“SWIM” is the intransitive verb that means “to advance in the water [a person or an animal] doing the necessary movements with the body and extremities, without touching the bottom or other support “. It is popularly believed that all dogs can swim, but this statement is not true. What happens is that all races have the instinct to use their legs and move them to stay afloat and not sink; to do the “little dog” as people say when we are little. But that does not mean that they know how to swim, and therefore, we find breeds with innate swimming skills, breeds with the ability to learn and others, so clumsy or limited, that they can endanger their lives if they try.

The skill of the animal will depend on factors such as its anatomy, genetics, aptitude, age, experience, health and physical condition. We can highlight breeds with great empathy and aquatic ability, usually such as the Newfoundland, Golden Terrier, Labrador Retriever, Water Dog, Setter. On the contrary, the breeds with the most difficulties to swim are the brachycephalic (snub-nosed) such as the Bulldog, Pug, Boxer, Chow Chow, but also Sighthounds and Greyhounds due to their morphology oriented to running, but not swimming.

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As the summer heat rolls in, the temptation to take a dip increases, and while it may seem harmless, there are hidden aquatic hazards that we should watch out for.
Whatever the breed of our pet, it should not be ruled out that from time to time they take a dip since swimming is a good physical exercise and an ideal way to spend a fun and refreshing time. As long as, of course, it is carried out safely – in a controlled and supervised environment – and the dog enjoys it and it does not become a stressful experience. Swimming is a perfect activity to eliminate excess accumulated energy and thus prevent it from becoming anxiety. The animal that refreshes itself and has a good time, gains in relaxation and good humour. However, we should never force a fearful animal because we would obtain the opposite effect to that desired.

If the sea, the pool, the river or the pond are part of our usual environment, it will be convenient for us to accustom our pet from its puppy stage (from 12 months), putting it in contact with the water and turning the bath in a game time. The safety and tranquillity of the animal are essential, so, if the situation requires it, we can use any of the models of life-saving floats for dogs that exist on the market.
As the summer heat rolls in, the temptation to take a dip increases, and while it may seem harmless, there are hidden aquatic hazards that we should watch out for. Organisms and parasites inhabit the water of natural spaces that can infect our pet. It is advisable to avoid calm or stagnant waters, and favour slow-moving rivers or shallow sea areas, where parasite infections are less persistent. A good tip to apply is to always bring fresh water to hand for our dog to drink and avoid the temptation to drink water during the bath. As an additional measure, it will be recommended that after swimming, we bathe our dog with clean water to remove any harmful residue that may have adhered to your skin and hair. In the case of using a swimming pool, after the swimming session we should dry the ears and eyes to avoid irritation that, sometimes, chlorine causes.

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In advance of the bathing season, it is convenient to act on our furry animals by going to our trusted veterinarian to ask him to make us an adequate preventive plan that includes the Double Monthly Protection against internal and external parasites: also protecting our pet from worms, fleas, ticks and other mites.

If you want to learn how to groom your dog at home, you need to know the basics, such as how to cut a dog’s nails. I’ll show you exactly what you need to do and how to do it safely so that know one gets hurt.

Cutting a dog’s fingernails might sound scary but there’s nothing about it that’s difficult. You just have to be careful and know what you’re doing .

You should start off by collecting all of the supplies for this task. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Nail Trimmer
• Scissors
• Styptic Powder (optional)

Now that you’ve got your stuff together, it’s time to get started.

Step 1: Make Your Dog Comfortable

First, make sure your dog is relaxed and comfortable around you. Do this by giving him a treat or two before starting. If possible, start this process after they’ve eaten their meal to help them feel extra sleepy and calm! For anxious dogs, you can even try CBD Oil for Dogs.

Step 2: Prepare The Paw

Second, lift one of your dogs paws into your hand and press gently on the pad of the paw while looking at the tip of each nail. You’ll be able to see where your dog’s skin is and if you cut it, he will bleed and it may hurt him.

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That’s why we use a nail cutter, so we don’t have to worry about hurting our dog when trimming their nails.

Step Three: Secure The Paw

Third, you can feel free to push down on the pad of their paw if it’s more comfortable for you. If your dog is wiggly when you’re trying to hold his paw, you can try this instead!

Step 4: Apply The Cut

Fourth, once you’ve identified where the quick ends in each nail, go ahead and cut just past that point. You’ll only want to cut into the pinkish area on the end of his nail, not into the black part. If you do accidentally cut into this black section, use an absorbent cotton ball to stop the bleeding. After it stops, apply some styptic powder to help the blood clot faster and prevent infection in your dog’s paw. You can then apply some CBD for Pets to promote healing as well.

Step 5: Repeat on All Nails

Fifth, keep trimming until all their nails are the same length.

Step by Step Instructions for Trimming Dog Nails

1. Pet your dog and make sure they’re comfortable with you
2. With one paw in each hand, feel for the end of each nail to know where to cut
3. Cut just past this point (only into the pinkish area)
4. Keep cutting until all of the nails are the same length
5. If you accidentally cut into the black part, apply some styptic powder to stop the bleeding

Now that you’ve learned how to cut your dog’s nails, you can feel confident doing it at home! If this process continues to be too stressful for either of you, then why not try bringing them to a groomer?

If you want more information on how to do this and other dog grooming basics, check out the video linked below:

Whether or not dogs dream isn’t known with scientific certainty, but it sure is difficult to imagine that they don’t. We’ve all watched our dogs demonstrate behaviours in their sleep that resemble what they do in a fully awake state. Paddling legs, whining, growling, wagging tails, chewing jowls, and twitching noses inspire us to wonder what our dogs are dreaming about.

What we know about dogs and dreams

While our knowledge on this topic is very limited, the following known information helps us believe that dogs do indeed experience dreams. According to MIT News, Matthew Wilson, a professor of neuroscience at MIT, and Kenway Louie, a graduate student in 2001,  have studied the relationships between memory, sleep and dreams. They found that when rats were trained to run along a circular track for food rewards, their brains created a distinctive firing pattern of neurons (brain cells). The researchers repeated the brain monitoring while the rats were sleeping. Low and behold, they observed the same signature brain activity pattern associated with running whether the rats were awake or asleep. In fact, the memories played at approximately the same speed during sleep as when the rats were awake.

Can we apply this to dogs?

Can we take what is known about dreaming in rats and humans and apply the information to dogs? Wilson believes that we can.”My guess is — unless there is something special about rats and humans — that cats and dogs are doing exactly the same thing,” he said, according to USA Today’s website.

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It is known that the hippocampus, the portion of the brain that collects and stores memories, is wired much the same way in all mammals. According to healthday.com, Professor Wilson says, “If you compared a hippocampus in a rat to a dog; in a cat to a human, they contain all of the same pieces.” He believes that as dogs sleep, images of past events replay in their minds, much the same way people recall experiences while dreaming.

In people, it is known that most dreams occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, according to the National Institutes of Health. Dogs also experience periods of REM sleep. Psychology Today’s website says that during REM their breathing becomes more irregular and shallow. There may be muscle twitching during REM and, when one looks closely, rapid eye movements behind closed eyelids can often be observed. It is during REM sleep that behaviours thought to be associated with dreaming (legs paddling, twitching, vocalizing, etc.) are most commonly observed.

What we want to believe about dog dreams

When we observe our dogs as they sleep, it’s just about impossible to imagine that they are not dreaming. Just like the rats studied by Wilson and Louie, it is tempting to believe that our four-legged best buddies are reenacting their recent experiences; playing at the dog park, sniffing in the woods, chewing on a treasured bone, and chasing squirrels.

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The National Institutes of Health says that Sigmund Freud theorized that dreaming was a “safety valve” for our unconscious desires. Perhaps he is correct, and, when our dogs sleep, they dream about catching the neighbour’s pesky cat, continuous belly rubs in conjunction with unlimited dog treats, and stealing the Thanksgiving turkey from the dining room table.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian — they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Did you know that some authorities feel that 1 out of every 100 dogs that reach 12 years of age develops diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a hormonal problem where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, the hormone that helps push sugar (“glucose”) into the body’s cells. Without the insulin, the body’s cells are starving for sugar; unfortunately, this then stimulates the body to produce more and more sugar (in an attempt to feed the cells). That’s why your dog’s blood sugar is so high (what we call a “hyperglycemia”) with diabetes mellitus.

Without insulin, the sugar can’t get into the cells; hence, why you need to give insulin to your dog with a tiny syringe twice a day. In dogs, this is a disease that can be costly to treat and requires twice-a-day insulin along with frequent veterinary visits for the rest of your dog’s life.

So how do you know if your dog has diabetes? Clinical signs of diabetes mellitus in dogs include:

• Excessive drinking
• Excessive urination
• Urinary accidents in the house
• Dilute urine
• Overweight or obese
• Muscle wasting
• Ravenous appetite
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Weakness
• Unkempt or poor hair coat
• Blindness secondary to cataracts
• Neuropathies (nerve problems)

As your dog gets older, it’s worth talking to your veterinarian about doing routine blood work to make sure your dog is healthy. This blood work will help rule out kidney and liver problems, anaemia, infections, electrolyte problems and diabetes mellitus. The sooner you recognize the clinical signs, the sooner your dog can be treated with insulin and the fewer complications we see as a result.

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So, if you notice any of the signs above, get to a veterinarian right away. Now, continue on for 5 important reasons to test your dog for diabetes:

1. Your dog will live longer

Diabetes mellitus can shorten the lifespan of your dog, as secondary complications and infections can occur. With diabetes, the body is immunosuppressed and more likely to develop diabetic complications which cause long term harm to your dog.

2. Your dog will be able to see

Did you know that the majority of dogs with diabetes eventually go blind from cataracts? Even in well-controlled diabetic dogs, the excess sugar in the body can have secondary effects on the lens of the eye; it causes more water to influx into the lens, which disrupts the clearness of the lens. As a result, cataract formation occurs, resulting in eventual blindness and secondary inflammation in both eyes. While cataract surgery can (and ideally, should) be performed, it can be costly.

3. You’ll save a lot of money

Treatment for diabetes mellitus includes twice-a-day insulin treatment, insulin syringes, prescription diets, and frequent veterinary trips for blood tests. Also, as diabetic dogs can’t go without their insulin, it may mean hiring house sitters or pet sitters to treat your pet while you are on vacation.

4. You’ll have fewer urinary accidents in the house

One of the biggest signs of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus is excessive drinking, urination and having urinary accidents in the house. Because of hyperglycemia, dogs are also at increased risk for urinary tract infections, wreaking havoc on your carpet. The sooner you can treat your dog with insulin and get diabetes controlled or regulated, the less your dog will drink and urinate, making your dog more comfortable too!

5. You’ll have more peace knowing that your dog is healthy

As a veterinarian and dog owner, I want to make sure my dog is as healthy as possible. You might already be talking with your veterinarian about vaccines each year in a dog that is older than 7 years of age; next, talk to your veterinarian about doing an annual exam and routine blood work too. It’ll pick up on medical problems sooner, so you can rest assured that your dog is going to live a longer, happier, healthier life!

Having a diabetic pet is also a big commitment, as it requires dedicated pet parents who can give twice-a-day injections of insulin. Caring for a diabetic dog does require frequent trips to the veterinarian to regulate blood sugar. That said, dogs can live with diabetes for years with appropriate care and treatment. When in doubt, make sure to monitor your dog carefully for the signs of diabetes, and seek veterinary attention sooner rather than later to help test for this ever-growing problem!

The post Can Dogs Swim? appeared first on The Petster.

Your dog’s barking is his main means of communicating with you and the world around him. When lifestyle changes occur, it is normal for anyone to feel a little disoriented, anxious, stressed, or afraid, even your dog, who may start to let you know more and more insistently through his barking.

What to do when my dog ​​barks too much?

You know him better than anyone. The first thing you should do is start observing him be able to identify the cause of this situation, pay attention to recent changes in his environment, although it could also be that he is asking for more food or time with you.

We share some tips to keep everything under control when this becomes a problem:

• Nobody likes scolding, that includes your dog; By responding to their barking in this way, you are only increasing their anxiety and fear. A little understanding and guidance would help him more, which helps more when it comes from his leader, so you must give him firm indications so that he understands that it is not good to bark so much.
• Like any child, your puppy likes gifts, especially when they are toys that he can bite at will; These could be a great ally to calm your anxiety and keep you entertained when you are not there.
• A healthy mind in a healthy body, also applies to dogs, who are less afraid and depressed when their days are full of activities, who wants to bark at night when they are happily exhausted?
• A little doggy TV can also help. Seriously! You may not have tried it before, but dogs are attracted to seeing other dogs on television, whether in movies, series, cartoons or you can even search for videos on the internet made especially to entertain or calm dogs through pleasant images to them.
• On the other hand, there will always be situations that can cause fear or stress to your dog, although they are not risky situations for both; try to distract him with something he really likes until he calms down, be it his toy or a snack.

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Remember that dogs also have feelings that cause them some reactions that can get out of control. To remedy some, we recommend that you turn to a veterinarian who specializes in canine behavior (ethologist) so that he can help you find the best solution.

Anyone who has a four-legged friend knows very well how important it is to take care of him: food for dogs and cats is today of fundamental importance to your pet’s health. The unconditional love we feel for our furry puppy pushes us to choose the best because his well-being goes hand in hand with ours. The attention we devote to choosing healthy and balanced food is one of the aspects that most influence the quality of life of domestic dogs and cats. Finding your way around the great cauldron of pet food is not easy, let’s see which are the golden rules to follow.

CAT AND DOG FOOD: HOMEMADE OR COMMERCIAL?

Regarding dogs, first of all, you need to evaluate their size, breed, age, and health conditions: based on these variants and thanks to the advice of your veterinarian, you can determine the daily intake of calories needed. For example, a small dog eats between 90 and 120 grams of food per day, while a large dog, such as the Doberman or Labrador, may need up to 800 grams of “food”.

Regardless of the individual cases, the general principle applies to every one according to which home-made food, the same one we eat to be clear, is not always healthy. Four-legged friends have nutritional needs that do not coincide with ours and the habit of offering them table scraps without discrimination can cause negative effects on their metabolism in the long run.

Let’s not forget that dogs are omnivores, they need the right amount of animal proteins but also fruit and vegetables. Among the prohibited foods are chocolate, sausages, salt, garlic, onion, grapes, and yeast. Beware also of cooked bones because they tend to break easily and therefore to be dangerous. An exclusively “do-it-yourself” diet is however possible as long as you follow the instructions of an expert. The ideal is to alternate a home diet with industrial food, such as croquettes or canned meat, complete and balanced foods.

THE BENEFITS OF CANNED FOOD

Speaking of dog and cat food, it must be considered that dog treats, or dry food, have the advantage of being easy to dose and practical to dispense, especially when you are away from home. Furthermore, thanks to their abrasive action, the croquettes contribute to the dental hygiene of our furry friends by acting as a “toothbrush”.

Many hesitations about the use of commercial dog food relate to the idea that they may contain poor raw materials and chemical additives. In reality, you need to know how to make the appropriate distinctions between the infinite proposals on the shelf and choose quality products, that is, those that contain a wide range of proteins and are enriched with digestible elements such as rice. Whether it is complete croquettes (they replace a meal and must be integrated only with water) or complementary feeds to be associated with something else, it is good to put only the right amount in the bowl, avoiding excesses. On the packages, there are nutritional tables based on weight.

However, many four-legged friends prefer wet food, canned meat bites with added vitamins and minerals: they contain more water, are tastier and more rewarding to eat but have the disadvantage of being eaten quickly and they do not play abrasive action on the teeth. A good idea is to mix the croquettes with some morsels of meat, perhaps chicken and rabbit

CAT AND DOG FOOD: WHAT TO PUT IN MICRO’S BOWL

While the dog is omnivorous, the cat has remained carnivorous: its diet must respond to a high requirement of proteins and fats of animal origin. As for Fido, even Micio’s diet cannot be a “duplicate” of ours but must be prepared by informing yourself correctly with the help of a veterinarian. The choice of products without dyes and preservatives, which prefer poultry and rabbit,   is undoubted to be preferred. Cats are fond of beef and offal and usually prefer wet food served in small morsels. In the summer, the choice of croquettes can prove to be a winner for the preservation of the product but it must be kept in mind that the croquettes are not a snack but replace a meal, therefore be careful not to exceed the doses indicated on the packaging.

Some of the ingredients that end up in commercial pet foods are truly shocking. What’s more, many of these will not appear on the label and others are hidden under umbrella terms such as ‘meat meal’ and ‘meat by-products’. How can this happen? The pet food industry is highly unregulated. As Ann Martin, author of Foods Pets Die For, writes in her article The Pet Food Industry and its Questionable Practices, ‘Governments in the USA and Canada regulate the labeling of the food, the name and address of the company, the weight of the product, and whether it is made for a dog or cat – nothing more.’

The meats used in pet food can be extremely low grade and unfit for human consumption. Summarized as the ‘4 D’s’ (dead, diseased, disabled, and dying), these can include roadkill, zoo animals, and infected and cancerous meats.

At the rendering plants ingredients are highly heated and processed, destroying nutrients and enzymes, with strong preservatives added which do not appear on the labels. These include fat stabilizers such as BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), both of which are known to cause liver and kidney dysfunction, and Ethoxyquin, a suspected cancer-causing agent. Semi-moist dog foods may also contain propylene glycol, a relation to ethylene glycol (anti-freeze), which can destroy red blood cells.

Pets in your pet food

Though reportedly not the case today, it is well recorded that dogs and cats have ended up in dog and cat food. In his 1990 article How Dogs and Cats Get Recycled Into Pet Food, John Eckhouse, an investigative reporter, wrote: ‘Each year, millions of dead American dogs and cats are processed along with billions of pounds of other animal materials by companies known as renderers. The finished products — tallow and meat meals — serve as raw materials for thousands of items that include cosmetics and pet food.

Doctor of veterinary medicine Wendell Belfield in Foods Not Fit For a Pet (Earth Island Journal, 1996), reports that ‘federal and state agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration and medical groups such as the American Veterinary Medical Association and the California Veterinary Medical Association, confirm that pets, on a routine basis, are rendered after they die in animal shelters or are disposed of by health authorities, and the end product frequently finds its way into pet food.’

Toxic Grains

The very use of grains in pet food is questionable as grains are ill-suited to the digestive physiology of carnivores. This is especially so for cats who are obligatory carnivores and meet their glucose requirements through amino acids in their diet. Further, the grains used in dog and cat foods may contain mycotoxins, fungi that can cause chronic conditions and even death in both humans and animals. As the grains used in pet food are low grade, they are dealt with last in the handling process and because of this are often left in storage where insects, mites, and mycotoxin molds can grow.

The consumption of dead mites can cause skin allergies. If your pet has skin allergies, change their diet first before turning to steroids which can be seriously detrimental to your pet’s health.

Aflatoxin poisoning, a common mycotoxin that grows on corn as well as other foods, has been reported for over 50 years. Vomitoxin is another mycotoxin found in wheat products. Where large doses of mycotoxins can cause cancer and even rapid death, small continuous amounts may suppress the immune system and damage organs over time, leading to long-term chronic health conditions.

Just recently at the end of 2005, over 100 dogs were killed in the United States because of aflatoxin found in pet food, with some 19 brands of Diamond dog food being recalled. It is likely there were many more deaths than those reported, and as aflatoxin attacks the liver it is likely surviving dogs may develop chronic liver disease or liver cancer in the future.

Toxic Chemicals

The toxin sodium pentobarbital, a chemical is used to euthanize animals and pets, has been found in commercial pet foods. The US Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Medicine performed two studies (1998 and 2000) to test for pentobarbital.  Of the 74 samples analyzed, over half were found to contain pentobarbital. What’s more, none of the 43 brands and product lines that tested positive warned of its presence on their labels.

The FDA researchers also tested the food for the presence of dogs or cats but reported none present. It was believed the pentobarbital residues were entering pet foods from euthanized, rendered cattle, or even horses.

The FDA says the small amounts of the drug found in these foods were harmless, but not all veterinarians agree. Long-term continual doses, even at small levels maybe increase the onset of chronic and degenerative diseases.

Aside from the toxins and base ingredients of commercial pet foods, these harshly processed and high-carbohydrate products in no way match the natural diets dogs and cats would have eaten in the wild. They are species-inappropriate and ill-suited to canine and feline physiology. I recommend healthy, homemade, raw diets or optimum natural, holistic alternatives for the health and well-being of your dog and cat. Before embarking on a raw food diet (otherwise known as BARF – ‘biologically adequate raw food’), thoroughly research the area first as nutritional balance is essential.

Some activities are necessary to maintain an optimal state of physical and mental health of your dog and, although they can be seen as complicated, these should not stop. Next, we share some hygiene measures that will help you when returning home with your dog and maintaining good hygiene.

According to the amount and type of dirt, we can define two cleaning options:

For light soiling, use damp towels.

If they made a quick exit and you think your dog did not come into contact with any substance that was harmful to him, you can use a wet wipe to clean his paws, but be sure to read on the packaging that they are safe and approved for use on pets.

A simple and inexpensive variant is to use paper towels dampened with a little warm water and dog shampoo to clean their paws before entering the house.

For a lot of dirt, do a foot bath.

If your dog’s departure was very active and crossed several surfaces or if you think that he stepped on any substance that could affect his health, deep cleaning will be necessary, at least on his legs.

With small dogs, you can use a sink, and with large dogs, you can do it in the bathtub. In both cases, use warm water and dog shampoo to scrub the dirty areas very well and clean from their pads to above their ankles. Rinse very well to avoid leaving soap residue.

Aspects to take into account when cleaning the dog’s paws:

• Cleans very well around fingers and nails. Do this by separating and rubbing each of your fingers and don’t forget to gently but firmly rub your pads as well.
• Dry their paws with a clean towel. After washing, take a clean towel to dry all parts of your dog’s paws very well, this will prevent him from slipping or leaving traces of moisture around the house.
• Check for wounds on your dog’s paws. Depending on the intensity of the route or the terrain you have walked on, your dog may generate injuries to its legs, so when you return home you should check very well for any damage such as cuts, scrapes, or blisters. If the wound appears serious and may be infected, take your dog to the vet right away. If, on the contrary, the wound seems slight, you should wash it to prevent it from becoming infected. Carry out the same washing process doing it very carefully and at the end apply a light amount of diluted antiseptic, use one that is suitable for use on pets.

Tips for maintaining a recurring cleaning on your dog’s paws

• Keep their fur well-trimmed. Having their legs with short fur will facilitate their cleaning.
  Use special balms for dog paws. Apply it on their feet and pads before going outside, the balm will work as a protective layer.
• If your dog accepts it, turn to dog booties. These will help reduce dirt on your legs, as well as extra protection against certain surfaces or substances.
• Place a cleaning station at the entrance of the house. To get in the habit, you can create a cleaning station for each time they return from the street. Some ideas are a clean rag, a bucket of clean water, wet wipes, and dry towels.

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Cleaning the dirt from your dog’s legs, in addition to hygiene, will allow you to see if they are not hiding a wound that if not detected in time can progress towards a greater problem.

The post My Dog Barks a Lot, How Can I Entertain Him? appeared first on The Petster.

LAS VEGAS–There are millions of dogs in the United States and according to American Kennel Club (AKC) there are seven primary groups of dogs including:

• Sporting: Breeds in the Sporting Group were bred to assist hunters in the capture and retrieval of feathered game.
• Hound: All breeds in this group were bred to pursue warm-blooded quarry, including jackrabbits, deer, fish, ducks, and birds.
• Working Group: These breeds were developed to assist humans in some capacity. This ranges from pulling sleds and carts to guarding flocks and homes to protecting their families. Many of these breeds are still used as working dogs today.
• Herding: This group comprises breeds developed for moving livestock, including sheep, cattle, and even reindeer.
• Terrier: The feisty, short-legged breeds in the Terrier Group were first bred to go to the ground in pursuit of rodents and other vermin.
• Toy: It may not surprise you to learn that these small dogs were bred to serve as attentive companions and that they’re especially popular with city dwellers.
• Non-Sporting: Breeds in the Non-Sporting Group have job descriptions that defy categorization in the six other groups. They were all developed to interact with people in some capacity.

The pandemic has changed the way much of how people work with a large number of people remaining home and working.  The rises of the vaccinations are working well with the hope of returning to an office.

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This is all fine and good for the majority of people, but the family pet may not do well with the separation.  Animals, dogs in particular, are creatures of habit and adjust accordingly. The master of the pack, the dog owner, around all the time gives the dog a degree of comfort.  Rapidly up and leaving can cause a real pet anxiety issue in dogs.

Pre-pandemic, the approximate rate of anxiety in dogs was around 14 percent.  As people begin to return to work, it is highly likely that number will rise and with that rise, visits to the vet’s office.  The diagnosis will be clear – separation anxiety.  The veterinarian will likely prescribe anxiety medications, along with the unfortunate side effects of most medications.

Happy Paws 4 Life believes there is a better solution, and one that does not require a prescription – CBD Oil.

CBD is derived from the hemp plant and it is non intoxicating, compared to THC the active component of marijuana.  The efficacy of CBD oil is well documented for pain and anxiety relief in people as well as the family pet.

Happy Paws 4 Life has an all-natural full spectrum hemp extract oil with a powerful prebiotic and super omega oils rich in Omega 3 fatty acids for health.  The CBD extract oil helps the family pet stay calm and relaxed during the separation time without any known side effects.

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If you want to learn how to groom your dog at home, you need to know the basics, such as how to cut a dog’s nails. I’ll show you exactly what you need to do and how to do it safely so that know one gets hurt.

Cutting a dog’s fingernails might sound scary but there’s nothing about it that’s difficult. You just have to be careful and know what you’re doing .

You should start off by collecting all of the supplies for this task. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Nail Trimmer
• Scissors
• Styptic Powder (optional)

Now that you’ve got your stuff together, it’s time to get started.

Step 1: Make Your Dog Comfortable

First, make sure your dog is relaxed and comfortable around you. Do this by giving him a treat or two before starting. If possible, start this process after they’ve eaten their meal to help them feel extra sleepy and calm! For anxious dogs, you can even try CBD Oil for Dogs.

Step 2: Prepare The Paw

Second, lift one of your dogs paws into your hand and press gently on the pad of the paw while looking at the tip of each nail. You’ll be able to see where your dog’s skin is and if you cut it, he will bleed and it may hurt him.

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That’s why we use a nail cutter, so we don’t have to worry about hurting our dog when trimming their nails.

Step Three: Secure The Paw

Third, you can feel free to push down on the pad of their paw if it’s more comfortable for you. If your dog is wiggly when you’re trying to hold his paw, you can try this instead!

Step 4: Apply The Cut

Fourth, once you’ve identified where the quick ends in each nail, go ahead and cut just past that point. You’ll only want to cut into the pinkish area on the end of his nail, not into the black part. If you do accidentally cut into this black section, use an absorbent cotton ball to stop the bleeding. After it stops, apply some styptic powder to help the blood clot faster and prevent infection in your dog’s paw. You can then apply some CBD for Pets to promote healing as well.

Step 5: Repeat on All Nails

Fifth, keep trimming until all their nails are the same length.

Step by Step Instructions for Trimming Dog Nails

1. Pet your dog and make sure they’re comfortable with you
2. With one paw in each hand, feel for the end of each nail to know where to cut
3. Cut just past this point (only into the pinkish area)
4. Keep cutting until all of the nails are the same length
5. If you accidentally cut into the black part, apply some styptic powder to stop the bleeding

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Now that you’ve learned how to cut your dog’s nails, you can feel confident doing it at home! If this process continues to be too stressful for either of you, then why not try bringing them to a groomer?

If you want more information on how to do this and other dog grooming basics, check out the video linked below:

Whether or not dogs dream isn’t known with scientific certainty, but it sure is difficult to imagine that they don’t. We’ve all watched our dogs demonstrate behaviours in their sleep that resemble what they do in a fully awake state. Paddling legs, whining, growling, wagging tails, chewing jowls, and twitching noses inspire us to wonder what our dogs are dreaming about.

What we know about dogs and dreams

While our knowledge on this topic is very limited, the following known information helps us believe that dogs do indeed experience dreams. According to MIT News, Matthew Wilson, a professor of neuroscience at MIT, and Kenway Louie, a graduate student in 2001,  have studied the relationships between memory, sleep and dreams. They found that when rats were trained to run along a circular track for food rewards, their brains created a distinctive firing pattern of neurons (brain cells). The researchers repeated the brain monitoring while the rats were sleeping. Low and behold, they observed the same signature brain activity pattern associated with running whether the rats were awake or asleep. In fact, the memories played at approximately the same speed during sleep as when the rats were awake.

Can we apply this to dogs?

Can we take what is known about dreaming in rats and humans and apply the information to dogs? Wilson believes that we can.”My guess is — unless there is something special about rats and humans — that cats and dogs are doing exactly the same thing,” he said, according to USA Today’s website.

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It is known that the hippocampus, the portion of the brain that collects and stores memories, is wired much the same way in all mammals. According to healthday.com, Professor Wilson says, “If you compared a hippocampus in a rat to a dog; in a cat to a human, they contain all of the same pieces.” He believes that as dogs sleep, images of past events replay in their minds, much the same way people recall experiences while dreaming.

In people, it is known that most dreams occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, according to the National Institutes of Health. Dogs also experience periods of REM sleep. Psychology Today’s website says that during REM their breathing becomes more irregular and shallow. There may be muscle twitching during REM and, when one looks closely, rapid eye movements behind closed eyelids can often be observed. It is during REM sleep that behaviours thought to be associated with dreaming (legs paddling, twitching, vocalizing, etc.) are most commonly observed.

What we want to believe about dog dreams

When we observe our dogs as they sleep, it’s just about impossible to imagine that they are not dreaming. Just like the rats studied by Wilson and Louie, it is tempting to believe that our four-legged best buddies are reenacting their recent experiences; playing at the dog park, sniffing in the woods, chewing on a treasured bone, and chasing squirrels.

The National Institutes of Health says that Sigmund Freud theorized that dreaming was a “safety valve” for our unconscious desires. Perhaps he is correct, and, when our dogs sleep, they dream about catching the neighbour’s pesky cat, continuous belly rubs in conjunction with unlimited dog treats, and stealing the Thanksgiving turkey from the dining room table.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian — they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Did you know that some authorities feel that 1 out of every 100 dogs that reach 12 years of age develops diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a hormonal problem where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, the hormone that helps push sugar (“glucose”) into the body’s cells. Without the insulin, the body’s cells are starving for sugar; unfortunately, this then stimulates the body to produce more and more sugar (in an attempt to feed the cells). That’s why your dog’s blood sugar is so high (what we call a “hyperglycemia”) with diabetes mellitus.

Without insulin, the sugar can’t get into the cells; hence, why you need to give insulin to your dog with a tiny syringe twice a day. In dogs, this is a disease that can be costly to treat and requires twice-a-day insulin along with frequent veterinary visits for the rest of your dog’s life.

So how do you know if your dog has diabetes? Clinical signs of diabetes mellitus in dogs include:

• Excessive drinking
• Excessive urination
• Urinary accidents in the house
• Dilute urine
• Overweight or obese
• Muscle wasting
• Ravenous appetite
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Weakness
• Unkempt or poor hair coat
• Blindness secondary to cataracts
• Neuropathies (nerve problems)

As your dog gets older, it’s worth talking to your veterinarian about doing routine blood work to make sure your dog is healthy. This blood work will help rule out kidney and liver problems, anaemia, infections, electrolyte problems and diabetes mellitus. The sooner you recognize the clinical signs, the sooner your dog can be treated with insulin and the fewer complications we see as a result.

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So, if you notice any of the signs above, get to a veterinarian right away. Now, continue on for 5 important reasons to test your dog for diabetes:

1. Your dog will live longer

Diabetes mellitus can shorten the lifespan of your dog, as secondary complications and infections can occur. With diabetes, the body is immunosuppressed and more likely to develop diabetic complications which cause long term harm to your dog.

2. Your dog will be able to see

Did you know that the majority of dogs with diabetes eventually go blind from cataracts? Even in well-controlled diabetic dogs, the excess sugar in the body can have secondary effects on the lens of the eye; it causes more water to influx into the lens, which disrupts the clearness of the lens. As a result, cataract formation occurs, resulting in eventual blindness and secondary inflammation in both eyes. While cataract surgery can (and ideally, should) be performed, it can be costly.

3. You’ll save a lot of money

Treatment for diabetes mellitus includes twice-a-day insulin treatment, insulin syringes, prescription diets, and frequent veterinary trips for blood tests. Also, as diabetic dogs can’t go without their insulin, it may mean hiring house sitters or pet sitters to treat your pet while you are on vacation.

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4. You’ll have fewer urinary accidents in the house

One of the biggest signs of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus is excessive drinking, urination and having urinary accidents in the house. Because of hyperglycemia, dogs are also at increased risk for urinary tract infections, wreaking havoc on your carpet. The sooner you can treat your dog with insulin and get diabetes controlled or regulated, the less your dog will drink and urinate, making your dog more comfortable too!

5. You’ll have more peace knowing that your dog is healthy

As a veterinarian and dog owner, I want to make sure my dog is as healthy as possible. You might already be talking with your veterinarian about vaccines each year in a dog that is older than 7 years of age; next, talk to your veterinarian about doing an annual exam and routine blood work too. It’ll pick up on medical problems sooner, so you can rest assured that your dog is going to live a longer, happier, healthier life!

Having a diabetic pet is also a big commitment, as it requires dedicated pet parents who can give twice-a-day injections of insulin. Caring for a diabetic dog does require frequent trips to the veterinarian to regulate blood sugar. That said, dogs can live with diabetes for years with appropriate care and treatment. When in doubt, make sure to monitor your dog carefully for the signs of diabetes, and seek veterinary attention sooner rather than later to help test for this ever-growing problem!

The post Helping Your Dog Deal with Separation Anxiety appeared first on The Petster.

The post Do Dogs Get Tired of Barking? appeared first on The Petster.

Even if your dog is part of your life, he is not part of other people’s lives and must have learned to behave correctly in you and outside his territory.

Even if you love your dog very much, you don’t have to impose it on other people you know. If you have to take your dog to a friend’s house, he needs to behave properly whether there is another animal or not. We will give you tips on how to teach your dog to behave well.

The master and the others

You love your dog, but that’s no reason to impose it on everyone. The dog must distinguish between the master and the others. Some people don’t want pets in their homes and that’s their right. Others are afraid of your dog and you cannot force his presence on them. It is important to educate your dog and make his presence pleasant for everyone. If he is too attached to you, your dog may have separation anxiety. If your dog behaves well give it a treat.
Check out this post for the best dog treats

Your friends have a pet

Just because your friends have pets doesn’t mean your dog should be at home. He doesn’t have to go to all the rooms, to get on the sofas. Even if this exploratory behavior is normal for the puppy, he must learn to contain himself. Your dog must respect the territory of the other.

In the presence of a cat

Your dog is not at home and he does not have to visit the cat . If it approaches, the dog must not move. The cat should be able to feel safe at home. If necessary, keep your dog on a leash.

In the presence of a dog

It is your dog who must keep quiet and give in if there is a disagreement. In the presence of a dog , it is yours that will have to be locked up if the situation escalates, even if it is the other dog that is attacking. In the others, it is not on its territory.

Your friends don’t have pets

If your friends love dogs , they don’t necessarily like the constraints that come with it. Your dog should not mark his territory by urinating in this neutral zone. If he has learned to respect forbidden areas, it will be easier. Do not try to solve problems on the spot, but wait until you get home.

In shops

Your dog does not enter the stores . He must learn to remain wisely tied up in front of the grocery stores. It has no place in shops in general and will be better to wait for you in peace at home. But beware of small purebred dogs, which can easily be stolen if they are tied up in front of a store!

If you want to learn how to groom your dog at home, you need to know the basics, such as how to cut a dog’s nails. I’ll show you exactly what you need to do and how to do it safely so that know one gets hurt.

Cutting a dog’s fingernails might sound scary but there’s nothing about it that’s difficult. You just have to be careful and know what you’re doing .

You should start off by collecting all of the supplies for this task. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Nail Trimmer
• Scissors
• Styptic Powder (optional)

Now that you’ve got your stuff together, it’s time to get started.

Step 1: Make Your Dog Comfortable

First, make sure your dog is relaxed and comfortable around you. Do this by giving him a treat or two before starting. If possible, start this process after they’ve eaten their meal to help them feel extra sleepy and calm! For anxious dogs, you can even try CBD Oil for Dogs.

Step 2: Prepare The Paw

Second, lift one of your dogs paws into your hand and press gently on the pad of the paw while looking at the tip of each nail. You’ll be able to see where your dog’s skin is and if you cut it, he will bleed and it may hurt him.

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That’s why we use a nail cutter, so we don’t have to worry about hurting our dog when trimming their nails.

Step Three: Secure The Paw

Third, you can feel free to push down on the pad of their paw if it’s more comfortable for you. If your dog is wiggly when you’re trying to hold his paw, you can try this instead!

Step 4: Apply The Cut

Fourth, once you’ve identified where the quick ends in each nail, go ahead and cut just past that point. You’ll only want to cut into the pinkish area on the end of his nail, not into the black part. If you do accidentally cut into this black section, use an absorbent cotton ball to stop the bleeding. After it stops, apply some styptic powder to help the blood clot faster and prevent infection in your dog’s paw. You can then apply some CBD for Pets to promote healing as well.

Step 5: Repeat on All Nails

Fifth, keep trimming until all their nails are the same length.

Step by Step Instructions for Trimming Dog Nails

1. Pet your dog and make sure they’re comfortable with you
2. With one paw in each hand, feel for the end of each nail to know where to cut
3. Cut just past this point (only into the pinkish area)
4. Keep cutting until all of the nails are the same length
5. If you accidentally cut into the black part, apply some styptic powder to stop the bleeding

Now that you’ve learned how to cut your dog’s nails, you can feel confident doing it at home! If this process continues to be too stressful for either of you, then why not try bringing them to a groomer?

If you want more information on how to do this and other dog grooming basics, check out the video linked below:

Whether or not dogs dream isn’t known with scientific certainty, but it sure is difficult to imagine that they don’t. We’ve all watched our dogs demonstrate behaviours in their sleep that resemble what they do in a fully awake state. Paddling legs, whining, growling, wagging tails, chewing jowls, and twitching noses inspire us to wonder what our dogs are dreaming about.

What we know about dogs and dreams

While our knowledge on this topic is very limited, the following known information helps us believe that dogs do indeed experience dreams. According to MIT News, Matthew Wilson, a professor of neuroscience at MIT, and Kenway Louie, a graduate student in 2001,  have studied the relationships between memory, sleep and dreams. They found that when rats were trained to run along a circular track for food rewards, their brains created a distinctive firing pattern of neurons (brain cells). The researchers repeated the brain monitoring while the rats were sleeping. Low and behold, they observed the same signature brain activity pattern associated with running whether the rats were awake or asleep. In fact, the memories played at approximately the same speed during sleep as when the rats were awake.

Can we apply this to dogs?

Can we take what is known about dreaming in rats and humans and apply the information to dogs? Wilson believes that we can.”My guess is — unless there is something special about rats and humans — that cats and dogs are doing exactly the same thing,” he said, according to USA Today’s website.

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It is known that the hippocampus, the portion of the brain that collects and stores memories, is wired much the same way in all mammals. According to healthday.com, Professor Wilson says, “If you compared a hippocampus in a rat to a dog; in a cat to a human, they contain all of the same pieces.” He believes that as dogs sleep, images of past events replay in their minds, much the same way people recall experiences while dreaming.

In people, it is known that most dreams occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, according to the National Institutes of Health. Dogs also experience periods of REM sleep. Psychology Today’s website says that during REM their breathing becomes more irregular and shallow. There may be muscle twitching during REM and, when one looks closely, rapid eye movements behind closed eyelids can often be observed. It is during REM sleep that behaviours thought to be associated with dreaming (legs paddling, twitching, vocalizing, etc.) are most commonly observed.

What we want to believe about dog dreams

When we observe our dogs as they sleep, it’s just about impossible to imagine that they are not dreaming. Just like the rats studied by Wilson and Louie, it is tempting to believe that our four-legged best buddies are reenacting their recent experiences; playing at the dog park, sniffing in the woods, chewing on a treasured bone, and chasing squirrels.

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The National Institutes of Health says that Sigmund Freud theorized that dreaming was a “safety valve” for our unconscious desires. Perhaps he is correct, and, when our dogs sleep, they dream about catching the neighbour’s pesky cat, continuous belly rubs in conjunction with unlimited dog treats, and stealing the Thanksgiving turkey from the dining room table.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian — they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Did you know that some authorities feel that 1 out of every 100 dogs that reach 12 years of age develops diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a hormonal problem where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, the hormone that helps push sugar (“glucose”) into the body’s cells. Without the insulin, the body’s cells are starving for sugar; unfortunately, this then stimulates the body to produce more and more sugar (in an attempt to feed the cells). That’s why your dog’s blood sugar is so high (what we call a “hyperglycemia”) with diabetes mellitus.

Without insulin, the sugar can’t get into the cells; hence, why you need to give insulin to your dog with a tiny syringe twice a day. In dogs, this is a disease that can be costly to treat and requires twice-a-day insulin along with frequent veterinary visits for the rest of your dog’s life.

So how do you know if your dog has diabetes? Clinical signs of diabetes mellitus in dogs include:

• Excessive drinking
• Excessive urination
• Urinary accidents in the house
• Dilute urine
• Overweight or obese
• Muscle wasting
• Ravenous appetite
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Weakness
• Unkempt or poor hair coat
• Blindness secondary to cataracts
• Neuropathies (nerve problems)

As your dog gets older, it’s worth talking to your veterinarian about doing routine blood work to make sure your dog is healthy. This blood work will help rule out kidney and liver problems, anaemia, infections, electrolyte problems and diabetes mellitus. The sooner you recognize the clinical signs, the sooner your dog can be treated with insulin and the fewer complications we see as a result.

So, if you notice any of the signs above, get to a veterinarian right away. Now, continue on for 5 important reasons to test your dog for diabetes:

1. Your dog will live longer

Diabetes mellitus can shorten the lifespan of your dog, as secondary complications and infections can occur. With diabetes, the body is immunosuppressed and more likely to develop diabetic complications which cause long term harm to your dog.

2. Your dog will be able to see

Did you know that the majority of dogs with diabetes eventually go blind from cataracts? Even in well-controlled diabetic dogs, the excess sugar in the body can have secondary effects on the lens of the eye; it causes more water to influx into the lens, which disrupts the clearness of the lens. As a result, cataract formation occurs, resulting in eventual blindness and secondary inflammation in both eyes. While cataract surgery can (and ideally, should) be performed, it can be costly.

3. You’ll save a lot of money

Treatment for diabetes mellitus includes twice-a-day insulin treatment, insulin syringes, prescription diets, and frequent veterinary trips for blood tests. Also, as diabetic dogs can’t go without their insulin, it may mean hiring house sitters or pet sitters to treat your pet while you are on vacation.

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4. You’ll have fewer urinary accidents in the house

One of the biggest signs of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus is excessive drinking, urination and having urinary accidents in the house. Because of hyperglycemia, dogs are also at increased risk for urinary tract infections, wreaking havoc on your carpet. The sooner you can treat your dog with insulin and get diabetes controlled or regulated, the less your dog will drink and urinate, making your dog more comfortable too!

5. You’ll have more peace knowing that your dog is healthy

As a veterinarian and dog owner, I want to make sure my dog is as healthy as possible. You might already be talking with your veterinarian about vaccines each year in a dog that is older than 7 years of age; next, talk to your veterinarian about doing an annual exam and routine blood work too. It’ll pick up on medical problems sooner, so you can rest assured that your dog is going to live a longer, happier, healthier life!

Having a diabetic pet is also a big commitment, as it requires dedicated pet parents who can give twice-a-day injections of insulin. Caring for a diabetic dog does require frequent trips to the veterinarian to regulate blood sugar. That said, dogs can live with diabetes for years with appropriate care and treatment. When in doubt, make sure to monitor your dog carefully for the signs of diabetes, and seek veterinary attention sooner rather than later to help test for this ever-growing problem!

The post Teach Your Dog to Behave Well with Others appeared first on The Petster.

Some canine breeds are more prone to snoring than others when they sleep. However, excessive snoring can indicate a health issue with your closest companion.

While your dog’s snoring might be completely natural, you should be concerned. So, if you’re considering taking your snorer to the vet, here is what you should know.

Even if your dog has a snoring habit, it is good to check its face to see any unusual features. Certain breeds of dogs snore far more than others. Snoring is more common in dogs with shorter snouts and flat faces. These traits are brachycephalic, which means “short-headed.”

Pugs, Boxers, and Bulldogs are the most common short-headed dog breeds. The small muzzles of these lovely creatures can cause them to snore. Due to their short head faces, these dog breeds are more likely to create noise while they sleep.

If your dog snores all the time, you don’t need to worry. However, you should consult a veterinarian if you observe a change in your pet’s breathing pattern or if he appears to be gasping. Otherwise, these charming buddies snore regularly.

In the same way humans snore, dogs snore when airflow is restricted in their nasal passages or throat.

Like people, dogs make noise when they snore because of their soft tissue vibrations in the throat when they sleep. When something interferes with the dog’s regular airflow, vibrations occur. This can have a simple explanation.

Dogs may snore because they like to lie on their backs, where their tongues might partially obstruct airflow. Alternatively, your dog may be hypersensitive to dust or smoke, which can also cause snoring.

Also, there are more significant health concerns, such as an abscessed tooth entering the nasal sinus tract or sleep apnea. Both problems, of course, may necessitate surgical intervention.

The sound of a dog snoring may be both amusing and irritating. It is common in healthy dogs. However, canine snoring is sometimes a sign of health issues, specifically if the dog snores while awake.

Hearing your dog snore may amuse you from time to time. If you have a dog that sleeps in the same room as you, you might find it irritating at other times. The fact is that snoring is usually absolutely natural and harmless.

While there are several causes for dogs to snore, the following are the most prevalent:

A healthy dog’s throat is meant to keep him calm and oxygenated. Too much or too lax tissue might compress the throat.

Dogs snore when their nasal passageways or throat are blocked like all humans. This is entirely natural and could be caused when your dog lies on his back. The tongue can retract into the throat, preventing easy breathing.

Snoring is far more prevalent in breeds with extremely short muzzles, as there is little space in the dog’s mouth to accommodate all soft tissue.

Obesity is also another common factor in canine snoring. Excess fat can accumulate in the throat of overweight dogs, causing them to choke. Giving your dog cookies may seem like a beautiful idea, but it may result in his noisy breathing.

When a dog is highly obese, excess fat can accumulate in the throat, obstructing the airways and snoring.

Sleep apnoea is a less likely reason for your dog snoring. Sleep apnoea causes people and canines to breathe shallowly or cease breathing entirely during sleep. Like humans, dogs can get this condition, but it is rare.

They usually continue breathing with a strong inhale that sounds like snoring. If you believe your dog has sleep apnoea, it is vital to take it to the veterinarian for treatment.

Infections such as Kennel Cough – a type of canine flu – can block and inflame the airways, resulting in temporary snoring. If so, the snoring usually stops after the dog improves.

Nasal secretions in dogs should not be ignored. Nasal discharge is generally an indication of an infection that requires medical attention. A sinus infection or an eye problem like conjunctivitis can induce a runny nose. This could be a symptom of an allergy in your dog.

Like people, dogs can develop allergies. This could be dust, perfume, or several other pets in the house, causing your dog to have an allergic reaction. They may have hayfever, leading them to snore. Cleaning your dog’s feet, showering them with a hypoallergenic cleanser, and dust with a damp cloth will help lessen allergies.

Your dog might be suffering from a dental abscess or an oral / sinus growth. This will cause him to snore. Tooth problems can usually be painful, so take your dog to the veterinarian instantly if you suspect he may have dental issues. Untreated infections can spread throughout a pet’s body, causing significant issues.

Aspergillosis is a fungal infection typically spread via grass clippings, hay, straw, or dusty things. It is caused by mold entering the dog’s nose via the moist lining. This is more prevalent in pet dogs and canines that spend a significant amount of time outdoors.

Sneezing, swelling, nasal discharge, and snoring are all common symptoms. It’s dangerous if left untreated but usually clears up with antifungal medication.

Occasionally, you may find that your dog began snoring just after starting a medicine course. It is possible, as several medications have side effects that include narrowed airways. Painkillers and other medications might induce the throat to relax, causing snoring.

Consult your vet if you suspect a medication is causing your dog’s snoring. If your dog requires medication, you will almost certainly have to put up with the snoring, though your veterinarian may be able to alleviate the symptoms.

Like the common cold in humans, Rhinitis in dogs affects the nose. Your pet may develop a runny and stuffy nose due to the inflammation of his mucus membranes. If your dog has Rhinitis, it may sneeze, breathe slowly, and snore. Antibiotics can be used to treat this. However, adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can also make breathing more comfortable.

Smoking in the same residence as your dog can damage their lungs, which can cause things such as bronchitis and asthma. It should be avoided if you value the health and well-being of your dog and yourself.

Snoring is more common in certain breeds than others, and in these cases, it may indicate more severe health difficulties. Consider brachycephaly, the most susceptible breed.

It is common for breeders to select short, broadheads, and short snouts for several canine breeds, such as the English bulldog, Pug, and King Charles Cavalier. These dog breeds are brachycephalic, and they are considerably more prone to snore. This naturally results in reduced nasal passageways for these short-nosed breeds.

Despite their shorter snouts, the soft palates of brachycephalic dogs have remained unchanged through the generations, giving them an enlarged appearance in certain breeds. Dog snoring is a common occurrence among certain breeds, and their owners should be aware of what it can signify.

Brachycephalic dogs frequently develop ‘everted laryngeal saccules,’ or blocked airways. This results in excessive snoring, sometimes even while awake. Numerous brachycephalic dogs also have entirely or partially blocked nostrils, resulting in a ‘crescent’ entrance rather than a lovely open ‘tunnel.’

Nasal stenosis is a congenital disease that blocks nasal passageways and restricts breathing.

The noise occurs when the dog inhales or sucks air into its lungs. The suction effect creates muscle vibrations that cause snoring.

When there is a strong breeze, the clothing moves and makes snapping, slapping noises.

At the rear of a dog’s throat, the same rules apply. If the dog has an extended soft palate (the fatty portion of the nose that separates it from the throat), it flaps around when it breathes.

However, elongated soft palates are not the essential features contributing to dogs’ snoring. Anything that disrupts the air circulation in the nasal passages might result in snoring or snorting in dogs.

Breathing problems associated with smush-faced dogs include everted laryngeal saccules.

Snoring can cause significant health issues. Research on rabbits found that snoring has been related to more energy, mainly in the carotid artery. One study revealed that dogs with sleep apnea (snoring) were also associated with high blood pressure.

Most vets would agree that snoring isn’t likely to cause any harm to your Labrador. Dogs’ sleep apnea is quite rare, and Labrador retrievers have a typically healthy respiratory system. Of course, this may vary for various dog breeds, particularly those with brachycephaly.

If your dog’s snoring is unusual or getting worse, immediately take him to the veterinarian. For now, there are things you can do that might help your dog not snore as much.

There is no sure way to prevent a dog from snoring, but there are a few things you may try. These include the following:

Although your dog is skinny and slim, you may care to try losing a few pounds. This may, in some situations, be all you need to do to stop the snoring. Additionally, your dog will feel much better, be more active, and have better overall health.

Cigarette smoke undoubtedly irritates your dog’s lungs and may cause canine snoring. If you smoke and don’t plan to quit soon, one approach is to smoke outside. A week is enough time to see whether it helps your dog. If you make these changes for the long term, you reduce your dog’s cancer risk from passive smoking.

You may find it beneficial to change your dog’s sleeping position. It’s simple to accomplish, and there’s no risk in trying something new.

You are making sure your dog curls up rather than sprawling out on her back is one of the most effective cures for mild snoring. This is best accomplished with a circular or oval bed, which you can cuddle her into and make her feel special.

Some owners provide a raised, padded edge bed to encourage the dog to sleep with his head elevated.

Surgery may be an option if your dog’s issue is primarily a result of their facial structure.

Rather than a facelift, this is surgery to shorten the soft palate. By narrowing it down, doctors can eliminate it from the windpipe’s entrance, reducing vibration and alleviating or preventing dog snoring.

Many veterinarians in general practice suggest referring structural issues to specialists. This benefits the professional to examine additional soft tissue structures, such as eliminating tonsils or enlarging the nostrils, for remedial measures.

If your dog’s snoring is due to irritations that produce inflammation and worsen their condition, it may be time to make a change.

Vacuum every day, deep clean the dog’s bedding, and avoid using scented candles.

A specialized camera is placed up the dog’s nose to monitor the situation.

Rhinoscopy can aid in detecting obstructions and allow for the harvesting of tissue samples for investigation.

A grass awn can be removed endoscopically, which would solve the problem right away. If they detect something more serious, such as a tumor, Samples can be taken to determine the best course of action.

Snoring can occur whenever the overweight dog has excessive fat around the throat. Please consult your veterinarian about reducing the dog’s diet and boosting their activity to burn off the fat.

A heated room dries out nasal discharge and increases snoring. Using a humidifier can help relieve irritation and discomfort in the airways.

Dogs sometimes snore while they are awake. This isn’t snoring at all, but rather noisy breathing. This could be because you chose a brachycephalic dog.

However, there are numerous other reasons for dogs to snore when awake. The primary cause is a lack of air flowing.

The post Why Does My Dog Snore? appeared first on The Petster.

Sometimes, the scratching can become rather destructive, and you may become concerned. However, there is no reason to be worried about it in most cases. Scratching the bed is a favorite pastime for dogs because it relieves their natural desire to assert dominance.

Scent glands are a unique feature of a dog’s paw pads. When dogs prepare for bed, their feet act two functions.

Before they sleep, our dogs scratch their beds and circle around. This helps them eliminate any predatory insects and leave behind their scent. Because of its distinct odor, another dog will not be able to use it: This bed has already been used by a dog that has laid to make it just right.

Dogs of all ages like scratching at their beds, whether lightly or aggressively. They may even cross the bare floor from time to time. Usually, this is a natural behavior.

In the wild, your dog’s ancestors used leaves and mud to make a temporary bed for sleeping. Altering the position of the leaf and dirt helped to conceal them from predators better. In addition, their ancestors may have scratched at the beds in warmer areas to get to the colder soil underneath.

Dogs also use scratching to denote their territory. They leave a smell on their bed using the glands on their paws.

A female dog getting ready to give birth to puppies may scratch as part of her maternal “nesting” instinct.

Dog performs the same techniques that he does while he is outside. The temperatures in our homes are set to keep us comfortable, not our pets. So it doesn’t matter if your dog likes the heat or air conditioning.

Dogs take advantage of ground temperature by digging their beds in shady areas during the summer or being exposed to bright sunshine during the winter. They explore to stay cool or warm.

It is common for dogs to dig around in their bedding to find a more comfortable place. A similar instinct drives us to play with our pillows until we find one that works for us before lying down for the night. However, our dogs do not understand the distinction between grass and household products. Digging can make a chair or couch softer, more comfortable, and more conducive to relaxation.

Dogs’ instincts to survive in the natural environment have been replaced with patterns of Dogs’ instincts to stay in the natural environment have been replaced with patterns of behavior that have been ingrained into their Genes since they were domesticated. So when our survival instincts express themselves in our comfortable, happy homes, they appear a little unusual.

Even though their acts are not vital for survival, our dogs’ behavior might help us better understand them. For example, here are some causes why a dog would dig in his bed.

While you may have one pampered Poodle or a cute and fun-loving Labrador, all domesticated dog breeds are descended from wolves and some other wild dogs. Because your pup’s ancestors lived the outdoors, they have likely acquired the tendency to scratch their beds.

Dogs’ feet include scent glands that assist in spreading their unique smells onto the ground. Similar to how your dog would urinate on objects to “mark their territory,” your pet dog may scratch at their bed to identify it as theirs. You may notice that bed scratching becomes more intense if you bring new more pets to your home or when you and your pet move to a new location.

While a comfortable and sumptuous dog bed in a comfortable home sometimes seems safe to you, your dog will instinctively check the area before lying in it. Their primitive ancestors would rotate in a circle and scratch the ground wherever they planned to sleep to keep themselves secure.

As a result, they could eliminate any dangers lurking in the bushes or grass. Before going to sleep, they may scratch the carpet and move around on it to scare away any hiding rodents or snakes.

To avoid predator attacks, wild dogs would dig a hidden sleeping space. For thousands of years, dogs scratched their beds to establish a secure place below the earth’s surface. With time, this natural inclination has been carried down through generations.

Another possible cause for your dog to scratch its bedding is for comfort. Their predecessors in the wild would have been there on grass, sticks, bushes, and dirt, scraping the ground to make it more comfortable.

Moving their artificial bedding around might assist in clearing the area and creating a more uniform sleeping surface. However, this genetic behavior may be a factor in your dog’s scratching. They may scratch out of instinct or make their bedding comfier.

If you notice your pup digging under blankets or actively scratching its bedding, it may also look for warmth.

To control their body temperature, your dog’s ancestors may have scratched at the ground to get beneath leaves, brush, or soil to protect themselves from cold conditions while sleeping. Additionally, it could have been to keep exposing the excellent soil to warmer temperatures.

Your pet may be physically cold or hot in your home surroundings, or they may be acting instinctively. For example, if you notice your pup scratching at its beds more often in the winter, consider giving them a blanket to keep it warm.

Whenever your dog scratches gently before sleeping, it’s probably just instinct. There is nothing to be worried about in this case. However, scratching excessively or frequently without rest may result from worry or over-stimulation, not intuition.

If you suspect your dog’s scratching is due to anxiety, consult your veterinarian for assistance. They can assist you with what to do and what kind of treatment might be best for your dog.

Scratching the bed is a natural part of the canine maternal instinct. When a female dog is about to give birth, her bed-scratching behavior will abruptly intensify. It is referred to like nesting in this situation, and it is a natural hormonal response. Preparing a nest for her new pups for their arrival will make them warm and comfortable.

Making a nest or burrow in the wild might help dogs hide from predators. This instinct for concealment is why dogs frequently dig into their bed, only their nose showing out of the newly built blanket fort.

Pawing, scratching, and rolling in the areas around the space where your dog prefers to lay are all signs of a Bed-scratching attitude. In addition, many dogs perform multiple circles before settling down.

Some make tunnels or caves under the blanket, nosing their way beneath it, allowing them to conceal themselves readily. It is common for dogs to play with the blanket pile, and even if there is no bedding, they will still scratch their resting spot.

If he decides to rest on the hard kitchen tile, your dog may scratch and paw somewhere on the floor around him. However, it is beautiful when your dog chooses to sleep on almost any surface.

It’s tough to stop inherent behaviors such as your puppy’s digging antics before bedtime. While this habit can be learned, it is tough to discourage. Additionally, it is a relaxing activity for your dog, so it may increase anxiety by teaching them that it is incorrect.

If they regularly destroy carpets or rip the filling out of dog beds, you do certain things to minimize the damage.

Making a safe and comfortable shelter was necessary for living in the wild. Getting rid of damaging habits like digging and chewing can challenge dog owners. It is associated with a natural survival instinct. However, when do these inclinations become a problem?

If our dogs tear their new beds or scratch the wooden floors or other home elements, we must deal with the situation. Although our dog’s instincts cannot be eliminated, there are ways to minimize their imposed damage.

While your dog’s digging behavior may be adorable at times, it may also be highly destructive. If you don’t pay attention, your new pet bedding will deteriorate into a mess of filling and fabric. As soon as a dog scratches, it can quickly become a pet owner’s terrible nightmare.

Fortunately, you may take several preventative precautions to ensure your dog continues to enjoy his bed.

Regular nail cutting can help limit damage to your dog’s living area. Dogs’ nails should be clipped every 3-4 weeks. Trimming their nails systematic keeps them from getting infected and causing damage to their furniture or hardwood floors.

If your dog’s nails remain sharp after clipping, gently filing them can help to prevent further edges from growing.

Insufficient stimulation may be why your dog scratched around their bed as a game rather than as a relaxing bedtime habit. You can try taking them for a long walk or providing them with various toys to keep them entertained.

Occasionally, the issue isn’t with your dog; it’s with the bed they’re using. For example, when you have a dog that digs and scratches all night, you don’t want to buy a cheap bed composed of fabric and stuffing. Choosing a bed with something like a durable cover is essential.

Also, if they have a comfortable bed, they may not have to dig much further to get cozy. You might consider purchasing an orthopedic or memory foam bed for your dog.

If providing a comfortable sleeping area for your dog could end the madness of bed scratching, dog owners’ duties would be much more accessible. Unfortunately, even the most fantastic dog beds can’t stop instinct. Here are some valuable ideas that may keep the household together.

1. Provide your dog with softer textures and extra blankets in their bed.
2. Cover the bed with a thick, quite heavy, hefty blanket.
3. If your dog scratches and marks your floor, consider training sessions or nail caps.
4. Move the bed into a more private space.
5. Invest in a supportive, comfortable, and durable dog bed.

It would be easy to change a dog’s behavior if they only did it as they were joyful. If that was the only reason, you could buy them a comfortable bed. But unfortunately, instincts are still strong; therefore, we’ll have to attempt other strategies to protect your dog’s bed.

1. To make our dog more comfortable, we should try a different bed. We may try several mattress types, such as memory foam or a faux fur covering.
2. Arrange a layer of blankets in your dog’s sleeping space.
3. Do not wash the dog’s bedding or pillows if you notice them digging or scratching at the bed for possessive concerns. Clean bedding will not smell the same as him and may inspire him to scratch more.
4. If your dog’s bed is in a bustling space, he may be scratching out of anxiety. Consider relocating his bed to a peaceful, darker area or a slightly more enclosed room.
5. A dog bed must be pleasant for the pet and durable enough to withstand scratching. Zippers that are both strong and indestructible are necessary. A waterproofing layer protects against soiling.

The post What Causes Dogs to Scratch Their Bedding Before They Go To Sleep? appeared first on The Petster.

The fact that you are at home for longer periods can be very satisfying for your pet. However, dogs require constant activity and without their usual outings, they can be more restless or begin to suffer stress.

Anxiety in your dog can manifest itself from not being able to go out, run and play as usual. So it is important to take care of your pet and notice any changes it presents. It is highly recommended to consult with your veterinarian about changes in your pet’s behavior.

Here are some recommendations to control your dog’s anxiety:

• Try to keep him active and busy at home, find moments to get his attention through affection and activities together. That will help their mind to be occupied with you.
• If you notice that your dog is breathing heavily, hiding, or even lowering his tail, try to reassure him with affection, encouragement, and even listening to relaxing music together can help greatly.
• Walk and walk within the same house, this will allow your pet to release the tension that has accumulated.
• During the time they are indoors, adapt a space for your pet where they feel comfortable and at ease. Your dog will place it as a place of relaxation.
• Find a time to play with him, this will make him distracted and lower his stress levels.

The excitement of finding a perfect companion can be great when looking for a puppy, kitten or exotic animals and pets of a specific breed, and this makes people often turn to online sales sites. Surely you have observed that more and more people are opting to buy in an online pet store, and it is that it is a very interesting alternative that brings great benefits to the buyer, AnimalsSale.com is the website where you can buy or sell animals in the US, UK, Europe and other countries. You can find on their website full information about all dogs’ breeds, advice from experts on how to take care of puppies and kittens and other interesting information.

So here we are going to discover some of the most peculiarities of buying a pet from an online store. Featured.

Advantages of buying from a pet store

Today more and more people decide to have an animal in their family. For this reason, the opening of stores where they can buy any product or service dedicated to pets is becoming more and more frequent. According to some statistics, between 40% or 50% of families have a pet, so we must know well the offers in the market to be able to give our pets the best for their health and comfort.

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Immense variety in offers

These premises, often have a huge variety of items for pets. For this reason, we can use them to obtain bags of feed for dogs of different sizes, sweets, food products, clothes for dogs, toys, cages (in the case of rodents), etc.

Unlike shopping centres and supermarkets where we find a limited amount of items for our pets. In a pet store, we can find different things more specific to your needs.

In addition, there are also offers on pets and we can find a wide variety of animal species (if the establishment is a large company). In these places, the animals are usually kept in good condition and the employees are in charge of cleaning the cages daily.

Quality Products

Also, the advantage of buying in a specialized pet store is that we can find good quality products at their price. And it is that the prices themselves are usually quite accessible.

Quality is still an important detail when purchasing a product and/or service. In these places, there are usually articles of a quality more than enough to fulfil their function.

In addition, we have the products organized according to the type of pet and this helps to find what we need and more quickly. This saves time and unnecessary wandering in the store.

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Something important to note is that the products that are sold in specialized stores are usually from recognized brands and that they will also give us a guarantee. More if it is something that our pet has to ingest.

This really is important, because we cannot give anything to our pet. They could get sick if what they eat is in bad condition and if so, we must quickly claim it from the place of purchase. But in these places, the quality of the products is taken care of.

Preparedness for customer service

Another advantage is that we can have personalized attention based on our requests. There are always people around the premises who can guide us in our purchase and tell us which product suits us best for our needs.

This is extremely important since many times we can go to these stores and not be clear about what brand or what characteristics in the article can be better for our pet. This is a great advantage of buying from these stores.

Personnel in charge of customer service are often people who love animals and spend their time learning about pets. The best advice to buy is from people with a lot of experience.

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Did you know that dogs have about 40 times more developed sense of smell than we do? That is why we must take special care with the smells in our environment.

Some odours can cause discomfort or irritation in our furry, or even become deadly for them. It is essential to take extreme precautions in our home and abroad.

“Dogs have 40 times more developed sense of smell”

Citrus:
They irritate the respiratory tract of the animal, causing a very annoying sensation. It is one of the most annoying odours for our dogs.

Perfumes:
Have you ever tried to hug your dog after putting on perfume and before leaving home and he has rejected you? Now you know why. Perfumes, in addition to being an excessively strong aroma for them, act as a substitute for our body odour, so they cannot identify us in a normal way.

Mothballs:
In addition to having an unpleasant odour, if your dog ingests it, it can cause serious damage and, depending on the amount, it can even cause death. Let’s keep them away from them!

Vinegar:
This product, ideal to prevent dogs from urinating at home, we must use it carefully in our home since our pet detests it.

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Cleaning products:
Our dog suffers from these odours, especially those products with chlorine and ammonia, and they can irritate the respiratory tract and oesophagus.

For tastes, smells. That means that there may be other aromas that your furry hates … look at their reactions and let’s protect them from them!

If you want to learn how to groom your dog at home, you need to know the basics, such as how to cut a dog’s nails. I’ll show you exactly what you need to do and how to do it safely so that know one gets hurt.

Cutting a dog’s fingernails might sound scary but there’s nothing about it that’s difficult. You just have to be careful and know what you’re doing .

You should start off by collecting all of the supplies for this task. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Nail Trimmer
• Scissors
• Styptic Powder (optional)

Now that you’ve got your stuff together, it’s time to get started.

Step 1: Make Your Dog Comfortable

First, make sure your dog is relaxed and comfortable around you. Do this by giving him a treat or two before starting. If possible, start this process after they’ve eaten their meal to help them feel extra sleepy and calm! For anxious dogs, you can even try CBD Oil for Dogs.

Step 2: Prepare The Paw

Second, lift one of your dogs paws into your hand and press gently on the pad of the paw while looking at the tip of each nail. You’ll be able to see where your dog’s skin is and if you cut it, he will bleed and it may hurt him.

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That’s why we use a nail cutter, so we don’t have to worry about hurting our dog when trimming their nails.

Step Three: Secure The Paw

Third, you can feel free to push down on the pad of their paw if it’s more comfortable for you. If your dog is wiggly when you’re trying to hold his paw, you can try this instead!

Step 4: Apply The Cut

Fourth, once you’ve identified where the quick ends in each nail, go ahead and cut just past that point. You’ll only want to cut into the pinkish area on the end of his nail, not into the black part. If you do accidentally cut into this black section, use an absorbent cotton ball to stop the bleeding. After it stops, apply some styptic powder to help the blood clot faster and prevent infection in your dog’s paw. You can then apply some CBD for Pets to promote healing as well.

Step 5: Repeat on All Nails

Fifth, keep trimming until all their nails are the same length.

Step by Step Instructions for Trimming Dog Nails

1. Pet your dog and make sure they’re comfortable with you
2. With one paw in each hand, feel for the end of each nail to know where to cut
3. Cut just past this point (only into the pinkish area)
4. Keep cutting until all of the nails are the same length
5. If you accidentally cut into the black part, apply some styptic powder to stop the bleeding

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Now that you’ve learned how to cut your dog’s nails, you can feel confident doing it at home! If this process continues to be too stressful for either of you, then why not try bringing them to a groomer?

If you want more information on how to do this and other dog grooming basics, check out the video linked below:

Whether or not dogs dream isn’t known with scientific certainty, but it sure is difficult to imagine that they don’t. We’ve all watched our dogs demonstrate behaviours in their sleep that resemble what they do in a fully awake state. Paddling legs, whining, growling, wagging tails, chewing jowls, and twitching noses inspire us to wonder what our dogs are dreaming about.

What we know about dogs and dreams

While our knowledge on this topic is very limited, the following known information helps us believe that dogs do indeed experience dreams. According to MIT News, Matthew Wilson, a professor of neuroscience at MIT, and Kenway Louie, a graduate student in 2001,  have studied the relationships between memory, sleep and dreams. They found that when rats were trained to run along a circular track for food rewards, their brains created a distinctive firing pattern of neurons (brain cells). The researchers repeated the brain monitoring while the rats were sleeping. Low and behold, they observed the same signature brain activity pattern associated with running whether the rats were awake or asleep. In fact, the memories played at approximately the same speed during sleep as when the rats were awake.

Can we apply this to dogs?

Can we take what is known about dreaming in rats and humans and apply the information to dogs? Wilson believes that we can.”My guess is — unless there is something special about rats and humans — that cats and dogs are doing exactly the same thing,” he said, according to USA Today’s website.

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It is known that the hippocampus, the portion of the brain that collects and stores memories, is wired much the same way in all mammals. According to healthday.com, Professor Wilson says, “If you compared a hippocampus in a rat to a dog; in a cat to a human, they contain all of the same pieces.” He believes that as dogs sleep, images of past events replay in their minds, much the same way people recall experiences while dreaming.

In people, it is known that most dreams occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, according to the National Institutes of Health. Dogs also experience periods of REM sleep. Psychology Today’s website says that during REM their breathing becomes more irregular and shallow. There may be muscle twitching during REM and, when one looks closely, rapid eye movements behind closed eyelids can often be observed. It is during REM sleep that behaviours thought to be associated with dreaming (legs paddling, twitching, vocalizing, etc.) are most commonly observed.

What we want to believe about dog dreams

When we observe our dogs as they sleep, it’s just about impossible to imagine that they are not dreaming. Just like the rats studied by Wilson and Louie, it is tempting to believe that our four-legged best buddies are reenacting their recent experiences; playing at the dog park, sniffing in the woods, chewing on a treasured bone, and chasing squirrels.

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The National Institutes of Health says that Sigmund Freud theorized that dreaming was a “safety valve” for our unconscious desires. Perhaps he is correct, and, when our dogs sleep, they dream about catching the neighbour’s pesky cat, continuous belly rubs in conjunction with unlimited dog treats, and stealing the Thanksgiving turkey from the dining room table.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian — they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Did you know that some authorities feel that 1 out of every 100 dogs that reach 12 years of age develops diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a hormonal problem where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, the hormone that helps push sugar (“glucose”) into the body’s cells. Without the insulin, the body’s cells are starving for sugar; unfortunately, this then stimulates the body to produce more and more sugar (in an attempt to feed the cells). That’s why your dog’s blood sugar is so high (what we call a “hyperglycemia”) with diabetes mellitus.

Without insulin, the sugar can’t get into the cells; hence, why you need to give insulin to your dog with a tiny syringe twice a day. In dogs, this is a disease that can be costly to treat and requires twice-a-day insulin along with frequent veterinary visits for the rest of your dog’s life.

So how do you know if your dog has diabetes? Clinical signs of diabetes mellitus in dogs include:

• Excessive drinking
• Excessive urination
• Urinary accidents in the house
• Dilute urine
• Overweight or obese
• Muscle wasting
• Ravenous appetite
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Weakness
• Unkempt or poor hair coat
• Blindness secondary to cataracts
• Neuropathies (nerve problems)

As your dog gets older, it’s worth talking to your veterinarian about doing routine blood work to make sure your dog is healthy. This blood work will help rule out kidney and liver problems, anaemia, infections, electrolyte problems and diabetes mellitus. The sooner you recognize the clinical signs, the sooner your dog can be treated with insulin and the fewer complications we see as a result.

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So, if you notice any of the signs above, get to a veterinarian right away. Now, continue on for 5 important reasons to test your dog for diabetes:

1. Your dog will live longer

Diabetes mellitus can shorten the lifespan of your dog, as secondary complications and infections can occur. With diabetes, the body is immunosuppressed and more likely to develop diabetic complications which cause long term harm to your dog.

2. Your dog will be able to see

Did you know that the majority of dogs with diabetes eventually go blind from cataracts? Even in well-controlled diabetic dogs, the excess sugar in the body can have secondary effects on the lens of the eye; it causes more water to influx into the lens, which disrupts the clearness of the lens. As a result, cataract formation occurs, resulting in eventual blindness and secondary inflammation in both eyes. While cataract surgery can (and ideally, should) be performed, it can be costly.

3. You’ll save a lot of money

Treatment for diabetes mellitus includes twice-a-day insulin treatment, insulin syringes, prescription diets, and frequent veterinary trips for blood tests. Also, as diabetic dogs can’t go without their insulin, it may mean hiring house sitters or pet sitters to treat your pet while you are on vacation.

4. You’ll have fewer urinary accidents in the house

One of the biggest signs of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus is excessive drinking, urination and having urinary accidents in the house. Because of hyperglycemia, dogs are also at increased risk for urinary tract infections, wreaking havoc on your carpet. The sooner you can treat your dog with insulin and get diabetes controlled or regulated, the less your dog will drink and urinate, making your dog more comfortable too!

5. You’ll have more peace knowing that your dog is healthy

As a veterinarian and dog owner, I want to make sure my dog is as healthy as possible. You might already be talking with your veterinarian about vaccines each year in a dog that is older than 7 years of age; next, talk to your veterinarian about doing an annual exam and routine blood work too. It’ll pick up on medical problems sooner, so you can rest assured that your dog is going to live a longer, happier, healthier life!

Having a diabetic pet is also a big commitment, as it requires dedicated pet parents who can give twice-a-day injections of insulin. Caring for a diabetic dog does require frequent trips to the veterinarian to regulate blood sugar. That said, dogs can live with diabetes for years with appropriate care and treatment. When in doubt, make sure to monitor your dog carefully for the signs of diabetes, and seek veterinary attention sooner rather than later to help test for this ever-growing problem!

The post Smells Your Dog Can’t Stand appeared first on The Petster.

Some believe that it is due to the pain they feel due to the sensitivity of their ears, but in reality, it is not like that; this is related to the ancestors of dogs.

Apart from the fact that it is a high-pitched sound and that, at times, it can be annoying for some dogs, there are other causes that explain why dogs howl when an ambulance passes.

There are those who think that it could be a matter of sensitivity of the ears, i. e., that the dog felt pain with that high-pitched sound. But really it’s not so. According to experts, there are several explanations for this behavior:

1.- The first theory would be that dogs confuse the sound of sirens with the howls of other dogs, in the same way, that it happens with wolves, which howl when another member of the pack moves away from the group and so that it can find its way back. What would happen to the dogs is that they believe that the police or ambulance siren would be another dog trying to communicate with them.

2.- The second possibility is that they detect a threat, i. e., they do not know that sound and howl to alert their owner that something is happening in their environment so that they are prevented. When the ambulance has passed, the dog will believe that he has moved away from the threat, will stop howling, and will remain calm.

3.- Contrary to what is believed, the sound of the sirens does not hurt the ears of our dogs since, if it were so, they would hide and become nervous as happens when firecrackers sound.

4.- Finally, if the dog’s howl is persistent and occurs even when no type of siren is heard, it may be because the animal is feeling anxiety about separation from the owner or that it feels bad. In that case, you should consider taking him to the vet.

On the other hand, is good to highlight that dogs are known for their incredible hearing range, which is far superior to that of humans. Compared to what humans can hear, dogs’ hearing is superior (around 65,000 hertz for dogs and just 20,000 hertz for humans).

Some believe that they are likely to hear the siren before their owner notices it, and therefore their sense of obligation to their alpha – that is, their owner – is to inform him of the unfolding situation.

As you may know, the domestic dogs that we see today have descended from wolves so they share an evolutionary and genetic origin. This means that our dogs have certain behaviors that wolves also have, such as howling. It can be disturbing for you in case you have more than one dog but just be patient.

On the other hand, wild wolves continue communicating through howling to help the lost ones return with the pack members. This means that howling is a very important way that helps them communicate over long distances since, as we mentioned earlier, they have a much more developed sense of hearing than humans. Therefore, dogs tend to act instinctively when they are howling.

In fact, did you know that, in wolves, each member of the pack howls in a different way? Other animals such as hyenas, foxes, or coyotes also howl.

It is very rare to see or hear that a dog does not howl at the sound of a siren but it may be possible to find some dogs that do not do it, although they would be a minority.

Innately, dogs communicate at a distance so it is possible that when hearing a siren, even from a distance, they are trying to communicate with it, mistaking it for other dogs. However, dogs that do not, may understand that it is not another dog and prefer to ignore it.

The dog carries out this behavior in an institutional way, so repressing it would be negative, as well as difficult to avoid. Our advice is that you allow it to express itself, but you can also do a few extra things:

• If you find yourself in the street when it happens, he ignores the howl and continues walking as if nothing, you must act calmly and without paying attention. This will help your dog understand that nothing bad is happening. On the contrary, if you hold him in your arms, pay attention to him or act in a nervous and incoherent way, you are communicating that there are reasons for alarm and may worsen the behavior.
• Of course, if your dog is afraid and looks for you to hide, you can caress him and give him shelter. Remember that fear is an emotion, it is not reinforced. What you should avoid is reinforcing negative behaviors, such as running, barking, or yelling at him.
• If you are at home, the best thing to do is to distract him before he starts howling. As soon as you perceive the ambulance, you can take some quick action, or offer it a long-lasting snack for dogs. This will keep him from barking, keep him busy, and distracted, and reinforce him for not howling at the same time.

In the event that the dog howls for no apparent reason, we recommend consulting a veterinarian. Senile dementia in dogs, for example, can cause fears and insecurities, which lead the dog to howl because he is lonely, for example, in his own home. However, many dogs also howl when they are happy when they want to play, eat or simply attract our full attention.

The post Why Do Dogs Howl at Sirens? appeared first on The Petster.