Keeping your pet at a healthy weight is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help them live a longer, happier, and healthier life.
Recent studies show that over 50% of American pets are overweight or obese. Studies also show that 45% of pet owners asked if they pets were overweight said no, and they were wrong. Just like with humans, being overweight can come with serious health risks. Some of these can include diabetes, decreased liver function, increased risk of cancer, and skin and coat problems. For a dog, just 5 extra pounds can be an issue, while only 2 extra pounds on a cat can cause problems. If you’re not sure about your pet’s weight, talk to your veterinarian. He/she should be able to help regulate your pet’s food and help with ideas for more daily exercise. Also, remember treats given throughout the day should not make up more than 10% of the pet’s daily calorie intake.
Tip of the Month
Itch, itch, itch. Scratch, scratch, scratch. Bite, bite, bite. Lick, lick, lick. Do you see your dog doing a lot of this lately? If you answered yes, there’s a good chance your dog is suffering from allergies. Allergies are very common this time of year and with the dry conditions, there are possibly more affected dogs than usual, but there are some things you can do to help. First, make sure that you’re feeding your dog a high quality dog food that does not contain wheat, soy, or corn as many dogs are allergic to these. You may also want to cut out chicken as many dogs are allergic to this too. Next, you can bathe your dog (or take him/her to the groomer) with a medicated shampoo or an oatmeal shampoo to help soothe the skin. You can also use Vetericyn on any sores to help the skin heal. Vetericyn is like Neosporin on steroids and it won’t make your dog sick if he/she she licks it. If also else fails, consult your veterinarian about an appropriate dosage of Benadryl.
Training Tip of the Month
Does your dog insist on jumping on visitors when they walk through your door? Does he/she bark constantly at your visitors and won’t stop until he/she decides to stop? Is your dog a (horror of horror) crotch sniffer? Wouldn’t it be nice if you could teach your dog to quietly go to a pre-determined spot and be calm when visitors arrive? It’s possible. You can teach your dog “Spot” (or “Place” if you prefer). Teaching “Spot” is not difficult, but there are several steps so it can take some time. If you would like to teach your dog to go to his “Spot” whenever you give the cue “Spot”, when visitors arrive, or even the moment the doorbell rings, feel free to contact me to set up a consultation.
Breed of the Month
The Dalmatian is possibly one of the most recognized dog breeds. With its white coat and black (or sometimes liver) spots, the Dalmatian is quite striking. The breed might be best known for being a mascot in fire stations, but originally these dogs were used as coach dogs, guarding passengers and property for traveling by stagecoach. They can be excellent watchdogs and they can be outstanding working dogs, however they do have a stubborn streak. Dalmatians need exercise, meaning a lot of running as they were bred to be runners. They do best with positive training and early socialization. They need a fenced-in yard (remember, Runners) and leash training. Due to their energy level and proclivity towards working, the Dalmatian needs a job or at the very least, a high intensity activity. The Dalmatian would make an awesome running partner. If you’re considering getting a Dalmatian, you should know that health concerns could include epilepsy, deafness, kidney and bladder stones, hip dysplasia, and allergies.
Quote of the Month
“Yesterday I was a dog. Today I’m a dog. Tomorrow I’ll probably still be a dog. Sigh! There’s so little hope for advancement.” Snoopy