Categories
Food

What Does it Take to Create a Balanced Diet for Dogs?

Feeding their dogs is not something most people even think about most of the time. It becomes an ingrained habit that comes with pet ownership. People may unknowingly overlook some crucial areas of a dog’s diet. Here are just a few aspects you can focus on to provide balanced nutrition to your dog.

Understanding Vitamins and Minerals

The balance between vitamins and minerals is more important even than their amounts. Many nutrients have synergistic relationships in the body. Moreover, dogs can produce some of their own vitamins. This plays a role in how the balance in their diets affects them. It is crucial to remember that both added supplements and commercial dog foods can impact your pet’s nutritional balance. According to MBi Nutraceuticals, this is because vitamins are organic and break down when exposed to heat, air, or acid. Minerals are inorganic and do not break down, so they easily transfer into the food dogs eat. Many dogs will eat anything they can get in their mouths, so they rely on their owners to supply their nutritional needs. Dog food manufacturers have to be conscientious about their processing methods, or they can turn out products with inappropriately high mineral to vitamin ratios. Although raw diets seem like the perfect answer for dogs, they require additional work. You must supplement raw diets with the help of a nutritionist or veterinarian as they usually lack appropriate levels of vitamins A and D, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and other minerals.

Importance of Fats and Proteins

Appropriate levels of fats and proteins are essential for dogs to thrive. Whether you believe dogs are carnivores or omnivores, studies suggest they have a natural preference for a dietary protein of 44 percent and fat of 50 percent or higher. Dogs can only obtain the ten essential amino acids they need from their diets. Like people, dogs need proteins to build muscle, hair, and skin, and to supply hormones and enzymes for normal body processes. According to Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital, a dog’s body uses up to 30 percent of a dog’s daily protein intake for maintaining healthy fur. Fatty acids such as Omega-3 and -6s are also vital for chemical functions in the body. Although dogs have adapted to the high-carbohydrate diets of modern civilization, they derive most of their energy from fats. You can find sources and percentages of fats and proteins on your dog food label.

Choosing Wholesome Ingredients

Wholesome ingredients are preferably whole foods that you can readily see as the first few ingredients on a dog food label. Ideally, you should be able to immediately recognize them as healthy and biologically appropriate for your dog. Wholesome ingredients, like chicken meal or bison, provide enzymes to help digestion, biological activity to aid vitamin and mineral absorption, antioxidants to protect cellular health, and well-balanced nutrition that isolated supplements cannot provide. But keep in mind that nutrients are more bioavailable in whole foods than in processed and unidentified byproducts. Finally, remember that the ingredients that look good to you may not necessarily be the greatest choice for your dog, or not present in the right ratios. Taurine DCM recommends looking for AAFCO certification on the label as a quick way to check if the formula is safe for long-term feeding.

 

Unless you feed your dog a raw diet with medical guidance, your first step to providing your pet with a balanced diet will be to learn how to read dog food labels and correlate that information with what your dog requires. You may have to consult outside resources like your veterinarian or nutritional guides to understand the roles of vitamins and minerals, fats and proteins, and wholesome foods, in balancing your dog’s diet. By doing these things, you can make sure that your dog will have a healthy life.

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Uncategorized

How to Deal with These 7 Breed-Specific Health Concerns For Dogs

The effort to ensure certain standards consistently show up in some of the most popular dogs has propagated breed-specific health concerns. You can deal with them in a couple of ways. The first is proactive and involves research before you even buy a puppy. You will want to know what issues different breeds are prone to and what the breeder does to lessen the incidence of hereditary problems in their puppies. In the second case, you coordinate with your veterinarian to prevent or ameliorate any conditions that may inevitably arise.

Dachshunds

Dachshunds have exaggerated traits like elongated backs and shortened legs. You will commonly see intervertebral disc disease in Dachshunds. Disc problems can manifest as severe pain or even full paralysis. Most dogs will require pain medication and potent anti-inflammatories. Others need emergency back surgery to restore function. Close monitoring of your dog’s weight may help prevent the likelihood of a herniated disc.

English Bulldogs

Selective breeding for exaggerated characteristics has left the bulldog with myriad hereditary problems. Bulldogs suffer from skin, ear and tail infections related to their wrinkles. They may develop dry eye from their optic structure and chronic allergies. Most concerning, however, is brachycephalic airway syndrome from a pushed-in face and snub nose. Their narrow breathing passages and inordinately small nares make it difficult for them to breathe, which puts them at high risk for heat stroke and respiratory failure. To manage bulldogs, ensure moderate exercise, protection from heat, weight control, regular Schirmer tear tests and medicated baths. Make sure you interview the puppy breeder to get early warning about any health concerns you may need to be made aware of.

Doberman Pinschers

The Doberman, with its elegant head carriage, is susceptible to disc disease in the neck vertebrae. They can also fall victim to bone cancer or osteosarcoma, cardiomyopathy (a specific type of heart disease and enlargement), hip dysplasia, bloat and von Willebrand’s disease (a bleeding disorder). Make sure to obtain your Dobie from a reputable breeder and closely follow your veterinarian’s recommendations about feeding. You can manage this breed by monitoring any lameness. Your veterinarian should regularly check bleeding times and echocardiograms, especially before elective surgery. You can avoid hip dysplasia by obtaining a puppy from a breeder who certifies the hips of the parents.

Keeshonds

The surge in popularity of the Keeshond after World War II has led to a host of specific health concerns secondary to widespread inbreeding. Keeshonds are overrepresented in the areas of diabetes mellitus, hair loss or alopecia, epilepsy, heart defects and hypothyroid disease. Most of these issues have a genetic component. Therefore, it is important that you become familiar with a breeder before deciding to purchase a Keeshond puppy. Diabetes, seizures and hypothyroidism can be managed with medication.

Australian Shepherds

Australian Shepherds are bright, beautiful, and popular dogs. Although they suffer developmental bone problems like hip and elbow dysplasia, their eyes are their major complaint areas. Collie Eye Anomaly, or CEA, causes improper eye development. It is commonly linked with colobomas, or holes, in the choroid that supplies nutrients to the retina. Aussies inherit this disease as a recessive trait, and in severe cases, it can cause blindness. Australian Shepherds also show a tendency to develop cataracts. As always, buy your Aussie pup from a reputable and responsible breeder. Genetic tests for the condition can help eliminate carriers from the breeding pool. CEA is difficult to diagnose with 100 percent certainty in puppies. Nevertheless, you should plan on having your Australian Shepherd’s eyes checked after six weeks of age and annually thereafter.

Beagles

Beagles remain popular because their friendly and docile natures enable them to get along with animals and children. Unfortunately, they have a long list of moderate to severe health concerns. A cherry eye, or an inflamed gland in the third eyelid, is unsightly but not life-threatening. Depending on its severity, your veterinarian may not even treat it. Glaucoma, increased pressure in the eyes, is much more serious. Beagles are afflicted with ear infections, epilepsy, disc disease in the mid-back and right-sided heart disease. You should have your veterinarian check eye pressure at least yearly. Keep your Beagle’s ears clean and dry. You still may have to treat them occasionally with ear drops or oral antibiotics. Beagles sometimes have heart disease secondary to structural abnormalities and require surgery. The remainder of their conditions can usually be treated with medication. Uncommonly, a Beagle may need back surgery.

Bichon Frises

The Bichon Frise is one of the most popular dogs because of its gentle personality and small size. It is surprisingly susceptible to orthopedic problems such as hip dysplasia. They also suffer from luxating patellas and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease whereby the ball of the hip in puppies degenerates. All of these conditions are hereditary, and they may require surgery. The Bichon also contends with frequent ear infections. More serious diseases that affect Bichons with particular frequency are Kartagener’s Syndrome and diabetes mellitus, sometimes combined with other endocrine disorders. Diabetes may require lifelong insulin administration and blood tests. Kartagener’s syndrome is a respiratory disease with recurring infections from excessive mucus and bacteria build-up. Minor ailments that commonly affect Bichons include allergies.

Unfortunately, some of the most desirable traits in dog breeds are linked to detrimental health problems. Conscientious breeders are more aware of these issues than they were in the past, and they now take steps to decrease the incidence of these issues. You, too, can play an active role in minimizing the risks of hereditary problems in your dog. If your pet does develop breed-specific health concerns despite your best efforts, you can team up with medical professionals to effectively deal with your dog’s ailments.

Categories
Dental Hygeine

8 Holistic Health Treatments That Work on Both Humans and Dogs

Holistic treatment methods are popular with many people, but what you may not know is that many of these treatments will provide the same positive benefits to your dog. The following holistic methods are an excellent complement to regular veterinarian care and can greatly benefit the overall health of you and your dog.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that benefits the muscles and circulatory system of your dog, as well as help with the healing of any wounds they receive. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant that provides protection against free radicals and will cause the skin of both you and your dog to glow.

Many pet foods come with Vitamin E, and there are many foods that can be added to your dog’s diet that will provide this nutrient. Eggs are a great source of Vitamin E. A few other good sources include spinach, dandelions, sunflower seeds, and peanuts.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a technique that stimulates the body’s pressure points with needles. Humans have benefitted from this technique for thousands of years. Acupuncture was approved as an alternative treatment method for dogs in 1998 by the American Veterinarian Association.

The benefits to your dog are joint and muscle pain relief, promotion of healing following surgery, and treatment for cancer and diabetes. The best thing about these benefits is that you and your dog can enjoy them together.

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy provides low-impact exercise to aid dogs in recovery from surgery or an injury. It is also beneficial to dogs who suffer from arthritis and other joint issues or who are a little overweight.

A typical hydrotherapy session involves leading your dog into a pool of heated water. The warmer water temperature helps to ease the pain of joints and muscles. Once in the water, your dog will spend up to an hour walking on a treadmill or swimming. A life jacket or harness may be used to keep your dog above water and level if he or she is uncomfortable or not a good swimmer.

Hydrotherapy can also benefit you by providing a boost to your immune system, relieving stress, and easing any pain you may feel in your joints.

CBD

The compound CBD, or cannabidiol, is found in both hemp and cannabis. CBD does not normally contain the THC that provides cannabis with its psychoactive properties. In fact, most CBD products are made from hemp.

CBD has been known to relieve neuropathic pain in dogs. Your dog can also benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties, benefits to the cardiovascular system, ability to stimulate appetite, decreased anxiety levels, and cancer-fighting properties of CBD oil.

Because of the noted health benefits, there are numerous studies on CBD oil that have come out in recent years though most of them focus on treating humans. However, a study sponsored by the Canine Health Foundation is currently underway at the College of Veterinarian Medicine at Colorado State University. The study seeks to document holistic health practices and the benefits of CBD for dogs who suffer from epilepsy.

CBD benefits for humans are similar to canines and include heart health, pain relief, acne reduction, and neuroprotective properties.

Massages

Massages promote healing in both dogs and humans by increasing the flow of blood to the area being massaged. A good massage will also relieve stress, relax muscles, and stimulate the nerves.

Veterinarians concur with the premise that giving your dog regular massages will improve the mental and emotional well-being of your dog while providing another opportunity for bonding with your pet.

Massages are also one of the oldest and well-known holistic health practices for humans. The potential benefits include:

  • Pain reduction
  • Stress reduction
  • Improved circulation
  • Improved flexibility
  • Immunity enhancement
  • Increased energy
  • Improved mood
  • Reduced swelling after surgery

Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal medicine blends combinations of herbal ingredients to provide relief from diseases, according to the Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is suggested by the institute that Chinese herbal medicine be used along with traditional veterinarian medicine to provide health and healing to your dog.

Dog owners who swear by Chinese herbal medicine explain that dogs can benefit from decreased pain, improved organ function, and a boost for the immune system. The documented evidence of these benefits is lacking, but many people report watching the health of their dogs improve after treating them with Chinese herbal medicine.

Some herbs may have a negative interaction with medications like diuretics and blood thinners. You should also pay attention to any signs of stomach discomfort for you or your dog when you consume herbal medicines.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy for dogs is a mainstream practice now. While aromatherapy has proven to provide many positive benefits to humans, the prevailing logic is that dogs will benefit more due to the powerful sense of smell they possess.

The essential oils used for aromatherapy have been known to reduce both inflammation and anxiety. It is also believed aromatherapy can help fight infections and soothe the pain of muscle aches.

Magnetic Field Therapy

The Veterinary Clinics of America explains that magnetic field therapy is used to improve the healing of injuries and wounds. The technique provides relief from chronic joint pain, and it uses magnetic fields to provide these benefits.

Magnetic therapy is not at this time one of the most well-known holistic health practices. Because of this, there is little documented research on how well this treatment works. However, many dog owners will readily attest to the benefits of this technique. Lack of side effects and noninvasiveness are two more positive aspects of this holistic practice.

The health of you and your dog is something the two of you can improve together. One way to do this is through the use of holistic health practices. When combined with traditional Western medicine, the many treatments mentioned above will ensure that both you and your canine remain in the best health possible. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian and your own primary care provider before embarking on any new treatment protocols, and enjoy good health with your furry friend.

Don’t forget to check out these other articles about pet health from Ruff Ideas:

 

 

 

Categories
Itchy Skin & Allergies

25 Ways to Control Your Dog’s Itchy Skin

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Spring and summer are often the most uncomfortable times in the year for dogs.. Uncontrollable scratching leads to hot spots, skin abrasions and even hair loss.

Allergies are the main reason for a dog’s itchy skin. Humans sniffle, sneeze, cough and wheeze when our bodies have been insulted by an allergen. Dogs most frequently itch and scratch. The difference has to do with cells in the body that respond to allergens by production of a chemical called histamine.

quote1It is the release of histamine that triggers symptoms by causing small blood vessels to leak and ooze fluid, resulting in a swelling of tissue. In humans, these cells are highly concentrated in the area of the eyes, nose and windpipe. That’s why people with hay fever experience nasal congestion, a result of leaky vessels and swelling in the nose. In animals the cells are concentrated on the sides of the face, paws, armpit and groin.

Here is a list of the 4 main reasons why dog’s have itchy skin and solutions for each.

  • Atopic dermatitis, called canine atopy, is fairly common, affecting approximately 10 percent of all dogs, most particularly Golden and labrador retrievers, lhasa apsos, Dalmatians, poodles, boxers, bulldogs, West Highland Terriers, wire fox terriers, and Irish and English setters.
  • pollenDog’s react first to air-borne pollens (which explains why your pooch may be itchier in the spring when pollen is high).
  • Eventually, your dog will show signs of allergic reactions to pollen, dust mites, trees, weeds, mould spores, even people dander.
  • Whether the dog is inside or outdoors many allergens lurk in the air.
  • The itching and scratching can lead to hair loss, with her skin becoming flaky and thick.
  • This is the hardest to diagnose because they are allergic to everything! IF it’s not fleas or food, it’s probably this.

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  • Remove the Allergen. Well duh. But for most people this is almost impossible. (vacuum as much as possible)
  • Wash your dog! Since environmental allergens are usually absorbed through the skin, weekly bathing can prevent itchiness. Click to learn more about shampoo therapy
  • BRUSH BRUSH BRUSH! Like washing your dog, daily brushing can also help rid your dog’s coat of allergens. Also the brushing will stimulate the skin and increase blood flow to that area. This results in the quicker removal of toxins from the skin and minimizes inflammation.
  • fishOilFish Oil has been shown to help with itching and also has anti inflammatory qualities.
  • Cover it up! If your dog is scratching the same spot over and over, cover it up with a doggie Tshirt or doggie booties or lick strip. By placing a barrier between your dog’s claws and the abrasion you allow the irritation to heal.
CHILLAX! Your dog may be working himself into a frenzy until the scratching becomes a nervous habit. Look for a calming aid. It won’t cure the itching, but it WILL relax and calm.  Look for:

Calming Supplments

Calming Tshirts

Calming Elixirs

Calming Diffusers

Calming Sprays
  • Spot On! If your dog has a particular part of his body he’s really scratching or chewing at, consider using an anti itch spray. They are convenient, easy to use and inexpensive but usually only provide temporary relief, but hey! That’s better then nothing!
  • Allergy Shots. A vet gives your dog very small doses of that allergen, and gradually increase the dose over time. That way his immune system gets used to the allergen, and is less likely to react to it. Relatively good success rate however it’s expensive and it isn’t a quick fix (1 month to 1 year)
  • If nothing else works, talk to your VET to see if treatments like atopica, desensitising injections and steroids are right for your dog.

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(FAD) is the most common inflammatory skin disorder in dogs. Although all dogs can become infested with fleas not all dogs will develop FAD. This condition only arises in certain dogs that have an allergy to the flea’s saliva.

Mini monsters For such a tiny spec of nothing these buggers can sure cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your dog.
  • When fleas bite your dog, they inject their saliva into his skin.
  • In dogs that are prone to FAD, this sets off an allergic reaction, causing the dog to irritate the wound even more than expected.
  • Dermatitis results and the damage to the skin allows for bacterial invasion. Now the problem snowballs even more due to this secondary bacterial infection of the wound.

This type of reaction is at its worst in high summer when fleas are most common, but can last all year if you don’t have good flea control in your home

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  • Remove the live fleas and prevent new fleas from jumping on board. There are countless over the counter products like Advantix to help kill live fleas on your dog. They are relatively safe but not for every animal. If yours is older, or battling an acute disease, don’t use it. We recommend trying an all natural flea spray.
  • Feed a healthy grain free diet. Dogs are less likely to be flea magnets and they will be more resistant to the flea bite.

itchy-dogBath

  • Wash your dog with a colloidal oatmeal-based shampoo to break the cycle of itching and use topical sprays
  • Treat your environment Remember too that the flea’s life cycle involves some time spent away from the dog’s body. So don’t forget to take the necessary precautions to treat his environment in the home as well!
  • Antihistamines. Effective in about 30% of dogs, most are the same as those used in humans (Benadryl)

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Usually the first thing someone will ask you is if you’ve changed the diet. But, whether he’s eating a gourmet diet or a bargain basement dog food, if it contains an ingredient that he’s allergic to, he’ll scratch.

dog- beagle and food

The other important thing to keep in mind is that allergies don’t occur when you change your dog’s diet. Food allergies don’t develop suddenly. He will have been eating the same food for a long time with no problems, then bang! The itching starts.

Most dog foods contain similar combinations of meat protein and carbohydrates, so just changing brands of food may not help. He will still be eating the same proteins and the same carbohydrates, so he’ll still be itchy. You need to make sure you’re changing to a very different higher quality food.

How do you know if your dog has a food allergy? There’s no blood test to tell if it’s his diet that’s causing the problem, but there are some features of food allergies that can give you a hint.

  • Most food allergies start to rear their ugly heads when your dog is a young adult.
  • It’s not worse at certain times of the year, as you’d expect from a flea allergy, or an allergy to dusts and pollens.
  • Your vet may have prescribed some corticosteroids to relieve your dog’s itch. In a lot of cases, food allergies don’t respond very well to this treatment, and your dog may still chew, scratch and rub.

If any of these are starting to sound familiar, it’s time to seriously consider checking your dog for food allergy.

Keep in mind:

  • quote2Common triggers include wheat and corn products and protein-heavy foods, such as meat/beef, dairy, and chicken.
  • Typical symptoms of food allergies include facial itching, foot or leg chewing, recurrent ear infections, and belly itching.
  • You can suspect your pup has food allergies if the itchiness is not a seasonal problem like atopy, if she isn’t responding to cortisone-types of veterinary medications, and if her skin issues developed after the age of 5 or 6.

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  • Are you sure? Rule out any other causes of itchy skin . Make sure your flea control is good: Use an all natural flea spray, that is a safe and gentle and that won’t cause irritation to traumatized skin. Often skin that is red and itchy can develop a secondary bacterial infection, which is also very itchy.
  • GrainFree_Salmon2Make a drastic change in your dog’s food. Most dog foods contain similar combinations of meat protein and carbohydrates, so changing brands of food may not help. He will still be eating the same proteins and the same carbohydrates, so he’ll still be itchy. We recommend the Grain Free food made by Ziwi Peak
  • Undergo a food trial- This is a labor-intensive and tedious process. To learn more about food trials click here
  • Manage the itchy skin – use many of the same suggestions from the ‘Ways to manage Atopic Dermatitis’ page

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contactDContact Dermatitis is a fairly uncommon disease caused by direct contact of your pet’s skin with certain plants and grasses, medications, and particular chemicals. Kiwi dogs are generally free to explore the great outdoors and may occasionally get into something that causes itchy skin

  • Humans are much more susceptible to contact skin allergies than canines because a dog’s hair coat works as a barrier to the allergen.
  • You’ll notice the signs on the parts of her body making direct contact with the substance – around her neck, on her belly, legs or feet.
  • The most frequent cause of contact allergies in dogs is a plant species called Wandering Jew, a member of the Spiderwort family. However, dogs have also been known to be allergic to grass, carpet cleaning products and timber stains.
  • Depending on the substance, you’ll start to see red, itchy bumps appear within 24 to 48 hours after contact with the offending substance.

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  • Diagnose. You can have your dog allergy tested at the vet or if you have an idea of what the culprit is, conduct your own trial first.
  • Manage prevent your dog from having access to the plant or chemical he is reacting to. If that’s impossible because your dog is allergic to grass try using a pair of booties when you go out for a walk
  • Wash your dog within two hours if he touched something like poison ivy. This will very effectively eliminate the poison that causes itching.
  • Treat the itchy skin use many of the same suggestions from the ‘Ways to manage Atopic Dermatitis’ page

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Many dogs have a low immune system which makes them more affected by the environment. According to Los Angeles Veterinarian Alfred Plechner, the main reasons for this are:

  • Highly processed, food containing inferior quality ingredients
  • Cosmetic breeding
  • Over vaccinating
  • Proliferation of chemicals and pollutants

So, for many dogs the combination of any of the above along with the advent of flea season may be enough to trip your dog into a full allergic reaction.

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  • Hormonal problems.An underactive thyroid gland can result in changes in the skin which predispose to bacterial or fungal infection. Cushing’s Disease, caused by an overactive adrenal gland, can also lead to secondary infection. These infections are usually itchy. Diagnosis is usually straightforward – your vet will have a good idea based on clinical signs and it can be confirmed with blood tests. Management involves treating the underlying hormonal problem, and giving your dog antibiotics or antifungal medication to control the itchy infection.

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  • Drug reactions. Some dogs have an unexpected reaction to a drug which causes skin inflammation and itching. This can be very difficult to identify. Diagnosis depends on the itch starting soon after a drug is given to your dog, and it easing when the drug is stopped. Skin biopsies may be helpful. Treatment is easy – don’t give your dog that drug anymore!
  • Pain. Orthopedic problems such as back or hip pain may cause your dog to scratch that area to get some relief. There can also be pain associated with docked tails which can lead to scratching around the rump. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can suffer from a painful condition called syringomyelia which results in them scratching the back of their head and neck.
  • sarcoptesParasites. Sarcoptes is a little mite which causes severe itching in dogs, and also in you if you’re unlucky enough to become infected! It can be tricky to diagnose, as your vet will need to identify it in a skin scraping. If a scraping is negative, it may be worth treating your dog for Sarcoptes, just to rule it out. Another mite that can affect dogs is Demodex. This mite doesn’t cause an itch, but it can cause a secondary bacterial infection of the skin, which is extremely irritating.
  • Fear and anxiety. Some dogs respond to anxiety by scratching to the point of self-mutilation. It’s important that you treat the anxiety while you manage the itch, otherwise it won’t resolve. Give your dog some a calming supplement to help calm both of you.
  • Cold Weather Itching During cold weather we turn on the heater which sucks the moisture out of the area. This leaves us with dry itchy skin

 

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  • Dogs can and do suffer from obsessive compulsive behavioral problems, usually due to anxiety. This can occur if a dog spends a lot of time alone, and doesn’t get enough physical and mental stimulation.
  • OR many times dogs work themselves into such a scratching frenzy that nothing you do will will help.

In either case try this– Break the pattern:

  • DISTRACTION! Every time she scratches, interrupt her and divert her attention to a kong or bully stick
  • BeachDogEXERCISE– it’s amazing how dogs forget their woes when they’re out playing! Take your dog to the beach and let him run around, or if you don’t live by a beach find a trail.
  • STOP IT! Physically stop her from scratching by bandaging the affected area, using a doggie Tshirt or doggie booties or lick strip, or use a spray to numb the area and make the taste bitter
  • CALM DOWN Use a calming agent for anxiety. This can make it easier for her to learn new behaviors without the added burden of feeling stressed.
  • TREAT any irritation in the skin that has developed from his constant scratching. Wash him in oatmeal shampoo; its colloidal oatmeal will ease his itch and reduce inflammation.

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  • Hot Spots are a bacterial infection of the skin that are associated with skin allergies. They often affect short coated breeds such as Labrador Retrievers. These infections appear suddenly and spread rapidly. Click to learn more.
  • Demodectic Mange Mange is the term for skin disease due to mite infestation, and there are two different forms of this condition in dogs, caused by different mite species. One of these is demodectic mange (or demodecosis). Click here to learn more.
  • Pyoderma is a bacterial infection of the skin and is usually secondary to some predisposing skin disease like allergies or hypothroidism. Signs inlcude red bumps, scabs and hair loss. Click here to learn more
  • Malassezia If your dog smells awful has a greasy coat and is constantly scratching it means your dog may have a a fungus called Malassezia. This little yeast organism is responsible for skin infections that are especially itchy, smelly and greasy to the touch. Click here to learn more

Checklist- 25 Ways to Control your Dog’s Itchy Skin

    1. DISTRACTION! Every time she scratches, interrupt her and divert her attention to a peanut butter filled hollow toy like a kong or bully stick
    2. EXERCISE it’s amazing how dogs forget their woes when they’re out playing!
    3. Cover it up! If your dog is scratching the same spot over and over, physically stop her from scratching by bandaging the affected area, using a doggie Tshirt or doggie booties or lick strip or use a spray to numb the area and make the taste bitter. By placing a barrier between your dog’s claws and the abrasion you allow the irritation to heal. (This does not solve the problem but it does give the skin a chance to heal.)
    4. CHILLAX! Your dog may be working himself into a frenzy until the scratching becomes a nervous habit. Look for a calming aid. It won’t cure the itching, but it WILL relax and calm.  Look for:Calming Supplments, Calming Tshirts, Calming Elixirs, Calming Diffusers, Calming Sprays
    5. TREAT any irritation in the skin that has developed from his constant scratching. Wash him in oatmeal shamopo ; its colloidal oatmeal will ease his itch and reduce inflammation.
    6. Switch to natural non-toxic cleaning products at home. Use fragrance free laundry detergent to wash your dog’s bedding and plush toys.
    7. DUSTY! Keep dust levels down inside the house.
    8. BOWLS Switch from plastic to ceramic feeding bowls. Some say that red bowls seem to evoke more reaction than other colors, but no one knows why.
    9. SWITCH to a puppy diet which has more fat than the adult diet. The addition of more fat may make the difference
    10. There are many home remedies you can try. Click here
    11. PREVENTION For contact allergies prevent your dog from having access to the plant or chemical he is reacting to. If that’s impossible because your dog is allergic to grass try using a pair of booties and tshirt when you go out for a walk
    12. FOR CONTACT ALLERGIES Wash your dog within two hours if he touched something like poison ivy. This will very effectively eliminate the poison that causes itching.
    13. MAKE A CHANGE in your dog’s food. Most dog foods contain similar combinations of meat protein and carbohydrates, so changing brands of food may not help. He will still be eating the same proteins and the same carbohydrates, so he’ll still be itchy.
    14. TRY A FOOD TRIAL– This is a labor-intensive and tedious process. To learn more about food trials click here
    15. REMOVER ALLERGENS from your home by vacuuming as often as possible.
    16. WASH YOUR DOG Since environmental allergens are usually absorbed through the skin, weekly bathing can prevent itchiness. Click to learn more about shampoo therapy

brush

    1. BRUSH BRUSH BRUSH! Like washing your dog, daily brushing can also help rid your dog’s coat of allergens. Also the brushing will stimulate the skin and increase blood flow to that area. This results in the quicker removal of toxins from the skin and minimizes inflammation.
    2. FISH OIL has been shown to help with itching and also has anti inflammatory qualities.
Spot On! If your dog has a particular part of his body he’s really scratching or chewing at, consider using an anti itch spray. They are convenient, easy to use and inexpensive but usually only provide temporary relief, but hey! That’s better then nothing!
  1. ALLERGY SHOTS. A vet gives your dog very small doses of that allergen, and gradually increases the dose over time. That way his immune system gets used to the allergen, and is less likely to react to it. Relatively good success rate however it’s expensive and it isn’t a quick fix (1 month to 1 year)
  2. REMOVE THE FLEAS and prevent new fleas from jumping on board. There are countless over the counter products like Advantix to help kill live fleas on your dog. They are relatively safe but not for every animal. If yours is older, or battling an acute disease, don’t use it. We recommend trying an all natural flea spray.
  1. FEED A HEALTHY DIET. Feed a healthy grain free diet. Dogs are less likely to be flea magnets and they will be more resistant to the flea bite.
  2. TREAT YOUR ENVIRONMENT Remember too that the flea’s life cycle involves some time spent away from the dog’s body. So don’t forget to take the necessary precautions to treat his environment in the home as well!
  3. ANTIHISTAMINES Effective in about 30% of dogs, most are the same as those used in humans
  4. ASK THE VET If nothing else works, talk to your vet to see if treatments like atopica, desensitising injections and steroids are right for your dog.

Vet2

Categories
bad breath

50 Ways to Improve Your Dog’s Breath

fresh breath ebook cover

Tips, tricks and remedies you can use TODAY to improve your dogs breath

Written by holistic pet practitioners, this guide is chock-full of effective, all-natural and mostly free methods to quell that smell coming from your dog’s mouth!

Does bad breath prevent you from enjoying your canine companion’s company? Do you dread doggy kisses because your pal’s breath will knock you out? You’re not alone – many other dog owners have dealt with breath so bad it could kill flowers and send people running from the room.

The bottom line is we want happy, healthy and sweet smelling dogs to cuddle with. The better your dog smells, the more hugs he or she will receive.  So that’s the inspiration behind this guide, 50 ways to improve your dog’s breath so that he/she will be more kissable and healthier.

Enjoy the ride to fresher breath!

  • TAKE A PEEK! Open your dog’s mouth, are there any unidentifiable objects or growths lodged in there?  Bad breath is sometimes due to a piece of food that’s been stuck in there for sometime, that’s basically rotting away. While you’re in there, check for tumor growth. If you notice one, have him examined by his vet ASAP
  • Visit the vet! Your dog’s vet is the best person to determine the exact cause of your pet’s bad breath.  If you try many of the tips in this guide and nothing works, go see the vet.
  • BRUSH BRUSH BRUSH! Brush your dog’s teeth at least once a day. Did you know that most kiwi dog owners NEVER brush their dog’s teeth? Not only does regular care improve the breath, but it actually also reduces the chance that your dog will suffer from heart and other organ disease. Brushing your dog’s teeth at home on a daily basis helps eliminate plaque, lessens tartar build-up, and keeps her breath smelling nice. If you are able to brush once a day (or once a week for that matter) you’ll save a lot of money at the vet.  Dental cleanings and teeth extractions will set you back north of $500!  You’ll need a regular doggy toothbrush small enough to fit comfortably inside her mouth, plus canine toothpaste like an all natural, vanilla-flavored toothpaste.

Warning: Don’t use your own toothpaste, it will make your dog ill, you should only use toothpaste that’s formulated for pets (we spit out our toothpaste, but dog’s cant’ spit!)

As you brush your dog’s teeth, concentrate on the upper teeth because plaque usually begins to build up there first.  The best time to start brushing your dog’s teeth is when he’s young because he’ll become accustomed to it.  If you aren’t currently brushing your dog’s teeth, there’s no better time to start than right now!

Before you embark on your canine dental health endeavors, first get your dog used to having a finger/brush inside his mouth. You can do this by:

  • dipping your finger in beef bouillon and allowing your dog to lick it off by placing your finger in his mouth.
  • Next dip the toothbrush in the same beef bouillon and make small circles around your dog’s teeth.
  • Eventually you will be able to graduate to using toothpaste on the toothbrush.
  • EMBRACE IT! Use a 3-sided toothbrush. These unique brushes get all three sides of the dog’s tooth in one go. Not only is it easier for you, but it cleans the entire tooth in one stroke, so no chance of you missing any yucky bits that might cause unpleasant breath!

What to do WHEN YOUR DOG REFUSES TO HAVE HER TEETH CLEANED WITH A TOOTHBRUSH

  • USE A FINGER! If your dog absolutely refuses having her teeth brushed with a normal toothbrush (after several attempts on different days), use a finger toothbrush. For many small dogs this is a trick that works as they feel more comfortable with your finger in their mouth, especially if the toothbrush head is too big.  (photo of Kissable finger toothbrush in action)
  • POUR IT IN! Add a water additive into your dog’s water. They not only help freshen breath but help loosen plaque and inhibit the growth of odor causing bacteria. Water additives can be poured directly into your dog’s bowl so that whenever she takes a drink, their various organic components can freshen her breath and loosen any food particles or plaque build-up attaching to her teeth.
  • SCRUB IT OFF! Dental Wipes are textured cloths that have been pre-moistened with ingredients to help remove plaque and tartar. For many dogs with smaller mouths, this is the way to go. Also, dogs that resist brushing may be more likely to allow the owner to wipe their teeth over using a brush. Check out the Dental Wipes from Kissable.
  • FOAM AWAY! Dental Foams (think mouse) adhere to the teeth to gently clean, sanitize and loosen plaque build-up without a toothbrush. The ingredients reduce bacteria which causes bad breath.
  • SPRAY AWAY! Sometimes all your dog needs is a minty breath freshener, such as Dog Smog Remedy . Not only does it contain Spearmint and Peppermint, it also contains natural fennel and parsley extracts as well. Simply spray 3 to 6 squirts of Dog Smog Remedy, depending on the size of your dog, onto your dog’s tongue and let the natural herbs work their magic on your dog’s breath. As an added bonus, Dog Smog Remedy also helps to minimize doggy flatulence!
  • Floss your dog’s teeth!  If your dog will let you, you can floss his teeth just like you floss your own.  Keep in mind, the sooner in their life you start flossing their teeth, the better.
  • Food Additives– These products are ingested and work systemically. The natural compound in the product comes out through the saliva and works to break down the bacterial biofilm that forms on the teeth and gums. This is how the natural bacteria in the mouth take hold onto the teeth and gums, colonizing and creating the oral problems of plaque and tartar, bad breath and gingivitis.
  • Use an Herbal Dental Gel for dogs that already have some tooth and gum disease. The best products contain herbs like echinacea, myrrh, oregano oil and goldenseal. Our favorite is Clean Well Dental Gel.
  • Probiotic sprays keep your dog’s mouth balanced and healthy by reducing plaque-causing bacteria, which can cause bad breath and gum disease. Plaque is live (bad/not-beneficial) bacteria. The spray replenishes the good bacteria in the pet’s mouth. The good bacteria flourishes and kills off the bad bacteria through competitive exclusion.

BONES, CHEW TOYS & DENTAL TREATS

  • TOYS OH BOY! Give your dog a safe chew toy to gnaw on.  The natural process of chewing will help clean your dog’s teeth.  Many chew toys have a toothpaste flavour so as your dog chews she’ll get used to the flavour and the hardness of the toy will help loosen the plaque from his teeth.  Be sure to also check out rope toys as they’ll help dislodge any food that’s stuck in-between the dog’s teeth.
  • DENTAL TREATS. Specialized dental treats help freshen breath and loosen up plaque on the teeth.  A popular dental treat that’s been on the market for many years is the Greenie.  Greenies are charcoal-based treats that can help eliminate bad breath, and they can be purchased from most pet stores.
  • GIVE YOUR DOG A BONE.  Raw meaty bones are not only a nutrient-rich tasty treat but they’re great for massaging the gums and preventing tartar build up. The friction caused by her teeth working the hard surface of the bone scrapes away any left over food particles and plaque, and tartar build-up. Additionally, certain protein enzymes found in raw bones inhibit the growth of oral bacteria, thus keeping your dog’s breath smelling fresh. Make sure the bone is big enough for the dog to chew for at least 10-20 minutes as it requires that long for it to really help. Also, the bone should be large enough so you dog doesn’t swallow it whole and choke.

For puppies and small dogs, chicken necks are a good option but remember to never give your dog a cooked bone to gnaw on because it can splinter – causing potential damage to the intestinal linings of your pet.

For medium and large dogs try lamb shanks, marrow, venison or beef knuckle bones

For older dogs, you may want to avoid really hard bones as they can cause teeth to chip, making it easy for infections and toothaches to set in.

H20

  • WASH UP!  You wash your plate after every use, don’t you? I can’t imagine you would put your dirty plate back in the cupboard! It’s no different for dogs. Food and bacteria can accumulate quickly that contribute to bad breath, so wash food and water bowls on a regular basis.
  • Change the water daily: Dogs don’t just daintily sip their water, they slurp it up — leaving slobber, grass, grime and dirt in the bowl. Make sure to add fresh water daily, especially when bowls are kept outside.
  • DRINK IT UP. By drinking lots of water, you can keep your dog’s mouth moist which will help flush out some of the odor causing bacteria.:

FRUITS & VEGGIES THAT PREVENT STINKY BREATH

Hard vegetables and fruits serve to rid the mouth and teeth of plaque and tartar, and are healthy treats providing vitamins and nutrients necessary. Slice them up and give raw as a treat or dice and add to their meals,

  • Carrots. Baby carrots (or carrots that are cut up) are a low fat treats for your dog and believe it or not, even the pickiest of dogs like carrots. Since they are crunchy they help remove plaque!
  • Lettuce. Eating lettuce a few times a week helps to sweeten your dog’s breath. The lettuce works through your dog’s teeth as she chews, scraping off food particles.  
  • An Apple a Day! Give apples as a treat. Apples are very crunchy, and as your dog chews it scrapes off particles.
  • Celery. Give celery as a treat. celery is very crunchy, and as your dog chews it scrapes off particles. Many dogs don’t like celery very much, so cut it up in small bits and put it in your dogs food. Or give carrots instead.
  • Broccoli. Give broccoli as a treat. Be sure to cut it off into manageable pieces. If your dog doesn’t want it, dry dipping it into some chicken or beef broth which will absorb into the crevices.
  • Cauliflower. Give cauliflower as a treat. Be sure to cut it off into manageable pieces. If your dog doesn’t want it, dry dipping it into some chicken or beef broth which will absorb into the crevices.
  • Sweet Potato. Give Hard Sweet Potato as a treat. Sweet potato is so healthy but be sure to cut it into manageable sized pieces.

Diet

There are many schools of thought when it comes to a dog’s diet, so these are just guidelines. What is clear is that a healthy diet (and what is actually healthy is a much debated) is necessary to build your dog’s immune system so that it’s strong enough to fight off certain bad-breath causing bacteria.

  • Grain-Free Kibble.The crunchy nature of kibble helps keep teeth clean and grain free food is also helpful for dogs with itchy skin. We love Grain-Free DOGSFOOD from DOG for DOG. Not only is it a super healthy food, but for every bag you buy, they give one to a dog in need.
  • Feed A Raw Diet: A raw food & bones diet is the absolute best for your dogs’ teeth, and arguably for you dog in general. Of course feeding raw takes some research and dedication although these days commercially prepared freeze dried and frozen food is available for those not inclined to cooking for their dog every day. If you are interested in learning more about getting your dog on a raw food diet, check out this unbiased article as a starting place: http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/raw-dog-food-dietary-concerns-benefits-and-risks
  • Eat Cheese! There’s not shortage of cheese in the world, particularly cheddar cheese. Eating cheese drops the pH level in the mouth which helps fight plaque and protects tooth enamel. Cheddar cheese  contains the highest levels of alkali making it the best cheese for attaining better pH levels in the oral cavity.
  • Yogurt or Kefir Yogurt contains active cultures and when added to your dog’s food over time can reduce the potency of the odor-causing hydrogen sulfide in your dog’s mouth and will create an inhospitable environment for those stinky bacteria. Give your dog plain yogurt (no strawberry or tiramisu varieties) with active cultures, or better yet Greek yogurt or kefir.  You can combine it with your dog’s food. To learn more about yogurt and how to choose a good product for your dog or cat you can check out this article: http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2013/07/dairy-products-cheese-kefir-yogurt-are.html

HERBS & SPICES THAT FRESHEN BREATH

  • Look no further than your kitchen cabinet or fridge for breath freshening  herbs & spices! Many have germicidal properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth. Just finely chop the fresh herb and add them to your dog’s food. To make it bind with the food (if feeding dry) you can toss the herbs and kibble with a little olive oil.
  • Parsley is excellent for digestion and for sweetening breath.
  • SAGE – The antiseptic properties in sage help reduce oral bacteria when the leaf is rubbed over the teeth.
  • Cilantro/ Coriander is a wonderful natural ways to clean teeth, stimulate gums and freshen breath.
  • Cinnamon (Ceylon Cinnamon) – Sprinkle it on your dogs food. Dogs love the taste of cinnamon, so ground cinnamon can be sprinkled on top of your dog’s food. It helps dissolve food particles and aids with the digestion of food.
  • Mint, Peppermint and Spearmint are natural breath fresheners. Just chop the fresh herb up into fine particles and sprinkle into your dog’s food. if they’re small enough your dog might not even notice. But if you have a picky eater, and you’re feeding dry food, then toss the food and mint with some olive oil so it binds together.
  • Homeopathy, Essential Oils & Other Natural Treatments
  • Colloidal Silver. Silver is thought to make the immune system more active and thereby more effective at killing bacteria and fending off disease..  Use a cotton ball to gently apply colloidal silver water or gel to the affected areas of the gum.
  • STRAWBERRIES! Fragaria Vesca 30X , is a homeopathic remedy which is made from strawberries and used for softening and removing tartar and dental plaque off teeth. Fragaria Vesca prevents formation of calculi while softening and helping to remove tartar from teeth.
  • Vitamin C. A deficiency of vitamin C in the diet can lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease and a reduction in the body’s ability to fight infection. Mix some warm water with ½ tsp of powdered vitamin C (or grind-up vitamin C tablets to create a powder; Use the liquid to brush your dog’s teeth.)
  • ENZYMES work by attacking the bacteria on the teeth and mouth, and  reducing the buildup of tartar. Enzyme-enhanced products include water additives, mouthwashes,gels and  toothpastes.

The following tips were provided by Karen, the Ottawa Valley Dog Whisperer, who is an amazing wealth of information. http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.ca/

  • COCONUT OIL Bad breath odor in dogs can be reduced or even eliminated by adding a couple of spoonfuls of organic virgin coconut oil to their food (also good for a healthy coat and skin, and helps with digestion). How? The lauric acid in coconut oil has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties that attack bad breath and gum disease causing bacteria.
  • Make a Tincture! Using a cotton swab, gently and generously apply tincture of Oregon Grape, or Myrrh or, Goldenseal to your dog’s gums. This will inhibit the growth of bacteria that causes plaque and tartar. In addition to being antiseptic, Goldenseal, Myrrh and Oregon grape also stimulate new tissue growth of the gums.
  • Use Baking Soda (Bicarbonate of Soda)
  • Dampen a tooth brush with a little warm water;
  • Dip the brush in baking soda (just a little soda is required – do not load the brush with soda);
  • Gently brush your dog’s or cat’s  teeth – baking soda is an abrasive so do not apply pressure when brushing.
  • Tip provided by http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.ca/

 

  • Baking Soda and Ceylon Cinnamon
  • In a glass combine 1 tsp of baking soda with 1/8 tsp of cinnamon;
  • Mix the soda and cinnamon;
  • Dampen a tooth brush with a little warm water;
  • Dip the brush in the cinnamon/baking soda powder mix (just a little is required – do not load the brush with soda);
  • Gently brush your dog’s or cat’s teeth – baking soda is an abrasive so do not apply pressure when brushing.

 

  • Ceylon Cinnamon, Kefir and Honey

To relieve your dog’s oral discomfort…make a paste of:

  • 1 tsp Ceylon cinnamon powder;
  • 1 tsp Kefir (optional)
  • 5 tsps Manuka Honey.
  • Apply the paste to the aching tooth. You may apply this paste up to 3 times per day until the pain is arrested.

    Coconut Oil & Oregano

  • Combine:
    • 2 to 3 drops of oil of oregano, with;
    • 2 tsp of coconut oil;
    • Mix thoroughly;
  • Use a cotton ball to gently apply the mixture to the affected areas of the gum.

Tools

  • Stick out your tongue. Lots of gross stuff lives on your dog’s tongue. There are specially designed tongue scrapers just for dogs. Just search online for ‘tongue scraper for dogs’
  • Scrape it off! Specially designed tooth scalers for dogs help you remove plaque and tartar build-up thus removing the obvious culprits of bad breath.
  • Cookies!
  • Hard Biscuits and Cookies  scrape along and under teeth to help clean away plaque and massage the gum-line adn the chewing actions helps to dislodge food particles just make sure there the treats are sugar free. Your dog will love you. Check out these cookies from The Dog Bakery: http://www.thedogbakery.com/products/barkers-dozen
  • Homemade Cookies! If you prefer to make your own be sure to add cinnamon! Cinnamon is non-toxic to dogs and cats and helps to eliminate bad breath causing bacteria in the mouth.
  • Last but not least…drool

DROOLING DOG! Believe it or not, both excessive drooling and not enough salivation can be issues that contribute to bad breath.

Dogs that don’t salivate much and eat dry food can end up with dental concerns. Since there is not moisture in their mouth there is nothing to wash the bacteria away after eating. Remedy this by add some chicken stock to the food bowl.

Excessive drooling can be the result of tooth abscesses, fractured teeth, oral infections and inflammation. Take your dog to the vet immediately!

Disclaimer: This free guide is being provided as a public service. It is very important to understand that the information contained in this guide does not replace the advice of your veterinarian. If  you have concerns about the health of your pet, please seek the advice of your veterinarian. Only your veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition and then provide you with the best course of action for your situation.

You can download a pdf of the guide by clicking below

Categories
gas & poop

Are Your Dog’s Anal Glands Causing a Stink?

expressing your dogs anal glands

Are Your Dog’s Anal Glands Causing a Stink?

It’s a delicate matter but something all dogs share. If you’re lucky you may never have to worry about them, but if you’re not so fortunate you may become more acquainted with your dog’s anal glands than you ever dreamed.

Just saying hello

All dogs have a small gland located on each side of their rectal opening. Under ordinary circumstances these little sacs never give any problems. Actually, your dog uses them all the time. Every time he potties or meets another dog and raises his tail in greeting the pressure releases a little of his own personal scent from the glands. That’s why dogs are always so interested in sniffing another dog’s tail area. And why dogs seem obsessed with smelling where another dog has used the bathroom. These little anal gland excretions are full of important information about the other dog.

This exchange of information goes on all the time, right under your nose, so to speak, and most of the time you never have a clue that your dog is surfing the doggy super highway of information. Us humans can’t smell any of these scents (thank goodness).

Some dog’s have to have their anal glands “expressed” every month, and other dog’s may never have it happen. What did dog’s ever do in the wild?

The butt-scootin’ boogie!

There are times when the anal glands become a problem. They can become impacted, abscessed or infected. When this happens that’s when you’ll see your dog doing the classic “butt scoot.” You know the move. Your dog sits in the floor, usually on your clean carpet, and scoots along dragging his butt. You may think he’s trying to clean something off that was left behind when he was pottying but he’s actually feeling a problem with his anal glands. He may have impacted anal glands — they may be too full and they are not properly “expressing” when he goes to the bathroom.

There are other signs that your dog may have a problem with his anal glands:

  • Your dog does the butt scoot
  • Your dog may lick or chew around his rectal area
  • Your dog may have soft stools
  • The rectal area is red and swollen
  • Your dog may have a bad odor coming from his rear

When you notice some of these signs it’s time to take your dog to the vet. Believe me, you do not want the job of expressing your dog’s anal glands yourself. There are few things that smell as bad as the fluid from your dog’s anal glands. What’s more, it’s not very pleasant to poke around in your dog’s rectal area! If you do try to express the glands yourself there is always the chance that you could injure your dog or make an infection worse.

Once your vet has expressed the glands you can use a good waterless shampoo like the one from BioSilk  to help your dog keep the area clean. It’s also good for getting rid of unpleasant odors which can be a problem if your dog has recurrent troubles with impacted anal glands.It can also help sanitize your dog’s anal gland area — and your hands when you are cleaning the area. 

To keep trips to the vet at a minimum there are some products you can use for maintenance:

 

Meat’s for dinner

The best way to keep the anal glands working properly is to make sure you’re feeding your dog the right food. If you are feeding your dog a food that has a high vegetable or cereal content, such as corn, wheat, oats or rice, then you should look for a food that has more meats. We love this food from Ziwi Peak, it’s 96% meat, New Zealand lamb.

 

The best way for dogs to express their own anal glands is by producing firm stools. It’s believed that foods with higher vegetable and cereal content cause dogs to produce softer stools. When stools are too soft your dog isn’t able to express his anal glands when he potties so the sacs can become impacted and even infected.

Whether you feed kibble, canned or even homemade food, looking for foods with more meat content should help your dog produce firmer stools so he can express his anal glands himself when he potties. That’s good for everybody! The less you see of the butt-scootin’ boogie in your house, the better!

Categories
Activities & Fun

10 Eco-Friendly Toys Perfect for Small Dogs and Puppies

10 Eco-Friendly Toys Perfect for Small Dogs and Puppies

We all want what’s best for the ones we love, and for many of us, that includes a canine companion. They don’t call dog’s “Man’s Best Friend” for nothing. They’re loyal, loving and it’s only natural to want to give your dog the very best. Whether that be buying high-quality dog food or making sure the toys you buy for them are suitable for them, everything we do for them comes down to looking out for their best interests.

In addition to wanting to keep our pooch safe, we should also care about the world we live in. Buying eco-friendly, sustainable products is one way you can make sure to do that, and the good news is there are many great dog toy companies which offer high-quality, safe toys that are also good for the environment as well.

Here are a few toys that are perfect for your small dog or puppy with the added bonus of being eco-friendly.

1. The Pup Ball by Planet Dog– Planet Dog is a company known for their award-winning Orbee-Tuff material, and they created one of their famous balls just for puppies. In addition to being durable enough to survive teething, it’s also gentle on their teeth. As an added bonus, the ball can be frozen, giving even more relief to teething pups. And best of all, these balls (as with all Planet Dog products) are made in the USA, recyclable, and non-toxic.

2. Recycle Line by Planet Dog – Okay, so this isn’t just one specific toy, but you get a choice between a ball, a bone or a value pack of balls. The difference between these and other Orbee balls? This line is even more eco-friendly! Apparently when they’re making regular Orbee balls, there’s a certain amount of excess material left over from the molding process. And that’s where this line comes in. That excess material is captured and recycled into this line, which practically eliminated all waste in their production process.

3. Orbee-Tuff Sport by Planet Dog – After awhile, a normal old ball gets boring. For the dog who wants a little something more, you have a line of Orbee-Tuff balls that are all eco-friendly and recyclable like the other line, but come in a variety of shapes and sizes from a football to a tennis ball, and everything in between.

4. Cotton Rope Starfish Toy by Harry Barker – Made with machine washable, recycled cotton yarn, these rope toys are perfect for dogs of all ages. But puppies will especially enjoy these when you freeze them, since the cold will help soothe their aching gums. The cotton also acts as a tooth brush, helping clean your pet’s teeth as they chew.

5. Alligator Canvas Toy by Harry Barker – Many of the canvas toys over at Harry Barker would be perfect for your dog, but we can’t resist this adorable alligator design. This toy is made from a durable canvas, faux fur, and is filled with an eco-fiberfill. Oh, and it has a two-way squeaker, which dogs just love too.

6. Eco Owl Buddy Stuffed Toy from Honest Pet Products – Natural hemp is a great material for dog toys, as it offers anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties naturally. Plus, it’s soft and so easy to snuggle up with. And when your toy is as cute as this owl, well, it’s easy to see why dogs would love this toy. Non-toxic, lead-free and chemical-free, this toy is also stuffed with organic wool. Cute and eco-friendly to boot, you can’t beat that!

7. Hemp Dog Toys from West Paw Design – If you’re looking for more choices in hemp dog toys, look no further than West Paw Design. They have an elephant, a Scottie and a dino toy, giving your pup a few options. All of them are made with super soft hemp material, and offering up naturally anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties and filled with materials produced from recycled plastic bottles.

  1. Eco Tosser by Honest Pet Products – Does your dog love chasing tennis balls? Are you concerned about our tennis ball being chemical-free and environmentally-friendly? If so, check out the Eco Tosster by Honest Pet Products. This toy is non-toxic and earth friendly, made from a sustainable hemp canvas and filled with organic wool. This isn’t the your grandmother’s tennis ball, that’s for sure. This one is about as eco-friendly as it gets.
  1. Toppl Treat Toy by West Paw Design – This toy is designed to trap treats inside, giving your dog something to do as it tries to get them out. And if you buy two of these toys, you can lock them together and an additional challenge. The Toppl is made recyclable, BPA and phthlalate-free, FDA compliant to be safe to eat, and it’s guaranteed to last.
  1. Big Sky Dog Toys from West Paws Design – Help cut down on waste and buy your dog an adorable, soft toy at the same time! These dog and teddy bear toys are literally cut from the same cloth as the company’s Big Sky blankets. In fact, they’re made from the leftover scraps from the blankets.

But why go through all the trouble of buying non-toxic, eco-friendly toys if you’re just going to wash them with chemicals? If you truly want to make sure your pet toys are safe and environmentally-friendly, we suggest only washing them in all-natural products, such as those sold by Grab Green.

All Natural Cleaning

Grab Green Dish Soap is perfect for hand washing your furry friends’ toys by hand. The non-toxic, naturally derived, plant and mineral based ingredients will clean off all that slobber while leaving no nasty chemicals behind. For toys that are dishwasher safe, you also have Grab Green Dishwasher Detergent so you don’t have to do all the cleaning by hand.

And for the cuddly, soft or fuzzy toys that need to be thrown in the washing machine,  Grab Green Laundry Detergent is a superior, yet safe, cleaner.  Made of naturally derived, plant and mineral based ingredients so you can clean their favorite toys and bedding, while also making sure to keep them safe. Extra bonus, it’s hypoallergenic, so for dog’s with allergies, this can help with that too! For more tips visit the Refreshingly Simple blog!

Categories
Ears Grooming

Prevent Nasty Infections With These Tips for Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears

dogear

Let’s face it, your dog probably doesn’t like to get their ears cleaned. And it’s easy to see why. So for many owners, this is one of those tasks we may forget about when it comes to grooming our dog. After all, it’s not like you can forget to bathe them once they start smelling or roll in something they shouldn’t. But ears? There’s a good chance you don’t ever look into your dog’s ears, so it’s easy to forget that they too get dirty.

But not only do they get dirty, ears are also a breeding ground for bacteria and fungal infections. Especially if you have a floppy eared dog who likes going swimming, ear infections are something you need to be concerned about. But even if your dog doesn’t have floppy ears and they despise the water, they can still do with a little cleaning.

How often will I need to clean my dog’s ears?

This depends on your dog of course. Factors that affect how often you clean your dog’s ears include their breed, age, activity level and their coat. But for most dogs, once a month should be good. However, after swimming or getting water in the ears, you will want to clean them out too, even if it’s more than once a month. For that reason, find a gentle cleaner that allows for frequent use.

What items should I use to clean my dog’s ears?

Just like with human ears, avoid using cotton swabs. There’s too much potential for damage to the ear, and it’s best to avoid sticking anything in a dog’s ear, especially if they’re squirming around trying to fight you. Instead, use cotton balls or even wrap your finger in gauze to wipe them clean.

What products should I use and how should I use them?

Chances are, your dog isn’t going to like having their ears cleaned. So it’s best to limit the amount of steps you take in order to get it done. Which is why you may want to forgo the cotton balls altogether and use a wipe instead, like these ear wipes that are all-natural, gentle and alcohol free. They make it easy to wipe down your dog’s ears without too many products, and it’s just one easy step.

The wipes are perfect for normal dog’s ears. If your dog doesn’t seem to get dirty, itchy, infected ears often or they’re not swimmers, go for the wipes.

dogearswim

But if your dog is prone to ear infections and tend to get water build up in the ear (from swimming), you will want to use a product that helps dry out the liquid.

Even more so than the wipes, you need to pick a quality cleanser that will dry out the water without drying out the skin in their sensitive ears. This cleanser will do just that. This formula softens earwax and helps dry out the ear, which is important after swimming. But thanks to essential oils, it won’t be too drying either, making it safe to use daily or several times a week.

How do I clean the ear?

As mentioned above, don’t stick anything down into the ear canal. Also, their ears are sensitive, so don’t stick any harsh materials into the ear or anything that can scratch it. This allows for bacteria to get into the skin, causing a higher chance of infection.

With the wipes

1) Just use the wipe to clean the inside of the ear, being careful not to poke too far down into it. If your dog is the squirmy type, get a friend to help you hold them steady and bribe them with treats and praise.

2) Repeat on the other ear.

3) Marvel at how easy that was.

4) Give your dog even more treats and plenty of praise. Turn this into a rewarding experience!

With the cleanser

1) If your dog isn’t easy to control, you may want to get some help to keep them still for the few seconds it takes to get the job done.

2) Once you have the dog in position, squirt a few drops into the ear, making sure it goes into the ear canal.

3) Rub around the base of the ear to get the cleanser deep in there.

4) Allow your dog to shake his head, or wait until the end if they are the type to run off at this time.

5) Move on to the other ear, squirting a few drops in.

6) Let your dog shake, shake it off. This loosens the gunk inside there and forces most of it out.

7) Wipe down the outer parts of the ear, as needed, with a cotton ball.

8) Don’t forget… Praise and treats!

9) For very dirty ears, you may want to repeat this 2-3 times a day for a few days until all of the gunk is out of there. From there, you can do it weekly, monthly or after they swim.

Make cleaning your dog’s ears part of your regular grooming routine and before long, they will treat it just as they do a bath or anything else. Sure, some dogs may fight it, but in the end, it’s worth it. Ear infections require antibiotics and costly trips to the vet, and they can easily be prevented by simply cleaning your dog’s ears regularly.

Question: Do you clean your dog’s ears regularly? If so, how does your dog respond to it? Any tips to help those with dogs who resist? We’d love to hear from you!

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Dog Conditioner Grooming Mattes & Tangles Shampoo

Long-Haired Dog Tips: How to Save Hundreds at the Groomers (Hint: Your Total Cost Will Only Be $12.99)

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Long-haired dogs are stunning to look at, but for most people, it can also be intimidating. But let me tell you – it doesn’t have to be that way. Just as with with the hair on your head, finding a regimen that works for you and your dog can make things both easier and more comfortable. It’s finding out what you need to do that can be tricky.

Thankfully, we have you covered, and will give you the lowdown on everything you need to know to keep your dog’s coat shiny, free of knots and most of all, more comfortable for your canine companion.

Before we get started on the basics though, it’s important to know the type of coat your dog has. There are essentially six different types of dog coats, some requiring less grooming than others. Since our focus is on mainly dogs with thick, long coats, we will look at the two types that apply to long haired dogs.

1) Smooth Coat – Dogs with a smooth coat don’t need to be groomed as often. There’s no hair to untangle, and you usually can get away with just washing and brushing. You may also want to use a dog shampoo and conditioner that make you dog’s hair shine. A dog shampoo such as our Sparkle and Shine Brightening Shampoo should do the trick.

2) Double Coat – A double-coat is exactly what it sounds like. Not only does the dog have one layer of hair, but there’s also an undercoat, making the fur thicker than their single-coated brethren. Not all double-coated dogs have long hair – some actually have short hair. Short-haired, double-coated dogs are a bit easier to groom than the long-haired variety, but you still need to make sure to brush out the undercoat in addition to the top coat. For the undercoat, you’ll want to brush outward from the skin. For the top coat, brush in the direction of the fur instead of against it.

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For long-haired dogs, you will want to section out the hair, focusing your attention on each section rather than the entire dog at once. Brush the undercoat away from the dog, as this removes any loose hair – and helps with shedding.

When brushing double-coated dogs, it’s not unusual to come across mats and tangles. Sure, you can try brushing them out, but chances are, your dog won’t be too crazy about it. Especially if there’s yanking and pulling involved. But don’t worry, there’s a special detangler that can help remove those nasty knots. Ruff to Smooth Detangler is a leave-in conditioner and detangler that can be used as an all-over conditioner after a bath or as a spot treatment on stubborn tangles. Yes, you can even use it on a dry dog, so no bath is needed to use it.

We talked about dog shampoo above, but there’s another product that’s also important to keep on hand. Most of us use conditioner on our own heads, and dogs are not much different. Having a conditioned coat can make it easier to brush and help minimize knots. Fur Butter Deep Conditioner is ideal for long-haired dogs or for those with damaged coats. In addition to helping you manage your dog’s fur, it also has colloidal oatmeal, a natural ingredient which helps minimize itching. There’s also Shea butter which helps moisturize your dog’s skin as well as their fur.

Whatever products you end up buying, however, be sure to look at the ingredients. You want to avoid sulfates, which tend to dry out skin and hair, just like in humans, and parabens. Natural ingredients like Shea butter, honey, natural based surfactants, and even yogurt are much better for your dog than many of the chemicals you’ll find in other brands. Especially when you have a dog who has a coat that is long and prone to knots and drying out, you want to make sure you take care of it much like you care for the hair on your head.

If your dog merely has long hair, but isn’t double coated, many of the same tips and tricks will still work. In fact, it’s the same philosophy, you just don’t have to worry about the undercoat. You’ll still want to find a shampoo, conditioner and a detangler to help manage the coat. Once you find the right products and start grooming them, it will only become easier and easier with repeated washings. And as an extra bonus – by grooming your dog, you will also cut down on shedding, so both you and your dog will be happier, healthier and more comfortable.

Categories
Itchy Skin & Allergies

Insane Itching on dogs, could they be caused by chiggers?

dog itchy skin

Question :

I have 3 dogs a 14 yr old swissy and 2 Boston/corgi brothers 4 1/2. We moved from Houston to Austin a little over a year ago and moved in to a house a year ago. Something in my yard when it gets in the 80,s and warmer is causing insane itching for my older dog. My dog have a grain free very healthy diet. I give them coconut oil, garlic. I have found no fleas but use diatomaceous earth also sprayed the yard with cedar oil. I don’t like insecticides my older dog had seizures when using the topical flea products so I don’t use them. I have bathed them with sulfur shampoo to ease itching. Which helps minimally. We went to the vet he gave her a steroid shot which did nothing.
I’m at my wits end and my poor girl is tearing herself up. I thought maybe chiggers.

Answer:

If there were chiggers in your yard, believe me, you would be feeling them too. Chiggers are tiny little harvest mites that don’t discriminate on whom, or what, they choose to bite. Chiggers are usually found in the highest numbers during the spring and fall in grassy areas, particularly in chalky soils. In my own experience, the worst chigger infestation I ever encountered was in a cow pasture of tall, grass.

This is a video showing what they look like on your dog. Your vet should be able to perform a skin scraping and a look under the microscope to determine if chiggers are the problem. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0-ua7mScdg
Here’s another video that explains how to find the eggs and how to treat for chiggers.

It seems like you are doing all that you can to help your dog. If none of your at home treatments are working, you should take your pet to your vet. The veterinarian clinic can administer two pyrethrin-based dips that are two weeks apart, or apply a topical anti-parasite cream. But I would first make sure that chiggers are the proper diagnosis.

You might want to try an all-natural, colloidal oatmeal-based shampoo to help with the itching. Oatmeal helps with dry, itchy skin and has been used in human medicine for years. Comfy Dog is a such a shampoo, highly recommended!

The other thing you can try is a directed, organic, anti-itch, anti-inflammatory spray that will help with those areas where she itches the most. Try Itchin’ For Relief.

The other thing I can suggest is that you get your vet to recommend you to a good veterinary dermatologist. The dermatologist can perform a series of skin tests to make a final determination of what it is in your yard that is so irritating to your pup. Then, when the allergies are at their worst, you can be given a daily injectable serum (and your vet will show you how to do this) to alleviate the symptoms. The serums are made from your dog’s own natural anti-bodies and are not steroidal or chemical in nature.