In a previous blog, I talked about the importance of understanding the signs of illness in a dog, there are certain symptoms that should never be ignored. If you were to call your local emergency vet clinic and give them specific information about any of these symptoms, they will most likely tell you to bring your pet in immediately for evaluation.
The 5 symptoms we discussed last time were:
Pacing and restlessness
Unproductive retching
Collapse or fainting
Pale gums
Lethargy or weakness
Today I want to tell you about 5 more important signs you should watch for. Remember, all of these symptoms can indicate very serious problems.
1. Not eating or loss of appetite. Anorexia is a term used to describe the situation where an animal loses his appetite and does not want to eat, or he is unable to eat. Many things can cause a dog to lose his appetite, and often it is the first indication that your dog has a serious illness. Regardless of cause, loss of appetite of 24 hours or more can have a serious impact on an animal's health.
2. Losing weight . Weight loss usually occurs when the body uses and/or excretes essential nutrients faster than it can consume them. Essentially more calories are being burned than are being taken in. Be aware of your dog's weight because it could be a significant symptom. When a dog loses more than 10 percent of his normal body weight (and it is not associated with fluid loss) that weight loss is considered clinically important. There are several causes for this, some of which can be quite serious.
3. Breathing problems . Respiratory distress, often called dyspnea, is labored difficult breathing or shortness of breath. When your dog has trouble breathing, he may not be able to get enough oxygen to his tissues. Breathing problems can be associated with heart failure or with the accumulation of fluid (edema) in the lungs or the chest cavity (pleural effusion). This is a very serious symptom that should be evaluated immediately.
4. Red eye . A "red eye" is a non-specific sign of inflammation or infection. It may be symptomatic of several different diseases including those involving different parts of the eye (including the external eyelids, third eyelid, conjunctiva, cornea and sclera). It may also occur with inflammation of the structures inside the eye, with glaucoma (high pressure within the eye) or with certain diseases of the orbit (eye socket). If one or both of your dog's eyes become red, the underlying condition can be quite serious and ultimately cause blindness.
5. Jaundice . Jaundice, also referred to as icterus, describes the yellow color taken on by the body's tissues due to elevated levels of bilirubin, a substance that comes from the breakdown of red blood cells. There are several causes for jaundice but regardless of the cause, it is considered abnormal and serious when a dog has jaundice.
I hope these tips will help you identify potentially serious problems so that you can take action and get your dog the medical help he needs.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
How to Calculate a Dog's Age in Dog Years
A popular misconception is that dogs age 7 years for each calendar year. In fact, canine aging is much more rapid during the first 2 years of a dog's life. After the first 2 years the ratio settles down to 5 to 1 for small and medium breeds. For large breeds the rate is 6 to 1, and for giant breeds the rate is 7 to 1. Thus, at 10years of age a Great Dane would be 80 years old while a pug would only be 64.
How to Tell a Dog's Age
If you've taken in a dog whose age is unknown, there are some ways to determine his age. Here are some things vets check to get a general sense of how old a dog is:
The Teeth: Dogs usually have a set of permanent teeth by their seventh month, so if you've come across a dog with clean pearly whites, he is likely a year old or thereabouts. Yellowing on a dog's back teeth may put the dog between one and two years of age, while tartar build-up at a minimal level could mean you have a dog between 3 and 5. Missing teeth or severe wear usually means the dog is a senior and could use some special dental care.
Muscle Tone: Younger dogs are more likely to have some muscle definition from their higher activity level. Older dogs are usually either a tad bonier or a little fatter from decreased activity.
The Coat: A younger dog usually has a soft, fine coat, whereas an older dog tends to have thicker, coarser (and sometimes oilier) fur. A senior dog may display grays or patches of white, particularly around the snout.
The Eyes: Bright, clear eyes without tearing or discharge are common in younger dogs. Cloudy or opaque eyes may mean an older dog.
Old Age in Dogs
The age at which a dog can be considered elderly varies widely among models. In general, the larger the dog, the more quickly it declines. For instance, a Great Dane could be considered "senior" at age 5, while a smaller toy poodle would still be spry at twice that age. Remember, however, that just because a dog is chronologically old doesn't mean that an endless series of malfunctions is in store. In many cases an elderly dog can enjoy many healthy, active, pain-free years.
One of the best ways to prolong the life and improve the functions of an elderly dog is to carefully regulate its fuel intake. Older dogs exercise less and thus need fewer calories. And since age reduces their ability to digest and absorb nutrients, high-quality food specifically formulated for their needs is a necessity. Excessive amounts of protein, phosphorus, and sodium can aggravate kidney and heart problems, so most such foods contain smaller amounts of higher-quality protein, along with reduced quantities of other elements. Levels of vitamins, zinc, fatty acids, and fiber, however, are increased.
A popular misconception is that dogs age 7 years for each calendar year. In fact, canine aging is much more rapid during the first 2 years of a dog's life. After the first 2 years the ratio settles down to 5 to 1 for small and medium breeds. For large breeds the rate is 6 to 1, and for giant breeds the rate is 7 to 1. Thus, at 10years of age a Great Dane would be 80 years old while a pug would only be 64.
How to Tell a Dog's Age
If you've taken in a dog whose age is unknown, there are some ways to determine his age. Here are some things vets check to get a general sense of how old a dog is:
The Teeth: Dogs usually have a set of permanent teeth by their seventh month, so if you've come across a dog with clean pearly whites, he is likely a year old or thereabouts. Yellowing on a dog's back teeth may put the dog between one and two years of age, while tartar build-up at a minimal level could mean you have a dog between 3 and 5. Missing teeth or severe wear usually means the dog is a senior and could use some special dental care.
Muscle Tone: Younger dogs are more likely to have some muscle definition from their higher activity level. Older dogs are usually either a tad bonier or a little fatter from decreased activity.
The Coat: A younger dog usually has a soft, fine coat, whereas an older dog tends to have thicker, coarser (and sometimes oilier) fur. A senior dog may display grays or patches of white, particularly around the snout.
The Eyes: Bright, clear eyes without tearing or discharge are common in younger dogs. Cloudy or opaque eyes may mean an older dog.
Old Age in Dogs
The age at which a dog can be considered elderly varies widely among models. In general, the larger the dog, the more quickly it declines. For instance, a Great Dane could be considered "senior" at age 5, while a smaller toy poodle would still be spry at twice that age. Remember, however, that just because a dog is chronologically old doesn't mean that an endless series of malfunctions is in store. In many cases an elderly dog can enjoy many healthy, active, pain-free years.
One of the best ways to prolong the life and improve the functions of an elderly dog is to carefully regulate its fuel intake. Older dogs exercise less and thus need fewer calories. And since age reduces their ability to digest and absorb nutrients, high-quality food specifically formulated for their needs is a necessity. Excessive amounts of protein, phosphorus, and sodium can aggravate kidney and heart problems, so most such foods contain smaller amounts of higher-quality protein, along with reduced quantities of other elements. Levels of vitamins, zinc, fatty acids, and fiber, however, are increased.
5 symptoms NEVER to ignore ----
The more you know, the better prepared you will be to keep your dog healthy ... or maybe even save his life.
Sometimes illness strikes without any warning signs. But quite often there ARE signs along the way. If your dog has a health problem and you know what to look for, you will be able to recognize the symptoms and get help.
This is really important because the sooner you begin treatment the better. An early diagnosis gives your dog a much better chance of recovery.
There are certain symptoms that you should always be on the lookout for - and they should never be ignored. If you were to call your local emergency clinic and report these symptoms, they would most likely tell you that it was an emergency situation and recommend that you bring your dog in as soon as possible.
A symptom is a sign of a disease. It is not a disease in itself. Oftentimes, the same symptom can be a sign of multiple illnesses. For example, breathing difficulties. If your dog has trouble breathing that is a very significant symptom. It can be a sign of heart failure, lung diseases like pneumonia, bleeding into the chest cavity, trauma and more.
Here are the first 5 symptoms you should never ignore:
1. Pacing and restlessness. In dogs, pacing and restlessness can indicate pain, discomfort or distress. Restlessness can be associated with a life-threatening condition call "bloat" in which the stomach becomes distended and twisted. Left untreated, it results in death. Pacing and restless can be an indicator of a serious problem, so be on the lookout.
2. Unproductive retching. Another common sign of "bloat" is when a dog attempts to vomit but is unable to bring anything up. If your dog does this you should call your veterinarian immediately.
3. Collapse or fainting. Acute collapse is a sudden loss of strength that causes your dog to fall and be unable to rise. Some dogs will actually lose consciousness (this is called fainting or syncope). Some dogs recover very quickly and look essentially normal just seconds to minutes after collapsing, whereas others stay in the collapsed state until they get assistance. There are many reasons that a dog may collapse or faint, and all are serious. If this happens to your dog, see your veterinarian immediately
4. Pale gums . Paleness in the gums or mucous membranes can indicate blood loss or "shock". The possible causes for blood loss or shock are life threatening so you need to act quickly. Have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian immediately.
5. Lethargy or weakness . Lethargy is a state of drowsiness, inactivity or indifference in which the dog shows delayed responses to external stimuli like sound, sight or touch. Lethargy is a nonspecific sign that can be associated with many possible conditions. Sometimes it will have little to no impact on the dog's health but sometimes it can be a sign of a severe or life-threatening illness. There's no way to know without an exam. Lethargy of more than a day's duration should not be ignored, especially if it persists.
I hope this information will help keep your dog healthy.
Sometimes illness strikes without any warning signs. But quite often there ARE signs along the way. If your dog has a health problem and you know what to look for, you will be able to recognize the symptoms and get help.
This is really important because the sooner you begin treatment the better. An early diagnosis gives your dog a much better chance of recovery.
There are certain symptoms that you should always be on the lookout for - and they should never be ignored. If you were to call your local emergency clinic and report these symptoms, they would most likely tell you that it was an emergency situation and recommend that you bring your dog in as soon as possible.
A symptom is a sign of a disease. It is not a disease in itself. Oftentimes, the same symptom can be a sign of multiple illnesses. For example, breathing difficulties. If your dog has trouble breathing that is a very significant symptom. It can be a sign of heart failure, lung diseases like pneumonia, bleeding into the chest cavity, trauma and more.
Here are the first 5 symptoms you should never ignore:
1. Pacing and restlessness. In dogs, pacing and restlessness can indicate pain, discomfort or distress. Restlessness can be associated with a life-threatening condition call "bloat" in which the stomach becomes distended and twisted. Left untreated, it results in death. Pacing and restless can be an indicator of a serious problem, so be on the lookout.
2. Unproductive retching. Another common sign of "bloat" is when a dog attempts to vomit but is unable to bring anything up. If your dog does this you should call your veterinarian immediately.
3. Collapse or fainting. Acute collapse is a sudden loss of strength that causes your dog to fall and be unable to rise. Some dogs will actually lose consciousness (this is called fainting or syncope). Some dogs recover very quickly and look essentially normal just seconds to minutes after collapsing, whereas others stay in the collapsed state until they get assistance. There are many reasons that a dog may collapse or faint, and all are serious. If this happens to your dog, see your veterinarian immediately
4. Pale gums . Paleness in the gums or mucous membranes can indicate blood loss or "shock". The possible causes for blood loss or shock are life threatening so you need to act quickly. Have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian immediately.
5. Lethargy or weakness . Lethargy is a state of drowsiness, inactivity or indifference in which the dog shows delayed responses to external stimuli like sound, sight or touch. Lethargy is a nonspecific sign that can be associated with many possible conditions. Sometimes it will have little to no impact on the dog's health but sometimes it can be a sign of a severe or life-threatening illness. There's no way to know without an exam. Lethargy of more than a day's duration should not be ignored, especially if it persists.
I hope this information will help keep your dog healthy.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Continued importance of teeth brushing.
Four out of five dogs over the age of 3 have gum disease. And gum disease is also one of the most preventable and treatable diseases.
What can you do about it? Tartar contributes to gum disease, so controlling tartar buildup will help control gum disease. Here are two simple things that you can do to help prevent this very common problem in your dog:
1. Daily brushing . Brushing your dog's teeth every day (or at least 3 times a week) will work to remove tartar. Start by offering your dog a taste of the veterinary toothpaste. Position the bristles of the brush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line. Work from back to front, making small circles along the gum lines. It should take you less than 30 seconds to brush your pet's teeth.
2. Tartar control treats. A good tartar control treat can remove tartar and help keep your dog's mouth healthy. There are many on the market, Dentastix, Greenies, etc.
A lot of people struggle with brushing their dog's teeth, so tartar control treats are a great alternative.
What can you do about it? Tartar contributes to gum disease, so controlling tartar buildup will help control gum disease. Here are two simple things that you can do to help prevent this very common problem in your dog:
1. Daily brushing . Brushing your dog's teeth every day (or at least 3 times a week) will work to remove tartar. Start by offering your dog a taste of the veterinary toothpaste. Position the bristles of the brush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line. Work from back to front, making small circles along the gum lines. It should take you less than 30 seconds to brush your pet's teeth.
2. Tartar control treats. A good tartar control treat can remove tartar and help keep your dog's mouth healthy. There are many on the market, Dentastix, Greenies, etc.
A lot of people struggle with brushing their dog's teeth, so tartar control treats are a great alternative.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Today's Pet Tip
Healthy Dog Teeth
Keeping your dog's teeth clean can help keep your dog healthy.
Use a soft toothbrush. Start by offering your dog a taste of the dog toothpaste. The next time, let him taste the toothpaste, then run your finger along the gums of the upper teeth.
Repeat the process with the tooth brush. Get the bristles of the brush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line.
Work from back to front, making small circles along the gum lines. It should take you less than 30 seconds to brush your pet's teeth. Do not try to brush the entire mouth at first.
If all that your pet lets you brush is the outside of the upper teeth, you are still addressing the most important area of periodontal disease - prevention.
Keeping your dog's teeth clean can help keep your dog healthy.
Use a soft toothbrush. Start by offering your dog a taste of the dog toothpaste. The next time, let him taste the toothpaste, then run your finger along the gums of the upper teeth.
Repeat the process with the tooth brush. Get the bristles of the brush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line.
Work from back to front, making small circles along the gum lines. It should take you less than 30 seconds to brush your pet's teeth. Do not try to brush the entire mouth at first.
If all that your pet lets you brush is the outside of the upper teeth, you are still addressing the most important area of periodontal disease - prevention.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
General dog safety tips...
No one wants to imagine the worst. We often think that if we imagine something bad, we tempt fate and the bad thing really could happen.
No, we don't necessarily want to concentrate on the negative. But if we don't consider all the bad things that could happen to our dogs, how can we be prepared to help save their lives?
You can't always control everything that your dog does, but you can be prepared for the unexpected. You can't explain the dangers of the world to your dog, but you can keep them in mind and learn how to deal with them so that your dog will be more likely to survive them.
Here's a list of a few great things to do to keep your dog safe:
1. Keep a collar on to identify your dog. Every dog should have a collar. This is the best way to be reunited with your dog quickly if he is ever lost or injured. You'd be surprised how often this happens.
2. ID your dog. Please use an ID tag and microchip in case your dog gets lost or gets out and loses his collar. Many people are never reunited with their pets because the pets don't have any form of identification.
3. Keep a leash or harness by the door in case you need to get out of house quickly with your dog or dogs - especially in case of a fire or other critical emergency. Keep multiple leashes if you have multiple dogs.
4. Keep fire safety stickers on the house so firemen will know how many of each kind of pet are inside.
5. Observe your dog for problems and know the common signs of illness. Call your vet when you detect a problem.
6. Keep emergency phone numbers handy e.g. vet, emergency clinic, humane society, animal rescue, poison control. Print and keep this list of emergency phone numbers handy. You never know when you will need it.
The better prepared you are to deal with an emergency situation the better. Take the necessary steps to help keep your pet safe.
No, we don't necessarily want to concentrate on the negative. But if we don't consider all the bad things that could happen to our dogs, how can we be prepared to help save their lives?
You can't always control everything that your dog does, but you can be prepared for the unexpected. You can't explain the dangers of the world to your dog, but you can keep them in mind and learn how to deal with them so that your dog will be more likely to survive them.
Here's a list of a few great things to do to keep your dog safe:
1. Keep a collar on to identify your dog. Every dog should have a collar. This is the best way to be reunited with your dog quickly if he is ever lost or injured. You'd be surprised how often this happens.
2. ID your dog. Please use an ID tag and microchip in case your dog gets lost or gets out and loses his collar. Many people are never reunited with their pets because the pets don't have any form of identification.
3. Keep a leash or harness by the door in case you need to get out of house quickly with your dog or dogs - especially in case of a fire or other critical emergency. Keep multiple leashes if you have multiple dogs.
4. Keep fire safety stickers on the house so firemen will know how many of each kind of pet are inside.
5. Observe your dog for problems and know the common signs of illness. Call your vet when you detect a problem.
6. Keep emergency phone numbers handy e.g. vet, emergency clinic, humane society, animal rescue, poison control. Print and keep this list of emergency phone numbers handy. You never know when you will need it.
The better prepared you are to deal with an emergency situation the better. Take the necessary steps to help keep your pet safe.
Monday, March 1, 2010
God speed sweet Lydia!
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
God speed sweet Lydia... say hello to my Abigail when you see her... as well as all the others that were waiting for you to come home.
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