Arthritis is when joints (such as hips and elbows) become inflamed, causing pain and discomfort. Bones in a healthy joint have a smooth surface, which allows them to glide past each other easily when moving around. For dogs, arthritis it is often when the cartilage within a joint change or becomes damaged, making movements between the joints less smooth and causes joints to rub against each other, causing swelling.
The rubbing can be extremely unconformable and painful, and can often damage the cartilage even more. As a result of the increased friction, new bone can form around the joint, which makes it even stiffer and harder for your dog to move around.
Although it is more common in senior dogs, young pets can also suffer from arthritis if they become injured, such as tearing their cruciate ligament, or if they have weak muscles and muscle loss.
Although it may seem your dog is acting normal within themselves such as eating normally and wanting to go on walks, there are some key indications of arthritis in dogs to be aware of and look out for:
If you notice your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, a visit to your vet may be needed to confirm a diagnosis with a simple physical examination, blood test, or x-ray.
There are several external and internal factors that may cause arthritis in your dog, some include:
Some dog breeds are more susceptible to arthritis as they can suffer from bone conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These breeds include working dogs such as German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Springer Spaniels, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Rottweilers. Most bone conditions are more common in larger breeds, and it tends to be the larger the dog is, the more likely they are to have joint issues.
However, elbow dysplasia and also any 'wonkiness' in the legs is seen most often in the short-nosed breeds like Shih Tzus and British Bulldogs. If the joint isn't formed properly, the weight of the dog can cause pressure in the wrong places of the joint and cause damage. Over-breeding can also play a role in how joints are formed within the body, and therefore, this can also have an impact on if arthritis forms.
While there is no cure for arthritis, there are several treatment options available in different forms to support your dog and prevent the symptoms from worsening.
What is a dog run?
A dog run is a secure enclosed outdoor space or structure for your dog to run free and live comfortably. Dog runs allow your pooch to enjoy their own space and freedom, while giving you the peace of mind that they are safe and happy!
Dog runs can be brought as a pre-made set or can be made up from multiple individual panels allowing you to create a more flexible outdoor home, specific for your space and pet. They are used in kennels, animal charities, the police and for individual pet owners.
Dog runs are suitable for both long-term or short-term use, either by using them as an extra outdoor space to leave your dog in when you need them out from under your feet, or by having a specially adapted run for your working dogs to sleep in all year round.
The increase in demand of dog runs for private use comes from a number of factors, such as:
-Providing them with a safe space to play
-Encouraging training
-An extension of their indoor space
-Used as an exercise zone
-A safe and enclosed area to leave them on their own
Benefits of dog runs:
Providing safety and security, dog runs are beneficial for both dogs and their owners in many ways and can provide several health and wellbeing benefits for your pet.
-Provides your dog with their own home- We as humans know how important it is to have our own space to have ‘chill out time’ and how relaxing being in your own safe space can be; dogs can feel exactly the same. Having their own run that they can call home can have many benefits, especially for dogs with environmental anxiety, as this allows the run to become their own safe space and reduced the anxiety that comes with the uncertainty of not knowing where they are. Overtime your animal will learn to associate their run with comfort, warmth and security, as long as you remember they are to be used as a home for your dog and not as a place of punishment.
-Provides environmental enrichment-We all know how much dogs love to be outside, it’s a space for them to be themselves and disperse all of that energy that they normally save for 11pm zoomies! Environmental enrichments help to maintain a dog’s physical and psychological health by alleviating boredom and stress- which is also another benefit to us as it makes them a bit easier to look after!
-Can be the perfect space for training-We all know how difficult toilet training can sometimes be, especially when your dog is stubborn! Using a dog run ensures your dog is outside and in a space where they can use the toilet and you can easily clean it. As well as this, runs can help with teething dogs or dogs that may not be able to stay inside the house when alone (unless you want your house ripped apart!). The outdoor run can be a space where your dog can’t get up to mischief, and overtime can help them forget about how fun it is to chew furniture!
-Provides Safety-One of the most important features you want your dog run to have is for it to be secure and safe for your animal. An enclosed dog run provides you with the peace of mind that they are far from any danger such as poisonous plants, and they are also safe from any unwanted visitors. As well as this, lots of dogs mischievous sides comes out when they’re alone, but the dog runs provide a safe space for them to be left unsupervised in, without the panic of them hurting themselves or something else.
-Convenience-As much as you love your pet, sometimes they can get in the way and all you need is a place for them to be while you sort everything out! A dog run provides you with a safe home for your pet to be unsupervised, meaning you can leave them to be happy while you continue with your busy life. This can come in handy when there are visitors, builders, parties, other dogs that you need to separate them from or just when you both need some chill time.
-Flexible-Dog runs can be made to suit your dog and the space you have available. This means you can make them as big as you want and if you are using individual panels, you can even make them a specific shape to suit your garden by adding or removing panels as and when you wish. As well as this, you can make the inside of the run suitable for your dogs specific needs, such as adding a kennel, toys, grass and anything you think they will need while they are in the run. Dog run panels can be added to existing structures such as sheds which can be made into a shelter area and utilized as your dogs cabin and sleeping area.
What makes a good dog run?
The most important thing to remember when choosing a dog run for your pet is to make sure the run is suitable to specifically fit them and their needs. This depends on many factors such as how long they will spend in the run, what they will do in there and the size of your dog.
When building your dog run, you should consider these:
-Making sure there is enough space for your dog- There is no such thing as having a run too big for your dog, however there can be many negative consequences of the run being too small. If your dog is to spend more than a couple of hours a day in its dog run, we recommend that small and medium dogs will need a minimum of 3 square meters, increasing to 5+ for larger dogs.
-Choosing the correct bar/panel type- There are different types of panel bars which each fit specific requirements, making it easier to pick the one most suitable for you and your pets. For example, mesh panels are mostly used for destructive dogs, 5cm bar gaps are suitable for small-medium sized animals and 8cm bar gaps are suitable for larger breeds. As well as different bar types, there are also solid panels available which can be used to block the dogs view, or can be used to help with shelter from wind. Please see ‘Types of panels’ section for more information.
-Providing the right accessories-While in the run, you will need to ensure your dog has all the right items it will need, and this can change depending on how much time they will spend in there. For example, every dog will have to have a supply of clean and fresh water, even if they are only in the run for a small amount of time. Here at Doghealth, we have heavy duty galvanized bowls and bowl holders which are perfect for dog runs (https://www.doghealth.co.uk/products/new-design-heavy-duty-single-kennel-bowl-and-holder). If your dog is to spend multiple hours in the run, or sleep overnight in it, you will need to provide them with a sheltered bed to sleep and lay in. As well as this, you will have to consider extra warmth if your dog will be in the run during colder weather, and shelter from sun if they will be in there during hotter weather.
-Providing enrichments-It is important that the dog run is a fun and enjoyable experience for your dog and to ensure this, you can provide enrichments for your dog to keep themselves busy. Some recommendations are toys, mental stimulations and fun items such as obstacle courses.
-Making sure the space you have it suitable- Your dog run needs to be a space that is specific to your dog, and to ensure this is done properly you will have to consider many things such as the amount of time they will spend in the run, the weather, the size of your dog and their health and wellbeing. We recommend building your dog run either on concrete or having an easily cleanable floor, such as putting down rubber matting, as the run will need to be cleaned regularly to make sure your dogs health is not effected. If your dog is going to be in the run for a long amount of time all year round, you will need to add items such as a roof to ensure it is suitable for all weather conditions. In this case, you will also need to consider adding bedding and shelter to the run so your dog has a space to lay down and sleep.
-Making sure it is as stable and safe as possible-Dog runs are secure units however there are ways in which you can ensure your pen is as safe as possible. Extra brackets are available so you can bolt the panels down to a concrete base/wall to improve the stability of the run, as well as adding in galvanized posts which can be used as extra strength in keeping your panels straight and strong, especially if the run is long and made up of multiple panels.
Why are Galvanized dog runs better then chain-link dog kennels:
Galvanized dog runs are both long lasting and stronger than the ‘US style’ chain link kennels. Chain link kennels are made from a form of mesh similar to chicken wire and consist of slim metal poles at either end of the panels, which have a chain link to join them together. Chain link kennels are not as safe for both your dog and you, as they are easier to get through and do not last as long. Chain link kennels may be cheaper to set up, however you may find that they will end up costing you more in the long run.
Installing dog runs:
Building your dog run requires very little knowledge or power and can be easily done with a minimum of two people. Once you have ensured you have a suitable base for the dog run to be set on (such as concrete or rubber matting), you can start assembling the individual panels together by bolting them using their pre-drilled holes. Each panel will need two standard bolts to secure it to another one, and if you wish, you can add more security by also using floor or roof brackets depending on the situation of the run. Once the panels have been bolted together, they simply support each other and stand as a complete run.
How to introduce your dog to its new run:
They key to ensuring your dog develops a positive attitude towards their dog run is to use it as a place of fun time, chill time and definitely not as a place of punishment. The way to do this is by using positive reinforcements- start by leaving the door to the run open and playing with your dog near it for 5-10 minutes, then leaving your dog to explore closer if they wish. Each day, progress to play with your dog closer to the run or inside the run, eventually do this inside with the door closed. At meal times, start by putting your dogs food near the run (but not in it) and over the next few days you can place the bowl closer to the inside of the run, eventually encouraging them to eat within the dog run with the door open. Over time, you can start to close the door for short amount of time while your dog is eating, and this reinforces the fact that the dog run is a positive environment. As well as this, you can slowly encourage your dog to spend time alone near or inside the dog run, so they will naturally develop independence and feel more confident within the space.
Types of panels: Individual panels can come in different sizes and types to suit your dog and space. Below are some examples of types of panel gaps you can get (available on our website- https://www.doghealth.co.uk/), and these are all available in 1m, 1.5m or 2m lengths with a 1.84m height as standard. |
-8cm gap- The vertical bars within the dog run panels are 8cm apart. This is by far the most popular type of panel and the most cost effective. This type is suitable for all but the smallest dogs and cats, but is perfect for medium or larger dogs that cannot fit through the gap. If you are using this type for young puppies, customers often use mesh around the lower part of the dog run for the first few weeks until the puppies are bigger.
-5cm gap- The vertical bars within the dog run panels are 5cm apart. This is a popular choice with kennels as it is suitable for dogs all shapes and sizes. These types of panels are also particularly climb resistant.
-Mesh-The vertical bars within the dog run panels have mesh between bars. These panels are for those who don’t want to take any chances. These dog run panels are 4mm welded mesh- the best solution for cats and small dogs. They are mostly used for aggressive dogs that you need to secure within the run, or highly destructive dogs as the mesh makes them the strongest type of panel.
-Full or ¾ solid- These dog run panels are panels filled with ridge profiled coated steel sheets, either all the way down the panel or ¾ of the way, just leaving the top ¼ with bars. These types of panels are useful in parts of a dog run where you need to form a screen such as using it as a wind break. These types of panels also have good noise reduction properties if barking is a problem.
Here at Doghealth, our high-quality panels all come with a lifetime guarantee against manufacturing faults.
]]>There are plenty of fruit and vegetables worth incorporating into your dog’s diet. But at the same time, some of them (like grapes) can be harmful to your pet’s health.
6 Major Health Benefits Of Bananas For Dogs
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Bananas offer dogs some of the same health benefits that they do for humans. In particular, there are 6 that come to mind:
The Downside Of Feeding Bananas To Your Dog
Bananas have natural sugars and starches. For reference, a medium-sized banana has 14 grams of sugar and about 6 grams of starch.
Too much sugar and starch can be harmful for your dog. Weight gain can be an issue . Like humans, obesity in dogs can occur when they eat starchy diets.
Although bananas provide digestive benefits, overfeeding your dog can result in upset stomachs. Excess sugar, for example, can often be a cause for diarrhoea. And for some dogs, too many bananas can also lead to constipation.
Can Dogs Eat Banana Peels?
Banana peels aren’t toxic for dogs. But, they’re difficult for canines to chew. That toughness can make them hard for dogs to digest.
If your dog eats a banana peel, she could become sick. Indigestion can result and vomiting is a common symptom that follows.
How Much Banana Can a Dog Eat?
This factor depends on how big your dog is.
Due to sugar content, feed bananas to your dog only as treats. In general, treats should only make up 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
Remember, as with everything, that moderation is key - Gordon Brown famously was reported to eat up to 20 bananas a day!]]>Stool eating is actually a common habit of many dogs. We look at possible causes, either medical or behavioural, and suggest remedies!
]]>Stool eating is actually a common habit of many dogs. We look at possible causes, either medical or behavioural, and suggest remedies!
Why Do Dogs Eat Poop?
Medical Reasons
A natural diet ( ie in the wild) includes the digestive tract in prey which naturally provides the appropriate amount of digestive enzymes needed.
BUT.. many dogs today are fed highly processed diets.
Digestive enzymes help ensure your dog is properly able to absorb his nutrition. If he doesn’t have the enzymes needed … food will pass through undigested.
Dogs can create enzymes on their own but they aren’t always enough. This is why you need to make sure they’re part of his daily diet.
And by ensuring he is getting the proper nutrition you’ll help keep diseases away.
It’s possible that your dog may have a hydrochloric acid deficiency….this can be a result of a poor diet or aging.
Hydrochloric acid is used by the body to break down proteins. If your dog doesn’t have enough, he won’t be able to digest food and it’ll just pass through. He’ll then seek out poop for missing nutrients.
Poop eating is also a symptom of mineral deficiency
Make sure you’re feeding your dog enough food at regular times. If your dog is losing weight on a fresh, whole diet, then feed him more!
And keep to a schedule, a hungry dog will look for other food sources you may not like.
EPI is a genetic condition that some young dogs struggle with … but they can develop symptoms later in life too. It’s also known as pancreatic insufficiency.
Certain diseases like diabetes and thyroid issues can make your dog feel hungry … even if he’s not actually hungry.
Steroids can also make your dog ravenous enough to eat stool. And let’s be honest … many dogs don’t need much of a push.
Any condition that leads to poor nutrient absorption can, in turn, lead to stool eating. He may resort to eating his own in attempts to get undigested nutrients back. Or he may find your cat’s stool even more delightful.
It’s important to consider whose stool he is seeking, because it may also be an indicator of a deficiency or illness in that pet.
If your dog has a worms he has to compete for nutrients with the parasites. This leaves him getting less nutrition as the parasites mature.
Behavioural Reasons
Now that we’ve covered some of the possible health reasons your dog may eat poop … let’s move onto possible behavioural reasons.
There’s one key time that a dog will eat stool and it’s very much in the natural order of things. This is when a female dog cleans up after her puppies to keep the nest clean. This drive for cleanliness could also account for other dogs that “clean up” stool. If you have a younger dog they can pick this habit up from an older dog. Sometimes they learn this from their Mothers who do this as a natural housekeeping skill
Puppies are curious and exploring their surroundings is an important part of their development. It’s not unusual for them to eat many things, including poop as part of their adventures.
The good news is that most puppies grow out of the poop eating stage.
Dogs are natural scavengers and smells are a big part of that. Poop stinks to us … but to our dogs it’s amazing.
If your dog is home alone all day with not much to do, he’ll find something. If there happens to be some poop within his reach … he may just find a new way to entertain himself and get a little treat in the process.
Our dogs love us and want our attention. It might seem odd, but for some dogs getting in trouble is still a good thing. They get your attention and the added fun of poop hunting all at once.
Dogs who are stressed can sometimes eat things they shouldn’t … and some may relieve stress by eating poop.
It’s a sad truth but puppy farm dogs are more likely to develop this habit. They grow up in stressful environments and often have poor nutritional starts.
Punishment for having accidents in the house might leave your dog worried that poop is a bad thing. Owners should not make a big deal of accidents as some dogs may “hide the evidence” later.
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How To Stop Your Dog From Eating Poop
By now you’ve ruled out or in, all the reasons why your dog may be eating poop. Now it’s time to review what you can do to kick this gross habit at home.
Keep things clean and simple. By supervising your dog out on walks or in the yard, you can clean up poop when it happens. And if you have cats at home you’ll want to keep the litter box clean often too.
Keep your dog’s brain healthy and active. Develop a play routine that provides exercise and mental stimulation. This is really important if you have a working breed. You may even want to sign up for agility or fly-ball class for added learning. Choosing safe toys that provide entertainment is also a great idea for times when you can’t play together.
Make sure he’s eating a raw, whole, varied diet of quality proteins. Raw food has those digestive enzymes your dog needs to help him process his meals. If you’re feeding cooked food only, you’ll definitely want to add digestive enzymes. Raw, green tripe is particularly high in digestive enzymes, as well as probiotics. Learn more about raw green tripe, here.
For a trace mineral deficiency, you can add some kelp, according to Dr Demers. And for a hydrochloric acid deficiency, try some apple cider vinegar (1 tsp per 25 pounds in food), which may help mimic the missing acid and help the body compensate for the deficiency, according to Dr DeHaan. Learn more about the health benefits of sea vegetables like kelp, here.
Any time you find your dog is struggling to absorb nutrients you want to check for parasites. This is a quick and easy test that your holistic vet can run for you.
Avoid punishment! According to a pet owner survey at Davis … punishment isn’t effective. The study also found food additives used to stop poop eating are only effective up to 2 percent of the time.
Positive reinforcement training wasn’t very effective either.
Keep on top your dog’s digestion always. Remember, your dog may be attracted to another dog’s or cat’s stool, not only because he is deficient in something … but because he’s not absorbing food well.
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We know our dog will want whatever he sees us eating so we should have a clear idea of what we can and cannot share
You want to know which foods are safe and which ones you should stay away from. So, here’s the ultimate list.
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Just like us, dogs enjoy a little variety in their diet -Give your dog healthy meals that taste good and offer something different.
We know our dog will want whatever he sees us eating so we should have a clear idea of what we can and cannot share
You want to know which foods are safe and which ones you should stay away from. So, here’s the ultimate list.
Can Dogs Eat Apples?
Can dogs eat apples? Yes, they can. Apples are a great source of vitamins A and C. Most dogs love the sweet taste and crunchy bite. If you want, core the apples first.
Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?
Pumpkin and other winter squashes are a good source of fibre and beta-carotene. Fibre helps food move through the GI tract, which helps keep the cells in the stomach and colon healthy. Just give your dog one or two tablespoons each day. Pumpkin is also good for both diarrhoea and constipation. And pumpkin seeds are a great natural de-wormer!
Can Dogs Eat Eggs?
Eggs are a good source of protein, iron, fatty acids and selenium. If your dog has some digestive upset, he may be able to tolerate cooked eggs to get protein while he’s not feeling so good.
Once eggs are cooked, the benefits they provide are cooked down too. Cooking eggs reduces and denatures the nutrients, so serve them up raw.
Can Dogs Eat Fish?
It depends on the fish.
Fish can be a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. As with humans, omega-3s support the immune system and are beneficial to skin health.
But many fish are also high in mercury, heavy metals and other toxins. There are reports that Pacific fish (such as Pacific salmon) are beginning to show signs of radiation from Fukushima, so it’s best to avoid them.
Bigger fish will have more toxins in their bodies than the plant-eating fish at the bottom of the food chain.
Can Dogs Eat Berries?
Berries do have natural sugar in them and high amounts of dietary fibre, which can be hard to digest. Some dogs will even eat cranberries. Blackberries and raspberries are other summer berries that your dog might enjoy. . Avoid grapes as they are toxic!
On that same note, avoid any pits or large seeds in fruits like peaches or nectarines. The flesh is good, but not the pits.
Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter?
Absolutely not! Peanuts contain aflatoxins, which are carcinogenic and bad for the liverMost peanut butter has added sugar. Sugar can lead to diabetes, obesity and heart disease
The fats are not balanced. One cup of peanuts contains 35578 mg of omega-6 fatty acids and only 196 mg of omega-3 fats. When these aren’t balanced in your dog’s body, inflammation may be the result.
Peanut butter can also contain xylitol. This sugar substitute is highly toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.
Can Dogs Eat Green Beans?
Green beans contain fibre, vitamins K and C and manganese. Vitamin K helps with blood health, ensuring that the blood will clot if your dog gets an injury.
Frozen green beans can be a real treat. As with apples, look for organic green beans to avoid the added toxins from pesticides.
Can Dogs Eat Garlic?
Dogs can eat garlic in moderation.. Garlic is valued for its antibacterial, immuno-stimulant, anti-cancer, nutritive, antioxidant, expectorant, hypotensive, anti-tumour, anti-viral, anti-fungal and tonic qualities.
Make sure you use fresh, raw garlic. Finely chop or crush the garlic clove, then wait a few minutes before adding it to your dog’s food.
Here are some guidelines for daily feeding.
Can Dogs Eat Dairy Products?
Dogs can have milk products, but some dogs don’t digest milk well.
Lactose-intolerance is common in some breeds. As an alternative, look for goat milk. Raw is best since it won’t be processed.
Dogs who aren’t lactose-intolerant can eat cheese in smaller quantities.
Yogurt can be better tolerated by dogs. It’s a good source of calcium and protein. Choose a yogurt with active bacteria, no added sugars or sweeteners.
Freeze unsweetened yogurt for a special treat, rather than giving your dog ice cream. The sugar and fat content in ice cream isn’t good for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes?
You can find sweet potatoes in lots of dog treats and dogs tend to really like them. The problem is, sweet potatoes are starchy carbs and carbs equal sugar.
These have a higher glycemic index that will spike blood sugar in the dog eating them .
They can also cause a growth of bad bacteria and yeast in your dog’s gut which leads to itching.
Can Dogs Eat Carrots?
Fresh, crunchy carrots are good for your dog’s teeth and are low in calories, high in fibre and contain many vitamins.
Give your dog fresh, raw carrots. Just note that dogs don’t digest raw carrots very well so you’ll often see them come out just as they went in. You can also boil them lightly and serve cooked. It’s also not a bad idea to cut the carrots into bite-sized pieces.
Can Dogs Eat Bones?
Yep – as long as they’re raw. And not only can dogs eat bones, they should eat them. Raw bones are full of calcium, something your dog needs in his diet. Ripping and chewing on bones is a great muscle-building activity.
Bones are also really good natural teeth cleaners. Chewing on raw bones removes plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth and freshens his breath.
Can Dogs Eat melon?
The fruit of the watermelon is safe for dogs. Don’t give your dog the rind or seeds, which can cause choking. Watermelon is packed with vitamin A and C, plus it’s very refreshing.
It’s also low in calories. Cantaloupe and honeydew melon are also good. Again, because of the sugar, feed in moderation. The same goes for mango and pineapple.
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Have you rubbed your dog’s ears today? Sure you have. It’s one of those things that we do almost mindlessly, relishing their velvety softness and our dogs’ groans of pleasure. But did you know that rubbing your dog’s ears is also a great way to make sure they’re healthy?
]]>Have you rubbed your dog’s ears today? Sure you have. It’s one of those things that we do almost mindlessly, relishing their velvety softness and our dogs’ groans of pleasure. But did you know that rubbing your dog’s ears is also a great way to make sure they’re healthy?
Think about it. If the ears are healthy, you can tell that your dog enjoys having them rubbed. If they’re tender from an infection or injury, he probably pulls away from you, unwilling to have them touched. So just gently massaging your dog’s ears is a great first step toward checking their condition. If you notice that he’s sensitive about having them touched, it's time to take a closer sniff.
Sniff and See
Yes, I said sniff. Healthy ears don’t have an odour. Make a habit of sniffing your dog’s ears, starting when he’s a puppy, so you’ll know how they smell normally. If his ears smell yeasty or downright stinky, it’s likely that a bacterial or yeast infection is brewing.
Now take a look inside his ears. The skin should be nice and pink with a light coating of pale yellowish wax. A small amount of wax is part of the ear's self-cleaning system. If the ears look red or have a dark brown or black discharge, or if your dog frequently shakes his head, paws at his ears or rubs them against the carpet or furniture, he needs a visit to the veterinarian to see what’s causing the problem.
How do you know if your dog's ears need to be cleaned? If they look and smell good, leave them alone. As long as your pooch's ears are healthy, they don’t need to be cleaned. In fact, cleaning a healthy ear can damage its self-cleaning abilities.
Clean the ears if they have a mild odour and you see an occasional head shake. That may be enough to stop an infection before it takes hold. You should also clean the ears if the wax looks dirty grey instead of golden or if the ears look waxier than normal. When too much wax builds up, it can block airflow in the ear and lead to an infection of the outer ear canal.
Ear Cleaning Advice
To clean the ears, tilt your dog’s head downward with one hand and squirt a gentle cleanser, such as Doghealth Silver Ear Cleaner into the ear, filling the canal. Holding the ear closed, give it a nice massage, really squishing the cleanser around in there. That softens any gunk inside. Silver Ear includes soft application tips and clever devices to apply just the right amount of product.
Now step back and let your dog shake. (You might want to hold a towel up between you so you don’t get splattered.) Wipe away any remaining cleanser with soft, dry cotton wool or tissue, not going any deeper than your first knuckle.
That’s all you need to do. Don’t mess around with cotton-tipped applicators. They can drive dirt and debris deeper into your dog’s ear. And whatever you do, don’t clean ears with alcohol or witch hazel. They dry the ear out and can sting if your dog has abrasions inside his ear.
If after cleaning you feel that the problem has not gone away consult your vet, but try to avoid any chemical medications and opt for a herbal remedy for the problem your vet may say your dog has, we have a products called Natural Ears for canker and Maythen for infections and wax build up, both can be used alongside Silver Ears Cleanser.
Some dogs are ear infection magnets. If you have a floppy-eared dog or any dog with a history of ear problems, check his ears weekly. There’s no scientific evidence that dogs with droopy ears have more ear infections, but anecdotally they tend to be the ones veterinarians see more often with ear infections. That said, allergies are probably the main cause of ear problems, and they are seen in dogs with all ear types. For more information on allergies in dogs see our blog
Your best bet for preventing ear infections is to keep your dog's ears clean and dry. Bacteria and yeast love a warm, moist environment. Keep them at bay by drying your dog’s ears thoroughly after a swim or bath.
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If a dog is taught through positive reinforcement to love the crate, the crate becomes his safe haven and own private and safe place. Your dog will realise that the crate is somewhere they can go and not be bothered; it’s a perfect haven when your dog is tired or nervous. A dog has a natural instinct to be in a den and most dogs take to a crate very easily.
Crate training provides a number of benefits to owners, it encourages dog’s instinct not mess where it sleeps, helping to teach the dog bladder and bowel control. It also helps prevents a dog or pup from getting into trouble when you can’t supervise directly. Crate training also teaches puppies and excitable dogs to expect and enjoy some down time, and conditions relaxed behaviour.
When it comes to traveling with your pet, you need to make sure they are safe and secure. The last thing you would want is an accident that could not only put your life in danger but also your pet’s. That is why when you’re travelling, especially in a car, you need to have a car crate for your pet that will keep your pet safe.
In the event of a car accident, you will want you and your dog to be as safe as possible and that can be achieved with a pet crate. When it comes to choosing a pet crate for safety purposes, you will want to choose one that is strong and durable. Our car crates all have escape doors at the back which will enable you to release your dog if your vehicle has been hit at the rear and you are unable to open your rear door or boot.
Traveling can be a stressful time for a pet, especially a dog, as they will not know where they’re going and may feel a little afraid. Overall, the feeling of their homely crate will comfort your pet during a car journey, but make sure they are well trained beforehand.
]]>Care of the elderly is a massive subject and there are no quick fixes.
As with owners, modern dogs can expect to live longer ( a lot longer if you use a healthy diet and do not rely on processed foods, and keep fit through regular exercise). This means that other conditions ( nb arthritis) become more common, especially as like ourselves there is a tendency for overfeeding and excess weight. However, there are a number of things you can do to improve quality of life
1. Is the diet your dog is on supportive of his new requirements? By this I mean you should research the foods he is on and consider whether he would benefit from the various veteran formulae. My own view is that you should consider alternatives to processed food and remember you are normally paying a big premium for the advertising. Generally speaking, its never too late to diet and reduced weight makes mobility easier, and will give you a more alert dog. Definitely no treats!!!
2. Might supplements help? The answer is yes, there are excellent supplements available. It is best to go by personal recommendation. Most supplements will contain Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, and/or Hyaluronic Acid in various combinations and anti-inflammatory vitamins C and E. As you research the amazing number of these available you will quickly overload (...powerful, proven, unique blah blah blah…)
A quick plug from me…My company, Doghealth does supply RUNAROUND a product containing Shark Cartilage a natural source of chondroitin. In our trials a consistent 85% of owners will note an improvement, so we offer a full money back guarantee!
3. The exercise regime will change. Continued exercise, possibly reduced in scope will prolong active life. Walks in safe environments are recommended! But continuation is essential. A supportive walking harness should be considered.
4. In the house. I find it best to make use of rugs and mats as slippery surfaces might be difficult for your dog to manage. Likewise, sleeping should be at floor level. If your dog is used to climbing the stairs this is now a risk area too.
5. In the car. Thee are a number of excellent pet ramps which will make entering ( and more importantly ) exiting the car safer, and avoid the need for you to lift. When using a ramp, ALWAYS support your dog with one hand under the belly and one on the collar to guide. NEVER rush and ALWAYS give the dog a chance to learn to use the ramp ( old dogs/new tricks?).
Second plug, Doghealth also supplies an excellent light but strong folding ramp, as do many other companies!! It is absolutely possible for your pet to enjoy a high quality of life as he ages, and a responsible owner will be aware of the effects of age on your dog and the measures necessary to continue a high quality and active life .
]]>Just as there are many poisonous plants for dogs, there are a few alternatives that are completely safe! Here are a few good ones that not only look beautiful, they have some great benefits.
Not only is it pretty to look at, this plant is completely harmless to your dog. In fact, this plant has many health benefits. If your dog happens to eat them, she’ll reap the benefits!
Here are just a few of the benefits of basil:
This flower is part of the sunflower/daisy family (Asteraceae). If you enjoy flowers in your garden and around your house, the African daisy is a safe alternative. These flowers are bright and yellow in colour. They pose zero threat to your dog if she decides to eat them for a snack.
This is another low maintenance plant which is very easy to grow. They offer perennial colour without potentially threatening your dog’s health.
Just pay attention when you’re shopping for lilies. There are MANY types of lilies that are highly toxic to dogs and cause serious danger for cats, including:
One great thing about the spider plant is it’s safe for ALL PETS. We all know dogs love to eat things, whether they’re harmful or not. The spider plant is no exception to this rule.
Dogs tend to be very fond of the taste of these plants and are likely to chew or eat them. However, this is a better alternative because of their non-toxicity.
Note: If your dog ingests enough of the spider plant, it can cause vomiting. However, this is more of an upset stomach issue rather than a toxic reaction.
Research Before Bringing New Plants Home
If you happen to have one of these poisonous plants for dogs in your house, it’s best to rehome it.
Also, when you visit your local plant nursey, keep in mind that certain plants are toxic to your dog. Ask the staff if the ones you’re looking at are safe for your dog. Or, do a quick Google search from your phone. When it comes to plants that may be toxic, it’s better to be prepared and safe.
]]>Remember, many pet insurance policies don't cover dental work so it's even more important to look after your pet's teeth.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease in dogs includes conditions such as gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (loss of bone and soft tissue in the mouth).
Periodontal disease starts out when plaque begins to build in the mouth and over time becomes tartar. When the tartar and plaque begin to make their way under the gum line, they give off toxins which lead to bone and tissue damage
THE ROLE OF PLAQUE
Plaque constantly forms on teeth. The plaque is so sticky that it keeps the acids in contact with your teeth, in time breaking down the enamel and leading to tooth decay.
Plaque build up will lead to gum disease -- first gingivitis, the tender and swollen gums that sometimes bleed. If it progresses, severe periodontal (gum) disease can develop. Gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, allowing the bacteria to destroy the underlying bone supporting the teeth.
If dog’s teeth are not regularly cleaned, the plaque will build up and turn into tartar. This has a solid, brown, gritty look and feel and can lead to inflammation and tenderness which is no fun for your dog to contend with while trying to eat.
NOW LOOK TO YOUR DOG….
What are the signs that your dog might have periodontal disease?
As owners it is important that we are aware of the problem and are able to intervene as necessary to control plaque builds up. There are a number of things you should do.
FIRSTLY monitor the health of your dog’s teeth/gums on a regular basis.
SECONDLY, There are physical steps you can take. Consider brushing your dogs teeth A general rule is to brush your dog’s teeth at LEAST 3 times a week. Besides brushing and using toothpaste there are dental wipes, oral rinses, diets (like Hills T/D) and dental chews. Try to stay away from products that are too hard for your dog’s teeth to chew, such as hooves, bones or hard nylon. They can fracture teeth and damage gums.
THIRDLY, Look at supplements. There are a number of very good dietary supplements available, the best of which use certain seaweed extracts which have traditionally been found to be effective in the control of plaque. We at Doghealth have an excellent supplement -“ Nil Plaque”
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(Disclaimer: this advice is intended only as a guide, for persistent or severe ailments please seek help from you vet)
Fleas and ticks are common in dogs, particularly in the summer time. The best way to deal with fleas is to prevent them in the first place, you can do this in a few ways but a good one is to treat your home with an anti-flea solution and also using anti flea solution on your dog.
Our Dyna-mite liquid is an all-natural solution that you dilute down and spray about the house and on your pet (Just spray where they can’t lick it off though). Being natural this product is environmentally friendly and non-toxic, it also smells very pleasant! It is a very cost effective way of preventing fleas as only a small amount is needed in water to be effective, spray regularly (particularly during summer) to achieve the best results. Additionally, our Dyna-Mite shampoo, which is also made of natural ingredients is great for giving your dog a natural defence against fleas, in summer use regularly to achieve best results.
We tend to think of dogs as being very resilient which though is often true, however there are things they struggle with the same as us and one of these things is allergies. Whether it be allergies to certain plants and trees or an allergic reaction to food dogs can feel itchy as a result of the reaction. Symptoms of allergies in dogs are: Hives, puffy face, itchiness, redness of skin, agitation/restlessness and feeling hot to the touch. If your dog displays these symptoms you may need to take them to the vet as there may be an issue with their diet or environment.
Our dog food healthy dog is a gluten free hypoallergenic dog food designed to suit dogs with allergies, if you would like to try Healthy dog food but don’t want to take the plunge and buy a whole bag you can request a free sample when you place an order for one of our products and we will be happy to send some out to you!
We also stock a product called Moor gold cream (otherwise known as magic!) this can be applied to areas of the skin that appear red or painful. It is an anti-infection cream that promotes healing in dogs made from all natural ingredients and will reduce the feeling of itchiness. This product can even be used on humans, and is very useful if you have a spot/pimple!
A hot spot is an area on a dog’s body where repeated scratching or chewing leads to the creation of an open wound. Warmth and moisture are the optimal conditions for hot spots to form. Should stray bacteria find its way to the site before it is properly treated, a secondary infection is a typical result. Recognize a hot spot by the presence of blood, pus, and matted hair. If you notice your dog has an injury such as this, you will need to take them to the vets as it could become infected. If your puppy or dog is biting at the base of her tail so frequently that they draw blood, then secondary infections are not the root cause of her problem, only another symptom. A veterinarian can help you determine whether the true reason has to do with hygiene, nutrition, or another factor.
Dogs don’t have bills to pay but the can still get stressed! Stress and boredom is one of the major reasons that dogs will bite their tails, whether they are jumpy because of noises, not getting enough exercise or being confined for too long. Dogs who do not get sufficient exercise, interactive play or mental stimulation may turn to self-destructive activities like tail biting as ways to get attention. It is important to address this issue as can make the dog act out in destructive ways, each breed is different and not all dogs will have the same needs you will need to research your dog’s own needs.
It is important to address the root cause of the issue however in cases where the dog may hurt itself due to stress our herbal mellow may be of use however it should NEVER be used as a substitute for exercise!
Any kind of rear or hindquarters injury such as a broken or fractured tail bone, for instance is something a dog cannot inform his owner of, and may go unnoticed under normal circumstances. The intensity of the dog’s pain may lead her to act on or draw attention to it by excessive chewing, biting, or licking at the affected area. Obviously this is a much more extreme case than the others however it is important to keep in mind.
Finally, another common reason why a dog may be biting at the base of her tail until it’s bleeding is an impacted anal gland. A dog’s anal glands are as important to a dog as our hands are to us, and, socially, they fill similar needs. Just as we shake hands when we meet folks, canine anal glands secrete interesting fluids that dogs smell when they meet each other. This is one reason why dogs are so intent on sniffing at each other’s rear ends at any opportunity.
One obvious sign that a dog is having an anal gland issue is scooting, when he sits up and drags his bum across the floor. Other symptoms include a fouler-than-normal smell originating from a dog’s behind, trouble defecating (you call it constipation), and, in severe cases, blood or pus in the faeces.
Our own Anal gland product is a supplement that adds fibre to your dog’s food allowing them for easier and more comfortable digestion, preventing the glands from becoming impacted.
]]>The signs to look out for are abnormal scratching, biting or licking, red spots or patches on the skin, pale gums, small reddish or brown specs on your dog’s skin and even hair loss.
The best way to deal with fleas is to prevent them so your dog does not suffer unnecessarily.
Our Award winning Dynamite insect, flea and tick repellant is economical and universal. Supplied as a concentrate, simply dilute at a rate of 1ml to 100ml ratio. Use as a final rinse when washing your dog for long term protection or as a grooming spray for short term protection.
Dynamite is extremely economical one 250ml bottle makes up to 25 litres and is also recommended for human protection especially against midges.
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In particular I want everyone to be aware that things we might be tempted to offer as treats...I want to help us to stop inadvertently damaging our dogs with kindness.
If in doubt I strongly recommend that you save the following website www.petpoisonhelpline.com
Number one on my list is overfeeding. Dogs need different amounts and types of food depending on their age and activity levels. Dogs do not know how to control their eating. If it’s there they will eat it. If it’s not taken away they may learn to leave it and then come back later and eat it. As a rule of thumb you should feed and remove.Or just use a cold press food like HealthyDog where recommended amounts are half those of a traditional extruded food
It follows from One above that most treats in so much as they increase amounts eaten should be discouraged. I however enjoy giving my dogs treats so moderation and only occasional treats are the rule.
So treats to avoid include the following (and yes, I encourage feedback and additions to this list, you will help all our readers)
Most lists start contain Macadamia Nuts. I start with these as I did not know what they are. They are in many biscuits and snacks. So either read the label or just don’t give pastry things to the dog.
Chocolate should NEVER be given. I still remember the sage when my Jack Russell discovered an Easter Egg. I am eternally grateful to the vet for coming out late on a Sunday evening to save her life. So please make sure all chocolate is in a secure place and children/non dog owning guests understand that they must not give this to their pet. Remember dark chocolate and cooking chocolate are the most lethal.
Grapes/raisins are a threat to kidney function and should be avoided.
Onions, leeks, chives and garlic Members of the Allium family and poisonous to dogs. Garlic is considered to be about 5-times as potent as onion and leeks. Certain breeds and species are more sensitive, including cats and Japanese breeds of dogs (e.g., Akita, Shiba Inu). Toxic doses of garlic can cause damage to the red blood cells (making them more likely to rupture) leading to anemia.. While tiny amounts of these foods in some pets, especially dogs, may be safe, large amounts can be very toxic.
Chicken bones can splinter and do all sorts of harm. Cooked bones of any kind may be brittle and hazardous.
Rawhide dog chews can host bacteria like Salmonella, which isn’t good. Monitor the storage, handout, use, and life of chews.
Plants. The Kennel Club publishes a list of dangerous plants. Some you might be surprised to see are
As ever, if you have found this useful, please share. Also please like our page so that we can make sure you receive other blogs we produce. With thanks form the team at www.doghealth.co.uk. And please add your comment especially where this will help other dog owners and reflects your own experiences.
]]>So as dog owners we should have an understanding of the threat to our pets. Here I jut want to discuss the issues, advise on ear cleaning techniques and consider why these problkems are on the rise.
First step – preventative action. To minimise the occurrence of ear infections in your dog, simply keep their ears clean and check them regularly for any signs of discharge or unusual odour. Cleaning your dog’s ears after a bath or grooming appointment may prevent any potential infections.
Our dog's ears should always be clean and without any thick brown or green waxy discharge. There should also be no redness, itchiness or unusual smells coming from them.
How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears
Step 1. Give the ears a wipe first with cotton swabs to remove dirt from inside the ear.
Step 2: Use a cotton ball. Soak half of it, place that in the ear and massage the ear over it, paying particular attention to the base of the ear (where the canal is). The cotton ball will absorb excess solution and it will grab onto the debris as it comes up! ( change the ball a few times each treatment )
Step 3: Use cotton swabs again to wipe the ear clean and dry. Wipe once, dump, repeat. Remember don’t use the same swab for the same ear.
Step 4 :For successful treatment you must then clean the ear with a gentle cleanser as the ear will be painful.
Remember that as well as being one of their sharpest senses, the ear is a very delicate and sensitive area for dogs
There are many reasons why ear problems in dogs might occur, and many include:
• Infections due to bacteria
• Yeast infections
• Parasites such as ear mites
• Foreign bodies such as grass seeds
• Growths or tumours
Dog ears are nice, warm places. All you need is a little moistness, say from licked paws or simply a moment’s innocent wetting, and yeast will bloom. You’ll know it’s there because you’ll smell it. Breeds with long, floppy ears or dogs that love to swim frequently are the most susceptible to ear problems.
Many dog health advisors believe that it may be the case that the natural ability of the dog to resist these problems is compromised my modern day environmental factors and feeding habits. In other words what are WE doing that may be compromising natural immunity?
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