Cataracts in dogs

           Every year millions of animals are affected by a common disease known as cataracts,a clouding of the eye lens starting small in the pupil and progressively increasing in size causing blindness in one or both eyes.
Most cataracts are hereditary inherited by a parent or ancestor, some come from injury to the eye or diabetes. I have three clients with aging dogs who suffer with this condition,they seem to have high functioning qualities and only a few set backs. Mostly walking down stairs and being out at night affect how they might react. Often cataracts occurs in aging dogs and the surgery can be quite expensive and cost from $1,500-$3,000.00 depending on extent of cataract if both eyes are affected or type of surgery. The lens is removed and replaced by a new one the same surgery as a human would have. Commonly dogs live to a ripe old age just fine without surgery and it doesn't even seem to bother them or change their personality. Three years ago I had this surgery as a result of inherited cataracts, it changed the way I looked at things. I didn't realize what colors I had been missing or how clear something really looked. Dogs are amazing,they can function with cataracts and adapt much better than us humans. So much of our lives are through our sight, we need it to drive or to fly a plane unlike dogs who rely on their sense of smell to get around. 
 Many dogs are put down or brought to a shelter due to small medical conditions from owners who don't educate themselves about the cataracts.Knowledge is power and power can save an animals life.

Fashionable furry coats for pets

I was inspired to write about this after reading another article today about skin changes to pets in Wintertime. 
My dog Mocha's skin gets really dry during the winter months just like mine.She will begin scratching and itching due to the changes and the cold. We have bought her several coats for the changing elements.You might want to consider buying a coat for your pet to keep them warm and comfy during the winter months and to keep their skin and coat in top condition.This may seem ridiculous but just because they have fur doesn't mean that's  protection enough. We keep our pets dry and clean. We feed our pets nutritional  foods which protect them  from disease. Why not protect them  from the cold as well?Keep in mind unless your dog is bred for extreme cold and has thick fur,the average dog gets quite cold and will shiver just like us when a cold and brisk wind comes along.
For the winter why not buy them a coat for extra protection?Coats come in great colors and styles from knitted to down just make certain your pet has the right fit. You can measure your pet by having them stand properly and measure from the collar to the tail.Also measure around the dogs body from just behind the elbows to around their stomach.My dog is very picky about coats and seems to like coats that are lighter in weight because she is smaller in stature. You also might want to consider rain boots or snow boots to protect their feet from getting paw damage due to ice and salt on the roads.My dog will not wear anything on her feet,some dogs just don't like their feet touched or it may just be too uncomfotable. So keep that in mind.

Just remember next time you go to put your coat on don't forget your pet's as well.

Exercise your Dog it's important !

Daily physical activity is an important part of your dogs health.Lack of exercise can lead to many health related issues such as obesity,poor muscle tone,heart problems and bone disorders. Dogs who don't receive daily activity can also start exhibiting emotional behaviors and lead to strange doggy quirks.An exercised dog can be rest more and remain calm and be less nervous when left alone
Physically your dog feels  it's best when coming home from a fun and interesting walk.Some suggestions are  give your dog a basket or a toy while walking.
Other suggestions are to hide your dogs toys and let them find them or you behind a tree or bush! This is great for mental stimulation.Most importantly let your dog play with other dogs it is important for social as well as physical behaviors.
There are some activities you can do indoors with your pal such as tunnel play,let them crawl through a cardboard box or boxes. Assemble some chairs in the form of a tunnel and encourage them to crawl through.
Dogs love the challenge and will love the praise and treats they receive as well.
I believe the biggest plus is the time you are spending with your pet or pets they will appreciate it and so will you!