Natural Cures For Dogs

January 26, 2010 by admin  
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Most dogs are scared of loud noises, specifically thunderstorms and other unexpected sounds that rattles their little ears —especially for puppies. Dogs are not used to hearing loud popping sounds and their ears are sharper and more sensitive than adult dog’s ears.

When dog owners deal with the possibility of having a panicked stricken, nervous puppy, some owners use tranquilizers as a last resort during a looming thunderstorm. Of course this is an intense treatment that is not really recommended. There is a new solution, a safe, drug-free, over-the-counter supplement that is available to dogs with anxiety called melatonin.

Natural Cures for Dog’s – Two All-Natural Supplements Used To Prevent Stress & Fleas

You have probably heard of melatonin already, many pet owners have used it. It is a naturally occurring hormone that is secreted by a small endocrine gland called the pineal gland. This is located at the bottom area of the brain.

Melatonin aids in regulating and maintain the body’s circadian rhythm (the body’s 24-hour internal clock that prompts mammals of when to fall asleep and when to get up). In human beings, melatonin is used as a natural sleeping aid. In dogs, however, this natural hormone is given to alleviate the fear of thunder and other frightening sounds. Many dog owners also use melatonin to help combat against other stress related issues that their dogs may suffer from.

Melatonin – Used To Help Treat Your Dog’s Fear Of Thunderstorms

Experts say that Melatonin has a positive result with at least 75% of dogs who take the supplement. With many dogs, melatonin is most effective when it is given prior to a thunderstorm. In other dogs, however, do best when the supplement is administered as they are starting to show signs of nervousness and panic.

Additionally, Melatonin works within the body for about 8 hours and should never be administered to pregnant dogs. Consult your vet before you give to your dog for the recommended safety dose.

Using Natural Plant Oils To Get Rid Of Fleas

Another all-natural product which can aid in curing one of your dog’s worst enemies is natural plant oil used to stop fleas. A new solution has finally available for many dog owners who are looking for a safer and more natural way in treating fleas. This is known as aromatherapy. This is described as a mixture of different plant oils as a natural substitute to strong chemicals used in controlling fleas.

These potent oils are extracted from plants using a special type of distillation process better known as steam distillation. The formula is rubbed into the dog’s coat and is believed to be very helpful in treating and averting fleas. Several of these natural plant oil products also have essential oils such as lavender, lemongrass, and peppermint. All of these ingredients aid in creating a very soothing effect on your dog’s skin and coat. These are also very effective in warding off mosquitoes.

Article by Kelly Marshall from Oh My Dog Supplies – the top place to buy dog beds online
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Luxated Patella and What This Means to Your Dog and You

January 25, 2010 by admin  
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Scenario: Let’s say that your child is playing fetch with your one year old Chihuahua when all of a sudden, he cries in pain. You notice that he starts to limp with his lower back leg. Then suddenly, he skips on the other three legs for about 2 to 5 strides and then starts to run normal again as if nothing happened.

Now, let’s say that this incident occurred 3 to 4 more times within the past couple of months, but is becoming more frequent. Should you bring your dog to the vet? The answer is yes, right away! Your dog could be suffering from luxated patella.

Luxated Patella – Is It Necessary To Take Your Dog To The Vet Just For An Occasional Limp?

Luxated patella, also called as “trick knee” or “slipped kneecap”. This painful condition is hereditary in which the kneecap regularly dislocates or moves out of position, especially toward the inside. This condition usually occurs in both legs, but usually to a different extent.

The patella is found in the center of a dog’s knee joint. In a regular knee, the kneecap rests in a rather deep groove where it slides up and down in a usual, controlled way. So, when the groove is too shallow or out of shape, the patella pops out of the groove and shift to the sides, usually toward the inside of the patella. This may cause the leg lock up while the foot is held off the ground, causing your dog to cry out in pain and limp.

Luxated patella is known to occur in smaller breed of dogs, although it can affect medium and larger sized breeds. When it hits, this condition can cause lameness and pain for your dog. In slight cases, the patella slides out of the groove and then slides back without any lasting discomfort or lameness. Your dog will yelp in pain, hold his leg up for a few seconds, and then feel fine again when the knee moves back into place.

Then sometimes, the patella will actually pop out for longer periods or more often, causing injury to the knee capsule. The pain lasts longer and the dog usually appears bowlegged.

Luxated Patella – More Scoop on The Inherited Disorder

As mentioned before, luxated patella is an inherited disorder, meaning that the condition is present at birth. The presence of this problem, however, does not make your dog crippled. So, don’t worry; your dog can still live normal and happy, with the ability to do all of the activities he loves engage in, and for the rest of his life.

Don’t forget, without any treatment or if treated the wrong way can actually cause your dog’s knee to become subject to worse injuries, such as a torn ligament.

A slipped kneecap in an older is the leading cause to diseases of joints and bones. This can actually cause in arthritis in dogs. This is why we recommend that you take care of this problem immediately.

Authored by Kelly Marshall from Oh My Dog Supplies – to find dog steps in all shapes and sizes, visit http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com/dog-supplies/dog-steps/
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How to Tell if Your Dog is Sick

January 24, 2010 by admin  
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Your dog can’t explain his symptoms to you when he feels bad, so it’s your responsibility to take care of him and to understand when your dog is feeling bad. Just exactly how do you do that you may ask?

Well, the best thing I can suggest to you is to know exactly how your dog acts when it is feels good. If you know this you should be able to tell when your dog is really sick and you’ll be able to easily answer your own question – ” Is my dog sick?”

What is a symptom? Whenever your dog is sick or feels bad he will usually exhibit some sort of symptom that he does not feel up to par. Some common symptoms you may see your dog exhibit when it feels bad include: vomiting, diarrhea, stumbling, seizing, drooling, not eating, limping, etc.

It’s simple overall. Just remember that some symptoms, such as seizures, collapse or any kind of difficulty in breathing should always receive a prompt a veterinary exam – immediately. If there is ever any doubt about the seriousness of any particular symptom, please contact your veterinarian or local veterinary emergency facility. Explain the symptom your dog is having and ask for their advice. Better safe than sorry I always say.

There are all kinds of serious health symptoms that should never be ignored in any dog. As a pet owner it is important that you’re aware of these and know what to do. Below is a list of symptoms that should never be ignored if you see them exhibited by dog! So, let’s begin.

Remember, if any of these happen to your dog to contact your veterinarian immediately. A few important dog symptoms you’ll never want to ignore are:

Breathing Problems.

Bloated or Distended Abdomen.

Collapse or Fainting.

Losing Weight.

Urinating and Drinking Excessively.

Seizure.

Unproductive vomiting.

Trouble Urinating.

Excessive coughing.

Bloody Diarrhea – Bloody Urine – Bloody Vomit.

Pale Gums.

Bruising and/or Bleeding.

Bite Wounds.

Lethargy or Weakness.

Not Eating or Loss of Appetite.

Pacing and Restlessness.

Fever.

Your dogs health should be extremely important to you so watch carefully for any symptoms your dog may exhibit closely and be aware of what you should do in response. It’s important to be able to tell whether or bot your dog is sick.

Debbie Ray, owner of http://www.pedigreedpups.com , http://www.the-website-doctor.com and http://www.total-german-shepherd.com, is a lifelong animal lover, dog enthusiast and internet business owner. Interested in more dog information? Training and health tips? Thinking about getting a purebred dog? A German Shepherd Dog in particular? Check out pedigreedpups.com , total-german-shepherd.com or canine-hotline.com for more dog information.

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5 Ways To Keep Your Dog Healthy And Happy

January 23, 2010 by admin  
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A dog for a pet and a pal can be a great joy. They provide us with so much, and ask for nothing in return but that we care for them. They require of us food, water, shelter, and, of course, love. Therefore, keeping your dog healthy is a priority. This information is being provided to you to help keep your dog both happy and healthy.

Fleas & Ticks

External parasites are not only extremely annoying to your best friend, but they can also be a healthy hazard. Fleas are thought to be extremely common among dogs, while this true, what you may not understand is that fleas can lead to a variety of health problems. Fleas can carry tapeworm to your dog, they can also cause hair loss, infections of the skin, allergic reactions, and even anemia. Ticks are also a big cause for concern for your dog because they can carry the disease known as Lyme disease, which is a fatal disease to both humans and animals. Another thing to watch for is ear mites, which can be extremely annoying and painful to your dog. It is important to check for and rid your dog of these external parasites regularly if necessary. Even if your dog is an inside, when they are outside relieving themselves or on walks they can become infected by fleas, ticks, and ear mites.

Internal Parasites

Worms are one of the most common infestations of dogs, next to fleas. Tapeworms, whipworms, hookworms, heartworms, and roundworms are all internal parasites to watch for. Worms can cause a great deal of harm to your dog include, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss, anemia, and perhaps even death. The worst thing about worms is that most are not noticeable without some sort of stool examination or blood tests. An annual check for worms is necessary for all dogs; this will help in controlling or preventing any infestations.

Disease

There are many diseases that can affect dogs, just as there are with humans. However, some breeds of dogs are more prone to certain diseases than others are. It is important to understand the disease risk of your specific dog breed and watch closely for any signs. Some diseases that effect dogs include:

Canine Distemper – This is a disease that is bacterial for the most part and will effect the nervous and organ system in the body. For the most part, this disease is fatal, if a dog does survive it will have some form of impairment, which is why vets require vaccination against the disease.

Rabies – This is generally transmitted from one animal to another via a bite from an infected animal. Rabies is almost always fatal and can be transmitted to humans, vaccination is required against rabies.

Other diseases to watch for include Kennel Cough, Leptospirosis, Canine Hepatitis, Canine Coronavirus, and Canine Parvovirus (Parvo). It is important to watch your dog for any signs of labored breathing, bloody stools, coughing, vomiting, fever, weakness, stiffness, nose or eye discharge, appetite loss, or diarrhea.

Keep Your Pets Vaccinated

A lot of diseases these days can be prevented through vaccinations. If you are starting out with a puppy, be sure to get their first shots done as soon as recommended and follow up as necessary to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Feed Your Dog Properly

Keeping your dog on the right diet, eating the right foods, will keep them active, healthy, and getting the proper nutrition. It is important that you feed the right foods for puppies and adults, as each has a specific make giving the dog exactly what they need during their growing period. You should also make sure you are feeding the dog the right amount of times per day. For example, a puppy will need to be fed more often than an adult dog.

By following these tips, you will keep your dog healthy. Remember, a healthy dog is a happy one.

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Luxated Patella – Taking Care of Your Dog During

January 22, 2010 by admin  
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Even thought luxated patella is not considered a condition that needs to be treated in the emergency room, getting your dog tested for this disorder stops it from progressing.

Every dog owner should be tested their dog for this because a slipped kneecap can affect dogs of all breeds and sizes. On the other hand, if you own a small or a toy dog breed, you should have him tested for luxated patella immediately.

Reputable dog breeders should know that this condition is hereditary, so, they should know the importance of having their puppies tested at around 6 weeks old, preferable before sending them to their new homes.

Important Treatment Options For A Dog’s Slipped Kneecap

Physical tests are essential, along with the length of time that the dog is showing symptoms such as limping, skipping, and carrying his leg, will decide your dog’s diagnosis. To point out the severity of the condition, an X-ray of the thigh bone and the knee will be administered.

Keep in mind that treatment is not necessary for Grade I, although you should check your pet just in case the problem gets worse. For example, Grades II, III, and IV, surgery can be done in order to repair the malformation.

Also, surgery is done by an Orthopedic surgeon and includes fixing the dog’s bone alignment, tightening his joint capsule, and/or deepening the groove where the kneecap rides.

On estimate, the total cost for this kind of surgery is between $1,500 to $3,000. This depends on the severity of the case.

Although this may not be a dire emergency, we recommend that you consult your vet as soon as possible if your dog is suffering from a slipped kneecap. If surgery is needed, your vet will refer you to an orthopedic specialist who will perform the operation.

Never wait till the last minute. If your dog has a condition of Grade II, Grade III, or Grade IV, it is recommended that you give him the surgery now before the condition worsens. Further damage of the bone and joint may make the outcome of the surgery less successful.

How to Care For Your Dog After The Surgery

Immediately following surgery, your dog’s vet will prescribe medications for your dog’s pain as well as anti-inflammation to be taken for an average of seven days. Your pet will need plenty of rest during this time period. So, he should be involved in very little activity for at least 1½ weeks.

Your dog should be kept on the leash when outside of the home. It is important to be aware that he should be placed in a small and comfortable room to avoid jumping, running around, or other types of activities that can put pressure on his knee.

Your dog will need physical therapy will begin around 7 days after the surgery. Take your dog for a slow walk for about five minutes. If all possible, take your dog swimming – this is good exercise for him. Eventually, your dog should be able to handle longer walks on the leash 6 weeks following the surgery. He will eventually be able to have complete recovery and normal use of his knee around 15 weeks following the surgery.

Written by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies – for the top small dog carriers source, visit http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com/dog-supplies/dog-carriers/
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The Most Difficult Decision A Dog Lover Must Make

January 21, 2010 by admin  
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When you adopt a puppy, you are inviting him to share your life and you get the privilege of sharing his. As his owner, you are responsible for making sure he behaves, providing him plenty of healthy food, and giving him plenty of love and attention. He repays you with unconditional love and anyone who’s had a happy doggy face to meet them after a long hard day at work knows that what he asks for is little enough for the joy that he so happily offers. Part of being a responsible and loving dog owner, however, is knowing when you need to say good bye.

There are unfortunately several situations in which you may be called upon to make one of the most heart breaking decisions of a dog owner’s life. Your dog might have been in accident, or he might have developed a life-threatening illness. In the middle of his situation, you might be called upon by your vet to decide whether it would be more merciful to continue treatment or to simply let your beloved pet go. Times like this are extraordinarily difficult, but as the person who has always been responsible for your dog, you need to make the right decision for both his sake and yours.

When placed in this position, you need to evaluate all the facts as logically as you can. What is the vet proposing? What are the chances of success? Even if the operation or treatment does succeed, what is your precious pup’s quality of life going to be like? These are all questions that your vet can help answer for you, but you are the one that knows your dog the best. You know better than anyone else what will make him happy and content, and you know what situations will make him miserable.

If you ever have to make this difficult decision, it will be difficult to avoid being swayed by sentiment. You should never think of euthanasia as having your beloved dog killed; in many cases it is a mercy, though a heartbreaking one for the ones left behind. Your dog doesn’t have your powerful reasoning abilities; he will never understand why he is in pain from continual treatment or diseases. All he will know is that every day is difficult and he cannot do the things that used to make him happy. You are the one who is responsible for your dog’s continued happiness and contentment, so seriously think about how your dog will live out his life. If you feel that he can come out of treatment as a healthier dog who can enjoy his life, that’s one thing, but if all it means is continued survival by scraping by, you need to consider your dog’s happiness.

The big question to ask yourself is whether your beloved canine companion is still enjoying his life. Think about all the things that he loves to do. Is he still able to do them? If your dog can’t muster up the energy to even enjoy the snacks you bring, or even gentle petting can make him uncomfortable, it might be time to say goodbye.

Joann Henry operates “Doggie Health Care” http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com a blog all about our pooches health. Sign up to receive her newsletter, & not only will you get some free tips to keep your dog healthier, but FOR A LIMITED TIME, she’ll give you a FREE ebook. http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com
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Canine Viral Hepatitis – Diagnosis Of Dog Diseases

January 20, 2010 by admin  
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In the world of canines, many diseases and infections exist everywhere, even in the most sophisticated homes and yards. Diagnosing a dog disease comes from seeing the symptoms your dog may show and then having the necessary tests done to find the exact cause of the disease. The top canine diseases are canine viral hepatitis, bloating, aortic steonosis, distemper and the parvovirus. With proper health care and diet, dogs can live a healthy life as your faithful companion for many years.

Diagnosis of Dog Diseases- Canine Viral Hepatitis

This viral disease affects younger dogs and puppies. Affecting the liver and inner lining of the blood vessels, this disease is transmitted from dog to dog by way of a discharge from the infected dog. Some symptoms of the disease stomach bleeding, increased thirst, lack of appetite, vomiting and a tender stomach when touched. Dogs do show discomfort when experiencing canine viral hepatitis.

Diagnosis of Dog Diseases- Bloating

A life threatening and serious problem in dogs, also called gastric dilation volvulus, comes from over eating as well as other health problems. Some breeds are prone to this because of their breed, but others just plain over eat. The symptoms of bloating are a restless dog and a fat looking stomach that happens quickly. Dry heaves follow such a condition and proper diagnosis is required by tests. Sometimes taking food away for twenty-four hours will help reduce the bloating problem in your dog.

Diagnosis of Dog Diseases- Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a viral infection that affects the immune system and can lead to serious complications if not death. This disease is contracted from contact with the excretions of an infected dog. Airborne particles can also contribute to infecting other dogs. Dogs rarely survive, but when they do, they suffer from muscle spasms and convulsions. The symptoms of a fever over 104 degrees, depression, pus in the eyes, convulsions, diarrhea and vomiting, if you see these signs, you need to contact your vet immediately. Proper vaccination of your dog prevents this viral disease from taking the life or livelihood of your companion.

Diagnosis of Dog Diseases- Aortic Steonosis

Aortic steonosis is an obstruction of the blood vessel that carries blood from the left ventricle and is an inherited health problem. No symptoms are visible for mild cases, but severe cases prevent the dog from any type of exercise. Dogs tend to faint when performing any kind of exercise due to the severity of the blockage. If your dog shows symptoms of fainting, tests will determine the exact cause and the vet will describe treatment objectives.

Diagnosis of Dog Diseases- Canine Parvovirus

Puppies under six months of age succumb to this particular disease. The intestinal tract, lymphoid tissue, immune system and the bone marrow are affected. Symptoms may be vomiting, convulsion weight loss and dehydration with coughing. For some puppies, death is immediate. Puppies need proper medical attention and proper vaccinations to prevent such an untimely demise.

You can also find more info on dog illness symptoms and diagnose dog sickness symptoms.
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Common Dog Diseases and Parasites

January 19, 2010 by admin  
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A good diet and plenty of exercise are important to a dog’s health, but they can’t make a dog totally immune to illness. Early detection is the key to helping your dog overcome any health problem. If your pet’s stools become very loose, or you notice a marked decrease in your dog’s appetite and/or that she is very lethargic, she may just have a short-term “bug.” On the other hand, if any symptoms continue for more than a few days, you should have your veterinarian examine her for parasites and infections.

Diarrhea is a common symptom in dogs, especially puppies. It can be triggered by stress or a sudden change in food, but also by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Diarrhea causes dehydration, which can be deadly to dogs. It is extremely dangerous in puppies, because they dehydrate faster than mature dogs.

If your dog has diarrhea for more than a day, contact your veterinarian for further instructions. You will probably be asked to collect a sample and bring it in so they can examine it to determine the cause and proper treatment.

Coughing, sneezing, and discharge from your dog’s nose and/or eyes often indicate a respiratory infection. A lethargic dog with no appetite is likely fighting an Upper Respiratory Infection (URI). URI, caused by airborne viruses and bacteria, is highly contagious among dogs, but is not transmitted between dogs and humans. Early detection of URI is important; ignored dogs suffer from severe dehydration and risk developing pneumonia.

Bortadella, also called ‘kennel cough” is another contagious respiratory disease commonly contracted in animal shelters, boarding kennels, or anywhere groups of dogs have close contact with one another. It is a short-term disease, and most dogs get over it with a few days of rest and tender loving care from you. It is possible to have your dog vaccinated against Bortadella – a good idea if you plan on boarding her or placing her in “doggie daycare.”

Vaccinations are also available to protect your dog against more deadly diseases such as rabies, distemper and parvovirus. Most municipalities require that all dogs are vaccinated against rabies; some include distemper and parvovirus as well. Making these vaccinations mandatory protects the health of all dogs, and, in the case of rabies, human health as well. If your dog was vaccinated as a puppy, she’s off to a good start. However, without yearly booster shots, your dog is at risk of great suffering from one of these diseases.

Dogs serve as hosts to a number of parasites. You will probably be asked to bring a fecal sample to your dog’s yearly vet appointment, so that the staff can check for the presence of internal parasites. If you notice small, rice-like granules on your pet’s bedding or around her anus, she is suffering from an infestation of worms and needs to be seen by your vet to get proper treatment. Other parasites take up residence on the outside of your dog’s body. Mange and sarcoptic mites live on the hair follicles and skin of dogs, while ear mites live on the inside of the ear. These parasites are so small you might not see them, but they cause your dog extreme discomfort. Head shaking and pawing at ears are signs of ear mites. Frequent scratching and skin-biting can indicate either skin mites or a dog’s worst enemy: fleas.

? 2005, Kathy Burns-Millyard. Would you like to learn more about caring for and training your adorable dog? Visit MyPetAnimals.com now!
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Dogs Can Suffer Obsessive-compulsive Disorder

January 18, 2010 by admin  
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Some dogs are prone to becoming victims of obsessive-compulsive disorder when under stress. The stress can cause either a sudden or gradual onset of the condition. The behavior pattern that emerges will depend on the particular breed. In general, longhaired large breeds of dogs may over groom, herding breeds may chase or hoard and a pure predatory breed may bite, mouth or chase objects. All these have human comparisons.

All the behaviors performed by compulsive canines are essentially normal behaviors. They are just performed over and over again and out of context. The same occurs with humans. There is nothing wrong with washing your hands repeatedly, but if you wash your hands several hundred times a day you have a problem. Psychiatrists treat the human problems on a case-by case basis. Veterinarians remain divided regarding the significance of canine overly expressed behaviors. Some feel it may be our attempt to humanize our pets, yet others are not so sure. Whatever the cause, it is very real in some dogs.

Lick granuloma in the canine is equivalent to hand washing in the human. Affected dogs lick their wrists or hocks excessively, over-cleaning or over grooming themselves until the skin in these regions is ulcerated. For years, no one knew why dogs engaged in this pointless, mindless behavior. Now, veterinarians are seeing the OCD link and with this understanding are able to treat the condition much more effectively. Lick granuloma primarily affects larger breeds of dogs such as Labradors, golden retrievers, Great Danes and Dobermans. Individual susceptibility and environmental influences are also required for the full expression of the behavior. Affected animals are usually anxious, sensitive, and high-strung and may give an impression of a generalized anxiety disorder. Environmental factors include various stresses and conflict situations, including separation anxiety or boredom.

Author is an Internet Marketer and a researcher. He is a member with Affiliate Junktion, the top payout well known affiliate program at http://www.business2grab.com He also owns website about oets at http://www.2searchengine.com and about small business at http://www.get-it-nowpackage.com

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Important Symptoms You Should Never Ignore in Your Dog

January 17, 2010 by admin  
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Is your dog sick? What are your dog’s symptoms? We all know that your dog can’t tell you if it feels bad (at least not in so many words), so it’s your responsibility to take care of your dog and to understand when your dog is feeling bad.

Just how do you do that? Well, the best thing I can suggest to you is to know exactly how your dog feels when it is not sick. If you know this, and you know it well, you will be able to tell the difference when your dog is really sick without anyone else having to tell you otherwise.

When your dog feels bad he will probably exhibit some sort of symptom that should communicate to you, if you’re really paying attention, that he does not feel well.

What is a symptom? Well, to be precise, a symptom is often defined as “a physical sign that a disease or sickness is present”. Knowing exactly what kind of symptoms your dog has can usually guide your veterinarian toward diagnosing your pet illness.

Here are just a few of the more common symptoms your dog may exhibit if it is injured or feels “under the weather”, including: vomiting, diarrhea, going off it’s food, stumbling, seizing, drooling or limping.

The ability of recognizing your dogs symptoms and knowing when they need to be treated professionally is very important. This is a skill that everyone does not have but learning it can be the difference between life and death in many instances. The best thing I can tell you is to watch carefully. If your dog exhibits any thing out of the ordinary, and if that symptom continues or worsens over time, then it could very well become a problem.

Certain symptoms, such as seizures, breathing problems, or any kind of collapse should prompt you to get your dog a veterinary exam immediately. If there is ever any kind of doubt about the seriousness of any symptom then please contact your veterinarian or local veterinary emergency facility immediately and ask. Don’t wait to see if it’ll go away on it’s own. Explain the symptoms to the pet professional and ask for their advice. It is always better to be safe than sorry if you’re not sure whether or not your dog is in serious trouble.

There are all sorts of serious symptoms that should never be ignored in your dog. Potentially any of these symptoms could easily indicate an underlying disease and might even be your first clue to the presence of a life-threatening conditioning in your dog. You never know. So, here are a few symptoms that should never be ignored if you see them in your own dog!

Seizure. A seizure is often a symptom of some sort of neurological disorder. They can be caused by several things including epilepsy, toxins or tumors. Contact your veterinarian immediately.

Collapse or Fainting. Any reasons for collapse or fainting should always be considered serious and should not be ignored. Contact your veterinarian immediately.

Breathing Problems. Respiratory distress, labored or difficult breathing or even shortness of breath are all very serious symptoms and should be taken care of immediately.

Bloated or Distended Abdomen. Abdominal distension is an abnormal enlargement of the abdominal cavity and can often be a symptom of potentially life-threatening disease. Contact your veterinarian immediately.

Unproductive Vomiting. Dogs that attempt to vomit over and over and are never able to bring anything up is very serious. You should call your veterinarian immediately.

Trouble Urinating. This can range from: straining to urinate, frequently attempting to urinate, or even great discomfort when urinating. This can be very serious. Contact your veterinarian immediately.

Bruising and/or Bleeding. This should be evaluated immediately by your veterinarian.

Not Eating or Loss of Appetite. This is often the first indication of illness in your dog. This should be evaluated immediately by your veterinarian.

Pacing and Restlessness. In dogs, pacing and/or restlessness can usually be indicative of pain, discomfort or distress in your dog. In many cases it an indicator of a serious problem. This should be evaluated immediately by your veterinarian.

Losing Weight. There are several causes for this, if you’re not actually trying to help your dog lose extra pounds – some of which can be very serious. This should be evaluated immediately by your veterinarian.

Urinating and Drinking Excessively. Either of these are often the early signs of several diseases such as: kidney failure, diabetes, thyroid problems, uterine infections, etc. If you think that your dog is drinking excessively, make an appointment with your veterinarian immediately.

Fever. The normal temperature in dogs is 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If your dogs temperature is higher, call your veterinarian asap.

Excessive coughing. Don’t think that this is no big deal. Coughing is a common protective reflex to clear the throat, etc. It can also affect the respiratory system if the coughing is excessive. Common causes of excessive coughing can be quite severe, such as: an obstruction in the windpipe, heartworm disease, bronchitis, pneumonia, lung tumors, kennel cough or even heart failure. This should be evaluated immediately by your veterinarian.

Bloody Diarrhea – Bloody Urine – Bloody Vomit. Any of these should be evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. Some may be the result of minor ailments, while others could be severe or even life threatening. Contact your veterinarian immediately.

While the list of dog symptoms above is not at all all-inclusive, it is meant to be merely a resource of symptoms of which you should always be aware of as a dog owner. Keep an eye on your dogs health in much the same way you would do so for your own child and you will be well on your way to a long and lasting relationship with your own dog. Your dogs health is important so watch for any symptoms your dog may exhibit closely and be ready to act on them as necessary.

Debbie Ray, owner of http://www.pedigreedpups.com , http://www.the-website-doctor.com and http://www.total-german-shepherd.com, is a lifelong animal lover, dog enthusiast and internet business owner. Interested in more dog information? Training and health tips? Thinking about getting a purebred dog? A German Shepherd Dog in particular? Check out pedigreedpups.com , total-german-shepherd.com or canine-hotline.com for more dog information.

.........Read more »

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