Water safety and your dog

Spring Break is fast approaching and some of  you are headed for your favorite beach or hotel pool! Packing Fido in and surfs up may not always be that easy! Here are a few tips for making sure you both have a great experience.
  Whether your dog is a swimmer or a watcher your dog yearns to be right there playing along side of you.
     Never throw your dog in just as children they need to be introduced to the water slowly,not all dogs are natural swimmers and many body types are not naturally buoyant.
If you have a pool and are just introducing your pet to the water dog proof the area so there won't be any unforeseen accidents.A pool fence or lockable gates can be key. In case your pet is very intelligent teach  them how to get out of the pool by getting in and having them follow you out,do this several times so she or he will know what to do.
Never throw a ball into unfamiliar waters until you check to see what's underneath, rocks or sudden drop offs can be very dangerous and may enhance drowning.
  Just like humans swimming can be exhausting having a life jacket can be beneficial it ensures your pet will be safe and stay afloat. Most important make your dog rest, some dogs will fetch until they drop and tired dogs are more likely to drown or be pulled by the current or undertow. Just like children sometimes they need to be coaxed out to take five.
 Never allow your dog to drink pool water as the chlorine is toxic and will promote vomiting. Same for the ocean, there are many pollutants, algae and salt that can be harmful and make your pet sick.
 Always bring a fresh clean container of water to offer while resting.
 Bring clean towels and cotton balls for drying out your pet's ears lessening the chance of ear infections.
 If possible shower your dog after swimming to rid their body of chlorine and other unwanted pollutants.
 Most of all have fun and enjoy the sun with your favorite pal.

Pets and Dental Health

February is national pet dental month,vets start recommending we bring our trusted friends in for a routine dental assessment,This will include checking the gums for bacteria and any problems you may not know to look for.  Also they will check for tooth loss and damaged or receding gums. Like humans pets need a once a year exam to make certain they are not in any pain as they can't speak to us or tell us how they are feeling.You may notice them pawing at their mouth or refusing to eat.This can be a sure sign there is something wrong.


Even if you aren’t able to brush your pet’s teeth every day, by incorporating a special pet food into your pet’s daily routine, you can provide the dental care needed to keep your pet healthy. Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets. Twice-a-year checkups, including an oral health checkup, are important to ensure your pet is not in pain and is not suffering from serious oral health problems.
Besides causing receding gums and tooth loss, bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream, potentially infecting the heart, liver and kidneys, which can be potentially life threatening. Just as the public has come to realize that their own oral health is linked to their overall health, veterinarians want people to understand that dental health care is essential to maintaining the overall health and well-being of the family pet."
A complete home dental care program for your pet often will include brushing as well as a special pet food that helps care for your pet’s teeth while he or she eats.  My pets are now protected through a pet health insurance plan which covers annual dental exams and cleaning. Most companies stress the importance of this aspect of pet care, and support pet owners who take dental health to heart.

How do you know which pet foods are best?

This is tough because in my experience when my vet gave me a certain food for my dog, I thought because it came from my vet it was the best. After doing some research and finding out what  exactly is in most dog foods I was astounded. Most dog foods have sugar and unhealthy preservatives  making them more appealing to our pets. In turn these foods produce over weight and unhealthy coats as well as skin rashes and allergic reactions.Try to stay away from foods with these preservatives BHT & BHA. These have been shown to cause cancer,kidney disease,pancreatic disease as well as hair loss. Make certain to read food labels and determine which foods have what preservatives. There are many dog foods that say they are Holistic and contain no  byproducts just remember that small print. There are a lot of good choices out there and many manufactures are now aware more consumers are demanding better and more healthy choices for both cats and dogs.
Remember like us daily nutrition and  exercise are key to a happy more healthier pet.

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!