Posts in category Dog health

Vestibular Disease in Dogs: Often Confused with a Stroke

Jul25
2011 Leave a Comment Written by Colleen

When dog owners see the the symptoms of Vestibular Disease, they often confuse these symptoms with a stroke. In reality, true strokes are very rare in dogs, which is great news for you and your pooch… Vestibular Disease is a condition far less threatening to your dog.

The Vestibular System is what keeps the head and body oriented with gravity (and spatial faculties). This system includes sensors in the inner ear that provide a sense of balance and equilibrium.

Vestibular Disease seems to be caused by an inflammation in the nerves connecting the inner ear to the cerebellum. It typically lasts between a couple of days and a few weeks, but some dogs may show residual signs beyond this time, such as a head tilt.

Symptoms:

  • staggering and stumbling
  • head tilt
  • rhythmic shifting of the eyes from side to side (called “nystagmus”)
  • facial paralysis
  • head tremor
  • body weakness
  • nausea
  • refusal to eat or drink*

* NOTE: most dogs will not eat or drink unless given water or food by hand because the movements necessary to eat or drink from a bowl are challenging for them.

Other important things to know:

  • There are no warning signs.
  • This syndrome normally affects dogs that seem healthy and normal up until the signs appear.
  • Symptoms come on suddenly, drastically and are frightening to witness.
  • This condition is sometimes even misdiagnosed by vets, and affected dogs who would have recovered, have been put to sleep. 
  • As long as they are nursed through this condition, almost all dogs will recover.  

If your dog is showing the above symptoms, please go to your vet for diagnosis, treatment, and procedures for home-care. And PLEASE make sure your vet is familiar with Vestibular Disease!

 
 
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How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Jun03
2011 Leave a Comment Written by Colleen

 

Did you know the most common health issue in both dogs and cats is dental disease? According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by the age of 3 years old.

Keep Teeth Clean: Unusually bad breath (foul or rotten smelling) can indicate a serious health problem. Gum disease can create infection in the blood stream and even cause heart disease. Your dog’s teeth should be shiny and white, and the gums should be pink and healthy-looking (not red or swollen) without any sores or lesions.  See your vet for an annual cleaning and make sure to brush your dog’s teeth with toothpaste made specifically for your pooch.

Some consequences of poor doggy oral hygiene include: 

  • Tartar/plaque build-up
  • gum disease/gingivitis
  • mouth sores and ulcers
  • loss of teeth
  • broken jaw
  • heart
  • kidney
  • liver disease

To learn how to brush your dog’s (or cat’s) teeth, here is A Guide to Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth, courtesy of Dr. Scott Linick, owner of Plainfield Animal Hospital in South Plainfield, N.J.

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Freekibble: Help feed hungry dogs!

Jun02
2011 Leave a Comment Written by Colleen

You can help feed hungry dogs! It’s free and it’s fun. “Every day you play Bow Wow Trivia, they’ll provide 10 pieces of kibble to Animal Shelters to help feed their hungry dogs. Freekibble now feeds many 1,000′s of dogs and cats in shelters, rescues and through food-banks across the country – EVERYDAY!”

Play today and help feed hungry dogs and cats: http://www.freekibble.com/about.asp.

Heartworm and Dogs: Symptoms and Prevention

May20
2011 Leave a Comment Written by Colleen

Mosquitos can carry a parasite called dirofilaria immitis, which grows into heartworms in your pet. If left untreated, heartworms can cause damage to the heart and lungs of dogs and cats and can be fatal. Heartworm has been found in all 50 states- in dogs, cats, ferrets, foxes, wolves, and humans. Heartworms are absolutely preventable! See your vet for prevention and early detection.

What are the symptoms of Heartworm disease in dogs?**

  • loss of appetite
  • lethargy or weakness
  • exercise intolerance
  • weight loss
  • fever
  • difficult, labored breathing or shortness of breath
  • coughing
  • dull dry coat
  • hemorrhage 

** Please Note: There are no symptoms until the disease is well on it’s way, which is why screening, prevention and/or early detection is crucial.

In addition to the symptoms above, in advanced stages of heartworm, your dog may show the following symptoms:

    • fainting
    • abnormal lung sounds
    • enlarged liver
    • rapid heartbeat
    • anorexia
    • vomitting
    • blood in coughed up mucous
    • death

 

 Please make sure to protect your dogs and cats, heartworm can be fatal!

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Summer Tips for Your Dog’s Health!

May17
2011 Leave a Comment Written by Colleen

Mosquito, flea, and tick season is here… be sure to take the necessary precautions to avoid Heartworm, Lyme disease, and West Nile Virus. West Nile virus mainly affects horses, humans, and birds, but dogs and cats also are susceptible.

If you haven’t seen your vet this year, schedule your annual exam. Many issues can be treated successfully and inexpensively, with early detection.

Here are some tips for your pet’s health in this active season:

  1. Prevent (or treat) Heartworm: Mosquitos can carry a parasite called dirofilaria immitis, which grows into heartworms in your pet. If left untreated, heartworms can cause damage to the heart and lungs of dogs and cats and can be fatal. Heartworms are absolutely preventable! See your vet for early detection and prevention.
  2. Flea and Tick Control: Fleas can cause allergies and anemia, ticks can cause Lyme Disease.  Make sure to treat carpets and bedding if you have a flea infestation, and be very careful with flea poisons- especially with young, old, ill, or pregnant animals. Flea baths can help a lot- see your groomer or vet. For ticks, make sure you check your dog’s neck, ears, groin, skin folds, and between toes- especially after being outdoors, so they can be immediately removed. Ask your vet for flea and tick control product recommendations and/or vaccinations (for Lyme Disease).
  3. Clip Nails: Overgrown nails can make walking difficult for a dog. Severely overgrown nails can become ingrown which may cause pain and infection, so clipping your dog’s nails is important. Clipping your dog’s nails can be tricky- they have lots of nerves, so it can hurt and bleed a lot. If you don’t feel comfortable, you can have your groomer do it for you.
  4. Clean the Ears: Especially for dogs that swim or hike! Bacteria, fungi, and even parasites can take up residence in the ears, which can be painful and cause infection. Look inside the ears- it should be a healthy pink color (red means irritation) with little or no dirt or wax, and should definitely not be stinky. Take your dog to your vet if you see redness, swelling, excess wax or dirt, or a foul odor.
  5. Keep Teeth Clean: Unusually bad breath (foul or rotten smelling) can indicate a serious health problem. Gum disease can create infection in the blood stream and even cause heart disease. Your dog’s teeth should be shiny and white, and the gums should be pink and healthy-looking (not red or swollen) without any sores or lesions.  See your vet for an annual cleaning and make sure to brush your dog’s teeth with toothpaste made specifically for your pooch.

** Some consequences of poor doggy oral hygiene include:  Tartar/plaque     build-up, gum disease/gingivitis, mouth sores and ulcers, loss of teeth, broken jaw, heart, kidney, or liver disease.

Have a great summer and have fun staying healthy with your best friend!


 

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Lyme Disease and Dogs: Symptoms and Prevention

May09
2011 1 Comment Written by Colleen

Lyme Disease is caused by a corkscrew-shaped bacteria (Borrelia burgdorferi) carried by ticks, and is transmitted most commonly through the bite of deer ticks and black-legged ticks.  Deer ticks are common near the East Coast, and black-legged ticks near the West Coast. In the United States, Canine Lyme Disease is prevalent in the Northeastern states from Maine to Maryland,  and also in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Oregon and Northern California.

In most areas of the U.S.,  April to November is commonly known as “tick season”, but keep in mind that infection can happen any time of the year.

Lyme Disease Symptoms in Dogs:

  • Swollen or hot joints.
  • Joint pain or tenderness. Symptoms are similar to (can mimic) arthritis.
  • Poor appetite.
  • Less active or playful.
  • Limping- can set in as little as a 3 hours following an infection.
  • Pain in one or both legs. The pain can also shift from one leg to another.
  • A fever of 102 degrees or higher.
  • Fatigue.
  • Swollen lymph nodes.

When to see your vet:

  • If your dog is not arthritic and you notice a sudden change in your dog’s mobility, especially after being in the woods/tick-borne areas, take your dog to the vet immediately.
  • If you see any suspicious ticks, and your dog has symptoms listed above.

Prevention:

  • The degree of necessary prevention depends upon exposure risk for Lyme disease.
  •  Make screening for Lyme Disease a vital component of your dog’s annual vet exam.
  • Vaccinations (early for puppies and boosters for adult dogs ) are the best protection.
  • Groom your dog with as fine-a-toothed comb as possible. Detecting and removing ticks as early as possible will help to minimize the risk of Lyme Disease.
  • Use tick prevention and tick-killing products to reduce your pet’s risk.

Other things to know:

  • The symptoms of Lyme disease can mimic symptoms of other diseases, but the infection progresses very quickly in canines.
  • Lyme disease can be managed easily if it is diagnosed on time.
  • If untreated, symptoms might disappear, but may return weeks or months later.
  • Some dogs are affected with the disease for over a year before showing symptoms. By this time, the disease may be quite widespread.

Have a great summer and enjoy the outdoors!!!

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Dog Arthritis Pain Relief: How to Massage Your Dog

Apr29
2011 1 Comment Written by Colleen

Massage provides many benefits for dogs suffering from arthritis:

  • Regular massage can help slow down the degeneration of joints.
  • Reduces muscular tension, which helps relieve some of the aches and pains associated with arthritis.
  • Stimulates circulation and helps drainage.
  • Helps remove toxins.
  • Provides some sweet quality time to bond with your best friend.

A few tips before you begin:

  •  To really make a difference, you need to massage your dog at least two to three times a week. Consistency is key!
  • Session should last 10 to 15 minutes- longer if your dog is a large breed.
  • Massage should be done in a peaceful, calm setting.
  • Do not overwork any one body part, as this can lead to further inflammation.
  • If your dog shows discomfort or cannot stay still, begin with shorter sessions and gradually increase duration over time.
  • Early morning and evening are the most beneficial times to massage an arthritic dog (after an active day or in the morning when they are stiff or uncomfortable).
  • Massage around (not directly on) the achy joint and on the surrounding muscle with long strokes or a gentle kneading motion .
  • If your dog resists a particular spot on the body or certain massage techniques, move on to something that feels good.
  • Deep tissue massage for injuries or pain relief should only be administered by a certified canine massage professional.
  • If your dog’s joints appear inflamed after a massage, wrap a cold towel around the area to soothe any pain and decrease inflammation. If inflammation persists, consult your veterinarian.

 Times when you do not want to massage your pet:

  • After your pet has just eaten- wait at least two hours after eating.
  • If your pet is sick they may not want to be touched- just be sure to listen to their signals- they will let you know!
  • Avoid massaging the back and belly of a pregnant animal.
  • Just after intense exercise. Wait until your dog has a chance to cool down and rest.

How to Massage Your Dog:

  1. Start by simply placing your hands on your dog for 30 seconds or so to establish a connection between you and your dog.
  2. Use long, light strokes along the length of your dog’s body (from head to tail) to warm the body.
  3. Massage with small circles with your thumbs on either side of the spine. You can also use your fingers to “walk” along the spine. This feels great and helps with overall circulation, lymphatic drainage and spinal health.
  4. Next, use a very light kneading motion over tight muscles (like kneading dough), to help loosen the muscle fibers and stimulate deeper circulation. Make sure to massage the neck and shoulders because your dog will most likely adore you for it!
  5. Intersperse with long, light strokes to help drainage.
  6. Massage the feet (if your dog can  tolerate it-take care to avoid getting bitten by foot-sensitive animals) by gently squeezing and pull slowly down the toes. This physical therapy technique can improve the neurological connection from the brain to the feet, improving mobility.
  7. Massage the legs (front and back) with long strokes, starting from the feet and moving up the leg towards the hip and buttocks.
  8. Use the gentle kneading motion around the hips and buttocks. Remember, do not work directly over arthritic joints, work on the muscles around them.
  9. Do some easystretching exercises to help the joints and surrounding tissues with mobility and flexibility. Gently bend and flex arthritic joints to improve range of motion.
  10. Wind the session down by massaging the ears with slow, gentle rubbing of the inside and outside of each ear.
  11. End the massage by gently stroking your dog’s entire body for deep relaxation.
  12. Go out for an easy, short walk to help keep everything moving and circulating!

Have fun and enjoy this time with your dog. It will promote optimal health and well being for both of you!

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10 Breeds Prone to Dog Arthritis

Apr19
2011 Leave a Comment Written by Colleen

Arthritis is a degenerative disease and may stem from genetic predisposition, developmental challenges, or trauma to the bones or joints. Large, heavy dogs are more likely to suffer from arthritis, as they tend to grow quickly, age faster, and participate in more excessive exercise than smaller breeds. However, small dogs like the dachshund, that are specifically bred to produce unique body shapes are also at risk.

10 breeds that are prone to dog arthritis:

  1. German Shepherds
  2. Golden Retrievers
  3. Labrador Retrievers
  4. Dachshunds
  5. Newfoundlands
  6. St. Bernards
  7. Rottweilers
  8. Mastiffs
  9. Great Danes
  10. Old English Sheep Dogs

Helping dogs mantain a healthy weight through diet and exercise, along with high quality supplements, can help keep arthritis at bay! 

Exercise and Diet: A Few More Tips For Dog Arthritis

Apr18
2011 Leave a Comment Written by Colleen

When thinking about your dog’s health (and your own), it comes down to this: you call the shots. Your dog is completely dependent upon you to make healthy choices regarding diet and exercise.  Furthermore, older dogs need extra special attention.  Older dogs tend to move less and eat more, promoting a laundry list of health issues, including dog arthritis.

In order to help your dogs get the exercise they need, here are few more tips:

  1. Take your dog swimming. It’s a fantastic workout and a great way to ease the pain of achy joints.
  2. Walk your dog two times per day for at least 20 minutes. Climbing hills and stairs make exceptionally good workouts.
  3. Hit balls with a tennis racket in an open space and let your dog run and fetch.
  4. Go to a dog park and let your dog run and play with other dogs (as long as your dog is well socialized and vaccinated).
  5. Be sure to watch for heavy panting or signs of overexertion. Too much exercise (or too intense) is also not good for your dog.

In order to help keep your dog at a healthy weight, here are few more tips on diet and dog weight loss:

  1. Reduce the amount of food you give your dog. Your dog will eat as much as you offer.
  2. Aim for nutrient-dense food that is low-fat, low-calorie, high in fiber and protein.
  3. Limit table scraps. What seems like just a bite to us is a significant increase in a dog’s calorie (and fat) intake.
  4. Green beans, carrots, or cauliflower make great low-calorie, low-fat, high-fiber treats and most dogs love them! Put them in veggie or chicken stock for an extra special treat.
  5. The size of a treat doesn’t matter to dogs. A small treat will still be viewed as treat.
  6. If possible, feed your dog small amounts of food several times a day instead of two large meals/day.
  7. Like most people, dogs will eat more when they feel stressed. Make sure you give your dog lots of love, attention and exercise to  keep stress levels low.
  8. Try to feed your dogs when you are not home. Dogs tend to eat less when their owners are out of sight.

We wish you, your family and your dog the very best of health and luck!

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Excess Weight Promotes Arthritis in Dogs (and People)

Apr13
2011 Leave a Comment Written by Colleen

When it comes to arthritis, people and dogs share similar problems. Excess weight stresses the joints, bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles causing damage, inflammation and pain. The good news: you and your dog can help each other stay healthy, because for both dogs and humans, the solution is the same: eat less and exercise more!

A few interesting facts:

  • Approximately 25% of overweight dogs will develop serious joint issues.
  • According to The Association of Pet Obesity Prevention, an Estimated 55.6% of US Dogs are overweight or obese,  while 68% of adult Americans are overweight or obese.
  • According to Dr. Melvyn Harrington, associate professor of orthopedic surgery at BCM:
    In people, losing just five pounds can save the knees from feeling 15 to 20 pounds of pressure. “Weight management is a major part of managing arthritis, particularly knee arthritis. If you are overweight or obese, then the incidence of arthritis goes up significantly. ”
  • An overweight pet’s life expectancy can  decrease by up to 2.5 years.
  • Besides osteoarthritis, overweight dogs (pets) are also at risk for: Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury, Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Heart and Respiratory Disease, Kidney Disease, and Many Forms of Cancer

To increase your dog’s (and your own!) quality and quantity of life by keeping him or her at a healthy weight, here are a few tips:

  1.  Maintain a well-balanced, healthy diet. Look for only high-quality ingredients. Stay away from protein fillers, unspecified animal by-products or chemical preservatives. Look for anti-oxidants and Omega-3 Fatty Acids. (See our “Better Food for Your Dog” post for food suggestions).
  2. Train your dog with healthy treats that are not fat or sugar filled.
  3. Try to refrain from showing your affection by rewarding your dog with food. Limit snacks. (for a list of low calorie treats, see our “People Food and Pets” post).
  4. Walk your dog!
  5. When beginning an exercise program, begin gradually, checking regularly to see if your dog is struggling to keep up.
  6. Too much exercise or intensity can also be harmful. Strive for balance!
  7. Make exercising with your dog a fun activity.

Good luck and have fun keeping healthy with your best friends!

 

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