Showing posts with label Pets. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pets. Show all posts

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

When and How to Give the Right Dosage of Glucosamine for Dogs

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The dosage quantity of glucosamine for dogs must be properly given otherwise there may be serious consequences of an overdose on your pet’s body. You dog may have sudden or even initially mild reaction to the same and its health may become worse in the long run. Although glucosamine is the most widely distributed medicine among pet owners it sometimes may not work out quite well with some particular pets. Your dog is your best friend as it has been said so since you were small. You will not love to have your dog sitting or lying motionless unable to move with arthritis or joint pain. You would like to give it a run or play with you and if it doesn’t do any of this then you must take it to the nearest veterinary doctor.


Your pet’s doctor may prescribe the correct dosage of glucosamine as your dog would need it to keep its age related diseases at bay in the same way as we human beings. There is nothing so awful to see a dog being inactive and the medication has proved over many years as the best one. In most cases the dosage of glucosamine is generally seen to be 500mg for a dog of 50 pound weight. Most tablets are sold in 500mg tablet form only and hence there is no need for getting confused with this.

If you have any doubts as your dog may be weighing heavier then you need the dosage of dogs on glucosamine corrected with the help of your vet.

Merits and side effects of glucosamine

One of the chief reasons why dogs take glucosamine is that they get rid of their arthritis and joint pain problem and in the market this drug seems to be the most effective. Again, it has no side effects if only given in right doses. If you have a dog you may do it after consulting your vet as some dogs tend to be larger than the standard size of 50 pounds. You will never have to worry if the dose you gave is less than the full size. However, complications may develop if you try to give an overdose thinking that the dog is not responsive to the drug or that your pet is not fetching the ball or stick when you throw it far as it used to do earlier.

Your dog is sure to improve after a period of time and this may vary from dog to dog if the diagnosed disease is either arthritis or joint pain. However, the supplement will never work for medical conditions like calcium deposits, tears and dissolution of the cartilages, tissue scaring and changes in the shape of the bone at the joints. These are other conditions and hence the medication will yield no results.

You therefore need to understand the type of disease your pets are having and then administer glucosamine for dogs.

Some other precautionary methods

You should avoid glucosamine administration for dogs if they have diabetes as in that case the symptoms may aggravate. In some cases though there will be no adverse impact yet for some dogs this can prove to be quite serious. Again, if your dog has allergy to shellfish then you should avoid this medication at all cost as it is sure to bring forth side effects.

You should not give this medicine along with chondroitin as both together can give allergic reaction.

Although your dogs’ intake of glucosamine is generally found to have no side effects yet there may be constipation, diarrhea, headaches, stomach problems and skin rashes on some pets. 
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Tuesday, January 28, 2014

6 Signs Your Dog Is Getting Old - Your Dog is Turning Gray

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Dog
Source: Gayla Baer, cc-by-3.0, flickr
No dog owner wants their dog to get to the age where everyday tasks are hard to complete. But sadly, that day is going to come. Dogs, like humans, age, and as they get older, their mind and their body start to work less efficiently. Because dogs tend to age more quickly than humans, the symptoms of their aging may come on much earlier than you had anticipated.

When your dog ages, you may have to make adjustments. For example, your dog may require daily medications, or you may need to alter his or her diet or exercise routine. In order to ensure you are treating your dog properly as they get older, it’s important to recognize the following are six signs that your dog is aging.

1. Your dog has accidents in the house.

As your dog gets older, he or she may lose the ability to control their bathroom habits. Because of this, your dog may end up having accidents in the house more frequently than they did before. If your dog is going to the bathroom in the house more often, it could also be a sign that your dog’s brain is not working as properly as it used to. Either way, it’s’ a sign your dog is getting older.

2. Your dog is showing signs of mental decline.

Your dog’s brain will get worse and worse as he or she gets older. Symptoms of mental decline in your dog include increased anxiety, forgetfulness of past knowledge (including tricks), decreased interest in surroundings, and a higher amount of sleep. If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, it means that he or she is getting older.

3. Your dog’s energy level declines.

Young dogs are rambunctious. They constantly want to play and move around. Older dogs, though, tend to lose their drive to be active. Sure some older dogs will still want to go for walks or play fetch, but they may not be as interested in other physical activities as they once were. Also, you may notice that while they still enjoy going for walks, it may take them longer to get around the block.

4. Your dog starts to lose his or her hearing.

As a dog gets older, their hearing gets worse. If you notice that your dog doesn’t react to noises they way he or she used to or that they don’t listen to your commands, it could be a sign that they can’t hear you. This is a sign your dog is getting older.

5. Your dog is turning gray.

Just like you, your dog’s fur will start to turn gray as he or she gets older. This graying typically occurs around the face and mouth of your dog, but it can also take place around other parts of the dog’s body. Sometimes a dog will start to gray around middle age, which is typically around 5-7.

6. Your dog is not as strong as he or she once was.

Older dogs are susceptible to joint and muscle issues, and this has an impact on your dog’s strength. For example, arthritis in dogs may make it harder for your dog to get up from lying down, and it may also inhibit their ability to jump or even climb stairs. Understand that if this occurs, you may need to help your dog get from one location to another or put them on a daily medication.
Getting older is natural, but if your dog is showing signs of aging, it’s important to discuss it with your veterinarian. This way, if your dog develops any illnesses or diseases, you and your vet can work on treatments right away and ensure your dog is comfortable as a senior.

About Author:

Dr. Susan Wright, DVM shares her love of dogs through freelance writing on topics that teach owners how to be better caregivers and friends to their loyal companions.
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Sunday, January 26, 2014

Strong And Effective Ways Of Providing Training And Proper Grooming To Your Pet Bull Dogs

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Most of dog lovers are highly inclined towards the bull dogs but maintaining the bull dogs are not so easy. You must follow some skilled strategic means of bull dog training, maintaining, caring and feeding of your bull dogs. Because without the proper training and trainer a bull dog cannot become a house pet like any other dogs. When a bull dog trained with the best method of training it can be a ideal dog. Here in this post we tried to discuss some important points and methods of how to train a bull dog. An untrained bull dog can become a serious problem for the owner. So to get rid of this you should give your bulldog a proper training. So let’s see the essentials to train your bulldog.
Essential training tips for bull dogs
If you are willing to obtain some special bulldog training tips for grooming up your bull dog, then in  that case you need to follow either any online posted articles on dog’s training or you can also take proper consultation from any expert and experienced bulldog trainer. Some of the valuable tips are in the following:-
  • It is really very easy to train the bulldogs as they are quite brainy and intelligent and are well-aware how to act smartly with the master.
  • The bulldogs in general are quite lazy and they have the usual tendency of overdoing jobs. So, you need to be very strict and must train them in such a manner that they remain engage in different works throughout the day.
  • They love to sleep rather than working and this is the reason why they get tired so easily. Therefore, you need to fix up certain exercising moves for your bull dog and make it do the same on a regular basis for maintaining fitness and for removing away the lethargic tenacity.
  • Do not let them to be stubborn rather let him obey all your instructions all the time for avoiding hazards or difficulties in future.
  • The bulldogs are commonly highly social in nature and they just love to get mixed with human beings. You can enhance the social interaction of these dogs by taking them regularly for walks in parks or lawns so that they can get in touch with a lot of new people. The most effective way is that if you can manage a playmate for your dog.
  • Train your dog in such a manner that he is well-aware of his boss and can recognize him without any doubt.
  • If you want to make your dog more systematic and organized, then you can fix up his eating, sleeping, playing, and bathing time. Try to maintain a schedule on a regular basis for making the dog more civilized and responsible.
How to train a stubborn bulldog
If you want that your dog must leave his stubborn nature and always listens to you, then you must follow the following tips:-
  • You need to maintain absolutely polite and soft behavior with your dog along with the implementation of the positive techniques of training.
  • Determination of the exact treat type of your dog needs to be considered for maintaining his health along with the mind stability.
  • Let him sniff the treat first and if he is satisfied then only he will consume the same and you will also understand his satisfaction level.
  • You need to be very understanding and patient for tackling your bulldog in a systematic manner.
  • Your dog training sessions must be very crisp and brief for dragging the attention for your dog.
Author of this article is an internationally renowned dog trainer and teacher with 7 years of experience in bulldog training. His philosophy is harness your dog’s energy to unleash their greatest potential and your own.
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Wednesday, January 22, 2014

4 Things To Consider Before Buying A Dog | Have an idea of the dog you want?

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Dog on Green Grass
Source: T. Fernandes, cc-by-3.0, flickr
Deciding to bring a dog into your home is a very big decision, so it’s not something that you should decide lightly. There are many factors that determine whether or not you should buy a dog, and if so, which is the right choice for you. Before you run out to the pet store or adoption center, it’s important you understand the following four things to consider before buying a dog.

1. Make sure you can afford it.

Owning a dog is not cheap, and before you decide to become a dog owner, it’s important that you first ensure you can afford the cost of a dog. Dogs come with many expenses, including medical care, food, toys, grooming, daycare and a variety of other things. If you are already struggling with your finances, then bringing a dog into your home is not a good idea.

2. Make sure you can care for the dog.

Your dog depends on you to take care of him, so you need to be around. If your job constantly has you jet setting the world or staying late at the office, owning a dog is not a smart move. Your dog will need to be let out to go to the bathroom, they’ll need to be fed, they’ll need to be loved, and if you’re not home to do this, the dog will be deprived. Make sure that you can be home to play with and care for your dog regularly, otherwise don’t get one.

It’s also important that you can care for the dog long term. You cannot give the dog up just because your situation changes—the dog is now a part of your family. If you plan on giving the dog away when you move, have kids or when the dog gets old or sick, then do everyone a favor and don’t get one. It’s not fair to the dog.

3. Have an idea of the dog you want.

Before you get a dog, you need to make sure you choose the right dog. For example, if you live in a small apartment, it may be best to get a smaller dog that doesn’t make too much noise. If you get too big of a dog, you will not enjoy sharing your space with such a large animal. Plus, they may be too noisy for your neighbors, and this could cause problems. If you or someone in your family suffers from allergies, it may be a smart idea to get a hypoallergenic dog. Doing your research on different dog breeds will help you make the smartest decision.

4. Decide where to buy the dog.

You have three options when it comes to getting a dog: you can buy one from a pet store, adopt one from a shelter or buy one from a breeder. No matter where you decide to get the dog, it’s important to first do your research. If you are adopting from a shelter, make sure that they are up to code and that they care for their animals. If you buy from a pet store, make sure to do research on the pet store to see if they offer healthy dogs or if they’re connected to a puppy mill. If you buy from a breeder, make sure to buy from a reputable dog breeder.

About Author:

Dr. Susan Wright, DVM shares her love of dogs through freelance writing on topics that teach owners how to be better caregivers and friends to their loyal companions.
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Saturday, January 18, 2014

5 Household Objects That Are Dangerous To Pets | Inside Choking Hazards

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Pets
Source: Andrewr, cc-by-3.0, flickr

You love your furry friend, but you may be subjecting them to health issues without even knowing it. Of course you know certain things that you should keep away from your pet, but there are normal household objects that could pose dangers you are not even aware of. Watch out for these common pet killers and keep your pet safe.

1. Outside Chemicals

You probably already know that some things should be kept away from your pet, like cleaning products and pest poison, but there may be some things you are overlooking. According to the Humane Society, antifreeze has a sweet taste that may entice pets to drink it, but as little as one teaspoon could kill a seven-pound cat. Any pesticides or fertilizer that you use in the yard could also prove lethal for your pet, so keep an eye on them when you let them outside or into your garage.

2. Inside Choking Hazards

Many things in your house could be easily digested and become stuck in your pet’s throat. Never give your pet string or yarn to play with because it can be swallowed and wrap up in their digestive system. Rubber bands, and even dental floss, can also be a choking hazard.
Make sure you supervise your pets when they play with their toys, as small pieces or parts of their toys could become broken or fall off. Anything with small parts that you wouldn’t let a baby play with, you shouldn’t let your pet play with either.

3. Human Medication

Never give your pet any of your medication, unless your veterinarian has specifically told you it’s okay. Healthy Pet says that just two extra-strength tablets within 24 hours can kill a small pet. Always make sure that you keep your medication tightly closed and well out of reach of your pet.

4. Plants

Some plants may be poisonous to your pet. You may not think about it because you don’t expect Fluffy to eat your pretty flower, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Seasonal plants like Easter lilies, mistletoe, and poinsettias are toxic for animals. If you feel the need to have these in your home, make sure you keep them well out of reach.

5. Table Scraps

Fido may beg for a piece of your dinner, but it’s important not to give him any. Those puppy eyes may be hard to turn down, so consider feeding your pet when you feed yourself. Chocolate and onions can be lethal for pets, and lots of other foods can make your pet sick.

To avoid this, make sure that your pet only eats food specifically made for them. Chicken bones and other small bones should never be given to your dog to chew on because they could break and become lodged in your pet’s throat. Even rawhide bones need to be given only with supervision because pieces can fracture off and pose choking hazards.

Even the most vigilant pet owners may find their pet has gotten into something. If this happens, keep calm and call your veterinarian. If your pet has been poisoned, some symptoms could include listlessness, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, lack of coordination, and fever.

Whether you live in Vancouver or Burnaby, veterinary hospitals will be able to help you. You will need to know your pet’s age, breed, gender, what they were exposed to, how long ago the exposure happened, and the symptoms your pet is displaying.

Victoria Ramos studied business and now blogs about developments in the field, as well as her other interests. She loves shopping, socializing, hosting parties, decorating, and writing. She currently lives with her dog, Pablo, and trusts the veterinary care of Central Animal Emergency Clinic.
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