pet store or online to realize that there are hundreds, possibly thousands, of different types of chew toys out there, so it may just be a matter of finding the right one.
Kodah and Fred are obsessed with this type of flavored chew toy, but the Labradors aren’t the slightest bit interested (fortunately, their days of chewing inappropriate things are behind them). And for dogs that love to chase a stick, dog toy manufacturers have got you covered too.
No Excuses
You might think I’m being dramatic, but I can tell you firsthand that we see dogs daily for injuries related to chasing sticks and chewing stones. Your dog might not take to the first stick or stone substitute you try, but believe me, it’s worth persevering. I don’t want to see your dog on my operating table.
- Read her previous article: Fred’s Security Donuts: Strange Things That Make Him Special (with Video)
The post Sticks & Stones May Break Your Bones…and Seriously Injure Your Dog 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 Do I Know If My Dog Is Healthy? Our Vet Discusses 12 Ways to Tell
The post How Do I Know If My Dog Is Healthy? Our Vet Discusses 12 Ways to Tell 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.
Apart from hilarious video clips and adorable photos, one of the main reasons dog owners turn to the internet is to make sure their dog is okay. Of course, there is no substitute for a physical examination by a vet, but what if you are just wanting some reassurance that your dog is healthy? Every dog is different, and what is normal for one may be a sign of a problem for another, so it’s important to be familiar with your dog’s healthy normal. Plodding along and sleeping 16 hours a day can be perfectly normal for one dog but a sign of serious illness in another, and often the most important sign of a problem is a deviation from the norm.
A great way to stay on top of your dog’s health is to ask your vet to help you create a record of their normal, healthy parameters. That way, you’ll have a personalized baseline that will help to alert you to any changes. Use a table like this one, plus photos of their eyes, gums, or any other features, that you can use as a reference.
Name | D.O.B. | ||
Weight | Ideal weight | ||
Heart rate | (bpm) | Respiratory rate | (bpm) |
To help you keep on top of your best friend’s health, we’ve compiled this list of 12 Ways to Tell If Your Dog Is Healthy. This is not a substitute for veterinary advice, but it can help you assess your dog’s health and recognize any problems.
The 12 Ways to Tell If Your Dog Is Healthy
1. Talk To A Vet
If there is something that is worrying you about your dog, the safest thing to do is to consult a vet. You can make an appointment at your local veterinary practice, or if you would like some guidance and advice without leaving home, you can always schedule an online appointment with a reliable televet service, such as PangoVet, where you can speak to a qualified veterinarian about your dog’s health. They can discuss your concerns and help you decide if your dog needs to be seen for a physical examination or provide reassurance if your dog is healthy.
To talk to a vet online now, click on the image or button below:
2. Demeanor
When we assess a patient, we use terms like:
- Bright, alert, and responsive (BAR)
- Boisterous
- Excitable
- Dull, depressed
- Subdued
- Agitated
These terms can be applied to your pet as well, but you don’t need to be too clinical. If your dog is as lively, friendly, quiet, or active as they usually are, this is a good indication that they are healthy. A normally lively dog acting subdued can be a clear sign of a problem, as can a dog that enjoys a lazy lifestyle suddenly being up and pacing around. Friendly dogs becoming aggressive, or independent dogs becoming clingy, can also tell us that something isn’t right.
One of the most challenging descriptions to hear from owners is that their dog is “just not him/herself,” but this can also be one of the most important early indicators of pain or illness. Never ignore or underestimate the significance of a change in your dog’s demeanor.
3. Heart Rate
Your dog’s heart rate will change in response to a number of factors, and some are normal but others are a sign of illness, so it’s good to be aware of what your dog’s resting heart rate should be in order to assess any changes.
There are a few places that you can use to check your dog’s heart rate:
Carotid artery – located in the jugular groove, either side of the trachea (windpipe) on the neck. | |
Chest wall (left side) – on lean dogs, you should be able to feel (or even see) your dog’s heart beating under their ribs around where their elbow is when they are standing. | |
Femoral artery – this can be felt when your dog is standing up or lying down. Place your fingers in the groove between the thigh muscles just below your dog’s groin. Make sure your dog is comfortable with your hands in this area first! |
Heart rate generally decreases as the size of the dog increases, but things like obesity can also influence this. You can use the following table as a guide:
Dog size | Normal resting heart rate (bpm) | |
Toy | < 12 lbs | 120 – 160 |
Small | 12 – 25 lbs | 100 – 120 |
Medium | 25 – 50 lbs | 80 – 100 |
Large | 50 – 75 lbs | 70 – 100 |
Giant | > 75 lbs | 50 – 80 |
Below are some of the more common ways that your dog’s heart rate may be increased or decreased:
Increase | Decrease |
|
|
4. Respiration Rate
The number of breaths your dog takes in a minute will change multiple times throughout the day, so the most reliable time to measure this is when your dog is asleep. Respiration rate does tend to be a little faster in smaller dogs compared to large ones, but does not vary as significantly with size as heart rate.
The normal resting respiratory rate for dogs is 15 – 30 bpm.
5. Eyes
Some say the eyes are the window to the soul, but they can also tell you a lot about health and well-being. Your dog’s eyes can give you an idea of how they are feeling and whether or not they are dehydrated, as well as provide insight into some serious health conditions. Some factors to consider when assessing your dog’s eyes include:
- Are they bright and clear? Dull or cloudy?
- Are they whites of the eye (sclera)
- really white?
- pink/red?
- yellow?
- Are they sunken? Is there a gap between the globe (eyeball) and the eye socket?
- Are the eyes equal in size and position?
- Are the pupils equal in size and position?
- Is your dog squinting or avoiding bright light?
- Are there any changes to the pigmentation of the iris?
Even subtle changes can indicate a problem, and the more information you can give your vet, the better.
6. Gums
Healthy gums should be salmon pink and feel moist to the touch. Many dogs have dark brown or black pigment on their gums, making this a little harder to assess, but you should be able to find an area without pigmentation to use. Like the eyes, changes in the gums can give us quite a lot of information:
Dry or tacky | Dehydration |
Pale, white | Hypotension (eg. low blood pressure, shock, anemia) |
Slow capillary refill time (CRT) | Hypotension (eg. low blood pressure, hemorrhage) |
Blue or purple tinge | Hypoxia (low blood oxygen) which may be due to cardiorespiratory disease and some toxins |
Yellow | Icterus/jaundice indicates hepatic (liver) disease or hemolysis (damaged blood cells) |
Dark pink/red | Endotoxins/sepsis (eg. gastric or intestinal obstruction, peritonitis) |
Red spots/patches | Clotting problem |
How to check your dog’s CRT:
Find a pink area of the gum and carefully push your finger against the gum so that it blanches white. Measure how long it takes for the color to return.
Normal CRT is around 1-2 seconds.
7. Movement and Posture
Changes to your dog’s gait (how they walk), posture, how they get up and down, and how easily they move can give us lots of information, not just about their muscles, bones, and joints, but also about the health of their internal organs and neurological system.
A hunched back could be due to a spinal issue, or it could be an indication of abdominal pain. Difficulty standing up and moving around could be caused by arthritis, weakness, or a neurological problem.
Dogs are very good at masking signs of pain, so even subtle changes in movement and posture should be taken seriously.
8. Appetite
A normal appetite isn’t a guarantee that everything is okay, but it is a good indicator of how your dog is feeling. Some dogs will go off their food in response to a minor inconvenience, whilst others (I’m looking at you, Labradors) would keep eating even if all four limbs were missing. Okay, this might be a slight exaggeration, but I’m sure you get the point!
While skipping the odd meal here or there is rarely cause for concern, a regular or persistent change in appetite should be addressed, even if this is an increased appetite.
And if your dog is having trouble keeping food down, they should certainly be checked by a vet.
9. Feces
All dogs will have the occasional bout of diarrhea, but in general, a healthy dog should be producing formed feces at regular intervals. Your dog’s normal will be determined by their metabolism, the type of food they are eating, and how often they are fed.
While some dogs will have firmer poops than others, all dogs should be producing feces that are formed and pick-upable, but not rock hard and dry. If your dog’s normal doesn’t fit into this description, it’s worth talking to your vet.
10. Drinking and Urination
How much and how often your dog passes urine is also influenced by their diet and drinking habits, so these two tend to go hand in hand. Changes in the volume, color, smell, and frequency of urination can be the result of a change in diet, infection, bladder stones, cancer, kidney disease, or endocrine diseases like diabetes or Cushing’s disease.
Sometimes dogs will drink more water due to higher temperatures or a change in their food, but the conditions above will also result in an increase in water intake.
It can be very useful to measure how much water your dog drinks during a 24-hour period, and if you’ve got an appointment with the vet, try to collect a urine sample before you go.
11. Teeth
Our dog’s dental health is often forgotten until there is a problem. It’s important to get into the habit of checking your dog’s teeth regularly for signs of disease. Some dogs are more amenable to this than others, and it is something you should practice with your pup from a young age. For less cooperative dogs, try using a toy or some food to get them to open up so you can visually assess their mouth.
Smelly breath, drooling, dropping food, or only using one side of the mouth to chew are all potential signs of dental disease, which are too easily and often ignored.
12. Tender spots
As part of your daily doggy cuddles, be sure to run your hands over your dog’s body, limbs, and tail, checking for any areas of pain, tenderness, lumps, or bumps. While minor niggles will often turn out to be nothing, catching something early could save your dog’s life.
Final Thoughts
It’s normal to worry about the health of your dog, and sometimes we just need reassurance that everything is okay. If you’re looking for a more systematic way to assess your dog’s health at home, hopefully, the points above will give you the guidance you need. Remember that talking to your vet about any concerns you have will always be the best and most important step you can take to make sure your dog is happy and healthy.
Featured Image Credit: Harbucks, Shutterstock
The post How Do I Know If My Dog Is Healthy? Our Vet Discusses 12 Ways to Tell 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.
5 Best Black Friday/Cyber Monday Dog DNA Kit Deals & Sales 2024
The post 5 Best Black Friday/Cyber Monday Dog DNA Kit Deals & Sales 2024 by Dogster Team 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.
Dog DNA tests can be pricey, but during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, there are some good deals available. This allows you to purchase a quality DNA kit for your dog without breaking the bank. If you want to learn more about your dog’s DNA, this buyer’s guide is perfect for you! Here, you will find a detailed list of dog DNA tests that have discounted prices this Black Friday.
The Top 5 Dog DNA Test Black Friday Deals
1. Embarks Health and Breed Identification Kit
2. 30% OFF! – Wisdom Panels Dog DNA Tests
3. Embark Purebred Dog DNA Test
4. 20% OFF! – DNA My Dog Test
5. 24% OFF! – Orivet Geno Dog DNA Breed Identification Test
FAQ Section
Are Dog DNA Tests Accurate?
Most high-quality dog DNA tests are accurate. They aren’t as accurate as veterinarian DNA dog tests, but they can give you a good indication of your dog’s ancestry and the percentage of a specific genetic potential that they contain. Cheek swabs (also known as saliva tests) are the most effective form of dog DNA identification. It is ideal to purchase a DNA testing kit with at least a 90% accuracy rate.
What Do Dog DNA Tests Do?
DNA tests allow you to view your dog’s specific breed information by running a test on their saliva, and the swab is then tested and processed through a database that can connect to your phone or be emailed. This will then give you a detailed rundown of your dog’s heritage, ancestry, genetic potential, and possibly breed profile facts. The tests can help you understand your dog better.
Can All Breeds Of Dogs Use A DNA Test?
Yes. Nearly all breeds are entered into a large database that allows you to run the DNA through. Most dog DNA test kits have over 300 breeds on record, so you can easily find genetic matches for your dog. However, some rare or heavily mixed-bred dogs can get diluted results, which means that some dogs are not in the test’s database.
Conclusion
Testing your dog’s DNA can be made easy by Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals in 2024. There are plenty of effective tests going on sale, and it’s a great time of the year to test your dog’s DNA to find out more information about them. You can enjoy the budget-friendly offers while getting reassurance about your dog’s genetics.
Featured Image Credit: Chewy / Dog vector created by pch.vector – www.freepik.com
The post 5 Best Black Friday/Cyber Monday Dog DNA Kit Deals & Sales 2024 by Dogster Team 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.
C60 Purple Power For Pets Review 2024: The Fountain Of Youth In a Bottle
The post C60 Purple Power For Pets Review 2024: The Fountain Of Youth In a Bottle by Gabrielle McGhee 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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Review Summary
We give C60 Purple Power For Pets a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Aging is a process that can be unkind to both people and animals. But why? Why do wrinkles form on our faces? Why do our joints ache? Why does our vision diminish? As it turns out, there is a scientific explanation, and it was discovered only four short decades ago – Oxidative Stress. Officially described as an imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals, oxidative stress can lead to issues as benign as wrinkles and gray hair, or as severe as Alzheimer’s, cancer, and kidney disease. So, how do we fix the imbalance?
The Carbon 60 molecule – formally known as Buckminsterfullerene but better known as C60 – is alleged to be the most powerful antioxidant known to man. First hypothesized in 1979 by Buckminster Fuller, it took decades of research to prove this molecule’s value, and since then, several brands of C60 supplements have emerged, one of the purest options being C60 Power. With a product line for both people and pets, this brand offers arguably the best C60 supplement on the market. Every pet owner seeking to improve their pet’s health and increase their longevity should consider giving C60 Power’s “Purple Power For Pets” a try.
Overview
Product Type: | Oil-based antioxidant supplement |
Best Suited For: | Cats, dogs, small mammals; Senior pets; Pets with chronic ailments |
Price Range: | A higher-end supplement with a price tag to match, but worth the investment |
Contents: | Bottled liquid supplement and a measuring spoon |
Specs: | 24.3 mg/oz Active C60 in olive oil or avocado oil; 9 mg/oz Active C60 in coconut oil |
Options: | 2 oz, 4 oz, 8 oz, or 16 oz bottles; Avocado, coconut, or olive oil base |
Storage: | Keep at room temperature in a dark place |
Dosage: | 0-25 lbs: ¼ tsp, 26-50 lbs: ½ tsp, 50-100 lbs: 1 tsp, 100+ lbs: 1 tsp per 100 lbs |
Our Experience
I recently started supplementing my dogs with the C60 Purple Power For Pets in avocado oil. I was very eager to find out if this liquid antioxidant could make a difference in the general health of my senior dog, Turtle, an almost 13-year-old Lab-mix. Turtle has had some health issues in recent years, and after a plethora of diagnostic testing, we were given the vague diagnosis of “probably cancer.” In addition, he has suffered from hip dysplasia since he was a puppy, and as he has aged, his mobility and exercise stamina have declined. I wondered, “Could an antioxidant help?”
For the first three weeks of C60 supplementation, I didn’t notice any discernible change, but that fourth week – WOW. Suddenly, Turtle was initiating play with the other dogs, running across the yard with ease, and generally prancing about with his head and tail held high, something I have not seen him do in years. His raspy, labored breathing, which our veterinarian has been unable to diagnose, has improved, and he is no longer keeping me up at night panting, but instead sleeping peacefully. And I’ve noticed an improvement in his stamina during our daily walks – he used to be trailing behind by the end, but now he is staying at the front of the pack the whole way through.
I’ve also been giving the Purple Power to my two younger dogs, Rooney and Candy, and I have noticed an increase in their energy levels as well. They get the “zoomies” a lot more, and even when I think they should be tired after a walk, they’re still roughhousing with each other, which tells me they’re feeling good and enjoying life! And Candy, who has been mildly itchy since we adopted her eight months ago, seems to be scratching less, which was an unexpected benefit but something I’ve read about in other customer reviews.
C60 Purple Power For Pets has had a noticeable positive impact on all three of my dogs, but, most importantly, seems to have given my old guy Turtle a new lease on life. It’s a supplement that does take several weeks or even months to reveal its benefits, but I feel confident it has been repairing cellular damage inside Turtle’s aged body based on what I’ve observed so far.
I’ve also been trying some C60 Power human supplements, and my husband and I have since noticed better energy levels and improved sleep. In addition, I experienced a much less painful menstrual period while taking C60, a stubborn wart on my finger has nearly vanished, and I’ve been loving the way my skin looks since using their eye cream and anti-gravity serum. This C60 supplement brand really does have a product for everybody – and their pets!
Pros & Cons
- 99% pure C60
- Three organic oil options
- Four sizes available
- Easy to administer
- Wide range of benefits
- Made in the USA
- Messy to dispense
- Pricey
Key Features
How to administer
C60 Purple Power is a liquid supplement that is best administered by mixing the correct dosage with food. The 2 oz bottle comes with a dropper, but the other three sizes do not and must be poured into a measuring spoon. C60 Power typically includes a double-sided spoon with purchase, which measures a teaspoon on one side and a tablespoon on the other. However, pets under 25 lbs require a ¼ tsp dose, and pets 26-50 lbs require ½ tsp, meaning you will need to use your own measuring spoon for pets under 50 lbs.
Ingredients
Each bottle of C60 Purple Power For Pets contains just two ingredients – C60 carbon fullerenes, the amazing soccer-ball-shaped molecules that trap harmful free radicals in the body, and organic plant oil, and either MCT coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, or avocado oil. The three oil varieties ensure even pets with dietary sensitivities have an option that will work for them. And there are zero chemical solvents, fillers, flavors, or dyes.
Results
Like many supplements, C60 Purple Power For Pets can take weeks or even months to produce noticeable results. That’s because this supplement works on a deep cellular level far beyond what the human eye can see. The results of using this C60 supplement will vary but know that once you start seeing the outward signs, this amazing product has already done some incredible internal work. Many pet owners who have reviewed Purple Power have noted that they saw increased energy levels, improved mobility, better coat condition, and a happier demeanor.
About C60 Power
Manufacturing: | Manufactured in the USA in FDA-compliant, GMP-certified facilities |
Sourcing: | Lab-manufactured C60; Oils sourced from organic farms |
Testing: | Third-party tested for purity, quality, concentration, and bioavailability |
Quality: | 99.99% pure sublimated C60; Solvent free |
Shipping: | Allow 2-10 business days for delivery |
The first C60 Power products were created in 2016 by scientist Ken Swartz, who soon teamed up with communications specialist Jessica MacNaughton to help launch this amazing supplement. The brand’s creators were believers of what C60 supplementation could do for their customers because they had already seen the benefits in themselves. Ken discovered the power of C60 by accident while managing a fusion reactor project. The nature of the work produced harmful radiation, and since Ken had previously learned of C60’s ability to protect against free radicals, he began taking it as a measure of protection. When the fusion project ended, Ken continued taking C60 because he felt so good, and when his macular degeneration was mysteriously deemed cured by his optometrist eight months later, Ken knew there was something truly special about this molecular powerhouse. Jessica came to the same conclusion after just six months of use when she noticed nagging allergy symptoms had vanished, as had her brain fog and painful menstrual cramps.
In 2021, the duo launched C60 Power to help people, and their pets, achieve optimal health. This company has focused on purity right from the start and maintains an expert board of medical advisors, including a veterinarian to provide input on their popular line of pet products. The C60 Power website is also a great source of educational materials regarding the C60 molecule’s properties and health benefits and provides links to a wide variety of prior research studies involving C60 under their “Resources” tab. They also have a fantastic YouTube channel with lots of bite-sized clips for easy learning. For anyone wanting to know more about this incredible supplement, C60 Power has all the info!
Is C60 Power a Good Value?
C60 Power offers top-tier products at a price to match, but don’t be fooled by the cheap stuff. Any deal that seems too good to be true is likely a product derived using toxic chemical solvents or is made in a place with questionable manufacturing regulations. USA-made C60 Power uses only sublimated C60, not vacuum oven-baked C60 with solvents, so their products are 99.99% pure, clean, and safe for you and your pets. This level of quality, which is easily supported by their 3rd-party testing reports, is appropriately reflected in their price.
How We Tested
When I received my C60 Purple Power For Pets, I started out with the recommended daily dose for each of my three dogs based on their weights. For my big dog, Turtle, I was able to use the included measuring spoon, as his dose at 60 lbs was 1 tsp. For the little girls, Rooney and Candy, I had to use my own measuring spoon since their doses were both only ¼ tsp. I drizzled the liquid over their lunch every day, and they all ate it without issue.
Turtle and Rooney did well with this supplement right away, while Candy had a little digestive upset that caused some loose stools. In retrospect, I should have started with a lower dose (which C60 Power recommends), but once I noticed the issue, I discontinued the supplement for a few days until she was back to normal, and then restarted at a half dose, which she did fine with. After using this supplement for an entire month, I’ve noticed she does better with a slightly lower dose, so I’ll be keeping her on this indefinitely while the other two dogs are doing great with a full dose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this supplement laboratory-tested?
All C60 Power products are third-party tested, and the reports are always available to customers. On the box that the 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz bottles come in, there is a QR code that can be scanned to access the Certificate of Analysis for that bottle, or consumers can contact C60 Power by phone or email if they have any questions or concerns about their purchase.
Does it come in different flavors?
C60 Purple Power For Pets comes in three varieties – olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil – but is not flavored. Though not completely tasteless, these liquid supplements all possess a very mild flavor and are easily mixed into your pet’s food.
What bottle sizes are available?
There are currently four sizes of C60 Purple Power For Pets – 2 oz, 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz. The 2 oz bottle is the only one that comes with a dropper for easy dispensing and is a great first-time purchase to see how your pet responds to this product.
How long will it take for me to see the benefits in my pet?
Health benefits may be observed in pets in as little as 3-4 weeks, but C60 Power recommends using it for at least 30 days before expecting results. This supplement will repair more internal cell damage the longer you use it, so new positive effects are likely to appear over time during the first several months of use and beyond.
Conclusion
C60 Purple Power For Pets is a high-quality supplement that is tested to be safe and effective for our furry family members. It can produce noticeable effects with just a month of use and is a powerful tool for improving the long-term health and wellbeing of our animals. It may be able to replace some other supplements as it has a wide range of benefits, and is well worth the investment to improve and extend our pets’ lives.
The post C60 Purple Power For Pets Review 2024: The Fountain Of Youth In a Bottle by Gabrielle McGhee 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.