First Coast Pet

Posts Tagged ‘pet health’

There are several types of illnesses that can affect our pets. Unless you understand what these illnesses are and how to prevent them you are putting your pet in danger. While we typically don’t think about cats as having short lives thier life span can be reduced when they are not provided with adiqute nutrition. Some of the common illnesses among cats are diabetes, kidney failure, bladder infections, obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, and several other conditions. These illnesses hamper your pet from functioning normally. Fortunatley they can be controlled through correction offered by the owner. Many points in this article also apply to dog disease,dog illness as well.

Let’s look at diabetes as an example. Diabetes is a aggrivated when there are a lot of carbohydrates in a cat’s diet. It happens when the carbohydrates cause an imbalance in the insulin levels. Obesity can be part of the cause for diabetes in cats. There is an easy solution to the problem of diabetes. By lowering the amount of carbohydrates the cat ingests you can regain a proper insulin balance. If the cat is overweight then a diet may be in order. This can be occomplished simply by implementing feeding times rather than a bowl of food left on the floor.

Another leading cause of premature death in cats is kidney failure. This can be directly attributed to dehydration in most cats. Supplementing their diet with meat protein and canned food can lead to an increase in muscle mass and a better hydrated kitty. When water is already a part of their diet, the animal is less likely to be dehydrated. This will stop kidney failure before it ever gets a chance to develop. 

Water is also important in the prevention of bladder infections and kidney stones. This kind of preventative attitude will allow the pet owner to catch the condition in time and stop it from happening in the first place. An ounce of prevention is worth a ton of cure. Once the problem has gotten out of hand, sometimes it is too late to do anything about it. Why not eliminate it before it begins?

We have mentioned a lot about the proper nutrition for cats to provide proper health and a long life. We should also mention that health care is essential. Your cat should be taken to the vet for shots, health checkups, and other needs to ensure they remain healthy. 
You also need to promote an energetic lifestyle in your cat. Play with your cat during the evening when you are home or let it roam outside in a controlled environment. A cat tree, pet steps or some other type of cat tree can ensure at least minimal exercise even within the saftey of your home. Providing proper nutrients like calcium for healthy bones and other critical vitamines is another important responsibility of a pet owner.

As a pet owner you should make sure that the food being offered to your cat has no harmful chemicals or additives. If you are not sure what is the best choice speak to your vet on the next visit. The vet can steer you towards healthy foods that you should be looking for. In fact they can make sure that you are not offering pre- packaged foods that have an abundance of bad ingredients or carbohydrates. Moderation is the key when it comes to ingredients. Everything can be harmful when given in an overabundance.

Take a proactive role in your cat health and dog health. Doing so will provide dividends down the road that will seem miraculous. Long term health is not something that is gained quickly. Rather it must be a commitment by the owner to do the right thing when it concerns the health of their cat.

vaccines

Vaccines are an essential tool in keeping your Doxie healthy, but a few do carry some risk of allergic reaction.  Knowing which are vital and which are optional can help improve your odds of doing good without doing harm.

- Rabies

Rabies vaccine is among the most important for your Dachshund, as it is for any dog.Even though the disease is much less common today, the consequences of getting it are still so drastic – often fatal – that most veterinarians still recommend it.

Rabies vaccinations are normally given every year to puppies and every two to three years subsequently.Most states require the vaccine and determine a specific schedule.That is being revised as research now shows that immunization lasts three years or more.See your veterinarian for specific guidelines, but also seek a second or even third opinion and decide accordingly.

Serious side effects from the shot are rare, but may include swelling, hives, fever, or lethargy, along with decreased appetite.

- Canine Distemper

Distemper shots used to be routine.  Today they are still common, but schedules have lengthened.Current research shows that puppies given a series of shots will develop antibodies that last several years.First shots should be given at approximately eight weeks.As with any vaccine, the schedule can deviate from one part of the country to another, since prevalence and the associated risks of the disease vary geographically.See your veterinarian.

- Parvo

A vaccine to protect against the parvovirus is often combined with that for distemper, though it can be given separately.Bear in mind that “combo” shots represent a slightly greater risk of allergic reaction.Combinations also make determining the foundation of any issue more difficult.

In some dogs, the immune system goes into “hyperdrive” and produces swelling of the face, redness of the gums and other manifestations.If a problem occurs, it ordinarily happens within an hour or less, so stay near your vet’s office after any vaccination.Observe your Doxie attentively.Keep Benadryl available and call your vet at the first sign of a reaction.

- Hepatitis

This shot helps protect against infectious canine hepatitis.  Here again, the disease is not common and the shot carries a small risk of allergic reaction.Moreover, the disease is serious enough that owners will want to discuss the subject carefully with their veterinarian and seek a second opinion before deciding.Since a modified live virus is used, kidney infections are possible following the vaccination.

- Lepto

Shots to immunized against the leptospira bacteria used to be routine, and in many areas still are.Keep in mind that this is another vaccine that may cause a reaction and offers only short-lived protection against the disease.Considering the disease itself is uncommon, this vaccine is considered “non-core” by many vets today.

- Bordatella

The Bordatella organism causes a fairly common condition popurlarly known as “kennel cough”.  The name comes from the fact that the organism can be airborne and can spread when dogs are housed close together.It is not a serious condition, but does call for treatment when it arises.

If your Doxie does not come into contact with strange dogs this vaccine is probably not necessary.Exceptions are in areas where the disease has gone unchecked, or when you intend to go on vacation and kennel your Dachshund.

Summary

Vaccines are a low-risk, outstanding way to protect your Dachshund against a wide array of diseases.But “low-risk” doesn’t mean “no risk” and what was once habitual has become a more thoughtful exercise, thanks to improved research.

Paranoia about vaccinations is unsupported.Nonetheless, the risk of disease is not zero, either.However, careful consideration of the benefits and risks will help accentuate your dog’s health.

Just for Dog Lover’s

Having pets around is like being with a friend or a family. They should be loved and cared for just like anybody else. Some people treat their pets as a part of their lives, while some are too busy to look out for them. Luckily when this happen there is always a pet sitter available to do the job for you.

Pet sitters provide a variety of services for the care and nurture of your pets. These individuals are intended to give their professional skills and devotion to properly look out for your pets. Generally they will tend a great job on doing that. Moreover these services offer a lot of positive advantages for you and your animal friend.

Here are some of the advantages and services of hiring a pet sitter:

– Your pet will be more comfortable and familiar at their own home. They will not be distracted or confused with other animals and activities at the kennel.

– Less time is spent in transferring your pet from your home to the kennel. The pet will not have a travel trauma because of the usual trips.

– Your pet will be cared and loved for by a pet sitter who they are familiar with. A pet sitter will also give the necessary attention for your animal friend.

– Your homes will be much safer from unwanted people while there are activities performed by the sitter and the animal.

– Extra services are given by the pet sitter like watering the plants and picking up the mail and newspapers.

– Your pets will not be exposed to sickness and parasites from other animals in a kennel.

– Relatives, neighbors, and friends are not compelled to look out for your pet.

– Normal routines will be achieved because there are no sudden changes in environment.

– Required vaccinations from kennel will be avoided.

– Walking and giving a proper exercise for your pet can also be done by a pet sitter.

– Giving the preferred foods and snacks for the pets.

– Some pet sitters are also knowledgeable in training your pet to be more diligent.

– Picking up the droppings and cleaning them is one of the jobs of a pet sitter.

So if you consider all of these advantages involved in hiring a pet sitter, you may conclude that this is the best possible way to show how much you care and love your pet while you are away.

Recently, pet sitters are highly regarded and are increasing its popularity in the society. People are demands grow more and more for these kinds of services. Pet sitters are found everywhere. You can acquire there services through the internet or through the network of your neighborhood.

While some people are busy with their work and activities, they need someone who will take care of their pets, so that by the time they get home their pets will be waiting happily for them.

Long Island Pet Sitting has expertise in all varieties of Dog Care services. If you are in need of a Pet Sitters Long Island then stop looking. For Additional great information and articles about Long Island Dog Walkers stop by today!

Orthopedic dog bed video clip

One of the greatest things about dogs is that they seldom complain about anything. However, this same trait can lead to problems sometimes. You know that Old Roy won't tell you that he tossed and turned all night in his worn out dog bed. If you watch carefully, you will be able to see the signs and be able to step in and help you faithful pal get the type of rest he deserves. With older dogs it is even more important that they have a quality dog bed due to the onset of ailments like hip dyslpasia that can cause him a lot of pain. The best way to help him sleep and to assuage his aches and pains is by purchasing an orthopedic dog bed for him that will allow him to sleep well all night every night.

What Makes Orthopedic Dog Beds so Special?

Most dog beds consist of nothing but a large pillow. This type of bed may be fine for puppies, but it offers little support to the joints and limbs of mature dogs. Orthopedic dog beds, on the other hand, are made more like the mattress you use yourself. These mattresses offer firm support, are easy to clean, and retain their shape far longer than pillow-like beds do.

If you’ve ever slept on a bad mattress yourself, you already know what it can feel like. A mattress that is too soft or lumpy won’t allow you the restful sleep you need in order to function well the next day. You also won't get the support that is crucial and you will most likely wake sore and unrested. The main reason for these problems is that without getting the support you need from your mattress, your spine must do the work to support your body while you’re sleeping. Dogs, like people, feel the effects of poor mattresses and will benefit just as much as people do from having an orthopedic dog bed.

What's Wrong With The Floor?

Undoubtedly you’ve seen your dog flop down somewhere on the floor to take a short afternoon snooze. This is fine for a nap, but sleeping on the floor just isn’t adequate to provide the kind of sleep he needs at night, especially if he has arthritis or other mobility issues. Enen if the floor is carpeted, it won't offer the kind of proper sleep that he needs, so don't fool yourself. He won’t complain, but you’ll be able to tell that he’s feeling the negative effects.

To start with, floors are too cold and drafty for sound, cozy sleep. Try napping on one sometime, and you’ll soon get the point. In addition, they are far too firm, put too much pressure on various parts of the dog’s body, and don’t give him the comfort he needs to sleep soundly.

Is It Worth The Price?

Some dog owners are reluctant to spend the kind of money it takes to buy the right orthopedic dog bed for their pet. Many of us are quick to spend foolishly on ourselves when our dogs are sleeping on the hard, cold ground or worse, a concrete pad? When you adopt a dog, you become his caretaker, and you take on the responsibility for his well being. He gives you unconditional love and cheers you up. You know you owe him the courtesy of a really good nights sleep?

The title is a little misleading since no disease is truly common in Dachshunds. Most Dachshunds are born healthy and live long, relatively disease-free lives.Some minor health issues arise for nearly every dog at some point, even those who receive early vaccinations and excellent life-long care.

Nevertheless, some conditions do occur more often in Dachshund than in other breeds.

Adrenal Gland Malfunction

One common disease of the adrenal gland is Cushing’s Disease, or hyperadrenocorticism. In Cushing’s Disease, too much of the hormone cortisol is produced, either by a primary tumor or the adrenal gland, or a malfunction of the pituitary gland, which is the master gland that tells the adrenal gland how much cortisol to produce. The elevated cortisol level results in excessive drinking and urination, a pot-bellied appearance, skin conditions, hair loss and some times diabetes. Lab tests are performed to measure the cortisol levels and the ability of the adrenal gland to produce cortisol. Several drugs are can be used to decrease the level of cortisol. If adrenal cancer is present, surgical excision of the gland may be needed. Cushing’s disease is not limited to Dachshunds and can be found in other breeds, too.

The opposite condition is called Addison’s disease or hypoadrenocorticsim (low cortisol). Whereas, Cushing’s takes some time to present itself, Addison’s disease is a sudden episode of collapse due to to low of glucose (blood sugar) and an imbalance of the electrolytes. The sudden illness results in an emergency visit to the veterinarian for cortisone injections and fluid therapy to correct the imbalances. Addison’s  is the most difficult disease to diagnose because the sudden collapse resembles many disorders. Specialized blood tests are needed to identify both Cushing’s and Addison’s Disease. Prednisone and electrolyte supplements will be needed for life long treatment of Addison’s disease.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Several eye diseases can affect Dachshunds, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. PRA is a degeneration of the retina, the lining in the back of the eye. The degeneration results with gradual vision loss and blindness. PRA is a genetic trait and because it often does not show up until the dog is older, the dog may have already been bred and passed the condition to the puppies. Unfortunately, there is no cure or treatment for PRA. Other eye diseases that can affect Dachshunds are glaucoma, cataracts, optic nerve hypoplasia, distichiasis (abnormal eyelashes) as well as other conditions. Regular eye exams can help detect these eye-disorders early.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

By far the most common disease of Dachshunds is related to the discs between the vertebrae (the bones of the spine). The disc is normally gelatinous and provides a cushion between the bones of the spine (back). In Dachshunds, this material some times calcifies, or hardens, and sometimes ruptures. The herniated disc causes swelling and pain around the spinal cord and the nerves coming out from the spinal canal. The herniated disc causes pain, a reluctance to jump up, partial paralysis and can progress to total paralysis. The majority of Dachshunds with disc disease can be managed medically with pain medication and anti-inflammatory medications. Some owners have tried holistic medicine, such as acupuncture or chiropractic manipulation to help with the pain. With a complete rupture resulting in total paralysis, immediate surgery to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord may help restore full function in the legs. The sooner the surgery is preformed, the greater the chances of full recovery.

Experimental treatments are being tested using laser needles to fuse the disc material to try and prevent the herniation. Because this is such a common problem in the Dachshund, I do recommend purchasing health insurance for your pet. Because surgery to repair the herniated disc is expensive, euthanasia is sometimes the option for the paralyzed pet. A few of my patients that were partially paralyzed did recover some function of their legs over time. It is impossible to predict which dogs will recover without the surgery.

Vaccination Reactions

Allergic reactions to vaccinations does seem to occur in the Dachshund more often than any other breed. Usually, the reaction is minor, resulting in swelling of the face and muzzle and occasional hives. Vaccine reactions do occur with any dog, so it is wise to observe your pet for a few hours after receiving. Improvements in vaccine technology have decreased the side effects and the benefits of preventing disease outweighs the risks.

Dachshunds can lead a very long and healthy life, sometimes upward to 15 years. Proper diets, preventive health checks, vaccinations, heartworm and parasite prevention, and good dental care can help your Dachshund live longer.  You can find more information concerning your dogs health at LuvUrDog.com as well Dachshund breed gifts.

zoonotic disease in pets

Salmonella and Our Pets -With the recent Peanut Butter Recall,  Salmonella once more has become headline news. Salmonella is a  bacterium that can affect both humans and animals and can be passed  from human to animal and animal to humans (reverse zoonotic disease).  Most infections occur through ingestion of contaminated food or water  or through close contact with an infected host. In the Peanut Butter  recall, contaminated peanuts were used as a flavoring or an additive in  products including pet food and treats. Luckily, most dogs and cats  infrequently develop disease, but handling the infected treats and then  handling food or not washing your hands after handling infected  products can transmit the bacteria to humans.
Salmonella infection can result in acute diarrhea, vomiting  and dehydration. Not all pets or humans  show any signs of illness, but can harbor the bacteria for months,  passing the infection to those that are more susceptible; infants, the  elderly or the immune suppressed. Salmonella can cause severe  illness and sometimes even death in infants, the elderly or the immune  suppressed individuals. Salmonella is most often  found in raw meat, poultry, eggs and sometimes vegetables

Cooking  products to the proper temperature kills the bacteria. Most often,  infections occur with cross contamination, such as cutting raw meat on  a cutting board and then cutting vegetables for the salad on the same  cutting board or handling a contaminated product then eating or  handling food without washing hands. Most disinfectants and dilute  bleach will kill the bacteria. Feeding raw meat, poultry or eggs to  pets can result with Salmonella infection in our pets. Since some pets  may not develop symptoms but harbor the bacteria, they may pass  Salmonella in their feces for months and may cause infections in  humans.

What can you do to reduce your exposure to Salmonella?

1. Always  cook food thoroughly. Do not ingest drinks or foods containing raw eggs  (This includes licking the beaters when making cake mixes, a bad habit  I am most guilty of)
2. Wash hands after handling raw meats, poultry,  and pets: especially turtles, baby chicks, reptiles and pet feces.
3. Before eating,  wash your hands. (Mothers are always right)
4. Wash utensils, cutting  boards and plates after handling raw meat and poultry. (When grilling,  always use a different plate when taking the cooked meat off the  grill.)
5. Do not feed pets raw meat, poultry or eggs.
6. Wash hands  after handling pet treats (pig ears, rawhides, peanut butter treats) or  after playing with pets, especially turtles, birds, baby chicks and reptiles.
7. To prevent cross contamination, wash hands after changing diapers  and after handling raw foods.
8. If  you are served undercooked  meats at a restarurant, do not hesitate to send it back for further cooking. Also, you  may want to ask for fresh salsa if it looks like it may have been left  out too long. Salsa dips have been a source of Salmonella infections in  the past.
9. Carry a hand sanitizer in your purse or car as extra  protection when there is no running water.

   I have more tips and links to web  sites concerning the Salmonella Peanut Butter recall at anchor 2 You can also view Facts about Salmonella at CDC.org.

Selecting a healthy dog diet can be confusing and difficult if you let it be. The pretty packaging and marketing can blur our perception of a product. Your dogs diet is the most basic way to keep your pet healthy and happy for the years to come. It is essential that you find a diet that will furnish all the needed nutrients to allow your pet to thrive rather than merely survive.

Here are some simple guidelines to follow when you are selecting a food for your dogs diet. Know that every dog is different. A dog diet that is terrific for your neighbors dog may not be exactly what your pet needs.

The first step when considering your dogs diet, is to talk to your vet. This trusted person has your pets interest at heart, just like you. Your veterinarians recommendations can steer you in the right direction.

Find a reputable brand of dog food to be the main part of your dogs diet. It is not impossible to stumble across a high quality dog food that you have never heard of, but a well known and prominent manufacturer supplies an amount of safety and security about the decision to give your dog a healthy diet. Recognized and reputable dog food manufacturers take the time to research the matter of animal nutrition. Allow your pet to benefit from the company’s wealth of information rather than going it alone.

Select a dog food that is age appropriate. If your dog is elderly and shows signs of aging, consider a dog diet that is particularly formulated for aging dogs. Pups have different nutritionary needs than do adult dogs. Find a variety of food that matches your dogs needs. Even the breed and size of your pet can make a difference in the type of diet you should feed your pet. Diets developed specifically for small dogs and larger breeds exist. You may want to keep this in mind when choosing your dogs diet.

Activity level and weight are other factors to consider when making the decision of what to feed your dog. If your dog is highly active or obese, you may need to pick a type of dog diet that accommodates such situations. When you make up one’s mind on a specific diet for your dog, pay attention to the helping size. Obesity is a serious problem in pets. It can lead to hip problems and take years off your pets life.

Table scraps are unquestionably out for a healthy diet. Your dogs diet should consist of a high quality food especially designed to meet your pets dietary needs. Begging is encouraged with table scraps and obesity is likely to be the result.

Only supplement a high quality diet when recommended by a veterinarian. Giving your pet too many supplementations in your dogs diet can lead to a lower quality of health.

Your dogs diet will fuel his health, so choose your dogs diet wisely. You want to select a brand of food that is reputable and suited to your dog. When you find the satisfactory diet for your pet it will promote good health and allow your dog to thrive for many years to come.

For more Free information on a Senior Dog Diet Be sure to visit Dog Diet Tips..

Does your pets skin and coat look shiny and healthy, or is your dogs coat missing the silky appearance you prefer? Could this indicate the need for more fatty acids in your dogs diet?

A dogs diet affects all aspects of his body including the skin and coat. If your dogs diet contains adequate amounts of fatty acids, his coat and skin should appear healthy. Fatty acids in your dogs diet will prevent trouble with dry skin and dandruff, for example. A dull coat may point to a need for supplements of fatty acids in your dogs diet.

Studies suggest that essential fatty acids, called EFAs, contribute to healthy skin and coat, as well as general health. Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, for example, can play a crucial role in your dogs general well being.

Do not just assume that adding fatty acid supplements to your dogs diet is invariably the advisable thing to do. If your dogs coat is already in a satisfactory condition, adding more EFAs will not help improve your dogs health. The fatty acid supplements, such as omega 6 and 3, should only used for dogs with diagnosed skin problems. Always take advice from your veterinarian before adding any supplement to your dogs diet. Your veterinarian will be prepared to talk with you about the advisable form of EFAs and let you know the right dosage you should add to your dogs diet.

You must supply EFAs to your pet through your dogs diet, as fatty acids are not made by your dogs body. If your veterinary surgeon proposes extra supplements of fatty acids, you should consider asking about linseed or sunflower oil.

Within a short period, such as four weeks, you should see a large improvement in your dogs coat and skin. Discover the miracle of fatty acids work in your dogs diet. When 7 weeks have gone, you should see a dramatic change for the better in your pets health.

High levels of omega 3 fatty acids are believed to ward off some varieties of cancer. Cardiovascular health and joint health will improve, as well, with higher levels of omega 3 in your dogs diet.

Typically, omega 6 fatty acids are present in ready-made dog food at adequate levels. Supplementing omega 3 will help to improve the ratio and make the difference for your pet. Fish and flax seed are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids. Once Again, be cautious and ask your veterinarian before supplementing. Some forms of fish may not be safe as part of your dogs diet.

Supplementing your dogs diet may not be necessary. The only way to make up one’s mind if your dogs diet does need extra fatty acids is to visit your veterinary, so you can both talk about your pets health. Never determine to medicate your dog without first seeking the advice of a professional. This is because your dogs diet requires to contain the right balance of nutrients. Good sources of EFAs are flaxseed, linseed, and sunflower oil. Your dogs diet is the first step in giving your pet overall health and a happy life with your pet for years to come.

If you would like to know more about Wellness Brand Dog Food then be sure to visit the Free Dog Diet Tips Blog..

For some time, people have tossed around the idea of the green bean dog diet. You may have heard of this and considered using it. Lets take a look at the green bean dog diet and discuss some of the pros and cons of it.

If you decide to feed your dog the green bean diet, you should know that you can not only feed your dog green beans. By only giving your dog this green bean vegetable diet, would not be the correct healthy decision for your dogs diet. Pet owners should find the balance between dog food and green beans that will get the desired results.  

The green bean dog diet involves regular kibble for your pet mixed with a helping of green beans. The green beans are a healthy way to keep your dog full between meals. For example, your pet may only want two cups of high quality dog food per day to maintain a healthy weight, but he or she is always scrounging round and hungry. Adding some green beans to the food at meal time will help your dogs diet stay on track and keep your dog feeling full and happy.   

Should all dogs be eating the green bean diet? No not all dogs should have green beans added to their meals. The green bean dog diet is perfect for dogs who need to lose weight. Numerous pet owners continue to use the green bean dog diet to help retain a healthy weight for their pet. This is after the initial weight loss.

Both dogs and owners are a great deal encouraged with the effects of the green bean dog diet. Pet owners feel good about supporting the health of their dog. Also, it is comforting for us humans to see a large helping of food for our pet. Looking into the dog dish and seeing a few sparse kibbles totaling a half cup does not appear as generous as that same amount of kibble surrounded by a healthy portion of fancy cut green beans.

It is very rare that your dog will turn their nose up at the green beans. Dogs feel fuller and will have more of a happy attitude towards you. As Well a gain in health and vitality.

One downside to think about when changing your dogs diet over to the green bean diet, is the added fiber. Many dogs systems could react to this, so supervise your pets outputs. Start adding the green beans slowly and then bit by bit increasing them. Some pet owners find it advantageous to only add the green beans to their dogs diet at one specific time during the day to keep their dogs potty schedule in order.

If you do decide to use the green bean dog diet as your dogs diet, then there are a few tips to keep in mind. You will need to buy a re sealable lid to cover the open can of green beans, this is for better storage in between meals. You should measure the amount of green beans in your dogs diet just the same as you would measure kibble or treats that you give your dog.

If you notice the store has green beans on sale, by all means, purchase a few cans ahead and stock up. Although green beans are not especially expensive, it never hurts to save some cash.

When ever possible you should buy your canned green beans with no added salt. This is a healthy option for your dogs diet.

The green bean dog diet does have numerous advantages. Monitor your dogs consumption to prevent unpredictable outputs. The green bean dog diet assists to properly lose and maintain weight while keeping you and your pet happy.

For more Free information on The Raw Dog Diet ot the Vegetarian Dog Diet be sure to visit Free Dog Diet Tips….