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.

Pampering your Pets inexpensively

    Do you desperately want to get rid of that doggie smell but don't have the extra funds to go to the groomers? Now you don't have to. Everyday millions of pooches are primped and polished clipped and brushed to the tune of  $50.00 per pet per month.;not counted in is your time and gas for dropping off and picking up. By using everyday items in your pantry you can create your own personal pet pampering products. Items such as yogurt,honey and oatmeal as well as a berry fruit can give you the same affect as an expensive groomer.You can mix and match to your own personal taste. You  may also want to add an essential oil such as tea tree which is very soothing.
   Make certain your pet isn't allergic to any of these items by rubbing a bit on a back leg in a small dotted spot to see if there is a reaction,try not to let your dog lick it off before you can see the reaction if there is one. 
 Remember not to get facial scrubs in the eye area and anything with eucalyptus is not recommended as it can burn. I have personally used a mixture of mouthwash and water to get rid of fleas and makes my dog Mocha smell fresh and clean,be aware not to get the wash in your dogs eyes  as it contains alcohol. 
 Oatmeal and lavender can be very soothing and adding some shea butter can soothe flea and  allergy redness as well. Unlike humans dogs receive allergens through their skin instead of their nose.if he or she sleeps with you and has skin irritations you may wash your pet once a month to once a week depending on your pets skin and coat type. Many people speculate that over washing can take the natural oils out of your dogs coat and skin but by washing the irritants out of the skin before they can start a reaction you may save your pet from being irritated. 
 Whatever you choose saving money is one of the most important things next to having a clean and healthy pet.

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.

Traveling with Fido

Spring break is coming will you be taking your pet with you to that long sandy beach?
Some great ways to make sure you both have a relaxing and fun vacation are first make sure your dog is healthy enough to travel. Make an appointment with your vet to ensure  all vaccinations are up to date . Also if you have an older pet who requires medication you may want to make arrangements for him to stay home as travel can be stressful on older animals.

You may also want to get updates on shots such as kennel cough and have all paperwork in hand when you leave the  office.
You may never know when you dog may run away so make certain to have dog tags with you name and phone number,even if your dog is micro-chipped  go ahead and get him a collar for extra peace of mind. Also make certain your pet is welcome whether you are going to a family members or place of lodging know ahead of time the rules and regulations, you would hate to get to your destination only to find out you will need to kennel your dog in a strange town.
If nothing else enjoy your time with your pet the memories will last a lifetime.

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!

When your pets are jealous of a new relationship

It may be hard to imagine pets having such a "human" emotion as jealousy, but like children, pets can find it difficult to share their owner's attention and affection with not only a new lover, but also a lover's pet. Many animal behaviorists agree that pets might not actually get jealous, but they react to the changes that a new person can bring. Pets may display their displeasure with new loved ones by exhibiting behaviors ranging from the annoying to the alarming.Cats can show their stress and unhappiness with a new situation by becoming distant and dogs may start biting, excessive barking or growling at the unwelcome newcomer. They may urinate on your new honey's favorite chair to let them know who's in charge, or cats may scratch the newcomers hand.
If your pet is "jealous," time and space could be the best remedy. Introducing a new pet and/or a new person into the home, even if it is just for short regular visits, can upset a pet's sense of well-being. They are territorial and get bent out of shape if they feel their space is being invaded. If the pet's displeasure is directed at another pet, make the introduction gradually over time. Keep them in separate areas at first and then slowly move them closer so they can get used to each other.To help with the transition, never punish a pet for the bad behavior. Visit the vet to rule out any physical problems. For dogs, create or try sticking to routines such as taking a walk at certain times. If your pet is used to hanging out on your bed, set up a new routine of playing with them in a different part of the home, so they won't feel abandoned if your new loved one spends the night.New relationships may mean less time spent with your pet. Shower them with love and extra attention and make the most of the time you do spend with them. This can reassure the pet that they are still wanted. Enlisting the services of a pet behaviorist can also provide some relief to the situation.

Older Dogs skin,hair and coat changes

As with people,dogs may start to show changes in their skin and haircoat as they get older. Become aware of these changes so you are prepared to deal with them. Some changes are the haircoat turns gray, mainly around the muzzle and face.It also may become thinner as well as duller.Keep your dogs coat groomed to keep it in top shape against the harsh environment.Also grooming makes your pal feel better because you are taking the time to have one on one time with them.Skin changes may include dryness due to their changing hormone levels it makes the skin more fragile making your dog more prone to injury and slower to heal. A few things that have been proven to help are omega-6 fatty acids for Haircoat and a spray on moisturizer for their fragile skin.
Also be aware of skin and haircoat changes as they also can be a sign of disease and may need your vet to examine them.

How to help dogs and Cats with winter paw pad injuries

Paw pad injuries are very common in the winter, the cold winter air,ice and snow can be very damaging. Fortunately there are a few things pet owners can do to help prevent paw pad injuries.
Wash or wipe down your dogs paws each time you come in from a walk or if your cat goes outdoors. The most common irritant can be the salt they use on sidewalks or roads to melt ice. Some of the materials they use can also be toxic as well. You can either simply wipe or use a warm foot bath to cleanse their feet.
Moisturizing is also recommended after each washing or can be applied before a walk as well to keep moisture in.
You can ask your vet which creams or salves to use because dogs and cats alike both lick their paws and using harsh creams can upset their stomach.Never use human lotions as these can irritate their digestive system.
For your dog consider having them wear dog booties if they will tolerate it, most dog booties can be found at your local pet store or online.
If your pet does obtain a paw pad injuries make sure you treat it immediately as the pads contain many blood vessel, make certain to check with your vet before applying any medications.
Remember your pet counts on you to make certain they stay happy and healthy so remember to check their feet this winter!

Kidney Disease in Elderly Dogs

The risks of kidney disease (renal failure) increase as a dog grows older. The condition can either be acute(occurs suddenly,signs can be severe) or chronic (slow onset with generalized signs)
Renal disease can be due to changes in the kidney, or it can result from the dysfunction of other organs. For example if the heart is impaired, decreased blood flow to the kidney impairs their ability to function properly. Kidney health is measured through blood tests,urinalysis,and,in some cases,imaging techniques.These test can can identify the problem before physical signs of kidney disease are evident. One of the most frequent signs and early signs is an increase in water consumption and urination,but this generally does not occur until about 70% of the kidney function is lost.
If there is a problem with kidney function,your vet may suggest changes in diet and lower dosages of certain medications to decrease the stress on the disease organ. With proper diagnosis and proper treatment,acute kidney disease may be reversible; chronic kidney disease can be managed to give dogs extra months or years,depending on response and over all health of your dog.

Healthy hearts created by pets

Pets of all shapes and sizes enter our hearts when we don't even reconize or realize it.
In my 43 years I have had many wonderful critters any where from small grey tabby kittens to thirteen hand horses. I grew up in New England around the rolling hills of Vermont and New Hampshire, I could walk up the hill to the neighbors farm. I had a really tough childhood my mother constantly brow beat me.
Escaping to ride like the wind across the fields of the green hills leaving all the nasty crap behind, my mothers screaming her demanding perfection. Whenever I had a really bad day I went to find a creature who demands nothing of you but love or to have fun with.
Someone to say come play give me the ball seeming to say come on mom throw the ball like a little child who doesn't get enough attention.
When my daughter came here to Georgia from hurricane Katrina devastated the first thing I did was go to the local vets and adopt a tiny black kitten who crept into her heart and helped her heal.