» Posts in the Dog Health/Grooming Category:

Diet Reflects a Dog’s Health

Posted by: Joanne Gallagher • January 26, 2010

Deciding what kind of dog food and dog treats are appropriate for your dog is as important as deciding what to feed your family. Reading ingredient labels to stay aware of recalls is necessary to insure your pet is receiving safe and healthy meals.

Recent recalls include peanut butter dog treats. Not all manufacturers were affected by this recall. Claudia’s Canine Cuisine and Northern Biscuit Company are examples of dog treat manufacturers whose products were not affected by the peanut butter recall. Thankfully the contaminated peanut butter products were taken off the shelves and the recall is over.

As dogs age their metabolism slows down. Sound familiar? Older dogs require special diets. Veterinarians suggest a diet high in fiber and complex carbohydrates and low in fat for dogs who don’t engage in an active lifestyle. There are many brands of dog food specific for aging dogs such as Merrick 5-Star Dry Dog Food Senior Medley. Fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, no animal fat and real meat make Senior Medley an appropriate choice for senior dogs.

Diabetes also affects dogs and requires special care to keep glucose levels in an appropriate range. High fiber diets are recommended for diabetic dogs. The added fiber slows the digestion of carbohydrates and regulates breaking down the carbs.

Many aging dogs and large breed dogs like a Labrador Retriever, Gordon Setter, Irish Setter and Great Dane suffer from arthritis. Arthritis symptoms may increase with age or develop the joint pain and stiffness during old age. Dogswell Happy Hips dog treats with Glucosamine & Chondroitin are not only nutritious all natural chicken breasts, but also scientifically formulated to help maintain the physical condition of a dog’s joints.

Food allergies are common among many breeds of dogs. Wheat, corn and soy can cause itchy skin, skin and ear infections, excessive scratching, hot spots, hair loss, and frequent bowel movements in a dog with an allergy to these products.

Overweight dogs need to be on a special diet. If a dog is eating table scraps too may dog treats, and not getting enough exercise they will become overweight. This happens frequently when a dog is in a crate during the day and then spoiled all evening with love and food.

Caring for your dog from puppy to senior is an educational process. During each stage there are nutritional requirements that need to be met so your dog will be healthy and have the wonderful life every dog deserves!

Canine Influenza

Posted by: Joanne Gallagher • November 18, 2009

Dog FluThe Flu and the Swine Flu have been the hot topic during the last few months. Dogs are not exempt from catching the flu. Canine Influenza is an A H3N8 influenza virus that has been known to exist in horses for more than 40 years. In 2004, however, cases of an unknown respiratory illness in dogs (initially greyhounds) were reported. This virus has spread to dogs and can now spread between dogs.

Because this flu virus is new to dogs, most dogs will not have a natural immunity. The signs of canine flu are similar to kennel cough, with a thick nasal discharge and mild low grade fever.

Canine influenza is spread by airborne discharge and contaminated surfaces. The virus can stay alive on surfaces for up to 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours, and on hands for 12 hours. Therefore kennels, crates, food and water bowls, collars and leashes and people moving between infected and uninfected dogs have ample time to spread the virus.

There are similar respiratory infections that mimic the Dog Flu. Two blood samples can confirm canine influenza. One blood sample is drawn while the dog is sick and the second 2 to 3 weeks later.

There is a Canine Influenza Vaccine, H3N8 which has proven to reduce the occurrence and severity of lung lesions, as well as the duration of coughing and the overall virus. The vaccine is made from inactivated virus and is administered by an injection in two doses, two to four weeks apart. The Canine Flu vaccine may be given to dogs six weeks of age or older and can be given annually for Flu protection. Dog owners should seek advice from with their veterinarian to determine whether the vaccine is appropriate for their dog.

Currently, there is no evidence that humans can catch canine influenza virus from dogs. There are no known cases of humans infected with the canine influenza virus. This virus infects dogs and spreads between dogs.

Just like the Swine Flu and the Seasonal Flu, it is likely that the Dog Flu will continue to spread. Taking precautions and taking proper care of your pet, should keep your dog healthy during this flu season. There is no need for alarm and avoiding dog parks, kennels, grooming or other places you typically take your dog. Reputable Pet Professionals keep their establishments sanitized and are aware of unhealthy symptoms of their clients.

For more information on Canine Influenza, check out these 2 websites: Dr. Cynda Crawford (University of Florida) at www.canineflu.org and information from the American Veterinary Medical Association at www.avma.org.

Say ‘No’ to Dog Breath!

Posted by: Joanne Gallagher • November 6, 2009

Dog KissEveryone loves puppy kisses, but nobody loves puppy breath! A wagging tail, panting and squealing with delight. then, a big, wet dog kiss ! – By now you’ve gotten a whiff of “dog breath”!

Remember this famous Peanuts quote: Auugh! I’ve been kissed by a dog! I have dog germs! Get some hot water! Get some disinfectant! Get some iodine! As spoken by none other than Lucy Van Pelt!

Dog breath has a bad reputation! Humans with terrible oral hygiene habits have bad breath too! The first step to help with unpleasant pet breath is to keep your dog’s teeth clean. A yearly professional cleaning by your veterinarian will scrape built on plaque and tarter off your dog’s teeth and along the gum line. If you start oral hygiene when your pet is young, you can train them to tolerate having their teeth brushed by you. This is will help fight tartar and gum disease between yearly veterinarian cleanings.

An easy solution to brushing your dog’s teeth at home is ClearQuest Pet Toothbrush and Toothpaste Set. The double-sided toothbrush has a small and large head for complete cleaning. Tartar-control toothpaste is flavored with vanilla and has tea tree oil for gum health. Non-foaming toothpaste requires no rinsing. Don’t use your toothpaste to brush your dog’s teeth. Human toothpaste can be harmful to a dog.

Bad breath could indicate dangerous conditions that need more attention than just giving your dog a breath freshener. Have your veterinarian rule out gum disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or a foreign object trapped in your dog’s mouth. Periodontal disease can lead to heart problems. The bacteria in the tartar can get into the bloodstream through infected gums. Bacteria can attach in the heart and cause a life-threatening disease. It is important to your dog’s health to keep your their teeth and gums clean.

Some groomers recommend giving your dog carrots to help with bad breath. An apple a day also helps for a short period of time. Dog owners can easily make Homemade Dog Breath Mints. It is very simple, only 3 ingredients.

1/4 cup mint leaves
3-5 salt-free crackers or matzo or breadcrumbs
Water

1. Crush crackers
2. Finely chop mint leaves
3. Mix chopped mint with crackers
4. Add water to mint and crackers until mixture is sticks together
5. Form into 1/4 inch balls.
6. Place into freezer on waxed paper
7. Serve to your dogs when needed

One of Jake’s Dog House best selling products is Petkin Liquid Oral Care. Liquid Oral Care provides an easy way to keep your pet’s teeth and gums clean and healthy while freshening their breath. Simply add Liquid Oral Care to your pet’s daily drinking water. The virtually tasteless and colorless formula works invisibly to clean teeth while fighting plaque, gum disease and odor causing germs. A 32oz bottle.retails typically for $12.95

Dog toys help reduce bad dog breath. Nylabone Galileo dog bone has tiny bristle like projections that are raised during normal chewing which help to clean teeth and massage the gums. Rope dog toys act as dental floss to keep rub away plaque and tarter. Tough, solid rubber dog toys like KONG dental stick is made from flexible, durable KONG natural rubber and not only satisfies your dog’s natural urge to chew, but cleans their teeth while your dog plays!

Chase annoying bad breath away with a good dental plan of brushing your dog’s teeth, yearly visits to the Vet, and breath fresheners made for pets! Using oral care products that are especially formulated to help you in taking care of your dog’s oral hygiene will keep your dog healthy and happy and make dog kisses delightful!

Visit Jake’s Dog House for other Dog Breath remedies.

Dogs Need Coats Too!

Posted by: Joanne Gallagher • October 19, 2009

Dog Coats and SweatersThe days are getting chilly. Time to pull out the coats and sweaters and turn on the heater! Even though dogs come with their own coats, they could use extra warmth provided by a dog coat or dog sweater.

Dog owners enjoy dressing up small dogs. Smaller breed dogs have hair rather than fur and are sensitive to chilly weather. They need the warmth of dog clothes if they are outside for any length of time. Dog breeds such as: Yorkshire Terriers, Silky Terriers, Chinese Crested Dogs, Dachshunds and Maltese truly benefit from wearing a dog sweater or coat. Little dogs don’t like the feel of the cold or rain and are happiest warm and dry.

Smaller/Medium size dogs such as Pugs and Welsh Corgis have shorthair, but a more muscular build than teacup and small dogs. But wouldn’t a Welsh Corgi just be so righteous in a Velour Prince or Princess Royalty Hoodie? If they are spending the day with the Queen a plaid trench coat would be perfect. How about a pug in a Faux Brown Leather Bomber Jacket? Sometimes it is just about looking good! Even though Boxers are muscular they don’t fare well in extreme temperatures. Couldn’t you see a Boxer wearing a Corduroy Dog Jacket?

Short haired breeds, like a Basenji, Italian Greyhound, Greyhound, Weimaraner and Vizsla have a thin build and need to exercise outdoors. They do not fare well with the extreme cold. During cold temperatures a barn jacket is easy to Velcro onto an active dog. A Barn Coat helps to keep outdoor dogs comfortable in cold weather. The Polyester side helps repel wind and water to keep dogs dry and safe from the elements, while the soft fleece side traps body heat to provide a den of snuggly comfort.

Some dog breeds don’t need to wear a coat. For example, the Alaskan Malamute has a dense and wooly undercoat that enables them to be exposed to the frigid cold weather without wearing a coat. The Samoyed has a double coat that consists of a soft, thick undercoat and a harsh outer coat. Cold temperature breeds also have a ruff of hair around their neck for extra insulation. Some DO like it cold!

Aging dogs need a bit of extra comfort and warmth in their old age. A fleece lined dog coat will keep an older dog more comfortable. Especially on days when a dog feels arthritic, a dog sweater or coat will offer aid to keep their bodies at ease. Dogs not in tip top health can benefit from a therapeutic dog coat. Using heat, cold and magnetic therapy, veterinarians recommend therapeutic dog coats for rehabilitation and pain relief.

The right fit is important for comfort and warmth. Using a tape measure to figure out what size coat your dog will need can be accomplished in 3 easy steps.

1. Measure your dog’s girth. The girth is the dog’s chest behind the front legs.
2. Measure your dog’s neck. This is an important for hooded dog apparel.
3. Measure the length of your dog from the base of their neck to the base of their tail.

Yes, dogs come with their own coats, but depending upon the breed, the size, and the weather a dog coat can add an extra bit of warm for cold and damp days.

Caring For Your Elderly Dog

Posted by: Joanne Gallagher • September 6, 2009

It happens to all of us.  As we get older things don’t work as well as they used to.  A ache, a pain, the fine print looks blurry-our bodies are giving us signals to make changes in our lifestyle.   An aging pet experiences a lot of the same symptoms as pet owners.  If your dog is not acting “normal”, then it is time for a checkup with the veterinarian.

What is considered old?  Humans say 40 is the new 30, and so on.  Dogs have a calculated age as well.  Generally, a large dog who is 7 years or older is considered middle to senior aged and smaller breed dogs, are not typically considered in their geriatric years until they are around 12 plus years.  Medium sized dogs are therefore between 8 and 11 years old before they typically start to slow down.

greying-muzzleAs the golden years approach dogs tend to have some graying around the face, especially on the muzzle.   You may notice that your dog is being more cautious and is slower getting up, lying down, and struggling going up the stairs. Arthritis is common in dogs as they age, particularly larger breeds.

As dogs age you might notice a bluish transparent cloudy film in the pupil area. This is a normal consequence of aging.  The medical term for this is lenticular sclerosis. lenticular-sclerosisThis condition is different than cataracts and a pet’s vision is not compromised, even though it looks like there is something obstructing their sight.  Larger breed dogs tend to suffer from muscle atrophy.  The hind and hips begin to lose their strength.    A pet with dementia barks for no reason has accidents and sometimes roams to a remote part of the house and is not themselves around loved ones.   It is upsetting to see our pets go through this aging process, but dog owners can do a lot to make life easier of your older dog.

Dog food for geriatric dogs includes special ingredients for a healthy diet.  Arthritic Relief Dog Cookies is a great way of supplementing your dog’s diet with cookies containing herbs, vitamins, minerals and essential elements known to build strong joints and relieve inflammation, your dog should be playful again. Alfalfa and cod liver oil is used to reduce the discomforts of arthritis. Proper amounts of Vitamin C are necessary for good adrenal function, to make enough cortisone, resulting in arthritic symptoms. That’s why pure applesauce is in the cookies. These dog treats formulated for aging dogs but are so reward your dog is so many ways

If your dog is accustomed to sleeping with you or sitting with you on the sofa, Pet Studio sells a Wicker Ramp and 3 Steps for Pets.  The Ramp/Steps easily convert from steps to a ramp to make it easy for aging or arthritic pets to reach sofas, beds, and more.  The pet steps even add a nice accent to any room.
A geriatric dog needs a lot of rest.  Comfortable bedding like a Fleece Top Rectangular Dog Bed
with premium spring wound spun poly filling for maximum loft after continued use with cedar bits for added for freshness and removable cover for washing is a great option for an aging pet.

As dog owners you know your dog better than anyone else.  Noticing changes in your dog’s appetite, physical appearance as well as the way your dog interacts with you and their dog toys can alert you that they are approaching their golden years.  Consult your veterinarian on ways to help your dog remain happy and comfortable.  With a little extra love and attention, our senior dog companions will be with us for many more dog days.

Dogs Get Allergies Too!

Posted by: Joanne Gallagher • August 7, 2009

Many dogs can suffer from allergic reactions to various things. Breeds such as Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Schnauzers, and Terriers may be genetically pre-disposed to allergies, specifically, allergies caused by ingredients found in food.

Food allergies may manifest themselves in cats and dogs in the following ways: Their skin becomes itchy and irritated on their face, feet, ears, forelegs, armpits and amongst the area around the base of the tail. In addition, frequent inner ear infections, loss of hair, extreme scratching, hot spots, and skin infections that may respond to antibiotics but return after the antibiotics are completed.  Increased incidence of bowel movements is another symptom of dogs with food allergies. Dogs normally have around 1.5 bowel movements daily, where food allergies may increase the frequency to 3 or more per day.

Common ingredients found in dog food such as preservatives, additives, peanut butter and tomatoes can cause your dog to have an allergic reaction.  Peanut butter is a common ingredient found in dog biscuits, and tomato paste is often times found in dry dog food.  Protein is another culprit of dog allergies and can be found in items such as chicken, beef, carbohydrates, wheat or corn.  Most veterinarians suggest a diet of lamb and rice for dogs with such allergic reactions.

You can prepare allergy free pet food for dog at home.  Remember, dogs love fresh vegetables such as carrots, broccoli and cauliflower.  Keep in mind that vegetables also provide additional benefits that will help your dog or cat live a longer more healthy life.  Be sure to change your dog’s diet gradually as to avoid stomach problems.

Some dog allergies are caused by environmental factors.  Pets are frequently allergic to trees, grass, pollen and fabrics made of wool or nylon.  Others environmental causes include plastic, rubber materials, mites, flea bites or insects.   After their body’s become exposed to these substances, they respond to these allergens by becoming itchy.  If dogs scratch at the irritant too much, they may develop sores which create an ideal place for a bacterial infection.  When dogs are not in direct contact with the allergen but still experience symptoms, Atopy is usually the reason. Atopy is dermatitis caused by inhalation rather than physical contact.  This normally occurs as a result of inhalation of pollen, dust, mold, or any allergy substance in the air.

Paws, ears, and face are common areas that become inflamed by allergies.  Consult with your veterinarian about controlling pet allergies.  To heal sores on a dog’s body, treatments such as fatty acid supplements, hypoallergenic shampoo and hydrocortisone creams are very effective.  Veterinarians use antihistamines to relieve the dogs itching and make life more comfy for your canine friend. There are some side effects to be aware of when using an antihistamine such as sleepiness, hyperactivity, constipation, dry mouth & lack of appetite.  Be sure you have consulted your vet before using any medication on your dog.

When dogs have allergies, the allergy usually presents itself in the form of a sore on the dogs back or belly. These sores often time force the dog to lick or claw at the area causing the hair to fall out.  Food allergies as well as environmental culprits can make your dog’s life unbearable.  Zeroing in on the cause of the allergy will improve your pet’s quality of life!  Jake’s Dog House has many wheat and corn free dog treat choices that will make your dog’s tail wag!

Travel with Your Pet Safely and Comfortably

Posted by: Joanne Gallagher • June 3, 2009

Vacation time is right around the corner.  Memorial Day Weekend a lot of us hit the road for a weekend getaway or daily road trips.  Taking your pet along makes the trip a complete family outing.  Most dogs love to ride in cars and its fun to take them along with you wherever you go.
There are some important things to keep in mind when travelling with your pet.  Keeping your dog safe and content in the car will make the road trip more enjoyable for you and also aid in your safety.  An unrestrained dog or cat in the car during travel can be a hazardous distraction to a driver. There is pet gear designed especially for dog travel.
Animals should be secure during the trip and not allowed to jump around or hang out of the window.  Don’t allow your pet to ride with their head outside the window. There is a danger of inner ear damage, lung infections, and injury from objects flying by your car. Use your car’s air conditioner to provide cool air for your dog.

There are serious dangers with unrestrained pets that travel in the car. Even if your pet is well behaved in the car, you still have to consider your pet’s safety if you to slam on your brakes or get into an auto accident.
Make certain your pet does cannot roam around the vehicle. Options include a pet safety belt, pet harness or pet car seat.   These pet auto travel safety devices ensure that should an accident happen your pet is not thrown from the vehicle or into other passengers.
A dog auto harness that attaches to the car’s safety belt is a safe substitute to a dog crate. A properly fitted auto pet harness will allow your pet to sit and lie down comfortably during travel and will provide protection during sudden stops or emergency turns.
Car Safety Vest Dog Harness by O’Donnell is your dog’s protection while traveling in a vehicle. These are the only pet harnesses to be crash tested to the same standards as a child safety seat. Thirty (30) lbs. at 30 mph. There is a universal metal buckle that fits into the seat belt receptacle. The harness is manufactured from ballistic nylon for security in use. The vest style harness is for your pet’s protection.
A pet car seat is another great option for pet travel.  It lets small dogs look out the car window, comfortably and safely. The Lookout II is like the original Lookout but, for added value, has a pull-out tray at the bottom to hold food and water dishes, toys, chews, and leash.  If your pet is using an auto harness or pet car seat in the passenger front seat, be sure the passenger airbag is turned off.  A deployed airbag can cause severe injury to pets.
In California the “Buckle Up” law applies to pets as well as people.  The California “tether law” fines drivers a minimum of $50.00 when animals are not restrained in the car.  In other states like New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, dogs are not permitted to ride unrestrained in the back of a pickup truck.
Dog crate or dog carriers that are on the car seat need to be buckled in so they do not shift when the vehicle turns.  Small dog crates will most likely fit on the floor of the car and large dog crates will probably fit in the back of a SUV or van.
Another interesting auto safety option is a Backseat Hammock Pet Car Safety which creates a comfortable hammock for your pet by attaching easily to your front and rear headrests.  It closes the gap between the front and backseats so pet stays off the floor.  It reduces the risk of injury by keeping pets in the back seat.  Water resistant, durable, canvas material protects seats from spills and hair.   The Backseat Hammock adjusts to fit most vehicles.

To help keep your car clean during pet travel the Guardian Gear Pink Camo Car Seat Cover is a multi-use cover that fits over the back seat and keeps the upholstery free of pet hair, dirt, and moisture. Anti-slip Velcro® strips on back and elastic clips help secure the cover. The Pet car seat cover can also be used as a throw to protect furniture in the home. Measures 51″L x 40″W and fits most auto safety car seats.  Pet travel doesn’t have to leave the upholstery in your vehicle stained with pet drool, claw marks and accidents.
On a final note… never leave your pet alone in a parked car!  In hot weather the inside of a vehicle can be 20 degrees hotter than the outside temperature and cause your pet to overheat.  In cold weather the car can hold in the cold and your pet can freeze to death.

Pets are great travelers and enhance the family vacation experience.  Whether you are going on a quick trip to a dog park or on long distance vacations; pet auto safety is an important safety precaution for everyone on the road!

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Glucosamine Joint Relief for Dogs

Posted by: Joanne Gallagher • May 3, 2009

Does your dog or cat suffer from arthritis, hip dysplasia, knee dysplasia, elbow dislocation or other joint problems?
Dog owners need to be aware of changes in their dog’s behavior.  If your pet starts gaining lot of weight, sleeping more, not interest in playing and has difficulty climbing stairs they may have arthritis.  Arthritis sufferers also have stiffness when walking, getting up or down;   smaller dogs suffering from arthritis whimper or growl when picked up or handled.
Hip dysplasia is a form of osteoarthritis. Hip dysplasia is the abnormal development of the hips, which results in an increasing amount of looseness in the hip joint. Dogs can suffer from degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) that is not caused by hip dysplasia or they can suffer with it because they have hip dysplasia.
Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) is a genetic, painful, crippling disease that causes a dog’s hip to weaken, deteriorate, and become arthritic. It is a hereditary condition and is the leading cause of lameness occurring in the rear legs of dogs.
Generally, hip dysplasia (a malformed hip socket) strikes generally in larger breeds of dogs for example, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes to name a few, although medium and small breeds can have hip dysplasia also.
Unfortunately many dogs suffer from arthritis and experience hip pain.  An overweight dog can be at risk for joint pain.   Keeping your dog’s weight at what is normal for its breed is important, along with making certain your dog is getting all the proper nutrients its body requires.
Excessive weight puts a great deal of stress on the joints. This is especially true if your dog is predisposed to hip dysplasia or has arthritis.
Arthritic Relief Dog Cookies All Natural Dog Treats are a delicious dog treat to supplement your dog’s diet with cookies containing herbs, vitamins, minerals and essential elements known to build strong joints and relieve inflammation.   Alfalfa and cod liver oil are used to reduce the discomforts of arthritis. Proper amounts of Vitamin C are necessary for good adrenal function, to make enough cortisone, resulting in arthritic symptoms. That’s why pure applesauce is in the cookies.
Exercise is important for everyone, especially your pet, however if your dog is predisposed to hip dysplasia limit its exercise to long walks, swimming, and very short runs. Do not put excess pressure on your dog’s limbs.
There are nutritional supplements on the market made especially for cats and dogs that can be given on a daily basis that will help maintain a healthy joint system from young to senior cats and dogs.  Connectin Granular Dog Joint & Arthritis Food Supplement is a veterinarian proven glucosamine-based supplement for dogs, cats and horses with arthritis and other joint disorders. Connectin – Granular is a delicious Roast Beef flavor – just sprinkle over your pet’s food or mix with water to make gravy.
Connectin Chewables Joint & Arthritis Supplement for Dogs is a chewable option for Dog arthritis relief and Dog hip pain relief.  It has a delectable Roast Beef flavor-give to your dog or cat as a chewable treat.

Pro Care Pet 100% ORGANIC PRO-JOINT 100% ORGANIC JOINT Bone is a tasty treat with the necessary organic ingredients to strengthen connective tissue and enhance bone and joint integrity. Delicious and nutritious – this product enables freedom of movement and comfort for your dog!
Animals produce a certain amount of glucosamine within their bodies. As animals grow older, their bodies lose the ability to make enough glucosamine. Having sufficient glucosamine in your pet’s body is very important to producing the nutrients needed to stimulate the production of synovial fluid, the fluid which lubricates your pet’s cartilage and keeps your pet’s joints healthy. Without enough glucosamine, the cartilage in their weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees deteriorates. The cartilage then hardens and forms bone spurs, deformed joints, and limited joint movement. This is how the debilitating disease of arthritis develops.
Glucosamine and chondroitin help to reduce symptoms and to rebuild the cartilage and restore fluid.
Sea Mobility Glucosamine Jerky Strips for Dogs offers Glucosamine joint relief.  Sea “Mobility” provides mobility enhancement and flexibility improvement from the natural power of Sea Cucumber, MSM, and Glucosamine.  Real Beef, chicken and venison (USDA) jerky strips, are super-powered with nutraceuticals to help maximize joint function when joint mobility is critical for your dog’s lifestyle.  Excellent for dogs from puppies to “Seniors”.  Great for any dog that can’t swallow a pill or capsule.
Before doing any “self prescribed” medicating for your pet, always get the advice of your pet’s veterinarian.
Dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia and joint pain can live long and healthy lives with a little help from their friends and as a dog owner you owe it to your pet to be as accommodating and loving as you can be.

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Pamper Your Pet

Posted by: Joanne Gallagher • April 29, 2009

As warm weather approaches we all want to get that healthy glow.  Time to shed those winter pounds … your dog is ready to strut around the neighborhood and dog park looking good.   Make your pet feel special with a springtime spruce up!
A pretty coat starts off with a bath in all natural Tea Tree Oil & Aloe Vera Dog Shampoo.   Tea Tree Oil has long been recognized as an effective and beneficial ointment for hot spots, skin irritations, insect bites and itching.  For a real treat, lavish your pet with a SPA treatment.  This mild yet concentrated, lightly foaming facial cleanser soothes and balances. It has natural exfoliating activity and is slightly hydrating.   The refreshing blend of vanilla and blueberry effectively removes dirt and tear stains, and will not sting eyes.  Great for all skin types and all ages of pets!   If your pet has visible tear stains, try Angels’ Eyes®.  It is the first product specifically developed for BOTH DOGS & CATS to eliminate unsightly tearstains from the inside out!   Angels’ Eyes® also helps to eliminate staining around the mouth and their coats due to licking.  Angels’ Eyes® starts working before the tear stains begin and never adds food dyes or wheat which can have negative effects on your pet.   All ingredients are products of the USA.   Just sprinkle Angels’ Eyes daily on regular food.
Follow the shampoo with and a good brushing.  Depending on the breed of dog and their coat, there are so many types of dog brushes.   Millers Forge make great mat breakers and dog shedding brushes.  The Shedding Slicker Brush provides double action – long & short pins work at two levels rather than one as in standard Slicker Brushes. Better results with no extra effort – particularly useful on breeds with shedding problems. The Slicker brush is designed to remove all dead hair. For all coat types: long-haired; wire & course-hair; short & smooth-hair breeds.
Don’t forget about your dog’s ears.  You want to make sure they can hear you loud and clear.  One of the easiest ways to remove discharge and ear wax from pet’s ears is Clear Quest Professional Pet Ear Wipes.  Premoistened pet ear cleaner wipes are formulated with antibacterial and antifungal agents to minimize ear odor and prevent infections. Use 2-3 times per week for best results
That perfect smile and dog breath requires brushing your dog’s teeth.  According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80% of dogs suffer from periodontal disease by the age of two. Help your dog ward off bad breath, gum disease, multiple infections, and heart disease by consistently brushing your dog’s teeth.  The unique design of the KissAble toothbrush makes it easy to clean all three sides of the tooth with one stroke. The soft bristles massage the gums while the firmer bristles clean teeth. The vanilla flavored toothpaste is All Natural and is great for dogs and their people!
Trimming your pet’s nails every 10 days ensures a professionally groomed look everyday!  Millers Forge Dog Nail clippers are Veterinarians and Groomers choice!  My favorite part of grooming my female dog is polishing her nails.  It is important to use nail polish for dogs because it provides long lasting color that is water-resistant and chip-resistant and dries quickly.  Top Performance Color Paw Nail Polish for Dogs has a 3 Color Set that has great pastel colors for Spring.
About now your pet is feeling quite pampered!  Eyes, Ears, Mouth , a pretty coat and perfect nails … your dog is ready to take on all the other dog’s in the neighborhood & dog park!

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