Dogs 101

Once a year the time comes that you have to take your beloved pet to the vet for a check up. Are you asking the right questions, if any? Well, I have narrowed it down to 5 that you must ask every visit:

This question is deceivingly important. Because pets live in different places and different homes, each dog is exposed to different diseases and viruses than other pets. Disease and infection is always a risk to any pet, no matter whether they only play inside or outside. When you ask your local veterinarian this question, they will be able to accurately assess your pet’s individual situation and prescribe the perfect vaccinations for your pet to main happy and healthy. Also, be sure to ask your vet how often your pet will need their vaccinations, so that you can put it down on your calendar and plan ahead.

Different breeds of dogs are susceptible to different diseases and medical conditions. For example, dogs with long limbs (such as greyhounds) are more prone to arthritis in their later years than a small dog, such as a miniature dachshund. Your vet will be familiar with the diseases and conditions for which your dog may be susceptible. It is beneficial to be aware of possible conditions your pet may develop in their older age, so that you will able to be recognize and treat the symptoms as soon as they appear.

There are many flea control programs for cats and dogs that are easily available. Most veterinarians often have a personal preference, and it is always helpful to heed a professional opinion. Some brands also may be better suited for your pet than others; if your dog is an outdoor pet, he may need a stronger degree of flea protection than that of an indoor dog.

There are hundreds of pet food brands and diets available for your precious pooch. Sometimes it may be overwhelming when you go to the pet supplier and see all of the pet food variants and brands that are available—how do you know which one is best for your dog? Again, because all dogs are different, some diets presented in pet food may be better suited for one particular age or breed of dog than another.

Each veterinary clinic has their own set of procedures for pet emergencies. Make sure you keep the clinic’s contact information in a readily accessible spot, such as your wallet or a piece of paper taped on the inside panel of a cabinet door.

Reward your healthy pet with Dog beds, Dog doors, or Dog Steps. 

Are you thinking that your four legged pal is pregnant? If you are, here are some very important tips on how to care for her.

First and foremost, if you are not completely sure your pet is pregnant, make an appointment at your local veterinary clinic. Your vet will be able to confirm that your pet is, in fact, pregnant. Take the time to speak with your vet and ask any questions you have relating to caring for a pregnant dog. You will want to take the best possible care of your pooch and her pups, and to do so, you must do a little research and ask questions so you fully understand what your role in your pet’s pregnancy is. Most likely, your dog will rely on your more than she ever has, and that is an important role you will have to be able to fill to the best of your ability when the time comes.

For starters, here is a basic run-down of doggie pregnancy facts. Unlike humans who experience long pregnancies, the gestation period (that is, the time period from conception to birth) for dogs is approximately only 63 days. Depending on your dog’s breed (and the breed of the father), the litter can be anywhere from a few puppies, to 8 or 10!

Like female humans, nutrition is an important aspect that is tied directly to the health and growth of the puppies. Premium dog food is an excellent choice to start with because it practically guarantees that your pup’s nutritional needs will be met, with the possible addition of added protein. However, if you are concerned or have any questions, direct them to your local vet, they will be able to provide you with suggestions and information you need to properly take care of your dog. Not only is nutrition important while your pet is pregnant, it is also important while the puppies are still attached to their mother and rely on her for their daily intake of food.

For pregnant humans, exercise is somewhat relative, depending on the female’s state of physical fitness prior to becoming with child. It is the same way with dogs. You will want to keep your dog active, yet pay close attention and do not push her. Simply take her on a short and easy walk each day. If it is hot outside, think twice; you don’t want your pup becoming overheated from the effort. Remember, the goal is to keep your dog strong and healthy, not get them into shape; that should be done before pregnancy.

Again, talk to your vet and don’t be afraid to ask any questions. The health of your precious dog and her puppies is vital and you don’t want to make any mistakes by accident simply because you were unaware. The best way you can help your pregnant dog is by doing your research and being there to help. She will thank you for it!

Keep her comfortable with dog beds, dog doors, and dog steps. 

Most people consider their pet to be one of their children, but I wonder if they are prepared for an emergency that could arise. Pet first aid is something that every pet owner should l study and be prepared. Here is some of the most common first aid situations and how to handle them.  

First, dogs (those with thick or heavy coats have a higher risk) can suffer from heatstroke. Heatstroke most often occurs when a dog is left alone in a car or is put outside for too long a time on a hot summer day. To prevent this, never leave your dog alone in the car, and if you must leave your dog outside on a hot day, make sure they have plenty of water so they can be properly hydrated. The symptoms of heatstroke are rapid breathing or panting, and collapsing. To treat this, first take you pet to a cool or shaded area. Next, use a sponge or gently hose down your dog with cool water; do not use ice, because the two extremes could cause your dog to go into shock. Then, encourage your dog to slowly drink small amounts of water in order to restore hydration. Finally, always contact your local vet for further instructions.

Next, shock occurs if a dog experiences an injury or wound that induces low blood circulation. The symptoms of shock generally include shallow or struggled breathing, displays of weakness, gray gums and a weak pulse. To treat shock, immediately prepare to take your dog to your veterinary clinic. Wrap him in a warm blanket, and call the clinic to inform them you are on your way. Also, do not feed your dog any food or water, because this can cause choking or vomiting, and remember to keep their head slightly below their body and their mouth open to ensure a clear airway.

Depending on what is consumed, poisoning symptoms can widely vary. It is a good idea to be familiar with your household plants, cleaners, and your lawn’s insecticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. To treat poisoning, the first thing you will want to do is keep your pet warm. Next, try to figure out what was ingested, when it was ingested, and how much was consumed. Then, immediately call poison control or your veterinary clinic. Take your dog to the clinic as soon as possible and bring the label or product that poisoned your dog with you.

Finally, dogs do get cuts or more serious wounds, though this is rarely the case. To treat such occurrences, first you will want to apply firm and continuous pressure to the bleeding area with a clean cloth, thick paper towels, or first aid gauze. If doing so is particularly painful for your pet, you will need to keep a strong hold on them and enlist someone to help restrain your dog, if at all possible. If the cut or wound keeps bleeding for more than a few minutes, immediately transport your pet to your local veterinary clinic for additional care.

Your pet’s safety is always a priority, and being familiar with pet first aid procedures could mean the difference between the life or death of your precious pup. Keep and eye on them, and remember, being prepared is often the best defense!

Also consider getting a dog crate or installing an electric dog fence to keep them safe and contained, when needed.

Hello blogsomers!

My name is Angela and I intend to use this blog as a place for me to share all the helpful tips a know about pet care. Before I start bestowing all my knowledge I am going to leave you with a few links for you to click on and wonder about.
The Humane Society or Help stop animal abuse

Check back soon for helpful tips