How To Care For Older Dogs

Filed under Dogs Health and Care by on July 28, 2008 at 9:33 PM {no comments}

Different breeds and sizes of dogs will age at different rates and many consider "Mutts" hardier than purebred breeds. However, no matter what the breed or size, at some point a dog will exhibit signs of aging. Start preparing yourself early on and be observant to any changes in your dog's health, mood or behavior patterns.

Like human medicine, veterinary medicine has made great strides in geriatric care allowing our pets to live longer than ever before. The key is to recognize any problems as early on as possible and talk with your Veterinarian.

The Aging Process

Some noticeable signs of aging might include: sleeping more; eating less; being startled by noises, bright lights, or lots of activity; not coming immediately when you call (may indicate hearing loss or physical difficulties such as arthritis); a duller coat; skin with less elasticity; eyes that are not as bright or may be clouded (including the possibility of cataracts); or loss of bladder or bowel control.

Keeping Your Senior Dog Comfy

At times, caring for your older dog might require patience. Providing old dog care really isn't much different than caring for an aging person. They too may lose their hearing, forget where they are and become easily startled. Be patient and kind while making every effort to keep your best friend comfortable in his or her old age.
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Why Dog Shampoo is Important

Filed under Dogs Health and Care by on July 20, 2008 at 10:02 PM {no comments}

Too many people never stop to think of the kind of shampoo they are using to bathe their dog – until the dog shows an adverse reaction to it. A good dog shampoo is important for so many reasons. Unlike us, dogs cannot apply lotions and ointments to their skin if it gets dry and sore – they lack the thumbs! But dogs – and their skin – can be just as sensitive as our own, if not more so. A shampoo that worked during the summer may make your dog uncomfortable during the winter, and a shampoo which works perfectly for one dog may be all wrong for another dog. There are several things to consider when choosing the best shampoo for your dog, but first, there is a rule: never, ever use your own, human shampoo on your dog. It can be irritating and itchy. But think about it – you may need a shampoo for dry hair, oily hair, thick hair, thin hair, et cetera. Does it not stand to reason that your dog has such needs, as well?

The first step in choosing a good dog shampoo is to know your dog’s skin type. Just as it is for humans, there are dog shampoos designed to help oily skin, dry skin, and normal skin. Because it can be difficult to determine your dog’s skin type on your own, you can talk to your vet, he has the knowledge and resources to help you figure it out.
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Homemade Dog Food Tips

Filed under Dogs Health and Care by on July 18, 2008 at 11:45 AM {no comments}

Before you start making your own homemade dog food, you need to know a couple of things. You need to find out what foods are toxic to your dog. You also should understand that preparing home made dog food may not be as easy as it sounds because it's very much like to preparing food for your children. Making homemade dog food is not the same thing as gathering up your leftovers and scraps and throwing them in a dog bowl. Keep in mind, your reason for preparing home made dog food is provide you dog with a healthy diet. On the bright side, making homemade dog food can be cheaper since you can include your dog's dietary requirements in your normal food shopping expenses. Dogs are omnivores just like people. This means they can eat vegetables and grains as well as meat.

Though people and dogs have different physiologies, there are a few things in common when it comes to diet. So many times, you'll be able to make your homemade dog food while making your people food. For example, most home made dog food recipes will consist of a ratio of two thirds meat to one third vegetables. It's all a matter of healthy cooking for both you and your dog, and making homemade dog food is a great way to start.
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