GOOFY GRINS NEED DENTAL CARE,TOO
KAREN RUDOLPH DHURRIE
FOR THE CALGARY HERALD
Their grins may be a bit goofier, but animal teeth require the same kind of care that human teeth do.
Keeping your dogs and cats smiling is best done through preventive care and maintenance.
Number one on the list? Once Daily, brush their teeth - there are 42 in dogs and 30 in cats.
"It allows the mechanical removal of plaque,which is layers upon layers of bacteria forming a community on the teeth. But keep in mind even if we do well with our own teeth, brushing and flossing , we still have to see a dentist,"
says DR.Terrie Faber, a veterinary dentist at Woodlands Veterinary Hospital and Animal Dental Centre.
Faber recommends using a soft child-sized or pet-specific toothbrush, and a toothpaste formulated for dogs and cats - They're usually meat or fish-flavored to encourage pets to accept the brushes.
To brush, lift your pet's lips, and brush gently around the outsides of the teeth.
Inside surfaces are fine left alone, Faber says,because about 80 per cent of plaque on their teeth is found on the outsides.
"The biggest mistake people make is trying to open the mouth and get in; they will fight it if you try and crank open their mouths," Faber says.
Occasionally,Faber will see carious lesions in dogs, but more common is a painful problem seen in cats called tooth resorption.
Tooth resorption stars with loss of dentin at, or below,the gum line that can eventually spread into the tooth and pulp canal,which contains blood vessels and nerves. Once started, the condition will always advance,so these teeth need to be extracted.
Little dog show more periodontal disease than a big dogs,because their teeth are larger in comparison to their jaws. Bacteria that from plaque get under a small dog's gums more quickly and can eat away at the tissue attaching the tooth to the bone.
Broken teeth are another common problem in dogs. Faber sees this often as a result of catching rocks and chewing bones.
Just as in people,broken teeth in a pet can expose the pulp, and the tooth can die and abscess,fester and spread,so a root canal or extraction is required to prevent the worst-case scenario.
The tricky part of dental disease is detecting it.
Most pets won't display any outward symptoms of oral pain.
A few may appear irritable or aggressive,have a change in appetite or difficulty chewing,and may react when their jaws are touched.
Smelly breath can also indicate problems.
"They don't show it. If you're wild and a pack animal,and you feel not-so-great,what happens to you if you mope around? You'll be pushed down in the pack hierarchy. Their instinct tells them they have to act normal,"Faber says.
"If this was you or I, we would be hysterical. Pets deal with it by not showing signs."
Pets should have a dental exam twice a year, and clearings as recommended by the vet.
Dental X-ray should also be done, because dogs and cats have most of their tooth structure under the gum line, and problems like abscesses can often only be diagnosed via X-ray.
As for diet,you can purchase food for pets aimed at keeping teeth healthier. Specially formulated dry food can help scrape the teeth when chewed, and there are chew toys and treats that might also help, but these should be used in addition to brushing, says Faber.
Showing posts with label Pet care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pet care. Show all posts
2009-06-09
Dog Coat and Dog Fur Maintenance
This article is about how to maintain your dogs coat and fur to keep on top of health problems.
Author: John Williams Dog Training
Your dog’s fur is a very important aspect of your dogs life, keeping it clean and in good shape is a good way to keep your dog happy, healthy, and clean. If you don’t keep your dogs fur in good shape it will only be a mater of time before tangles and knots appear in your dog’s coat picking up insects, pests, and causing discomfort for your dog.
Different dogs have different types of fur and with so many cross breeds and different looking dogs, naming all the different types of fur would be impossible. There are many different types of dog fur, some will look after themselves more than others but the general rule is that a longer dog coat will normally tangle and know easier than others.
To maintain your dog’s fur and keep it looking as it should, lots of grooming may be needed so this should be taken into account when buying a new dog. But grooming does not need to be a chore you have to do for your dog because grooming is proven to be a great bonding between owner and dog and creates trust and comfort for your dog making them a lot easier to train.
Step one is to get a good comb for your dog ensuring that there are no sharp edges and that your dog is comfortable with you using it without hurting him/her. Your vet or local pet shop many be able to help you and give you advice with choosing the correct comb but this will be a deciding point in whether your dog will enjoy you doing it or not.
After you have chosen your comb, grooming should happen often and you should do it thoroughly each time, ensuring all knots and angles are removed, if you haven’t yet combed your dog’s fur then it may be difficult to start so do a bit at a time to ensure you don’t discourage your dog and make them not like the grooming process.
After the initial combing, the more often you groom your dog the easier it will be, leaving it for long periods of time is not advised because this means it is more likely to hurt your dog when it eventually does get done. If your dog is finding it tough going then maybe a dog bath is needed to make it easier to detangle and add to your dog furs health.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-coat-and-dog-fur-maintenance-256044.html
About the Author:For more information visit our dog training website at this link... Dog Training
Author: John Williams Dog Training
Your dog’s fur is a very important aspect of your dogs life, keeping it clean and in good shape is a good way to keep your dog happy, healthy, and clean. If you don’t keep your dogs fur in good shape it will only be a mater of time before tangles and knots appear in your dog’s coat picking up insects, pests, and causing discomfort for your dog.
Different dogs have different types of fur and with so many cross breeds and different looking dogs, naming all the different types of fur would be impossible. There are many different types of dog fur, some will look after themselves more than others but the general rule is that a longer dog coat will normally tangle and know easier than others.
To maintain your dog’s fur and keep it looking as it should, lots of grooming may be needed so this should be taken into account when buying a new dog. But grooming does not need to be a chore you have to do for your dog because grooming is proven to be a great bonding between owner and dog and creates trust and comfort for your dog making them a lot easier to train.
Step one is to get a good comb for your dog ensuring that there are no sharp edges and that your dog is comfortable with you using it without hurting him/her. Your vet or local pet shop many be able to help you and give you advice with choosing the correct comb but this will be a deciding point in whether your dog will enjoy you doing it or not.
After you have chosen your comb, grooming should happen often and you should do it thoroughly each time, ensuring all knots and angles are removed, if you haven’t yet combed your dog’s fur then it may be difficult to start so do a bit at a time to ensure you don’t discourage your dog and make them not like the grooming process.
After the initial combing, the more often you groom your dog the easier it will be, leaving it for long periods of time is not advised because this means it is more likely to hurt your dog when it eventually does get done. If your dog is finding it tough going then maybe a dog bath is needed to make it easier to detangle and add to your dog furs health.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-coat-and-dog-fur-maintenance-256044.html
About the Author:For more information visit our dog training website at this link... Dog Training
2009-06-05
8 Signs of a Healthy Puppy
Are you looking for a happy and healthy puppy? Make sure you find what you're looking for by following these simple guidelines to determine whether or not the puppy you're looking at is healthy.
8 Signs of a Healthy Puppy
Author: Michael Schwartz
Thousands of people across the world acquire a new puppy every single day! Unfortunately for those who are paying for one of these puppies, not all of them are completely healthy. We hope the list below will help you in determining whether or not the little puppy you are looking at is in good health. Of course, this list is not all-inclusive and is not meant to replace the advice of your Veterinarian.
We are simply providing this information as a starting point when you are actively searching for a new and healthy puppy. Spend a few moments with the puppy and look for the signs below.
1 EYES: A puppies eyes should look clear and shiny. There should be no signs of cloudiness or discharge from the eyes.
2. EARS: Do the pup's ears look and smell clean? The inside of the ear should not look red or inflamed. Any odor or brown discharge could signal an infection.
3. NOSE: It should be slightly moist to the touch, but there should not be excessive discharge. The puppy should not be sneezing or sniffling persistently.
4. SKIN AND COAT: The puppy's coat should be soft and shiny, without flakes or excessive shedding. Watch out for patches or missing hair, redness, bumps or sores. The pup should have a pleasant smell. Check for parasites, such as fleas or ticks.
5. REAR END: It should be free from debris and fecal matter.
6. ABDOMEN: You should be able to feel the puppy's ribs, but the ribs shouldn't poke out. The tummy can be round, but not swollen or potbellied.
7. KENNEL AND BEDDING AREA : This should be a relatively tidy area. Watch out for signs of diarrhea or vomiting.
8. BEHAVIOR: A healthy puppy may be sleepy, but not lethargic. A healthy puppy will be playful at times, not isolated in a corner. You should see occasional bursts of energy and interaction with littermates. When it's mealtime, a healthy puppy will take an interest in its chow.
Healthy puppies have clear, bright eyes that are free from discharge Again, this is just a short list of things to watch out for when you are searching for your new puppy. You should always have your new pet checked out (as soon as possible) by a Veterinarian and proceed as per their recommendations.
One more thing, all reputable breeders should offer to take back a pet that is deemed unhealthy by a professional Veterinarian.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/8-signs-of-a-healthy-puppy-338140.html
About the Author:
If you are looking for a happy and healthy miniature schnauzer puppy , make sure to visit Lonestar Farms Miniature Schnauzers. Their well-socialized and beautiful puppies are always healthy and adorable. They are all sold with a full 2 year health guarantee. They always have Top Quality Miniature Schnauzers for sale .
8 Signs of a Healthy Puppy
Author: Michael Schwartz
Thousands of people across the world acquire a new puppy every single day! Unfortunately for those who are paying for one of these puppies, not all of them are completely healthy. We hope the list below will help you in determining whether or not the little puppy you are looking at is in good health. Of course, this list is not all-inclusive and is not meant to replace the advice of your Veterinarian.
We are simply providing this information as a starting point when you are actively searching for a new and healthy puppy. Spend a few moments with the puppy and look for the signs below.
1 EYES: A puppies eyes should look clear and shiny. There should be no signs of cloudiness or discharge from the eyes.
2. EARS: Do the pup's ears look and smell clean? The inside of the ear should not look red or inflamed. Any odor or brown discharge could signal an infection.
3. NOSE: It should be slightly moist to the touch, but there should not be excessive discharge. The puppy should not be sneezing or sniffling persistently.
4. SKIN AND COAT: The puppy's coat should be soft and shiny, without flakes or excessive shedding. Watch out for patches or missing hair, redness, bumps or sores. The pup should have a pleasant smell. Check for parasites, such as fleas or ticks.
5. REAR END: It should be free from debris and fecal matter.
6. ABDOMEN: You should be able to feel the puppy's ribs, but the ribs shouldn't poke out. The tummy can be round, but not swollen or potbellied.
7. KENNEL AND BEDDING AREA : This should be a relatively tidy area. Watch out for signs of diarrhea or vomiting.
8. BEHAVIOR: A healthy puppy may be sleepy, but not lethargic. A healthy puppy will be playful at times, not isolated in a corner. You should see occasional bursts of energy and interaction with littermates. When it's mealtime, a healthy puppy will take an interest in its chow.
Healthy puppies have clear, bright eyes that are free from discharge Again, this is just a short list of things to watch out for when you are searching for your new puppy. You should always have your new pet checked out (as soon as possible) by a Veterinarian and proceed as per their recommendations.
One more thing, all reputable breeders should offer to take back a pet that is deemed unhealthy by a professional Veterinarian.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/8-signs-of-a-healthy-puppy-338140.html
About the Author:
If you are looking for a happy and healthy miniature schnauzer puppy , make sure to visit Lonestar Farms Miniature Schnauzers. Their well-socialized and beautiful puppies are always healthy and adorable. They are all sold with a full 2 year health guarantee. They always have Top Quality Miniature Schnauzers for sale .
2009-05-30
Dogs With Ringworm - What to Do
Dogs With Ringworm - What to Do
Author: Cristian Stan
As hard as it may be to believe, ringworm can affect your pets. Ringworm in dogs and cats is more common than you might think. Worse yet, it's also possible for your cat to pass it onto you, but don't freak out, it's rarely the case.
And while the thought of ringworm may not be a pleasant one, it really isn't a worm though, it's a fungus. Let's take a closer look at how ringworm gets started in your pets to begin with and what to look out for.
There are basically three forms of ringworm in dogs or cats, and every breed of dog or cat is susceptible to getting it. One type is found in rats. How can that affect my dog or cat? If your pet were to touch the rat, or dig around in its home, it could easily get ringworm. Another type is found in the soil. And the third type is found in cats only.
While ringworm on people will have a tell tale reddish colored ring shaped rash, on animals there is no set pattern. It can look completely different. This can make it difficult to know that it is ringworm.
So, how do you know if you have ringworm in dog or cat? Many people just assume that if their pet is itching a lot it is from having a few fleas. Makes sense, but you should take a closer look if they continue scratching on a frequent basis as this could be a sign of ringworm. Look for bumps on their skin, or hair loss around places where they have been scratching. This is a good indication of ringworm in your pet.
If you find that your pet appears to have ringworm, take it to the vet and have it checked out. The last thing you want to do is to blow it off and then have it spread and take the risk of getting it yourself. It's easily treated by a vet. They can give your pet a dip, or a special shampoo, and possibly a cream to put on the area infected. A vet can also answer any other questions you might have. You might also look in a pet supply store at medicine for ringworm. in dog or cat. Products containing Ketoconazole are recommended for dogs, and Itraconazole for cats.
Vets agree that treatment should continue for eight weeks, no matter how much better your pet is doing after only a few weeks. This is important due to the fact that the fungal spores from ringworm can exist for many weeks. Don't forget to treat your home at the same time you are treating your pet. Some believe that ringworm spores can live in your carpet for up to two years. Be sure to thoroughly clean your home. Vacuum your carpet and then change out your bag.
By simply following a few of these steps, and being aware of the situation, will help prevent any further complications. While the problem may seem like a real pain, you don't have to let ringworm in dog or cat get you down.
Dog ringworm - articles and information on the symptoms of dog ringworm and dog ringworm treatment.
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_904161_54.html
About the Author:
http://www.teethgrindingcure.com
Author: Cristian Stan
As hard as it may be to believe, ringworm can affect your pets. Ringworm in dogs and cats is more common than you might think. Worse yet, it's also possible for your cat to pass it onto you, but don't freak out, it's rarely the case.
And while the thought of ringworm may not be a pleasant one, it really isn't a worm though, it's a fungus. Let's take a closer look at how ringworm gets started in your pets to begin with and what to look out for.
There are basically three forms of ringworm in dogs or cats, and every breed of dog or cat is susceptible to getting it. One type is found in rats. How can that affect my dog or cat? If your pet were to touch the rat, or dig around in its home, it could easily get ringworm. Another type is found in the soil. And the third type is found in cats only.
While ringworm on people will have a tell tale reddish colored ring shaped rash, on animals there is no set pattern. It can look completely different. This can make it difficult to know that it is ringworm.
So, how do you know if you have ringworm in dog or cat? Many people just assume that if their pet is itching a lot it is from having a few fleas. Makes sense, but you should take a closer look if they continue scratching on a frequent basis as this could be a sign of ringworm. Look for bumps on their skin, or hair loss around places where they have been scratching. This is a good indication of ringworm in your pet.
If you find that your pet appears to have ringworm, take it to the vet and have it checked out. The last thing you want to do is to blow it off and then have it spread and take the risk of getting it yourself. It's easily treated by a vet. They can give your pet a dip, or a special shampoo, and possibly a cream to put on the area infected. A vet can also answer any other questions you might have. You might also look in a pet supply store at medicine for ringworm. in dog or cat. Products containing Ketoconazole are recommended for dogs, and Itraconazole for cats.
Vets agree that treatment should continue for eight weeks, no matter how much better your pet is doing after only a few weeks. This is important due to the fact that the fungal spores from ringworm can exist for many weeks. Don't forget to treat your home at the same time you are treating your pet. Some believe that ringworm spores can live in your carpet for up to two years. Be sure to thoroughly clean your home. Vacuum your carpet and then change out your bag.
By simply following a few of these steps, and being aware of the situation, will help prevent any further complications. While the problem may seem like a real pain, you don't have to let ringworm in dog or cat get you down.
Dog ringworm - articles and information on the symptoms of dog ringworm and dog ringworm treatment.
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_904161_54.html
About the Author:
http://www.teethgrindingcure.com
2009-05-27
Is Raw Dog Food Healthy For My Pet?
Is Raw Dog Food Healthy For My Pet?
Author: Thomas
More and more pet owners are becoming convinced that raw dog food provides the best form of nutrition. Think about it – it’s what animals in the wild have eaten for centuries. This is nutrition as only nature can supply. Years ago, pets weren’t fed canned and processed, additive- and preservative-laden foods. Many dog lovers today believe that manufactured and processed “filler” dog foods are responsible for more human-type ailments that are afflicting pets than ever before.
Today, most of society is seeing the benefits of an all-natural and nutritious healthy diet. It works to keep humans thriving and at their optimum level of health. The same is true for pets. Dogs (and cats) by nature are carnivores and to receive the nutrition their bodies need requires a level of food that is more than can be found in canned or processed foods with ingredients that would not normally be found in nature. For dogs, it can be found in a raw dog food diet.
Some dehydrated dog food products are frozen and some remain fresh in their natural state until you add warm water to create a refreshing and unpolluted meal for your dog. Many raw food alternatives use hormone-free and antibiotic-free meats as well as 100 percent organic grains. When the ingredients can be referred to as 100 percent human grade food, you can be confident that food choice is a good one.
Raw food in dehydrated (dried) form is a natural process that has been used throughout the ages by humans. The nutritional value of the ingredients remains at premium quality through the use of this method. The moisture in the food (water) is removed in the process of dehydrating raw foods. When water is re-added to the food, it becomes whole again and offers the best nutrient-rich food source. For meat and egg components, the drying takes place at a high enough temperature to kill any bacteria that may have been present so that each food item remains completely safe.
How do you know if the raw dog food you choose for your pet is the right one? After a month or so, you should be able to notice a natural sheen on your dog’s coat, healthier skin, a brighter attitude, and an increased energy level. If you notice these changes, and your dog gets a glowing annual report from your veterinarian showing good overall test results and strong teeth, you will have a good indicator that your best canine friend is receiving the proper nutrition.
About Author : Thomas Kearl lives with his wife and 3 dogs in Escondido, CA. He only feeds his pets raw dog food, human grade dog food and dehydrated dog food.
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_888392_54.html
About the Author: Thomas Kearl lives with his wife and 3 dogs in Escondido, CA. He only feeds his pets dehydrated raw human grade dog food.
http://www.thehonestkitchen.com/
Author: Thomas
More and more pet owners are becoming convinced that raw dog food provides the best form of nutrition. Think about it – it’s what animals in the wild have eaten for centuries. This is nutrition as only nature can supply. Years ago, pets weren’t fed canned and processed, additive- and preservative-laden foods. Many dog lovers today believe that manufactured and processed “filler” dog foods are responsible for more human-type ailments that are afflicting pets than ever before.
Today, most of society is seeing the benefits of an all-natural and nutritious healthy diet. It works to keep humans thriving and at their optimum level of health. The same is true for pets. Dogs (and cats) by nature are carnivores and to receive the nutrition their bodies need requires a level of food that is more than can be found in canned or processed foods with ingredients that would not normally be found in nature. For dogs, it can be found in a raw dog food diet.
Some dehydrated dog food products are frozen and some remain fresh in their natural state until you add warm water to create a refreshing and unpolluted meal for your dog. Many raw food alternatives use hormone-free and antibiotic-free meats as well as 100 percent organic grains. When the ingredients can be referred to as 100 percent human grade food, you can be confident that food choice is a good one.
Raw food in dehydrated (dried) form is a natural process that has been used throughout the ages by humans. The nutritional value of the ingredients remains at premium quality through the use of this method. The moisture in the food (water) is removed in the process of dehydrating raw foods. When water is re-added to the food, it becomes whole again and offers the best nutrient-rich food source. For meat and egg components, the drying takes place at a high enough temperature to kill any bacteria that may have been present so that each food item remains completely safe.
How do you know if the raw dog food you choose for your pet is the right one? After a month or so, you should be able to notice a natural sheen on your dog’s coat, healthier skin, a brighter attitude, and an increased energy level. If you notice these changes, and your dog gets a glowing annual report from your veterinarian showing good overall test results and strong teeth, you will have a good indicator that your best canine friend is receiving the proper nutrition.
About Author : Thomas Kearl lives with his wife and 3 dogs in Escondido, CA. He only feeds his pets raw dog food, human grade dog food and dehydrated dog food.
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_888392_54.html
About the Author: Thomas Kearl lives with his wife and 3 dogs in Escondido, CA. He only feeds his pets dehydrated raw human grade dog food.
http://www.thehonestkitchen.com/
2009-05-24
Dog Health and the Cost of Pet Care
The article discusses the fact that health care for dogs is not inexpensive.
Yearly physical exams, blood tests, vaccines, antiparasitics, and good food can cost a lot of money. However, preventative medicine is always cheaper than treating a disease; overall the health care costs for your dog will be reduced if you invest in preventative health measures.
Dog Health and the Cost of Pet Care
Author: Douglas Hanna
Health care for dogs is not inexpensive. Yearly pysical exams, blood tests, vaccines, antiparasitics,and good food can cost a lot of money. However, preventative medicine is always cheaper than treating a disease Overall health care costs for your dog will be reduced if you invest in preventative health measures.
For example, a year of heartworm preventative for a small dog can cost on average $72 dollars, but treatments for heartworm can cost up to $600 dollars. It is always cheaper to avoid a disease than to treat it, and of course your dog will have the best chance for a long life if it lives a healthy lifestyle.
While the cost of health care for dogs has increased, there are now many different types of dog health insurance plans available.
Talk with your veterinarian about insurance plans. You should also check Internet websites for health plans that may work for you and your dog. Health insurance for animals is becoming a more popular choice for pet owners as these plans are becoming more comprehensive and cost effective. Take the time to research these plans, and you may find a plan that will save you money and help you to care for your dog.
Prevention And Early Diagnosis
Prevention and early diagnosis are the two factors your dog the best chance for a long, healthy life. Always pay attention to your dog's behavior, and never take a 'wait and see' approach. If you feel that there may be something wrong with your dog, take it to a veterinarian immediately.
Take precautions to keep your dog safe in and around your home as well. Owning a dog is a lot like having small children as they like to explore, taste, smell and touch whatever they can get their paws on. 'Doggy proof' your home by keeping poisonous products out of reach. Always store medications far out of reach, Pay particular attention to pills that are left on a counter, in a purse, or in an accessible drawer. These are some of the more frequently reported incidences of dog overdoses).
The Dangers Of Poor Dog Health
While many of the dangers to your dog's health discussed in this article are not always lethal, they can cause damage to your dog's body that will harm your dog's chances of living a long life. One infection may not harm your dog. But repeated infections combined with such things as parasitic infections or poor nutrition can add up to damage over time.
Try to take all measures possible to keep your dog healthy from the very start. Good nutrition, owner vigilance, and parasite control will help keep your dog strong and healthy for years to come.
A Long And Healthy Life
As a dog ages, it is important to provide the problems that come with increased age. It is not enough for most owners that their dog live a long life. They want it to be healthy and happy as well. if you want your dog to lead a long and healthy life, you will need to increase its veterinary care and yearly screenings. Pay particular attention your senior dog's diet needs and watch for any changes in behavior.
Support your aging dog with pain control medications and adjust its surroundings so that i will be more comfortable. For example, put extra padding on the bed, and use a higher doggy dish to avoid neck pain in case yur dog has arthritis. You might also get a sturdy, movable ramp that will help your senior dog get up short flights of stairs or climb into the car.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-health-and-the-cost-of-pet-care-358820.html
About the Author:
There are a number of other things you can do to help ensure your dog lives a long life.We offer a free 10-page report with helpful advice for keeping your dog healthy. It's titled. "How to Help Your Dog Live a Long, Healthy, Happy Life."
Click
here to get your free copy
The author, Douglas Hanna, and his wife currently share their home with a Wheatland Terrier named Emma Lou and Jake, a Cairn Terrier
Yearly physical exams, blood tests, vaccines, antiparasitics, and good food can cost a lot of money. However, preventative medicine is always cheaper than treating a disease; overall the health care costs for your dog will be reduced if you invest in preventative health measures.
Dog Health and the Cost of Pet Care
Author: Douglas Hanna
Health care for dogs is not inexpensive. Yearly pysical exams, blood tests, vaccines, antiparasitics,and good food can cost a lot of money. However, preventative medicine is always cheaper than treating a disease Overall health care costs for your dog will be reduced if you invest in preventative health measures.
For example, a year of heartworm preventative for a small dog can cost on average $72 dollars, but treatments for heartworm can cost up to $600 dollars. It is always cheaper to avoid a disease than to treat it, and of course your dog will have the best chance for a long life if it lives a healthy lifestyle.
While the cost of health care for dogs has increased, there are now many different types of dog health insurance plans available.
Talk with your veterinarian about insurance plans. You should also check Internet websites for health plans that may work for you and your dog. Health insurance for animals is becoming a more popular choice for pet owners as these plans are becoming more comprehensive and cost effective. Take the time to research these plans, and you may find a plan that will save you money and help you to care for your dog.
Prevention And Early Diagnosis
Prevention and early diagnosis are the two factors your dog the best chance for a long, healthy life. Always pay attention to your dog's behavior, and never take a 'wait and see' approach. If you feel that there may be something wrong with your dog, take it to a veterinarian immediately.
Take precautions to keep your dog safe in and around your home as well. Owning a dog is a lot like having small children as they like to explore, taste, smell and touch whatever they can get their paws on. 'Doggy proof' your home by keeping poisonous products out of reach. Always store medications far out of reach, Pay particular attention to pills that are left on a counter, in a purse, or in an accessible drawer. These are some of the more frequently reported incidences of dog overdoses).
The Dangers Of Poor Dog Health
While many of the dangers to your dog's health discussed in this article are not always lethal, they can cause damage to your dog's body that will harm your dog's chances of living a long life. One infection may not harm your dog. But repeated infections combined with such things as parasitic infections or poor nutrition can add up to damage over time.
Try to take all measures possible to keep your dog healthy from the very start. Good nutrition, owner vigilance, and parasite control will help keep your dog strong and healthy for years to come.
A Long And Healthy Life
As a dog ages, it is important to provide the problems that come with increased age. It is not enough for most owners that their dog live a long life. They want it to be healthy and happy as well. if you want your dog to lead a long and healthy life, you will need to increase its veterinary care and yearly screenings. Pay particular attention your senior dog's diet needs and watch for any changes in behavior.
Support your aging dog with pain control medications and adjust its surroundings so that i will be more comfortable. For example, put extra padding on the bed, and use a higher doggy dish to avoid neck pain in case yur dog has arthritis. You might also get a sturdy, movable ramp that will help your senior dog get up short flights of stairs or climb into the car.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-health-and-the-cost-of-pet-care-358820.html
About the Author:
There are a number of other things you can do to help ensure your dog lives a long life.We offer a free 10-page report with helpful advice for keeping your dog healthy. It's titled. "How to Help Your Dog Live a Long, Healthy, Happy Life."
Click
here to get your free copy
The author, Douglas Hanna, and his wife currently share their home with a Wheatland Terrier named Emma Lou and Jake, a Cairn Terrier
2009-05-12
How to Clean Your Dog's Ears
Cleaning your dog's ears can be easy, but you'll need to follow proper precautions. Dr. Mike walks you through a routine ear cleaning step-by-step so that you can perform ear cleaning for your dog. If there is an ear infection you'll learn what precautions to take and what to discuss with your vet.
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