Starting to cut your pet’s nails at an early age will help them become used to the sensation of having their nails trimmed.

Learning a dog to “shake a paw” is an effective way to accustom them to getting their paws stroked and to make nail cutting more enjoyable for both owner and dog.

A few dog nail cutting tricks genuinely work to keep your dog comfortable during the process.

1. Frequent touching with your dog’s paws
2. Prepare your dog for the nail clippers by desensitizing him
3. Properly holding your dog for nail clipping
4. Select the appropriate nail cutting tools
5. Regularly clip your dog’s nails
6. File the edges of your dog’s nails to smooth them out.

Nail clipping can be challenging for many dogs since their paws are susceptible, making it tough to clip their nails. In addition, when a dog’s paw is touched, it may growl or bite.

Some people bet their top legs and then continue the pet to their paws to get the best results.

These are the most powerful techniques for efficiently trimming dog nails. This allows them to become accustomed to your handling of them. As a result, they are less likely to become stressed if you instantly hold them.

Holding your pet on your lap and simply having their paw will help them become used to you petting them. Next, pet your dog while you conduct the foot rubbing.

You may also use homemade paw wax to train your dog to touch his paws. This wax will assist in keeping their paws in excellent condition and protect them from the elements (heat and cold).

Keep your clippers nearby once your dog gets used to you interacting with their paws. This will assist in breaking negative associations between your dog and the clippers and putting his mind at ease.

The Clipper you choose is far more important than you think. In addition, some are more user-friendly.

There are multiple choices available on the market for grooming your dog’s nails. There are six primary types of dog clippers.

Various Kinds of Dog Clippers You Can Choose From

1. Nail clippers for dogs with a guard
2. Dog nail clippers with the guillotine
3. Sensor-equipped dog nail clippers
4. LED-illuminated dog nail clippers
5. Nail scissors for dogs
6. Nail grinder for dogs.

But some dog nail clippers models are superior to others in terms of performance. Guillotine nail clippers and standard nail clippers are the two most prevalent nail clippers.

Most people secure their dogs, constraining them to prevent them from “fidgeting.” The ideal technique to pet your dog is to hold them comfortably in your lap like you would while touching them. This allows nail clipping your dog a simple.

Your dog won’t flinch while restrained or when you start picking up his paw! This works even better if you observe the “touch your dog’s paws frequently” section’s desensitizing recommendation.

It will help if you cut your dog’s nails far more frequently than you might believe.

Most individuals put it off to prevent traumatizing their dogs, pay for the professional, or avoid the issue.

The goal is to clip nails more frequently and clipless nails per session. While frequent cutting may seem like more effort, there are a few advantages.

Initially, your dog will become used to the clipping procedure and get even more comfortable with it.

And each time you clip, it becomes easier. However, the unique feature is that you can almost follow them quickly back from the nail’s edge.

As the nail grows shorter and shorter, the quickness recedes. If you only take a small amount each time, it will work.

Clipping a little at a time makes the quick less likely to get caught in the clippers the next time.

Rough edges from nail clippings are a significant issue. You may, however, smooth out those rough edges with a nail grinder, just like with an emery board.

It’s like a rotary emery board.

Some make a slight noise, which may be annoying to your dog.

If you don’t have or don’t want a nail grinder, you may also use a regular emery board to smooth the rough edges.

If they are uncooperative, follow this procedure from the beginning to the end.

Before cutting your dog’s nails, ensure that your pet understands what you’re doing. Assure the dog that it will not be harmed.

You may need to ask them to sit on your lap or at a table, but this will depend on their size. Again, a treat or a type of restraint may be necessary to keep it under control.

Make your dog familiar with the clippers by letting it smell them. Dogs have an acute sense of smell, which is how they become acquainted with new objects.

Nail-cutting for dogs begins with habituating your pet’s feet to being touched. 

If you wish to have someone assist you with cutting and holding your nails, this is also an excellent opportunity to begin practicing. But, again, move carefully to familiarize them with being held.

Please do not touch them aggressively and begin restraining them instantly. This will cause terror and prevent you from cutting your dog’s nails this way.

Once your dog has been comfortable having its paws or body held for a longer duration, you can proceed.

To cut your dog’s nail, angle your clippers 45 degrees. It’s best to cut a small section at a time, paying close attention to the tip of the nail.

The sharpness on the front of your dog’s nail, which should be visible if their nails are white, should make it pretty simple to determine when to stop cutting them. When they have blackened nails, look for a small grey mark at the base of their nail. You’ll know when you see it that you’ve gone too far and need to stop.

Ignoring your dog’s indications and cutting their nails once they are emotionally tired is inefficient and will further complicate the process in the future as you are developing negative experiences and trauma associated with nail cutting.

If you work at it carefully and consistently every day, you will know how best to cut many nails simultaneously.

You will finally be able to clip all of your dog’s nails at once. While some pet owners cut half of their pet’s nails one day, they cut the other again the next day.

Keeping your dog in an environment where they feel safe and secure is essential, so don’t push them beyond their comfort zone.

Holding your dog’s paws for the next few seconds as you’re planning to cut its nails will help familiarise it with the procedure.

If it remains calm while holding its hand, reward it with treats and praise. Increase the duration you spend keeping your dog’s paw gradually.

Do not ignore your dog’s growls when you are doing this. If it tries to stand up, use an authoritative tone, and make it sit back down.

You mustn’t yell at your dog. 

Before getting your pet’s nails cut, take them for a swim. This will help them take it easy and not be so stressed. As a result, fear will lessen, fidgeting will reduce, and collaboration will improve.

Use your nail clippers once you’ve removed your dog from the tub. Your dog’s ears will become habituated to the sound if you open and close them frequently. While doing this, be sure to offer your dog some treats.

When your dog becomes excited at the sound of the Clipper, try and bring the Clipper up to the nail without cutting it. This step must be taken cautiously, as you don’t like to miss anything at this point.

Then, put your dog back in the water. Allow a few moments to paddle before removing the Clipper and bringing it close to the nails.

Trimming your dog’s nails should be done once it becomes cooperative and tolerant.

It’s critical to remember that you shouldn’t rush in immediately. Clipping only one toenail is an excellent way to get started. Then pay attention to your dog’s reaction: is it calm or agitated? If they become restless, quit for a day and do the remaining nails later. Don’t cut any further than the tip. Trim the nail so that it is straight across and not bent. If your dog starts bleeding, use styptic powder immediately.

If you cut beyond the end of the nail, you run the risk of damaging something called the quick. In addition, your dog’s discomfort may be triggered if you cut this area.

Choosing a well-lit location is critical to trimming your dog’s nails. This will assist you in observing clearly what you’re doing. The surface should also be safe and not slip. Avoid leash-free nail clipping to avoid terrible mishaps. This will keep your dog from falling. Finally, always have tasty food on hand.

Your dog’s discomfort may increase if some other people are around.

Positive reinforcement approaches can be highly beneficial when dealing with a scared, nervous, or uncooperative dog. All the proper care and one-on-one attention that dogs get will be a treat for them. For example, consider nail trimming a delightful experience accompanied by appreciation and rewards. Your dog will become more comfortable with the nail trimming procedure by treating it with kindness and love.

You can practice positive reinforcement by rewarding your dog with a treat every few minutes as you trim their nails.

Dogs are pretty good at sensing our emotional states and can detect when we are stressed. So you can try to maintain your calm and patience at all times.

Use nail clippers with caution. Proceed cautiously and closely observe the nail cutting process and your dog’s reaction. Your dog will enjoy the gentle approach and gradually accept nail trimming as a routine procedure.

Trimming a dog’s nails demands confidence and expertise. Avoid clipping your dog’s nails unless you are confident in your ability to do so. When nails are improperly trimmed, they can become uncomfortable or even bleed.

Don’t push your pet if he’s unwilling or unhappy. Some dogs will become highly stressed as a result of nail trimming. Instead, give your dog a delicious treat to calm him down initially if he’s agitated. You may need to take your dog to a veterinarian or a professional nail clipper for the first few times.

Check if your pet’s nails are on the ground by standing in front of it. If this is the case, it is time to get their nails trimmed.

There should be enough space between the floor and your dog’s nails to accommodate a thin sheet of paper in an ideal circumstance.

It’s a good sign that your dog’s nails are overgrown when you hear them clicking as they walk.

If your dog’s nails are long, they may accidentally scratch you while playing.

The quick may not be visible if your dog’s nails are dark. As a result, it becomes more challenging to determine when to discontinue cutting the nail.

In such circumstances, you should begin by cutting extremely few nail pieces at first. Then, continue cutting until you reach the quick. The quick will look like a tiny black dot in the toenail’s middle.

Several factors for this when a dog refuses to let you clip its nails.

Past trauma associated with nail trimming is a significant factor. They may be terrified of getting their quick clipped again if they’ve had it before.

Other factors include the sounds of the clippers, being also restrained from having the nails clipped, serious injuries, or previous harm to their paws. 

Whatever the reason, gradually clipping your dog’s nails is ideal because it habituates them to the sounds and impacts of nail cutting.

This gives the dogs a sense of security and prevents them from being surprised, as they know precisely how to deal.

If the dog is stubborn, it’s best to leave it to a professional. You can then take your dog to a veterinarian to sedate it and complete the clipping.

There are several ways of making nail clipping easier. To desensitize your dog to the Clipper, switch to different nail clippers or a Dremel. It’s recommended to start with your local veterinarian if you’re worried about a dog being violent and biting you.

If medication treatment is not an option, you can use alternate soothing strategies to keep your dog relaxed while you trim its nails. The safest alternatives are:

Take your dog for a walk before you clip its nails. This will lessen your pet’s squirmy attitude while focusing on its paws. Mind-stimulating games will also help.

You can purchase dog treats that contain soothing ingredients. This will induce relaxation in your dog, allowing you to restrain and cut their nails. During grooming sessions, the treats will be used as a sort of reinforcement for excellent behavior.

Dogs are scared of unfamiliar objects. So before grooming, allow the dog to feel and smell the Clipper. Then, if you’re using an electronic type, turn it on and allow your dog to get used to it. Finally, so that nail clipping becomes a pleasurable experience for your dog, reward him with treats.

Get your puppy used to being confined. Then, you won’t have to deal with restraining an uncooperative dog afterward.

Dogs become more comfortable when they hear relaxing music. Use it in conjunction with other methods of relaxation for best results.

It’s difficult for many dog owners to bring their pets in for a haircut, a bath, or even the dreaded nail clipping. Yet, nail clipping is crucial for a dog’s health and aesthetics.

The nails of most dogs will keep growing since they have not been worn down adequately on their own. They can cause arthritis and infection if they fracture, splinter, or crack. In extreme cases, they can become trapped in their paw pads.

Long-nail dogs generate a clicking sound while walking on hard surfaces, which can be unpleasant.

Both dogs and inexperienced owners may find nail clipping stressful. However, using the appropriate tools and techniques can make the process smoother. Keep in mind the following while trimming a stubborn dog’s toenails:

• Before you go in and start clipping your dog’s toenails immediately, you should familiarize yourself with the entire process.
• Begin clipping your dog’s toenails at a young age. Repetition, patience, and praise can teach an uncooperative dog to enjoy nail cutting.
• In this case, you can use peanut butter to keep your dog distracted while you cut its nails. This will help the dog acquaint with the practice with a positive idea. Also, since they won’t be looking, you can get some work done while they’re distracted.
• Trim your dog’s nails every two weeks or as needed to prevent them from breaking and causing discomfort. This will help maintain the dog’s paws healthy.
• Pay attention to your dog’s paws to see any irritation or itching. If you observe your dog scratching its paw, you may want to try adding baking soda to the affected area to reduce the itch.
• It would help if you never trimmed them too short because this can damage the nail’s vein.
• Allowing your dog to run on concrete will gradually file down its nails.
• Don’t try to clip lengthy nails in one sitting. You may accidentally injure the dog.

The frequency of nail trimming depends on your dog.

Numerous factors contribute to your dog’s nail growth. These factors include your dog’s genetics, breed, and activity level.

Ideally, it would help trim your dog’s nails once every two weeks. However, you may need to repeat this procedure more frequently if your dog’s nails grow back immediately.

The post How to Cut an Uncooperative Dog’s Nails? appeared first on The Petster.

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.

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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!

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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The post How to Trim A Dog’s Nails? appeared first on The Petster.

Dogs can have a distinctive odor that sometimes becomes more pungent or unpleasant, coming to resemble the classic fishy smell: if this is exactly what is happening to your dog, it is good that you know the possible cause and the remedies against this bad smell, also because it is potentially linked to a health problem.

Usually, in fact, the fishy stench is related to a problem with his perianal glands: these small sacs, located on the sides of the anus, are covered with sweat glands that produce a discharge that smells unpleasant for humans, but indispensable as a scent marker for the dog.

If your dog begins to give off an unpleasant fishy odor, his perianal glands are probably having trouble.

Problems with the dog’s perianal glands can be very common, especially among small dog breeds. Among these problems, we can find any occlusion that prevents the bags or perianal glands from emptying completely. In this case, the dog can experience pain and the untreated occlusion can complicate and turn into an abscess.

Occlusion of the perianal glands in the dog can be caused by several factors: the dog may have loose stools, a physiological abnormality of the sacs, or be seriously overweight. In any case, if you notice any signs of pain in your dog and some kind of brown color on the glands in question, contact your trusted veterinarian.

On other hand, some cases can be serious as it can be due to infections in the perianal glands which can be painful and must be treated quickly. You will recognize it because the area in question appears swollen and discolored – the infection can be resolved with medical treatment. The doctor will apply antibiotic and pain reliever medications, while the abscess may require surgical intervention.

So, to clarify the origin of this fishy smell in your dog, you should know that it is due to the anal glands located on the sides of your pet’s anus. These bags contain a liquid with a scent that is unique to each dog which serves as identification. This liquid also helps the stool to be expelled.

The glands expel this odorous liquid spontaneously but many other times, this does not happen and the liquid is not eliminated correctly, which can cause health problems.

The fishy smell is just one potential symptom (a problem with the dog’s perianal glands) dogs affected by these annoying conditions also have other signs that we list below:

• The dog tends to rub his butt against the ground.
• Sometimes, the dog can’t sit properly.
• The dog tries to bite and lick the anal area.
• They chase their tail.
• Lack of appetite.
• The dog has problems with constipation and pain during the evacuation phase.
• Some dogs develop lumps or the presence of blood and pus in the affected area.
• The affected area can be swollen and/or reddish.
• He is restless and listless.
• Anal sacs are more visible due to inflammation.
• It gives off a stronger and different smell than usual.
• Your dog can have a fever in case it turns into an infection.

When the liquid from the glands is not evacuated, they fill and can develop the pathologies that we will see below.

It is necessary for your dog’s glands to empty otherwise, they may develop the following problems:

• The glands are distended due to the fact that they remain full, which causes them to distend as said liquid becomes dense.
• Development of sacculitis: this infection is due to the aforementioned, causing inflammation and a bad smell in your dog. After being diagnosed, your furry friend will receive antibiotics and the vet will be able to evacuate these glands and clean the area.
• The appearance of abscesses: this will develop in case the infection is not treated. The inflammation and infection in the area will develop an abscess that can be seen on the skin and many times, the liquid is drained there. This causes fever and requires immediate antibiotic treatment in conjunction with cleaning and proper drainage of the fluid. In more severe cases, the dog may need surgery to remove the glands.

You should pay attention that the dog does not develop tumors in the area since they can be both benign or malignant. Sterilize dogs, especially males, helps greatly to prevent these tumors from appearing.

As mentioned above, the dog smells fishy because the secretions settle and the bad smell becomes more acute and persistent. If you notice an unpleasant fishy smell in your dog, you should immediately take him to the vet, only a professional can perform the maneuver to manually empty the anal glands.

Also, if there are more serious problems, the vet may prescribe a series of treatments including a high fiber diet, careful cleaning with antiseptic detergent, a cure of antibiotics, and pain relievers or hot compresses in the affected area, while in the most serious cases it will be necessary to resort to a surgical operation.

After the vet has finished with the indicated treatment, you can bathe your dog using special products that are created especially for them. Use a glove and wash the affected area slowly (your vet may recommend a product to avoid or worsen the problem, although, 3% hydrogen peroxide usually helps with odor). On the other hand, if a bad smell comes from a puppy, it is not normal since the puppies still do not have the ability to mark their territories using their glands. Their bodies are not yet biologically prepared for it, they are still very young.

After our furry friend has been diagnosed and you know the reason for this bad smell, after the vet has emptied the glands, you should pay attention to see if this smell returns. However, there are some measures you can take to help prevent that from happening:

• Bad odor is the first sign that your dog needs help. You should not wait for the situation to get worse, remember that it is painful so take it immediately to the vet.
• Learn to empty the fluid from your dog’s glands. Ask a veterinarian for assistance to teach you how to do it at home in case your dog is prone to accumulating this fluid and not being able to empty it naturally. In this way, you should not wait for the vet to help you, you can do it yourself and make it part of a routine. It is not a difficult procedure to do; you should only put pressure on the anal area of the dog with the help of a cotton ball to absorb the liquid that will come out. Wear gloves and after the procedure, wash your hands well with soap.
• Pay attention if your dog has diarrhea or similar since in these cases, the liquid from the glands does not usually come out properly. This helps the glands to accumulate more fluids. Avoid giving him human food and only give him food appropriate to his age.
• Also, there are dogs that are already born with these problems in their glands, that is, they are prone to having difficulties emptying the liquid from the glands, some breeds are more prone than others so you should consult with your veterinarian and pay attention.

Dogs that have trouble emptying the anal glands usually need intervention every 15 days to avoid infection and pain. The procedure can be somewhat annoying for the animal but it is very necessary.

On the other hand, as we mentioned earlier, the liquid from the anal glands usually empty itself when the dog performs his needs and for that, your pet must have a diet high in fiber.

Your vet can teach you how to do it at home, although it is always a good idea to let your doctor do it. To do so, you must be patient. The bags must be held between the thumb and index finger (preferably with a glove and cotton or cloth in hand) massaging from front to back.

In the case of a persistent blockage, the doctor may insert a finger into the anus, squeezing the gland toward its opening to empty it. But be careful! You should not experiment with this at home: it should be done by a specialist or he should explain and teach you well.

It is also not advisable to try to empty the glands preventively at home, as this can stimulate the production of excretion material. Done incorrectly could lead to irritation and infection of the healthy gland.

The post Why Does My Dog Smell Like Fish? appeared first on The Petster.

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 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.

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.

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.

The post How to Clean My Dog’s Paws When Returning From the Street? appeared first on The Petster.