Tag Archives: dogs

Pets

Pet Clothing The Pros And Cons

Pet Clothing: It can be hard to resist those cute pet outfits at the store. Who wouldn’t want their beloved furry friend to be dressed like a football player, or a princess? Before you buy pet clothing, however, there are some things you should consider.

Pros and Cons of Dressing  Your Pet

Cons of Pet Clothing

Hazards

One of the cons of dressing your fur baby in dog clothing is that it could get tangled up and injure them. Scarfs are especially hazardous because they can easily get wrapped too tightly around their necks. 

Unwanted Attention

It’s possible that your feline could be too cute in their new cat clothing. If your cat is very shy, cat clothing could draw unwanted attention to them and make them feel anxious and stressed.
Adorable outfits could signal to strangers that your pet is friendly to petting,

Overheating

While your husky might look adorable in a pink jacket, it could be bad for their health. Dogs with long coats are evolutionarily made to withstand cold temperatures. Putting your pet in dog clothing could be causing them to overheat.

Pros of Pet Clothing

Warmth

On the flip side, a coat could be a good idea if your dog has short hair. These types of dogs aren’t made to live comfortably in cold temperatures. A coat could keep them toasty and warm all winter. 

Anxiety Relief

Tight fitting shirts specifically made for dogs can give them a sense of security in anxiety-inducing situations. This can be very helpful when there’s a thunderstorm or firework event going on.

Fun!

If your cat has a good temperament, it might be willing to let you dress it up in all sorts of cat clothing. If your cat is happy and comfortable in their outfit, then it’s perfectly fine to have fun dressing them up.

Should I Dress Up My Pet?

Whether or not you dress up your cat or dog depends on their breed and temperament. If your pet is docile and loves attention, a pet outfit could be a good idea. If your pet has anxiety or short, thin fur, an anxiety vest or a winter coat is the way to go. Whatever you choose, be sure that it’s the best option for you and your furry friend!

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For information on dressing your dog or cat click here

Pets

Dog Emergency Kit For Pet Owners

Dog Emergency Kit – Every Pet Owner Should Have One

Dog Emergency Kit

Most  dog owners know how important it is to take certain safety precautions in case their furry family member needs their help.

However, It’s hard to be prepared for every situation that could potentially occur.  Therefore, having a dog emergency kit that contains:

  • Paperwork
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Antibiotic Ointment
  • Ice Packs
  • Gauze
  • Scissors
  • Tape
  • Rubber Gloves
  • A Towel or Blanket

Having all of the above  essentials is a handy way to fix problems fast and eliminate any unnecessary stress on you and your canine.

Dog Emergency Kit Paperwork:

Keeping a hard copy of medical records and emergency phone numbers is important to have ready at all times in case you have to rush your dog to the vet. This is especially necessary to have prepared for a dog sitter since they may not have the knowledge needed to get your dog proper medical attention.

Hydrogen Peroxide:

Hydrogen peroxide can be used to help your dog vomit if they have ingested something harmful or toxic. It’s important to contact your vet before inducing vomiting.  It’s also crucial to obtain clear and accurate instructions on how to do so.

Antibiotic Ointment:

Since many dogs love playing outdoors and going on walks it’s not uncommon for them to get scratches and cuts. Therefore, having antibiotic ointment in your emergency kit is a must.

Using antibiotic ointment on a scratch or cut can prevent:

  • Infections
  • Reduce pain
  • Protect the injury from germs and bacteria.

Ice Packs:

Ice packs are important to have ready in case your dog has been injured or is recovering from a surgery. Cryotherapy can quickly reduce pain, muscle spasms, inflammation, and swelling. Placing cold packs to the area for at least 10 to 15 minutes will make a huge difference for your pet.

Kelley’s Therapeutic Garments with pockets for the insertion of ice or heat packs is an ideal product to include in your dogs emergency  kit.

Gauze, Scissors, Tape, Rubber Gloves:

If your dog has an injury that causes bleeding, having the proper items to bandage your pup up will save you a lot of time and hassle. Having gloves and sanitized tools are important for you and your dog to prevent germs and bacteria from making your dogs injury worse.

A Towel or Blanket:

A towel or blanket can come in handy in many different situations.

  • They could be very useful if your dog needs to be comforted. because they are nervous or scared.
  • The dog  needs to be warmed up.
  • Or the dog  needs a safe surface to stand on to protect it’s paws from a surface that is too hot or covered in rocks.

For more information on emergency kits for pets click here.

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Pets

Treating Dog Injuries

Treating Dog Injuries Dog injuries are no fun for pets or pet owners.

Treating Dog Injuries

As animals with high energy levels, getting injured is an unfortunate reality for many dogs. Generally, the most common dog injuries consist of sprains or strains due to the nature of how they use their legs and paws. A strain is an injury to a tendon that connects muscles and bones and is common when active dogs stretch too far. A sprain is an injury on the ligaments that link bones and can lead to joint damage. This can happen to any dog when a wrist or knee takes a hard hit. There are a number of ways to treat these injuries, but hot and cold therapy are common practices that can used to help bring your dog relief.

How to Use Ice and Heat Therapy  When Treating Dog Injuries

Before using ice and heat therapy for dog injuries, it must first be determined what type of injury has occurred. Ice therapy is the application of a frozen device, usually some form of an ice pack, on the affected area. When the ice is applied, it helps to reduce irritation and swelling, as well as relieve pain for your dog. With heat therapy, its use combats muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain, and increases blood flow. It can be applied with wraps, heating pads, or heating blankets.

Which Injury, Which Therapy?

Now that you know two of the common types of therapy for dog injuries, it’s important to know when and how to use them. To be the most useful, each type of therapy should be used at certain times. Due to its properties, ice therapy should be used immediately after an injury because it responds to symptoms that are typically experienced right away. Heat therapy is most effective after a few days because it addresses the onset of symptoms that are experienced later.

Keeping Your Dog Safe

While there are many treatments available for dog injuries, the best one is prevention. Of course, your dog is going to continue to be active, but there are ways to help keep your dog safe while having fun. To prevent sprains and strains, it is important to maintain an active lifestyle, even when your dog may not be able to go outside. Furthermore, their general play area should be easy for them to move around in without tripping. Small changes like this can lead to better fun for you and your dog.

For information on being proactive in case of an emergency click here.

Dog Injuries: Sprains and Strains

Dr.  Bernadine Cruz – The Most Common Reason For Surgery.

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Pets

Dog Backpacks Are So Versatile

Dog backpacks serve more than one purpose, from giving your dog exercise to providing an easy way to carry extra items.

Dog Backpacks The Do’s and Don’ts

These packs are perfect for hiking or camping trips that include your dog. They’re also good for when you’re enjoying a stroll around town and want to make sure you have plenty of snacks or other items. Here are some simple tips to make everything easier:

Don’t Spring Dog Backpacks  on Your Dog All At Once

Doggie backpacks are a great tool but require some acclimation. You shouldn’t expect your dog to accept the back right away. Expect a little bit of chewing, trying to get the pack off, and similar actions. Helping your dog get ready for the pack is fairly easy.

Do Give Your Pets Time to  Adjust to the Dog Backpacks 

Getting your pet used to dog backpacks is easier in the house or yard at first. One advantage is that you can supervise him or her. You’ll also be able to avoid any accidents that could happen. Once he or she accepts the pack, the fun awaits.

Don’t Use It As an Exercise Substitute

Doggie backpacks are said to be good for providing a workout. This is very true, but you’ll still need to walk and play with your dog when not hiking with them. Ideally, one of these backpacks should serve as one of several ways to keep your dog happy. Your dog will get exercise, and also stay occupied.

Do Use Them on the Trail a Lot

Dog backpacks help give your pet a sense of responsibility. Focusing on the load reduces the desire to chase wildlife. Both of you are likely to have a much happier time. Enjoying time with your dog is a lot more fun than searching for them.

Doggie backpacks make hiking or camping happier for both of you. There are enough choices for you to make a perfect selection.

For more information on dog back packs click here. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pets

Common Dog Injuries

Our dogs are our best friends. We want them to be safe and happy, but, unfortunately, our best friends might get injured. There are a variety of common dog injuries, and if you know what they are, you will know how to take care of your pet.

Common Dog Injuries

It’s a good idea to know the most common injuries that you might come across so that you can prepare before it happens.

-Cruciate Ligament Injury

Humans aren’t the only ones who get bad knees. The cruciate ligament, the ligament right by the knee, is one of the most popular areas for a dog to get injured. Recovery depends on how severe the injury is. Some dogs may be able to but weight on it and recover with simple rest and medication. Other injuries are much more severe and require extensive recovery.

-Mouth Injuries Are Common Dog Injuries

It seems like our pets are always chewing on or eating something. When we don’t pay attention, they might just end up chewing on something that will give them an injury. For this reason, it’s not surprising that so many pets end up with an injury.

-Lacerations Are Common Dog Injuries 

There are several ways that a dog can end up with lacerations and other trauma. Some of the most common reasons are getting hit by a car and dog fights. When this happens, the dog needs to go to the veterinarian right away to determine the seriousness of the injury.

Onset Injuries Using Ice

Onset injuries are common dog injuries   One of the best ways to make your dog feel better when there is an onset injury is to use ice to relieve the pain. The ice helps numb the pain, reduce swelling, and relieve muscles. It can be difficult to keep your dog still, though! Give them an outfit that will keep the ice in the desired spot with our therapeutic dog garments and wraps.

There are a number of common dog injures to be aware of.  Knowing how to treat these injuries is important, Hopefully, your dog will never have to endure any of these injuries, but if they do, be prepared with the right attire!

Preventing common dog injuries by Dr. Marty Becker

 

Dog Injuries: Sprains and Strains

To purchase our #WhatEverPocKits doggie products click here.

 

Pets

Injured Dog Recovery

Injured Dog Recovery: An injured dog needs to recover much like a person does after having a physical injury.

Injured Dog Recovery

As with any situation, the recovery period greatly depends upon the actual injury. The extent of any damage that may have been caused also affects how long recovery may take.

Allowing and keeping a dog to relax and recover can often be a difficult task. Especially if the recovery period requires that an other wise playful or rambunctious dog has to relax and heal. Keeping the dog from too much walking, running, or other play can be tough, but is necessary

Injured Dog Recovery: Medication

In some cases, recovery requires medication to be administered. The dog may need to have an injury or wound wrapped or have some type medicated cream or ointment applied to it.

Injured Dog Recovery: Ice / Heat Therapy

The veterinarian can determine if the injury just needs some ice or heat applied along with some rest. If the injury is shown to be more damaging, the vet will guide owners every step of the way, in determining what needs to come next.

Injured Dog Recovery: Cone

Often times, a dog will need to wear a cone during recovery. This will help to keep them from licking, biting at, or otherwise irritating an injury or wound as it starts to go through the healing process. This cone helps to give the area a chance to heal without the risk of the dog reopening a wound or causing any type of infection to happen.

Injured Dog Recovery: Time Frame 

The length of time involved in allowing a dog to completely recover will also depend upon what the original injury was and the area of the dog’s body in which it happened.

Injured Dog Recovery: Veterinarian

As with any situation that involves a four legged family member, it is best to consult a veterinarian. The vet will  decide how to handle any injuries.

The vet will be able to suggest what course of action to take. This decision is one that is best made by a licensed, practicing veterinarian. Veterinarians  have the medical expertise to allow them to know how to handle different medical situations. No matter how little they may be.

Recover rest time by Dr. Karen Becker

To purchase our products click here.

Dog Injuries: Sprains and Strains

 

Pets

Weighted Dog Backpacks – Useful or Not?

Weighted dog backpacks: Many people see dog backpacks as a simple novelty. However weighted backpacks are a perfect way to give your dog some exercise.

Weighted Dog Backpacks 

How They Are Useful in Winter: Many people like to use weighted dog backpacks during the winter months. The packs are a perfect way to carry booties or treats. Even if your walks are short, the extra weight makes the activity level more intense.

Usefulness in Summer: Even though you need to watch the heat,  weighted dog backpacks come in handy during the summer. You’ll have a handy place for extra water for your dog. A portable water dish is easy to keep in the backpack for these summer trips.

Picking  a Backpack for Dogs

Weighted dog backpacks have features like water resistance and extra padding. You want to avoid trying to use a regular backpack on a dog. Designs intended for human use will not fit in the correct places.

Make Sure Your Sizing is Correct

In addition to getting a weighted  backpack designed for pet use, get the sizing right. You’ll want to measure around your pet’s chest to ensure a snug fit that’s not too tight. Also pick one appropriate for your dog’s weight, and avoid overloading.

To prevent overloading  for most dogs,  the  poundage should be no more than 10% to 12% of the dog’s  body weight.

Get the Veterinary Go-Ahead

It’s always a good idea to check with your vet before purchasing weighted dog backpacks. Certain breeds are prone to back issues that you must be careful about. You also want to make sure your dog’s overall health allows for rigorous exercise.

Give Your Pet Time to Adjust

Your dog might balk at weighted dog backpacks at first. Make sure you’re patient and give them time to adjust. Once they’re used to the pack, they’re likely to have more mental stimulation.

For more information on weighted back packs for dogs click here.

To purchase our products click here.

 

Pets

Burned Dog Paws: What To Do

BURNED DOG PAWS: Walking on extremely hot surfaces can result in severe burns to a dog’s paws.

BURNED DOG PAWS

Asphalt is particularly damaging, softening under the heat of the sun and becoming like molten lava under your dog’s feet. Stepping in hot liquids or chemicals can burn the paws, resulting in severe injury and intense pain. Burned dog paws pose a serious threat to dog owners and cause significant distress for their four-legged friends.

How to Spot Burned Paw Pads

Signs of burned dog paws include limping, abnormal gait and attempts to stop walking altogether. Dogs may lick or chew their paw pads to soothe their feet. You should check for darkening of the skin on the paws and for any damage, such as cracks and tears. Examine the paws and surrounding area for blistering, peeling and redness.

How to Treat Burned Paws

Treat burned dog paws by applying a cold compress or immersing your dog’s feet in cold water for ten minutes. Gently cleanse the area to remove impurities that may be lodged in the paw pads. Carefully pat the feet dry and apply an antibiotic ointment. Be aware that signs of increased distress or infection may indicate the need for medical attention.

Preventing Burned Paw Pads

A great way to prevent burned dog paws is to walk your dog early in the morning or in the evening after the pavement has cooled off. Walking on grassy or shaded areas poses little threat of burns to your dog’s feet, since grass tends to remain cooler throughout the day.

Before walking your dog, perform the five-second test by placing the back of your hand on the ground. If you are not able to hold your hand in place for at least five seconds, the surface is too hot for your dog to walk on. Dog booties, made specifically for walking on hot pavement, are a great way to ward off burned dog paws. Choose booties made of mesh, which enhances air circulation and keeps your pooch comfortable even in the most intense summer heat.

BURNED DOG PAWS

Conclusion

The days of summer can be a great time to venture outdoors. By following these tips and remaining alert to your pet’s distress signals, you and your four-legged friend are sure to enjoy a healthy, happy and pain-free season.

To purchase our products click here.

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Pets

Dog Injuries: Sprains and Strains

Dog injuries are no fun for pets or pet owners.

Treating Dog Injuries

As animals with high energy levels, getting injured is an unfortunate reality for many dogs.

Generally, the most common dog injuries consist of sprains or strains due to the nature of how they use their legs and paws.

A strain is an injury to a tendon that connects muscles and bones and is common when active dogs stretch too far.

A sprain is an injury on the ligaments that link bones and can lead to joint damage. This can happen to any dog when a wrist or knee takes a hard hit.

There are a number of ways to treat these injuries, but hot and cold therapy are common practices that can used to help bring your dog relief.

How to Use Ice and Heat Therapy

Before using ice and heat therapy for dog injuries, it must first be determined what type of injury has occurred.

Ice Therapy

Ice therapy is the application of a frozen device, usually some form of an ice pack, on the affected area. When the ice is applied, it helps to reduce irritation and swelling, as well as relieve pain for your dog.

Heat Therapy

With heat therapy, its use combats muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain, and increases blood flow. It can be applied with wraps, heating pads, or heating blankets.

Which Injury, Which Therapy?

Now that you know two of the common types of therapy for dog injuries, it’s important to know when and how to use them. To be the most useful, each type of therapy should be used at certain times.

Due to its properties, heat therapy should be used immediately after an injury because it responds to symptoms that are typically experienced right away.

Ice therapy is most effective after a few days because it addresses the onset of symptoms that are experienced later.

Keeping Your Dog Safe

While there are many treatments available for dog injuries, the best one is prevention. Of course, your dog is going to continue to be active, but there are ways to help keep your dog safe while having fun.

To prevent sprains and strains, it is important to maintain an active lifestyle for your dog. Activity is important  even when your dog may not be able to go outside.

Furthermore, their general play area should be easy for them to move around in without tripping. Small changes like this can lead to better fun for you and your dog.

 Injuries to your dog  using retractable leashes by Dr. Karen Becker.

Joint Injuries In Dogs

 

Pets

Long Haired Dogs In Hot Weather

How to Make Your  Dog Comfortable in Hot Weather

When hot weather arrives, it can be particularly stressful for long haired dogs. Dogs do not have sweat glands like people. They only have a limited amount of sweat glands located in their paws. However, these few glands do little to help relieve heat exhaustion on very hot days. Panting can help relieve some of the effects of heat, but panting is not always effective either.

Long Haired Dogs: The Danger of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

As temperatures reach 85 and beyond, your long haired dogs could be in real danger of heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion occurs when your dog’s body temperature rises above its normal temperature of about 101 to 102 degrees. Temperatures above 102 degrees should be taken seriously. If this happens without intervention, heat stroke can develop leading to organ damage, heart failure, and death.

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Since heat stoke is often fatal, it is essential for you to recognize the symptoms of both heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Early signs of heat exhaustion can be subtle, and at times, intervention often occurs when it is too late. But when you know what to look for, you can save your long haired dogs. Take note of the following symptoms, and if your furry friends display any of them, you will need to seek veterinary attention right away.

  • Excessive Panting and Drooling
  • Vomiting and/or Diarrhea
  • Bright Red or Bluish Gray Gums and/or Tongue
  • Lack of Coordination/Dizziness
  • Glazed Eyes
  • Rapid Heart Rate
  • Lethargy or Loss of Consciousness

Tips for Preventing Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke In Long Haired Dogs

The best way to avoid heat stroke in long haired dogs is to prevent heat exhaustion in the first place. There are many ways you can keep your long haired pup cool, and the following tips are among the best. Take heed of these valuable tips, and you can be sure that your dog will be comfortable in hot weather.

  • Keep Plenty of Water Handy for Your Dog
  • Bring Your Dog Indoors During Hot Weather
  • Never Leave Your Pup in a Hot Car
  • Trim But Never Shave Your Dog’s Hair (Dogs can get sunburnt too)
  • Walk Your Dog Early in the Morning or Late in the Evening When it is Cooler
  • If Your Dog Must Go Outdoors in Hot Weather, Make Sure Shade is Available

Knowing the symptoms of heat exhaustion in long haired dogs is essential to avoiding heat stroke. However, the best way to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke is to prevent them in the first place. You can easily accomplish this by following the valuable tips outlined above.

Overheated Dog Don’t Panic Be Proactive