Healthy Pets

[Arwen]

Let's share things that keep our feathered, furred, finned, scaled and shelled friends healthy.

Got recipes?
Got questions?

I'm not a vet and I don't play one on TV either, but I am an animal lover. Let's talk about what keeps our companion animals healthy!

[Arwen]

From Banfield's newsletter:

On Wednesday, Nov. 4, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) issued a statement confirming that a cat in Iowa tested positive for the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. Iowa state officials confirmed that this is the first time a cat has been diagnosed with a strain of influenza.

The cat, which is recovering, is believed to have contracted the virus from a human in the household who had H1N1. There are no indications that the cat passed the virus on to any other Pets or to other people. Prior to this diagnosis, the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus had been found in humans, pigs, birds and ferrets. The virus was confirmed in two ferrets in Nebraska and one in Oregon. There have been no reports of infection in dogs.

As with humans, supportive care is the only treatment available for Pets with this virus. However, if your Pet has a fever, cough/sneeze and nasal discharge and someone in your household has had an influenza-like illness the week prior to the illness of your Pet, you should contact your local Banfield veterinarian.

So this really surprised me. I didn't realize H1N1 had been found in birds and ferrets either.

[Arwen]

Oh NO :(

I was just looking at our baby (Sister Amazing Gracie Fabulosa) the other day and wondering if this H1N1 crud could be passed to her.

Not good.

Right now it has not been found in dogs but I'd certainly be cautious.

[Darth Denkay]

Great thread! I imagine I'll be hanging out here quite a bit, figuring out what to do with 4 cats and a dog...

[blackboot]

I used to own a grooming salon and also sold product. I always cautioned dog owners about the choking danger of solid (not shredded and compressed) rawhide bones with the knots on each end. Those knots easily slide down a dogs' throat and can become lodged. A piece of rawhide can also cause intestinal blockage. I refused to sell these products in my shop. Another common danger is using a choke chain in place of a collar or leaving the choke on unattended.

[Arwen]

I used to own a grooming salon and also sold product. I always cautioned dog owners about the choking danger of solid (not shredded and compressed) rawhide bones with the knots on each end. Those knots easily slide down a dogs' throat and can become lodged. A piece of rawhide can also cause intestinal blockage. I refused to sell these products in my shop. Another common danger is using a choke chain in place of a collar or leaving the choke on unattended.

Nod. Choke chains are dangerous. I also owned a grooming salon (I think we talked about this once) but I did not sell product.

One of my clients died from a cow hoof treat. Beautiful Husky.

Best bet with any big chewy treat is to watch your pet. I know it's an easy thing to give them a chew while you are gone, but the things that could happen are myriad. And many of them are fatal.

Hate to be a drag, but better that then losing your pet.

[Rook]

I never Ever gave my pets Rawhide treats....my family + companion always complained that i was being too severe, snobby....
I would tell them exactly why I refused and of course the inevitable "Ohhhh" followed....
I did give Natural treats...
Dried chicken breast treats specifically for my pooch...
Greenies....
Real bones...femurs, oxtails...and the occasional pizzle stick...
Of course for my ferrets, Cheweasels, n-bone, and a maximum 2 nuggets of Marshal treat or the all-meat treats, plus Ferret crack..or Ferretone....

When I found out Ferrets can get h1n1, I doubled my effort to sanitize and avoid snibbly people upTown....
my county has a few cases, and 1 infant fatality....

For other ferret owners that have Sickly ferrets or Older ferrets that can't eat solids well..

duk soup can be as basic as you want it to be
3 chicken Thighs/legs (about a lb)
about 1/2 cup of premium FERRET kibble
about 1 tbsp of Ferretone*or more..if they're stubborn*
half jar 1st stage baby food MEAT..{beef, chicken, turkey, lamb...your pick...i oftentimes did chicken, turkey or lamb]
Pedialyte (non-flavored) 2 tbsp


Pretty simple, boil the chicken and keep the broth, break the chicken up into small piece and put into a blender, add about 1/2 cup of the broth. Blend untill liquid. Add a bit of the broth to the kibble to allow it to soften up, then blend with a bit of broth, adding Pedialyte + baby food. Mix all the liquids together, add some ferretone and mix. You can add more broth if needed to make it liquidy..
The consistency is really up to the ailing/older ferrets ability to eat..try not to make it too soupy...
Gotta keep in mind, they will poop it, and it'll be incredibly "Ripe" if it's not balanced out...
like a baby eating baby food...
If there's leftover, pour them in ice cube tray, freeze, then heat up whenever needed, not too hot..just lukewarm...

[Legendryder]

Great thread. I have two dogs myself, one young, one old. My older furkid has started having problems eating hard food, so she started dropping weight a bit. I went to the store, bought cans of wet food and a tube of Nurtical, and she is back to normal. I do have to stick Bob in another room, as a chihuahua, he will eat any and everything. He is already a walking furry table as it is. So, he gets dry food, and the Queen gets wet food. All good.

[Diavolo]

Nod. Choke chains are dangerous. I also owned a grooming salon (I think we talked about this once) but I did not sell product.

One of my clients died from a cow hoof treat. Beautiful Husky.

Best bet with any big chewy treat is to watch your pet. I know it's an easy thing to give them a chew while you are gone, but the things that could happen are myriad. And many of them are fatal.

Hate to be a drag, but better that then losing your pet.


And don't forget those weird little soft ball like things from China that my brother's dog swallowed. Lots of dogs have had to have surgery over those. I just had to pick up Doberman puke. :eek:

[Legendryder]

My dogs get milkbones. Only. If they feel like chewing, they have Kong balls and rubber toys for that.

[Bit]

So this really surprised me. I didn't realize H1N1 had been found in birds and ferrets either.

They call it H1N1 because it is a mutant combination of Swine Flu and Bird Flu, so yes, birds can get it.

I didn't know about ferrets and cats getting it, though.

Thank you for the thread, Arwen!

[Eddie]

I'm looking at taking ownership of my friend's pet. She has to give her away (long story) and I would rather take the pet than her giving it to a random person. It's a miniature chocolate dapple dachshund. The great thing is that the pet knows me and she's house broken, crate trained and so on. The not so great thing is that I will no longer be able to pick up and leave for weekend getaways on a whim like I am able to now. I want the pet and have been thinking of having one for a long while now, but I know it is a huge responsibility for me and I know there's a lot to ponder over with this new addition to my home.

[Arwen]

My niece makes dog cookies. She shared some with the Del Valle dogs who LOVED them. Here is her recipe.

A*'s Dog Cookies

Preheat oven to 375F. Lightly grease cookie sheet.

Combine:
2 C flour
1 T baking powder
Set aside.

Slowly pour 1 Cup milk into 1 Cup Peanut Butter (Crunchy or Smooth – your dog’s choice). Mix until smooth

Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until all ingredients are mixed together. Form into a ball and then knead on a LIGHTLY floured surface for a few minutes. Flatten (or roll) out to about ½ inch thickness and cut with cookie cutter (A* uses a tree shaped cookie cutter, but you can use whatever you have on hand).

Place on lightly greased baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until firm to the touch. Store in an airtight container

I think I might be inclined to use a different liquid for the mixing. I'll have to experiment.

[Bit]

I think I might be inclined to use a different liquid for the mixing. I'll have to experiment.


Chicken broth!

Thank you for the recipe; I'll have to try these for Lady after I get my oven fixed.

[Darth Denkay]

Hey Legend!

You may have already done this - if so ignore me - but have you had your furkid checked by a vet to see if she needs a dental? Gum disease and tooth problems will make them go off eating anything that's going to be painful. Just a thought.

Great thread. I have two dogs myself, one young, one old. My older furkid has started having problems eating hard food, so she started dropping weight a bit. I went to the store, bought cans of wet food and a tube of Nurtical, and she is back to normal. I do have to stick Bob in another room, as a chihuahua, he will eat any and everything. He is already a walking furry table as it is. So, he gets dry food, and the Queen gets wet food. All good.

[MsDemeanor]

H1N1 in cats is not a surprise, as they can contract type-A influenza. They don't pass it to other cats, but they can get it from humans. Flu in ferrets is quite common; they are one of the animals that are used in flu testing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I always feed my dog the best possible dry food and treats that I could find. Most of his life he was on Natura products, first California Natural then, when it became available in my area, Innova. He got the occasional table scrap, but never enough to impact his diet. I kept him away from the vet and medications as much as possible, he had minimal shots and didn't take any of those expensive monthly pills that vets always recommend. He never had a flea or tick problem, so this decision didn't jeopardize his health in any way. He finally passed this week at the age of 18, so I figure that I must have been doing something right all those years.

[Inuus]

MsDemeanor Im sorry for your loss. Your pup lived a full life Im sure :)

This site has some great pet recipes if anyone is interested. I have tried making a couple myself...uumm for my dog Gouda of course although I will admit I tried them after they were baked. Hey I love Gouda too much to allow her to try something I wouldnt eat myself ;)

http://www.bullwrinkle.com/Assets/Recipes/Recipes.htm

[Bit]

{{{{{{{{{{{Mr. and MsDemeanor}}}}}}}}}}

Hello Inuus, welcome!

[MsDemeanor]

Thank you for the kind words. It's kinda hard to be too sad, 18 years is twice what most folks get with their furbabies.

[Dude]

No sooner had we got home from Austin on sunday that our little chihuahua/shitzu two year old started having a seizure.
She has had about 5 in her lifetime now.
This one and the one previous (4 mnths ago) continued until we got her to emergency vet for a shot of valium.
We took her to our vet yesterday and are waiting on blood work to come back.

I thought it was worth a shot to see if anyone here has gone thru this with such
a young dog.

[Arwen]

No sooner had we got home from Austin on sunday that our little chihuahua/shitzu two year old started having a seizure.
She has had about 5 in her lifetime now.
This one and the one previous (4 mnths ago) continued until we got her to emergency vet for a shot of valium.
We took her to our vet yesterday and are waiting on blood work to come back.

I thought it was worth a shot to see if anyone here has gone thru this with such
a young dog.

So sorry to hear about your baby's illness, Dude. That's scary.

I did know a few dogs (grooming clients and friends' dogs) that were epileptic at a young age. One of them was known to be a case of in-breeding (brother/sister combination.) The others we did not know about.

The triggers seemed to be overstimulation much like in children. When the dogs were stressed or tired, a seizure could happen.

One was a food allergy of all things. Dog reacted to carrots. :|

[Deborah]

No sooner had we got home from Austin on sunday that our little chihuahua/shitzu two year old started having a seizure.
She has had about 5 in her lifetime now.
This one and the one previous (4 mnths ago) continued until we got her to emergency vet for a shot of valium.
We took her to our vet yesterday and are waiting on blood work to come back.

I thought it was worth a shot to see if anyone here has gone thru this with such
a young dog.

UPDATE; blood work back they are thinking she may have a Liver Shunt...going back for another enzime test Friday morning....anyone have experience with this? Scary stuff...

[Arwen]

UPDATE; blood work back they are thinking she may have a Liver Shunt...going back for another enzime test Friday morning....anyone have experience with this? Scary stuff...


Scary indeed. I believe a liver shunt is fixable via surgery. A very close friend is a vet in Denver. Hang in there. May I light a candle for your little dog?

[Dude]

shit...:confused:
she was back to her normal self yesterday only to have another seizure this am.
fortunately we had a rectal dose of valium to stop it quickly and gave her some honey
in case its low blood sugar too getting her all outta wack.

if this next test comes back bad he's referring us to a vet in Dallas for an mri
then surgery

[jfreas]

This is an interesting link- Grade your dog food.

http://zenathepug.blogspot.com/2009/11/how-does-your-dogs-food-rate.html

[Arwen]

shit...:confused:
she was back to her normal self yesterday only to have another seizure this am.
fortunately we had a rectal dose of valium to stop it quickly and gave her some honey
in case its low blood sugar too getting her all outta wack.

if this next test comes back bad he's referring us to a vet in Dallas for an mri
then surgery

Dude, I'm so sorry to hear this. I will hope that the vets can get this all worked out for you all. It's so stressful to have a kid sick! Hug!

[Sam]

one of our neighbors has a american bulldog, most beautiful male i have ever seen. he started throwing up blood, they found pancreatic cancer.

stuff like that just blows my mind.

[violaine]

oxbow products for all life stages:

vitamin C chewable 50 mg tablet for guinea pigs = daily; pellets for young and/or nursing pigs [contain alfalfa], adult pig chow does not contain alfalfa [only timothy], variety of fresh hays [orchard, timothy, brome, botanical, et c.], hay cakes, and critical care for emergency feeding.

[Rook]

This is an interesting link- Grade your dog food.

http://zenathepug.blogspot.com/2009/11/how-does-your-dogs-food-rate.html

More proof that my brother feeds his pooch doggie Swill.....

[Inuus]

I'm sorry to hear this. My dog went thru chemo which damaged her liver. I learned alot about liver disease/problems via forums and groups. If you want any info I will be glad to pass on what I know about liver problems and refer you to the places I found

UPDATE; blood work back they are thinking she may have a Liver Shunt...going back for another enzime test Friday morning....anyone have experience with this? Scary stuff...

[Dude]

Hang in there. May I light a candle for your little dog?

thank you
and yes please ..:candle:

she's at the doctors getting blood work without food
then in two hours bloodwork with food

hoping to hell it's hypoglycemia and not liver shunt :ohm:

[Dude]

I'm sorry to hear this. My dog went thru chemo which damaged her liver. I learned alot about liver disease/problems via forums and groups. If you want any info I will be glad to pass on what I know about liver problems and refer you to the places I found

yes please

how is your Gouda doing?

[Arwen]

thank you
and yes please ..:candle:

she's at the doctors getting blood work without food
then in two hours bloodwork with food

hoping to hell it's hypoglycemia and not liver shunt :ohm:

What's her name? I apologize if you've said this, but I do not remember.

[Dude]

What's her name? I apologize if you've said this, but I do not remember.

foster
fosterini for short:heartbeat:

[Bit]

:candle: :candle: :candle: Bright blessings to Gouda and Fosterini!! :candle: :candle: :candle:

[Darth Denkay]

Caring for dogs with seizures is never fun. My parents and I have a Great Dane who started having seizures when he was 3 months old. It took over a year to get him regulated in any way. First, he was growing so quickly that we could never get the dosage right. Secondly, when we seemed to have to dose right, he had horrible side effects to the meds, enough so that we considered putting him down. He was so weak in his back end that we felt his quality of life was really compromised. Our vet referred us to a study being conducted at the University of Tennessee Knoxville vet school on an experimental drug. That drug saved Moose's (our dog's life). It's a bit more expensive than the traditional drugs but a little with a little research we found a source that was very affordable.

I don't know if I specified that we did the whole round of tests when his seizures first began, and everything was within normal range, so he's your run-of-the-mill epileptic. Just very young for it to start.

Sounds as though in your pup's case there may be a physiological cause for the seizures, and one that can be corrected. Keep us posted.

shit...:confused:
she was back to her normal self yesterday only to have another seizure this am.
fortunately we had a rectal dose of valium to stop it quickly and gave her some honey
in case its low blood sugar too getting her all outta wack.

if this next test comes back bad he's referring us to a vet in Dallas for an mri
then surgery

[Dude]

results from tests came back as probably not a liver shunt:dance2:

but he wants to try her out on potassium bromade to help control them

she finally has solid poop again (she got runs from the valium) and she is
playful and eating good.

[Inuus]

Im happy for you and the little one about the test results. I know what that feels like to be waiting thinking the worst. Keep us posted!

[Darth Denkay]

Hey, very good news about the liver!!!

As much as we hate anything to be wrong with our furbabies, epilepsy can usually be successfully managed. I worked as a vet tech for 10 years and remember quite a few patients who did really well - on meds of course. The reality is that your pup will probably have the occasional seizure, but not too often and not requiring valium to stop it.

Here's hoping your :dog: responds well to the meds!

results from tests came back as probably not a liver shunt:dance2:

but he wants to try her out on potassium bromade to help control them

she finally has solid poop again (she got runs from the valium) and she is
playful and eating good.

[Dude]

She has gone a week now with NO seizures and she is yet to
be put on any meds.
I still need to research that pottasium bromide and apparently it
is not easily accessable because the vet has still not received it.

[Arwen]

She has gone a week now with NO seizures and she is yet to
be put on any meds.
I still need to research that pottasium bromide and apparently it
is not easily accessable because the vet has still not received it.

I am so very glad to hear this, Dude! I know you both must be so relieved!

[Darth Denkay]

Hey Dude, just wondering how your pup is???

[Dude]

I am so very glad to hear this, Dude! I know you both must be so relieved!

huge relief
she's nearly 2 weeks seizure free now

still trying to figure out what is the best treatment for her.
hypoglycemia ,diabeties or epilepsy?
I'm not sure the tests were conclusive on which one yet,
or if there's more testing we need to try to know for sure.

I really really want a stylish papoose. :eyebrow:

[Dude]

Hey Dude, just wondering how your pup is???

back to her bratty self ,thank you

also I was wondering if you know the name of the drug your dog is on?

This girl is a very picky eater, which doesn't help matters.We have been
giving her chicken because it's the only thing she will consistently eat.
We also have been giving her a midnight feeding.
We would like to ( if it's diabetes or hypoglycemia) control this thru diet
or supplements of some kind.
If any one knows of some healthier things she might eat in addition to her
chicken that would be great.

[Bit]

OMG after almost three years of insisting "we will NOT get another dog until Lady is gone; I don't want her teaching another dog her bad habits; I cannot handle six animals; we cannot afford two dogs right now...." etc etc.... I think I just adopted a puppy.

:thud:

My neighbors moved out and friends of the family came to clean up their apartment, so I went over to say hello and discovered that their puppy--which had been given away--was brought back this morning and dumped on the cleaning friends by a woman who said, "Take this dog back before my husband kills it."

The hip is deformed and the pup can't put any weight on the back leg at all. I have to go pick Lady up at the vet's this afternoon and so I offered to take the pup with me and see how bad the injuries are, and whether the dog can be saved or not.......

...........I can't shake the thought that I just got Gryph a puppy..........

This is crazy... How are we going to feed a pup that looks like it's either lab or pit bull??

How am I going to convince Lady to accept a puppy?

How will the cats EVER come to forgive us?!!!

.............maybe the puppy will belong to someone else... maybe... maybe? :praying:

[kassykit]

Good luck! :junesmiley:

[kassykit]

So my poor girl keeps refusing to eat, any suggestions? (girl = dog, 4 year old, germanshepard mix, 92lbs, not underweight, not overwieght, just picky)

[wolfwalker]

suck it up Bit. LOL you just got yourself another dog LOL I hate when stuff like that happens cause i know I am the new owner. LOL


Is there a reason your dog is not eating? sick? new food? if not, just leave some food down and when she wants, she will eat it. they will not starve to death, count on it.

wolfwalker :woodchop:

[Bit]

Thank you kassy! I find myself hoping against hope this lil guy can make it and won't need surgery.

wolfwalker, shhhh! But yeah... *wry smile* I suspect you're right, I think he's ours if he lives because I KNOW Gryph is gonna Fall. In. Love. And I haven't got the heart to deny him if he falls for this baby, I really haven't! Those big baby blues will be begging me and how on earth can I say no?!

kassy, does your girl have a bad tooth? The fastest way to find out is to check her mouth... if she pulls away and won't let you look, it's time for the vet. Best of luck to you too!

[NotAnAverageGuy]

I swear my gliders eat better than I do but as for my dog, she tries to eat human food AND dog food.

she loves to eat my rice and I know u can feed them chicken and rice, but my question is, no seasonings on the chicken? and what temp to bake on and how long?

[Bit]

CRAP... I have a dog. I went to the bathroom... he cried and then FORCED himself to follow me, crying from pain and fear the whole way. Once he saw where I was he went back to bed... and then FORCED himself to come and meet me when I came back to the puter.

This baby better live. Crap. He wagged his tail at me, with two bad hips, he wagged his tail. CRAP.

*tries not to cry*

*doesn't succeed very well*

~~~~~~~~

*takes deep breath and gets re-centered*

Okay NotAnAverageGuy *that's a mouthful, lol* your dog can eat chicken, yes, cooked by any method--I favor boiling because you get the broth also, sooo good to make the rice with the broth--BUT never never never ever the chicken bones, and never turkey bones or turkey skin either.

Avoid mushrooms, onions, salt, and beans. Garlic is okay for dogs; it helps a little to repel fleas, and dogs tend to like the flavor.

[NotAnAverageGuy]

CRAP... I have a dog. I went to the bathroom... he cried and then FORCED himself to follow me, crying from pain and fear the whole way. Once he saw where I was he went back to bed... and then FORCED himself to come and meet me when I came back to the puter.

This baby better live. Crap. He wagged his tail at me, with two bad hips, he wagged his tail. CRAP.

*tries not to cry*

*doesn't succeed very well*

~~~~~~~~

*takes deep breath and gets re-centered*

Okay NotAnAverageGuy *that's a mouthful, lol* your dog can eat chicken, yes, cooked by any method--I favor boiling because you get the broth also, sooo good to make the rice with the broth--BUT never never never ever the chicken bones, and never turkey bones or turkey skin either.

Avoid mushrooms, onions, salt, and beans. Garlic is okay for dogs; it helps a little to repel fleas, and dogs tend to like the flavor.


Hmm boiling never thought about that, ty for the tips and my dog is a garlic whore anyways lol, she got ahold of my garlic rice one time and chowed down

*rolls eyes* and if its easier just call me sugar daddieo lol

[Darth Denkay]

Hey Dude, so glad she is being bratty again!!!!!

The special med we have Moose on is Keppra - it's used regularly in the human market but is fairly new to the veterinary market. It has made a huge difference in his life. He still takes low doses of phenobarbital and potassium bromide, but because the doses are so small he doesn't suffer from any side effects. He still has seizures - maybe once a month (and I daresay, you haven't seen a seizure until you've watched a 160# great dane have a full-fledged grand mal...). Once a month we can deal with. And equally as important, he now comes out of the seizure on his own fairly quickly, so no valium needed, and no more trips to the emergency clinic for seizure clusters that won't stop. That medication has truly been a life-saver for Moose.

back to her bratty self ,thank you

also I was wondering if you know the name of the drug your dog is on?

This girl is a very picky eater, which doesn't help matters.We have been
giving her chicken because it's the only thing she will consistently eat.
We also have been giving her a midnight feeding.
We would like to ( if it's diabetes or hypoglycemia) control this thru diet
or supplements of some kind.
If any one knows of some healthier things she might eat in addition to her
chicken that would be great.

[Sachita]

I swear my gliders eat better than I do but as for my dog, she tries to eat human food AND dog food.

she loves to eat my rice and I know u can feed them chicken and rice, but my question is, no seasonings on the chicken? and what temp to bake on and how long?

are you asking how to bake a chicken? Its cheaper to buy the chicken on the bone cut up. If you're making it for your dog maybe put a tiny bit of olive oil. Bake at 380 for about 40 min, but that depends on the size of the pieces. I cook everything by temperature and use thermometer. You can also boil it until it starts to break away. Just pull it off the bones. Make sure you get all the bones. Try baking a sweet potato and give her/him 1/2 with that chicken.

no seasoning and definitely no onions. many times we give our dogs leftovers without thinking what's in it and some things are just not good for them and will make them sick.

[Sachita]

Hmm boiling never thought about that, ty for the tips and my dog is a garlic whore anyways lol, she got ahold of my garlic rice one time and chowed down

*rolls eyes* and if its easier just call me sugar daddieo lol

Just don't do too much garlic. In small doses its fine. Don't use garlic salt. Try adding a little parsley.

Dogs also love plain yogurt and small amounts its good for them. I wouldn't go crazy on grains. The best thing you can feed your dog is chicken, veggies, some fruits. Very little, if any grains.

[NotAnAverageGuy]

are you asking how to bake a chicken? Its cheaper to buy the chicken on the bone cut up. If you're making it for your dog maybe put a tiny bit of olive oil. Bake at 380 for about 40 min, but that depends on the size of the pieces. I cook everything by temperature and use thermometer. You can also boil it until it starts to break away. Just pull it off the bones. Make sure you get all the bones. Try baking a sweet potato and give her/him 1/2 with that chicken.

no seasoning and definitely no onions. many times we give our dogs leftovers without thinking what's in it and some things are just not good for them and will make them sick.

ohhhhhhh they can eat sweet tatos, woot this is great and yeah I always buy boneless chicken, I just wasnt sure what temp to set it too and for how long.


Just don't do too much garlic. In small doses its fine. Don't use garlic salt. Try adding a little parsley.

Dogs also love plain yogurt and small amounts its good for them. I wouldn't go crazy on grains. The best thing you can feed your dog is chicken, veggies, some fruits. Very little, if any grains.


Yeah I have heard small doses and never garlic salt always garlic powder, i dont like garlic salt anyways lol so I wouldnt let my dog have it.... I think i need to google what dogs can and cannot have

[Inuus]

When my Gouda got liver damage from her chemo treatments her appetite was off. I joined a canine liver disease yahoo group and learned a wealth of information especially on diets. The easiest thing for a dog to digest for a protien source is fish. Dr Dodds DVM diet was highly recommended in this yahoo group. Of course not every dog mentioned here has liver disease but one can get the idea of ingredients dogs need in their diets if you choose to make your own
http://www.monicasegal.com/aboutus/yahoo017.php
Recipe


Per Week:

42 oz cod, baked

35 oz potato

42 oz sweet potato

21 oz zucchini

42 oz green beans

5 capsules, vitamin E 100 IU

25 mg vitamin B compound

250 mg Ester-C

1 ½ eggshells

7 tsp. canola oil (not to be used for dogs that have seizures)

40 mg zinc citrate or gluconate

1 ¼ tsp di-calcium phosphate

3 capsules, Multimineral Complex

As far as commercial food I feed Gouda Taste Of The Wild. Not cheap at all but I just love the ingredients in it and it has made a huge difference in her coat. Here is a link to the list of ingredients

http://www.tasteofthewildpetfood.com/products/ingredients/

Here is also a link with some info and other links about canine diabetes diets

http://www.caninediabetes.org/pdorg/diet.htm



back to her bratty self ,thank you

also I was wondering if you know the name of the drug your dog is on?

This girl is a very picky eater, which doesn't help matters.We have been
giving her chicken because it's the only thing she will consistently eat.
We also have been giving her a midnight feeding.
We would like to ( if it's diabetes or hypoglycemia) control this thru diet
or supplements of some kind.
If any one knows of some healthier things she might eat in addition to her
chicken that would be great.

[Inuus]

I forgot to add one more link (I read ALOT when Gouda was sick)
This link has ALOT of links on canine diet and nutrition

http://www.lowchensaustralia.com/health/diet.htm

[Novelafemme]

Remember to never give your dog grapes. They usually love them but the skins can be toxic to their kidneys.

Also, I just found this little factoid out...when your dog poops - look at the poop about 10-15 minutes after and see if it has a noctiably white/dry look to it. A dog who's food is properly balanced should have poop that maintains its poopy color for at least an hour or so after. If it turns white then your dogs kidneys aren't functioning properly so as to add moisture to the feces. One of the number one causes of premature death in dogs is kidney ailments. Olive had this problem and so I switched her food and she is pooping great now!

I also feed her two raw eggs a week to keep her coat shiney. She loves them...I can crack the egg right into her mouth :D

[Sachita]

ohhhhhhh they can eat sweet tatos, woot this is great and yeah I always buy boneless chicken, I just wasnt sure what temp to set it too and for how long.





Yeah I have heard small doses and never garlic salt always garlic powder, i dont like garlic salt anyways lol so I wouldnt let my dog have it.... I think i need to google what dogs can and cannot have

Dogs love sweet potatoes and pumpkin. If you eat in balance with your local area you'll be more healthy and so will your dog. This is why seasonal fruits and veggies are important. In fall and into winter everyone, even my hens and pig get sweet potatoes, echinacea- cone flowers (which they eat no problem) and garlic. As mentioned I also start throwing mint, basil and any other herbs I have growing in the ground right before they freeze. This builds up immunity for winter.

Then spring you can give berries and baby greens which are easy to grow. But if you don't garden buy a big bag of blue berries at Sam's Club, defrost what you need and add to food with a small amount of yogurt. If you don't garden buy the tubs of organic spinach and salad mix - puree and add. They are under 4.00 a tub and one tub will last 1 human, 2 dogs or 1 tub 5 dogs.
AS summer heat approaches continue greens and add cantaloupe, green beans and peas. Soy beans in limited amounts,

There are things you clearly stay away from. Onions, tomatos (some tomato sauce ok) citrus, grapes, anything acid. Corn is ok but it's really too starchy and adds very little to their diet.

I eat a lot of beans- black beans, pinto, black eye peas. I always make extra for my dogs without onions and often throw in greens.

Change your own diet, become more balanced with the earth and your local environment then share it with your dog. Yes, he needs protein but why not supplement with fruits, veggies and legumes?

Here's what gets me... they tell you the life expectancy of certain breeds and it ranges from 14-20 years, right? The life expectancy of humans 40 years ago was very low, now its proven, with proper diet a human can live a healthy life to 120 years! I feel we can give this to our pets too. Over and over I see the results of of dogs living 25-30 years. Some of my dogs are already older and I didn't know what I know today. The dogs I adopt are already challenged BUT I see a huge difference in every aspect of their life by watching their diet, brushing, nice music, walks and love. We all benefit from this plan. (kiss)

[NotAnAverageGuy]

When you search for breed life expectancy, most sites give you 12-20 years and also list what each breed is prone to, as well.

I am gonna start off small with baked chicken and sweet tatos and see what she does.

[Arwen]

Health Alert for some dog treats. (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34876612/ns/health-pet_health/)

[Dude]

I'm unsure if Hartz OR Sergants flea & tick products have been brought up in this thread.

Dont use them. Although you can buy them at the grocery store they are extremely toxic and the side effects can be long lasting and / or deadly.

I have some Dr.Fl33 natural shampoo that is the best shit ever.It's concentrated,lasts a long time and smells hella good ..
Cant remember what I spent but it is worth every penny.

www.kelcoshampoo.com

Updates on our two special needs dogs.

Our lil dog has not had a seizure for a month and a half now.:cheesy:
We are trying her on that pottasium bromade stuff. It has not made her
lethargic at all. She is 100 times more playful, in fact. She must of really felt like shit with out it.

My puppy who was in ICU on IV's two different times as a baby, is now a healthy ,rotund and super sweet 7 months old.
I actually feel comfortable enough to have her spayed soon and seriously
thought I never would make it to this point.
I may have ruined her (a tiny bit) with my over protective issues and she is
a huge sissy.

[Arwen]

I'm unsure if Hartz OR Sergants flea & tick products have been brought up in this thread.SNIP




Here's to healthy babies and relieved dads/moms/owners all!

And I so agree with you about those two product lines. They SUCK. I warned my clients not to use them. I've seen hideous burns on cats and dogs with sensitive skin from their craptastic collars.

[Rufusboi]

hello all - what flea products do you recommed for adult cats. A Vet recommended revolution. I've never used it before and I'm not sure if the vet is recommending it because it is good or because this is the product they sell. We've been using Frontline but I've been told by this vet its not as good as revolution. Fleas are bad in this area and we track them in, I'm sure. The cats are all house cats but one recently developed worms and the vet is blaming frontline for not being effective enough.

Rufus

[Dude]

Hey , I'm glad you brought up revolution

here's a link that has some info

http://www.1800petmeds.com/Revolution-prod10265-10265.html

We've been getting it through the vet and I'm investigating a cheaper
way.

The flea shampoo I posted says you can use it on anything
so my duck could be getting a bath soon. ( normally I do him in Dawn)
I also need to make a call to a vet who does fowl in this area to see about
getting him a shot so he doesn't catch nothing from a damn mosquito

[Sachita]

hello all - what flea products do you recommed for adult cats. A Vet recommended revolution. I've never used it before and I'm not sure if the vet is recommending it because it is good or because this is the product they sell. We've been using Frontline but I've been told by this vet its not as good as revolution. Fleas are bad in this area and we track them in, I'm sure. The cats are all house cats but one recently developed worms and the vet is blaming frontline for not being effective enough.

Rufus

Here's what I do. I hate giving my animals chemicals of any kind. We have bad tick problems here in Southern VA. Most of the year I use this:

http://www.ashleysgreenproducts.net/PetPrideNoFlea.html

It really works great. Its cheap and effective. Its' also healthy for them and you'll see it in their coats.

Then two times I give them frontline- once around june and not again until august. I might even stop that too.

I also put this: http://www.garlicbarrier.com/ in a hose end sprayer. I add a teaspoon of any cooking oil. shake often and this stuff works great not only on ticks and fleas but I spray my garden weekly with this stuff. The oil helps it stay a little better. I spray around the house and dog yards. It's pricy but worth it IMO. when you start looking at the cost of flea and tick and the health risk it is.

In my house I even clean with vinegar, natural products. I dont want my a animals exposed to chemicals. I do use bleach now and then.

[TheBellyBionic]

In our menagerie at the moment:
Angus - the dog, probably a Landseer Newfoundland mix, 80 lbs, about 2 years old, we just adopted him in May
Cerridwen - female cat, 6 year old Maine Coon mix, mackerel tabby
Liam - male cat, 5 year old Maine Coon mix, black
Willow, female cat, 9? year old calico
Nobby Nobbs - 1 year old male champagne hooded dumbo rat
Gytha - 4 month old female tangerine Bearded Dragon

We used to feed Angus Kirkland Signature kibble until we found out he's allergic to wheat and chicken. Damnit. So we had to switch him over to Blue Buffalo Whitefish and Sweet Potato. So, of course, now that he can't have wheat or chicken finding treats for him at Petsmart is all but impossible. Anyone have any great recipes for wheat-free homemade dog cookies?

[Sachita]

In our menagerie at the moment:
Angus - the dog, probably a Landseer Newfoundland mix, 80 lbs, about 2 years old, we just adopted him in May
Cerridwen - female cat, 6 year old Maine Coon mix, mackerel tabby
Liam - male cat, 5 year old Maine Coon mix, black
Willow, female cat, 9? year old calico
Nobby Nobbs - 1 year old male champagne hooded dumbo rat
Gytha - 4 month old female tangerine Bearded Dragon

We used to feed Angus Kirkland Signature kibble until we found out he's allergic to wheat and chicken. Damnit. So we had to switch him over to Blue Buffalo Whitefish and Sweet Potato. So, of course, now that he can't have wheat or chicken finding treats for him at Petsmart is all but impossible. Anyone have any great recipes for wheat-free homemade dog cookies?

how about mini rice cakes with a little peanut butter on it?
also dehydrate large pieces of sweet potato and apples.

[Inuus]

I have made a few treats from this website
http://www.bullwrinkle.com/Assets/Recipes/Recipes.htm

The one I make for my dog Gouda which she loves and that I made for all her dog buddies for Xmas is

http://www.bullwrinkle.com/Assets/Recipes/Peanut%20Butter%20Dog%20Biscuits.htm

Not saying they are the best or the healthiest. They were the easiest to make for me at the time and she ended up loving them

ETA: You could substitute rice or potato flour for the reg flour in most of those treats Im sure

[Dude]

Here in Texas heartworm is a huge concern.
revolution is also a preventative for that.

For me, it's the lesser of two evils. My dogs are getting that
medicine not heartworm.

yet another link
http://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources/faqs.html#q9

[Rufusboi]

Hey , I'm glad you brought up revolution

here's a link that has some info

http://www.1800petmeds.com/Revolution-prod10265-10265.html

We've been getting it through the vet and I'm investigating a cheaper
way.

The flea shampoo I posted says you can use it on anything
so my duck could be getting a bath soon. ( normally I do him in Dawn)
I also need to make a call to a vet who does fowl in this area to see about
getting him a shot so he doesn't catch nothing from a damn mosquito



Dude - I order frontline from this site. They use Paypal. Free shipping and a lot cheaper than 1800 ped meds.

http://www.petproductsontheweb.com/revolution.htm

Rufus

[dixie]

I hope that as a "healthy pet" thread someone might be able to help me. I'm at my wit's end. Here is the background info: Normally I adopt all my pets from the humane society, but my gf has wanted a Boston Terrier since she was a child. I had Bostons when I was growing up and know them to be wonderful sweet animals so I went to a breeder (not a puppy mill type), and got a little boy, papers and all. The lady assured me that the puppy was up to date, vaccinated, de-wormed, etc. I also got to view the lady's other pets, as well as the parents and siblings of the puppy. They all seemed to be in perfect health so I felt confident in my purchase. I gave the puppy to my gf on Christmas Day. His name is Butch and he's around 10 wks old. He's been a wonderful, hyper, seemingly normal, happy puppy since the day we brought him home. Until last night...

Around midnight last night, he started throwing up. He refuses to eat or drink, and has become very lethargic. Now, not only is he throwing up a white foamy substance, he has also been having a horrible liquid diarrhea. I can tell he is dehydrated from the elasticity of his skin. We've been trying to get liquids into him with a puppy feeder syringe-looking thing, but it's just not enough. There are only two vets in our town, and being weekend they won't even return the emergency calls. We've also tried calling the only 24/7 emergency vet which is almost 2 hours away but they couldn't see him today either. I don't know how in the world he got so sick so fast, in just a matter of hours. He is monitored closely, and there's nothing hazardous he could have gotten in to. Could it be an underlying illness that he's had this entire time? He's had no symptoms at all of anything before last night. I am so confused and so worried.

I am freaking out here, crying on and off, and terrified that he is dying. I don't know what to do! I can't stand the thought that the little guy is suffering. Does anyone have any idea of what I can do to help him until I can get a vet to see him? Any way that I can give him some kind of comfort? Any better ideas on how to get at least fluids in him? Any advice or ideas would be so greatly appreciated. We love this little angel and can't stand the thought of losing him so soon after finding him. We would all be heartbroken, because my son is totally attached to him too. Please help...


http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n149/cdsilv1/014.jpg

[Cassy]

[QUOTE=dixielady;35544]Around midnight last night, he started throwing up. He refuses to eat or drink, and has become very lethargic. Now, not only is he throwing up a white foamy substance, he has also been having a horrible liquid diarrhea.



It sounds like a blockage, he may have injested a toy or part of something. Puppies are quick. I would get him in to the vet and have an xray done. The hours before they open are the longest. How is he this morning?

[Sachita]

he needs to go to the vet asap. it could also be that he ate something toxic. you really need to supervise puppies. They get into all kinds of things.

Good luck and keep us posted.

[Inuus]

I hope we get an update on the pup

I know you said the breeder gave all shots worming etc. I hope you saw documentation of this. Im pretty anal about that stuff and have to see documentation especially for parvo. Plus I have seen people give parvo vaccinations too late once the pup already had been exposed to the virus. Not saying thats what the pup has but its a possibility and IF thats the case getting to the VET ASAP is of the essence I wouldnt delay at all especially in a 10 week old pup

[blush]

Please be cautious about using online pet pharmacies (http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm048164.htm).

Also, the problem with using flea collars is not the brand, but the chemical being used. Because there is no way to control dosage in a collar, animals are frequently overdosed. If you have to use one, cut the "tag" off.

Here's a couple of articles about Frontline (http://www.petshed.com/petcyclopedia/using-frontline-plus-for-dogs.html) and Revolution (http://www.petshed.com/petcyclopedia/all-about-revolution-for-cats.html). They break down the chemicals used and how they are transported through the animal's system. If you are going to use an "off brand" of these medications, please double check the main ingredient. Frequently, the "off brand" is a concentrated form of dog flea/tick dip (some version of a pyrethrin). Pyrethrins can be toxic to cats.

[Dude]

I hope that as a "healthy pet" thread someone might be able to help me. I'm at my wit's end. Here is the background info: Normally I adopt all my pets from the humane society, but my gf has wanted a Boston Terrier since she was a child. I had Bostons when I was growing up and know them to be wonderful sweet animals so I went to a breeder (not a puppy mill type), and got a little boy, papers and all. The lady assured me that the puppy was up to date, vaccinated, de-wormed, etc. I also got to view the lady's other pets, as well as the parents and siblings of the puppy. They all seemed to be in perfect health so I felt confident in my purchase. I gave the puppy to my gf on Christmas Day. His name is Butch and he's around 10 wks old. He's been a wonderful, hyper, seemingly normal, happy puppy since the day we brought him home. Until last night...

Around midnight last night, he started throwing up. He refuses to eat or drink, and has become very lethargic. Now, not only is he throwing up a white foamy substance, he has also been having a horrible liquid diarrhea. I can tell he is dehydrated from the elasticity of his skin. We've been trying to get liquids into him with a puppy feeder syringe-looking thing, but it's just not enough. There are only two vets in our town, and being weekend they won't even return the emergency calls. We've also tried calling the only 24/7 emergency vet which is almost 2 hours away but they couldn't see him today either. I don't know how in the world he got so sick so fast, in just a matter of hours. He is monitored closely, and there's nothing hazardous he could have gotten in to. Could it be an underlying illness that he's had this entire time? He's had no symptoms at all of anything before last night. I am so confused and so worried.

I am freaking out here, crying on and off, and terrified that he is dying. I don't know what to do! I can't stand the thought that the little guy is suffering. Does anyone have any idea of what I can do to help him until I can get a vet to see him? Any way that I can give him some kind of comfort? Any better ideas on how to get at least fluids in him? Any advice or ideas would be so greatly appreciated. We love this little angel and can't stand the thought of losing him so soon after finding him. We would all be heartbroken, because my son is totally attached to him too. Please help...


http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n149/cdsilv1/014.jpg

I have had two puppies over the last year. One made it ,one did not.
I'm hoping you have your little guy at the vet. It takes the entire series
of puppy shots before they are safe from distemper and parvo.(Something I learned the hard way)
They get dehydrated really quickly and a lot of puppies (according to my vet) die from the dehydration when people wait to take them in for help.

Our first pup died from distemper (two weeks after she had her first puppy shot) AND She also had coccidia and an infected incision from the stupid shelter that never should have required us to fix her at their clinic before we could bring her home. fuckers. She was only with us for 11 days and didnt make it even after being put on IV's amd antibiotics two different times for dehydration.
She was way underweight from the beginning.Too many things going on with her for that poor baby to fight.


Enter next underweight pup.This one from the pound.
Our 2nd pup's symptoms were pretty much the same as yours. Parvo is known for it's stinky diarrhea ( very fowl smelling) Our pup after her worming
and first shot's threw up as soon as we got home. I called them and they thought maybe she was just car sick. That night at 4 am came the diarrhea smell that is unforgettable. Some people say it was the shedding of the parvo virus from the shot. I took her back in the next day and he put her on an IV
and antibiotics for 2 days. She got rowdy,hungry and I brought her home. Then after two days she was not eating or drinking again.
So I took her back and to be on the safe side again we put her on Iv's for two or three days. She again got rowdy and ravenous so she came home but this time with an oral anitbiotic that finally fuckin worked.

None of the tests were conclusive as to what her deal was which was
nerve racking and very emotional. I was afraid to continue to get her
series of shots (thinking she again would have a bad reaction) She did not
ever have another problem. For 3 months I kept her on ID dog food to be as gentle as possible on her stomache. She's 7 months old now ,eats like a pig and is the picture of health.

I'm far from an expert but hope that I can help by putting this info out there somewhere (All of which I knew nothing about until we had our personal crisis)

Good luck with your baby and let us know how he's doing.

[blush]

Enter next underweight pup.This one from the pound.
Our 2nd pup's symptoms were pretty much the same as yours. Parvo is known for it's stinky diarrhea ( very fowl smelling) Our pup after her worming
and first shot's threw up as soon as we got home. I called them and they thought maybe she was just car sick. That night at 4 am came the diarrhea smell that is unforgettable. Some people say it was the shedding of the parvo virus from the shot. I took her back in the next day and he put her on an IV
and antibiotics for 2 days. She got rowdy,hungry and I brought her home. Then after two days she was not eating or drinking again.
So I took her back and to be on the safe side again we put her on Iv's for two or three days. She again got rowdy and ravenous so she came home but this time with an oral anitbiotic that finally fuckin worked.

None of the tests were conclusive as to what her deal was which was
nerve racking and very emotional. I was afraid to continue to get her
series of shots (thinking she again would have a bad reaction) She did not
ever have another problem. For 3 months I kept her on ID dog food to be as gentle as possible on her stomache. She's 7 months old now ,eats like a pig and is the picture of health.

I'm far from an expert but hope that I can help by putting this info out there somewhere (All of which I knew nothing about until we had our personal crisis)

Good luck with your baby and let us know how he's doing.

Parvo is also very contagious. The virus can remain alive for up to 5 mons. without a host.

I'm so glad your pup is still doing well!!

[Darth Denkay]

As many have advised, get him to the vet. I'd put my money on Parvo.

I hope that as a "healthy pet" thread someone might be able to help me. I'm at my wit's end. Here is the background info: Normally I adopt all my pets from the humane society, but my gf has wanted a Boston Terrier since she was a child. I had Bostons when I was growing up and know them to be wonderful sweet animals so I went to a breeder (not a puppy mill type), and got a little boy, papers and all. The lady assured me that the puppy was up to date, vaccinated, de-wormed, etc. I also got to view the lady's other pets, as well as the parents and siblings of the puppy. They all seemed to be in perfect health so I felt confident in my purchase. I gave the puppy to my gf on Christmas Day. His name is Butch and he's around 10 wks old. He's been a wonderful, hyper, seemingly normal, happy puppy since the day we brought him home. Until last night...

Around midnight last night, he started throwing up. He refuses to eat or drink, and has become very lethargic. Now, not only is he throwing up a white foamy substance, he has also been having a horrible liquid diarrhea. I can tell he is dehydrated from the elasticity of his skin. We've been trying to get liquids into him with a puppy feeder syringe-looking thing, but it's just not enough. There are only two vets in our town, and being weekend they won't even return the emergency calls. We've also tried calling the only 24/7 emergency vet which is almost 2 hours away but they couldn't see him today either. I don't know how in the world he got so sick so fast, in just a matter of hours. He is monitored closely, and there's nothing hazardous he could have gotten in to. Could it be an underlying illness that he's had this entire time? He's had no symptoms at all of anything before last night. I am so confused and so worried.

I am freaking out here, crying on and off, and terrified that he is dying. I don't know what to do! I can't stand the thought that the little guy is suffering. Does anyone have any idea of what I can do to help him until I can get a vet to see him? Any way that I can give him some kind of comfort? Any better ideas on how to get at least fluids in him? Any advice or ideas would be so greatly appreciated. We love this little angel and can't stand the thought of losing him so soon after finding him. We would all be heartbroken, because my son is totally attached to him too. Please help...


http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n149/cdsilv1/014.jpg

[Soft*Silver]

a friend elsewhere asked me what kind of treats I give my newf. She is really picky about her food nowadays (its the dementia) so she doesnt eat alot of treats. But the one real treat, that she loves and is healthy for her comes from a web business called best dog cookies. http://www.bestdogcookies.com/ since I passed it onto her, I thought I would drop it in here too because I see alot of people who arent just pet owners but animal lovers. BIG distinction. So, try hers. Let her know I refered you.(she wont know me as softness...tell her Teah refered you) She is a newf lover too. She has birthday platters now for sale! I cant wait to order one for Story..who will be..are you ready for this...14 years old!!! in May!

[Bohemian Rhapsody]

I saw in a few earlier posts that someone had mentioned rawhides as being dangerous. I found out the hard way that rope toys are also not the best toys. My miniature daschund, Brutus used to play with them until 4 weeks ago when he had to have emergency surgery to remove the strings from his esophagus and stomach. The strings has lacerated his stomach and throat causing internal bleeding. Scary to say the least. The Vet told me that the only toy she recommends at all are Nylabone products which are made of materials that break into small enough pieces to be swallowed and digested without problems. They are also made of something that is non toxic if it does get swallowed. So thats my take on toy safety. Better safe than sorry.

[SuperFemme]

It's Boo-Boo the MinPin's birthday today. Oh, and my preggo daughter turns 24. http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30171578&id=1392406251

[AtLast]

Another danger to look out for if you a dog that loves to chase and retrieve balls- make sure you use the right size. Small balls are a choking hazard for larger breeds. Especially if they are rubber/plastic and get slippery. You really do not want to see what its like to lose a dog to choking!

Also, the tennis balls made for dogs break apart easily and can be ingested in pieces that can cause a blockage. My Frenchie ate a piece of a tennis ball at the park when he was a pup and ended up having emergency blockage surgery. I pick up and throw away tennis ball pieces all the time! What went down easily (and before I coiuld get it) expanded internally. Actually, tennis balls are bad for dog's teeth, they wear them down.

OK. anyone use the joint supplements for cats? I see I can get some via Drs. foster & Smith for my 14 year old cat. Wondering if he'll actually eat it!?

[Soft*Silver]

I buy my dog stuffed animals all the time at garage sales. In fact, she has inherited all of mine and my daughter's collections of web kinz. No more.I am sorting through her stuff as I pack it. She is only allowed to keep the things manufactured specifically for dogs. Why? Read this....

http://www.snopes.com/critters/crusader/stuffedtoys.asp

[Blade]

Puppies are susceptible to Parvo and Corona virus. They have maternal antibodies they get from the colostrum (first mothers milk) that protect them from birth until they can form their own antibodies via puppy shots.

Parvo is yes STINKY. It is a smell you will never forget once you smell it. Another thing you will never forget is the look of death. They get so dehydrated that their eyes look to have sunk into the sockets. If you see this likely the pup will be dead in 12-24 hrs. Parvo is well I call it violent. It has violent diarrhea, violent vomiting. Typically you treat the symptoms. Don't force feed or water on the pup, some people do force Gatorade but I don't force anything. Treatment doesn't have to cost a fortune. Ask the vet for something for diarrhea, something for vomiting and a IV bag and line and a few needles. You can IV the pup yourself. Also you can use over the counter stuff for the other symptoms. Rule of thumb, if the pup won't eat or drink offer it raw chicken liver, raw egg or cheese not a lot just a taste if he wont eat after about 3-5 days he's probably gonna die. Though I have seen them come back after 5 days. Also shoot 'em up with B12.

Corona virus is not as violent as Parvo and has a much lower death rate. But you have to be able to recognize which it is, but you treat the symptoms the same. Typically it doesn't last as long either.

Someone mentioned Coccidia. Coccidia is a one celled intestinal parasite. Many believe that most dogs are carriers. I don't know about that, I'm not a scientist.
I do know that you can check on a litter of puppies and go back out in the evening to check on them and they are dead. I treat the bitch for Coccidia and worm her as quick as the last puppy hits the ground. Coccidia can also become active due to stress in puppies. I use to always send my puppies to their new homes with a run of Albon.

Best advice I have is as I use to tell new owners. When you take him home leave him there. The next day the vet is open take him there and have him checked out. I always gave a 10 day health guarantee but only if they had taken it to the vet. Back then it was said that Parvo had a 3 to 10 day gestation period. I figured if the pup got sick in 10 days I should honor that.

For some reason people want to take their new puppy around everywhere. Showing him off and everyone in the world hold him. Remember he's a baby and will get sore from being held and passed around.

[Butterbean]

Blade, you mentioned B-12 shots. What is the CC to pound dose ratio? Is this done by lifting up their fur and injecting right under that? What is the best/least painful area?


Thanks in advance.










Puppies are susceptible to Parvo and Corona virus. They have maternal antibodies they get from the colostrum (first mothers milk) that protect them from birth until they can form their own antibodies via puppy shots.

Parvo is yes STINKY. It is a smell you will never forget once you smell it. Another thing you will never forget is the look of death. They get so dehydrated that their eyes look to have sunk into the sockets. If you see this likely the pup will be dead in 12-24 hrs. Parvo is well I call it violent. It has violent diarrhea, violent vomiting. Typically you treat the symptoms. Don't force feed or water on the pup, some people do force Gatorade but I don't force anything. Treatment doesn't have to cost a fortune. Ask the vet for something for diarrhea, something for vomiting and a IV bag and line and a few needles. You can IV the pup yourself. Also you can use over the counter stuff for the other symptoms. Rule of thumb, if the pup won't eat or drink offer it raw chicken liver, raw egg or cheese not a lot just a taste if he wont eat after about 3-5 days he's probably gonna die. Though I have seen them come back after 5 days. Also shoot 'em up with B12.

Corona virus is not as violent as Parvo and has a much lower death rate. But you have to be able to recognize which it is, but you treat the symptoms the same. Typically it doesn't last as long either.

Someone mentioned Coccidia. Coccidia is a one celled intestinal parasite. Many believe that most dogs are carriers. I don't know about that, I'm not a scientist.
I do know that you can check on a litter of puppies and go back out in the evening to check on them and they are dead. I treat the bitch for Coccidia and worm her as quick as the last puppy hits the ground. Coccidia can also become active due to stress in puppies. I use to always send my puppies to their new homes with a run of Albon.

Best advice I have is as I use to tell new owners. When you take him home leave him there. The next day the vet is open take him there and have him checked out. I always gave a 10 day health guarantee but only if they had taken it to the vet. Back then it was said that Parvo had a 3 to 10 day gestation period. I figured if the pup got sick in 10 days I should honor that.

For some reason people want to take their new puppy around everywhere. Showing him off and everyone in the world hold him. Remember he's a baby and will get sore from being held and passed around.

[AtLast]

I buy my dog stuffed animals all the time at garage sales. In fact, she has inherited all of mine and my daughter's collections of web kinz. No more.I am sorting through her stuff as I pack it. She is only allowed to keep the things manufactured specifically for dogs. Why? Read this....

http://www.snopes.com/critters/crusader/stuffedtoys.asp

Smart move!

My dog ate part of a stuffed animal while I was visiting a friend- very dangerous dog and cat toys strewn all over. He ended up with a bacterial infection in his gut and did not pass the stuff for nearly a week. Finally, he threw it up- never did travel down the other way! Lucky he didn't get blocked and need surgery .. again!

Now, when I take him to someone else's house, I ask about pet toys that might be there beforehand. If it isn't a safe environment for him, he doesn't get to go.

I never give him rawhide or even Greenie type chew things (they can expand in the gut). Manufacturers even for pet toys/chews don't really make safe toys/products... they make things that people want to buy!

I'm very careful about toys and chew toys.

[Soft*Silver]

my old girl has dementia. She has forgotten how to eat out of a bowl. I literally have to spoon feed her twice a day. On days when that doesnt even work, we break the meals up even more and I use my hand to feed her, often having to close her mouth and wait until she swallows, so she doesnt spit it out. I only give her a few bites at a time, just in case she is having a belly ache (one never knows why a dog wont eat). It is my service to her, for all the love and devotion she has blessed me with over the years...

she is very fussy about her treats too. She lOVES that brand I posted...and accepts them without a fuss, but they are more expensive than I can afford at the moment. So I look for others....and have found a couple that she will, sometimes, accept.

Her stuffies are not torn apart. If she was a dog who tore her stuffies, I would never give her any. Instead, she carries them around in her mouth and even takes walks with them. If she lays down with one, she "flea bites" it, like a momma dog does to their babies...

but because I never know when the dementia might progress to her tearing up her "babies" I am taking all the human toys away from her...I will not let a simple thing become a tragic accident...

[Arwen]

Coat question....My Basenji is shedding like mad. Any tips or tricks on how to get her coat to blow faster. I'm an ex-groomer so I know a ton but I'm always happy to find more.

[Hollylane]

Arwen, as an ex-groomer, I'm sure I'm not giving you new information, but my home-groomer uses the Furminator on our pets, it really seems to work well..

Commenting on our dogs' nutrition:

Our Lhasa, Obi, has recurring oxilate crystals. Hayden and I make a home-made diet for both Lhasas to help avoid Obi having to have another bladder surgery. If anyone has a dog prone to these, a really great yahoo group exists called; K9kidneyDiet. You also might try to find as much information as you can about the Fuzzer Diet. There is also a really informative article in the Whole Dog Journal about the Fuzzer Diet and its success. If you can't find/access this article, let me know and I can send you a copy via email. As a result of the dogs diet change, they are at healthier weights, have shinier coats, and so far(knock on wood), Obi has been oxilate free!


Our cats nutrition:

All of our cats are on wet food. They eat canned Merrick cat food that is labeled as "before grain". I have found that most research points to the fact that cats are not getting enough water in their diets when they eat even the best dry food available. Cats do not drink a lot of water(unless they are ill), and the majority of the water they should get would come from meat. After losing two of my beautiful girls to kidney disease, I made the switch. All five of my little beauties lost a healthy amount of weight, lost troubling skin problems, and are shinier and happier. It was not easy though, that dry food is totally addicting, and it was a slow process to change them over and not end up being eaten by them!

Our Bunny Diet:

Our bunnies are spoiled rotten. We purchase multiple types of hay, bother our friends for fresh apple tree cuttings, and give them fresh vegetables, and a tiny bit of banana twice a day. Parsley came from the Oregon Humane Society, with a recurring problem with overgrowth of his rear molars and front teeth were misaligned causing them to not wear down well. We used to have to have his teeth trimmed monthly, but since we switched to large and small apple branches and got him on some stiffer grass hay, we haven't had to take him in about 6mths now.


I spend a lot of time looking up health information re: cats,dogs and bunnies. So, I somewhat apologize for the lengthy post! As you can imagine by all of the above, our pet grocery/vet bills cost more then our own. They are our family, and they deserve all of the best!

Hollylane

[VintageFemme]

my little old man is barely able to walk anymore. for anything outside, i have to towel walk him. he had a seizure the other day and of course off to the emergency room we went. because of his age. the dr said it would only be a few things one of which might be kidney and/or liver damage or a brain tumor. without doing extensive mri's, etc it would be hard to tell if it was a brain tumor but he did do bloodwork and his liver/kidney look fine. so as not to 'condemn him to a life of towel walking' he prescribed rimadyl and tramadol on a short two week trial basis and said to watch for more seizures and then we'll see in a follow up what to do next. i gave him the tramadol without too much hesitation [even though we are mostly holistic in our home and rarely use medicines opting normally for supplements, vitamins, diet, etc] because of the pain relief it offers, but i was very hesitant to give him the rimadyl after doing my online research. bad bad reputation. but then after two days of careful thought and weighing the pros and cons, i've decided to try the rimadyl keeping a hawk's eye watch on him. today is the second day. of course there is no change yet but i am hoping for some perhaps in a few days.

all of this is to ask, does anyone have any experience with rimadyl? good or bad? it's really a matter of quality of life at this point and what quality is there for a medium size [large size in his prime years] dog if he can't even walk to relieve himself or stretch his legs? these days now are so very difficult but are the most precious ever. each day is such a gift.

[Sachita]

my little old man is barely able to walk anymore. for anything outside, i have to towel walk him. he had a seizure the other day and of course off to the emergency room we went. because of his age. the dr said it would only be a few things one of which might be kidney and/or liver damage or a brain tumor. without doing extensive mri's, etc it would be hard to tell if it was a brain tumor but he did do bloodwork and his liver/kidney look fine. so as not to 'condemn him to a life of towel walking' he prescribed rimadyl and tramadol on a short two week trial basis and said to watch for more seizures and then we'll see in a follow up what to do next. i gave him the tramadol without too much hesitation [even though we are mostly holistic in our home and rarely use medicines opting normally for supplements, vitamins, diet, etc] because of the pain relief it offers, but i was very hesitant to give him the rimadyl after doing my online research. bad bad reputation. but then after two days of careful thought and weighing the pros and cons, i've decided to try the rimadyl keeping a hawk's eye watch on him. today is the second day. of course there is no change yet but i am hoping for some perhaps in a few days.

all of this is to ask, does anyone have any experience with rimadyl? good or bad? it's really a matter of quality of life at this point and what quality is there for a medium size [large size in his prime years] dog if he can't even walk to relieve himself or stretch his legs? these days now are so very difficult but are the most precious ever. each day is such a gift.

At this point you simply want to keep him comfortable. Side effects from drugs happen over a long time. I know how hard this is. When the quality of their life is over/low its time. having put down a few dogs just in the last year or so I decided if they can not use the bathroom or they stop eating. It's gut wrenching but often the right thing to do.

[VintageFemme]

At this point you simply want to keep him comfortable. Side effects from drugs happen over a long time. I know how hard this is. When the quality of their life is over/low its time. having put down a few dogs just in the last year or so I decided if they can not use the bathroom or they stop eating. It's gut wrenching but often the right thing to do.

i completely agree. good to know about the side effects, thanks! he is still able to use the bathroom. i tie the strip of towel around his waist and off we walk very slowly only to the ends of the sidewalks around us. it's only his one rear leg that is so damaged. we sit down a lot when we're out and it's a very slow process but he still has so much life and joy in him. he loves to play tug o'war w/ the other towel i use to wipe his mouth after eating *lol* and chew on the rib bones i buy him. he eats really well still and has never met a bisquit he didn't love. i know our days are very numbered now and as long as he is still getting some joy out of life and still wagging that tail and perking those ears up, i have to call that quality. i can go the long haul with him and am doing now whatever it is he needs me to do. he's pretty much calling all the shots.

[Butterbean]

My baby, Blossom, was diagnosed with this in June. She spent 2 days in intensive care and has had a long recovery.

She's on prescription dry food and her vet taught me the basics of what I could cook for her at home.

The most effective/important aspects to this, that I have noticed so far, is that she really must have her sleep, and plain non-fat yogurt and pumpkin to keep her system balanced.

It really breaks my heart that her diet must be so strictly followed but the consequences of not adhering to it are so severe so....

[DapperButch]

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/01/brooke-collins-punches-bear-to-save-dog_n_945400.html?icid=maing-grid10%7Chtmlws-main-bb%7Cdl19%7Csec1_lnk3%7C92171#s348076&title=Woman_Punches_Bear

[Sassy]

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/01/brooke-collins-punches-bear-to-save-dog_n_945400.html?icid=maing-grid10%7Chtmlws-main-bb%7Cdl19%7Csec1_lnk3%7C92171#s348076&title=Woman_Punches_Bear

Agreed! :) Anything ever tried to gnaw on my puppy gal, I wouldn't think twice. That is MY baby.

[Sassy]

Hey fellow pet parents,

I wandered over into this thread to ask if anyone had any suggestions for a replacement for rawhide chews?

My 9-year-old mini doxie loves-loves-LOVES :drool: her rawhide chews. She gets a small one in the mornings while I have my coffee. And a second one sometimes if she's having a stressful day. (Usually lawn-service day -- *grrr/gnaw/grrr* "We hatesssezzz the lawn man we does, yes we does." *grrrr*)

But lately, I've noticed she doesn't necessarily act like she feels so good after she's had her treat. She does better if I keep the chews small -- she's a glutton and will devour whatever I put in front of her until it is gone gone gone. And I've tried a few different brands but I'm not terribly satisfied with any particular one yet.

She's so small she fattens up easily. So filled rawhide treats are a no-no. We use carrots for treats throughout the day. And she's got some food allergies so she's on a raw food (lamb) diet.

She's a hardcore chewer. It's got to be something tough enough to keep her interested for a while. I tried to get her to chew a nyla bone but she's adamant she doesn't like them. And I tried natural hooves once but *gag* those stank. I won't bring another one back in the house. But if the item is too hard she loses interest -- I tried antlers boiled in broth (the pet store salesman swore they were a big seller) and she wouldn't even take a second glance.

So, any suggestions?

[Gentle Tiger]

Just popped in to say the furminator is my friend! There has been no kitty puke since adding a supplement and using the Furminator. We (the two furry girls and I) are all happy about it.

[DapperButch]

Hey fellow pet parents,

I wandered over into this thread to ask if anyone had any suggestions for a replacement for rawhide chews?

My 9-year-old mini doxie loves-loves-LOVES :drool: her rawhide chews. She gets a small one in the mornings while I have my coffee. And a second one sometimes if she's having a stressful day. (Usually lawn-service day -- *grrr/gnaw/grrr* "We hatesssezzz the lawn man we does, yes we does." *grrrr*)

But lately, I've noticed she doesn't necessarily act like she feels so good after she's had her treat. She does better if I keep the chews small -- she's a glutton and will devour whatever I put in front of her until it is gone gone gone. And I've tried a few different brands but I'm not terribly satisfied with any particular one yet.

She's so small she fattens up easily. So filled rawhide treats are a no-no. We use carrots for treats throughout the day. And she's got some food allergies so she's on a raw food (lamb) diet.

She's a hardcore chewer. It's got to be something tough enough to keep her interested for a while. I tried to get her to chew a nyla bone but she's adamant she doesn't like them. And I tried natural hooves once but *gag* those stank. I won't bring another one back in the house. But if the item is too hard she loses interest -- I tried antlers boiled in broth (the pet store salesman swore they were a big seller) and she wouldn't even take a second glance.

So, any suggestions?

Pig ears.
-------

[Sassy]

Pig ears.
-------

I tried those once, too. *wrinkles her freckled nose* They also stink.

OK, maybe things that get chewed on naturally stink? *laughs*

Hmmm. OK, I'll try a pig ear one more time and see how that goes.

Thanks :)

[Starbuck]

There are pig ears that don't have any flavoring or coloring added to them so they shouldn't stink, maybe your pooch will like those?

[Sassy]

Hmmmm... OK, I'll look for that kind next time I'm shopping. It is possible that the ones I bought before were flavored or something. I do remember I only let her chew them on her pet bed because they seemed to want to stain fabric. Thanks!

[Rockinonahigh]

I have a fur kid thats alergic to heart worm pills of any kind,she gets so sick she pukes then has the runns all day.I cant use any kind of bug drops on her cause she acts like its burning her so all I am doing is bounce dryer pads,they worked on my horses face so I tryed them on her.I keep her tested so far she has tested clean.I keep her wormed with pills from the vet,she has no prob with her shots,just the bug drops and heart worm pills.My yard is sprayed for everything under the sun so no probs there.Any ideas folks?

[Sassy]

I have a fur kid thats alergic to heart worm pills of any kind,she gets so sick she pukes then has the runns all day.I cant use any kind of bug drops on her cause she acts like its burning her so all I am doing is bounce dryer pads,they worked on my horses face so I tryed them on her.I keep her tested so far she has tested clean.I keep her wormed with pills from the vet,she has no prob with her shots,just the bug drops and heart worm pills.My yard is sprayed for everything under the sun so no probs there.Any ideas folks?

I've never heard of using bounce dryer pads to keep pests off pets. And it works? Sounds Cool. I'll research. :) I bet they smell nice that way too. *giggles*
My dog takes interceptor to prevent heart worms. For my little dog it costs about $65 every 6 months. It's the only thing I've found that doesn't make her nauseous. Once, I tried some heartworm prevention pills that also included flea control and those were a very bad idea. I had a very sick dog for over a month.
I read somewhere that teatree oil repels fleas and ticks -- put it on a handkerchief and tie it around the hound's neck when they're outside. But only for really big dogs. You can't use it on little dogs -- something about their metabolism and size, the teatree oil screws with their nervous system. So, since my dog is a mini, I haven't tested that idea.
Our yard is treated. But with every other neighbor's cat thinking the back deck is a great bird-watching spot, it's impossible to really control the occasional outbreak of fleas.
I've looked for alternative flea and tick repellent for my li'l dog -- with no success. (See above mention of teatree oil.) So, right now I use the drops.
Tia, my dog, has a lot of scratching/chewing issues related to stress. She develops skin infections easily. And she doesn't not approve of flea spray on her pet bedding or drops on her fur. She and I negotiated and what I decided on, was instead of giving her a full dose once a month. I put about half the drops on every 2 weeks. This way she gets regular baths (weekly to every 2 weeks, depending on how soon she walks into the bathroom and demands a bath. Or whether she's found something stinky to roll in outside. LOL.) and I don't feel like I'm wasting money on medicine that gets washed off. She has pet beds in each room and I put old sheets on them for her to nest in. Each week the pet beds get sprayed and she gets clean sheets. Fleas don't have anywhere to breed but she doesn't have to lay directly on the chemical stinky stuff. Which she won't. She'll protest loudly first. Ever hear a hound dog cuss? I should video that sometime. I'd get a lot of hits on YouTube. *laughs*

:dogwalking:

[Guy]

Hey fellow pet parents,

I wandered over into this thread to ask if anyone had any suggestions for a replacement for rawhide chews?

My 9-year-old mini doxie loves-loves-LOVES :drool: her rawhide chews. She gets a small one in the mornings while I have my coffee. And a second one sometimes if she's having a stressful day. (Usually lawn-service day -- *grrr/gnaw/grrr* "We hatesssezzz the lawn man we does, yes we does." *grrrr*)

But lately, I've noticed she doesn't necessarily act like she feels so good after she's had her treat. She does better if I keep the chews small -- she's a glutton and will devour whatever I put in front of her until it is gone gone gone. And I've tried a few different brands but I'm not terribly satisfied with any particular one yet.

She's so small she fattens up easily. So filled rawhide treats are a no-no. We use carrots for treats throughout the day. And she's got some food allergies so she's on a raw food (lamb) diet.

She's a hardcore chewer. It's got to be something tough enough to keep her interested for a while. I tried to get her to chew a nyla bone but she's adamant she doesn't like them. And I tried natural hooves once but *gag* those stank. I won't bring another one back in the house. But if the item is too hard she loses interest -- I tried antlers boiled in broth (the pet store salesman swore they were a big seller) and she wouldn't even take a second glance.

So, any suggestions?

I give my kids the waggin train big blast. Its a baked pork skin twist with chicken liver center, without the mess. I pick them up at walmart, but have seen them at target.

They love' em

[DapperButch]

I tried those once, too. *wrinkles her freckled nose* They also stink.

OK, maybe things that get chewed on naturally stink? *laughs*

Hmmm. OK, I'll try a pig ear one more time and see how that goes.

Thanks :)

But maybe only once a week, not every day? (you say she is small...they are larger).

Get the natural ones. Those shouldn't smell.

Give your dog those small carrots if you want to give her something every day.

[DapperButch]

Hmmmm... OK, I'll look for that kind next time I'm shopping. It is possible that the ones I bought before were flavored or something. I do remember I only let her chew them on her pet bed because they seemed to want to stain fabric. Thanks!

Natural ones won't stain. Should be able to find them in a pet store. My store sells them in paperbags by the baker's dozen!

[Sassy]

I have a huge (HUGE) serrated knife in the kitchen for cutting up rawhide chewy things. So we're definitely practicing portion control. :)

[DapperButch]

I have a huge (HUGE) serrated knife in the kitchen for cutting up rawhide chewy things. So we're definitely practicing portion control. :)

Good to hear!

I read recently that over 50% of dogs are overweight. People just don't think about how that can effect their pets health or mobility. My dog is definitely lighter on his feet when slim and trim. Makes him happy.

[Sassy]

My Tia is a slim 11 pounds these days. Poor baby was up to 16 pounds at one point and in so much pain and so lethargic she couldn't even walk outside to pee.

I had a goober for a significant other that would feed the dog Doritos when I wasn't around. And I had a goober for a vet that kept telling me she had slipped a disc.

I ditched the goober ex. And I found a new vet. Not exactly in that order, but you get the picture.

Turns out, it was arthritis in her hips and a kneecap with a tendency to slip that made it hard for her to walk. She's on a raw diet now. And glucosamine. And so very fit for a 9-year-old lady. And she's happy and can RUN RUN RUN through the house and all over the yard. *laughs*

[Dominique]

My Kat, affectionately referred to as alarm kat, (never late in waking me, because he gets fancy fest then) was weighing in at 22 pounds. Yes, I know. He was looking like the foot stool too. I thought he was a big Tom Kat. The
Vet told me to put him on Purina One Lite Crunchies, he can still have the spoon full of fancy feast two times a day....but he must loose 5 pounds.

I made him start running around the house, I actually engaged with him (as if he was a dog) initially he was like
WTF? Because you know, they, Kats in general, are lazy.
Soon he started liking it. It took almost two years, he did alot of spiteful things in the beginning when I changed his crunchies.....like purposely barfing in my slippers, you know....the kind where they binge, then purge....all the unchewed food.....purposely (key word here) to let me know he was not happy about these changes. He came around.

LOL.

The vet said I extended his life 3 to 5 years by getting him into better shape. He looks better too. His fur is so different. He was eating fancy feast crunchies (expensive!)
apparently, it's like Mcdonalds. No wonder he was acting out. I took away the double cheeseburgers, and gave him extra value meals. He is still on the lite.....he's down to
13 lbs and is 12 years old now.

[DapperButch]

I think that part of the problem is that people are not even aware as to what their dogs should look like. Seriously. I don't think people are always aware that their dogs are overweight.

Then of course they feel "bad" when they can't give Fido extra treats or table food.

I have the worst time with my mother. She just doesn't get it and wants to give my guy too many treats. Whenever she keeps him for me for a period of time (she keeps him when I go on vacation), I come back to a bigger dog. Since he only weighs 13 lbs he is easy to put weight on.

[Rockinonahigh]

I've never heard of using bounce dryer pads to keep pests off pets. And it works? Sounds Cool. I'll research. :) I bet they smell nice that way too. *giggles*
My dog takes interceptor to prevent heart worms. For my little dog it costs about $65 every 6 months. It's the only thing I've found that doesn't make her nauseous. Once, I tried some heartworm prevention pills that also included flea control and those were a very bad idea. I had a very sick dog for over a month.
I read somewhere that teatree oil repels fleas and ticks -- put it on a handkerchief and tie it around the hound's neck when they're outside. But only for really big dogs. You can't use it on little dogs -- something about their metabolism and size, the teatree oil screws with their nervous system. So, since my dog is a mini, I haven't tested that idea.
Our yard is treated. But with every other neighbor's cat thinking the back deck is a great bird-watching spot, it's impossible to really control the occasional outbreak of fleas
I've looked for alternative flea and tick repellent for my li'l dog -- with no success. (See above mention of teatree oil.) So, right now I use the drops.
Tia, my dog, has a lot of scratching/chewing issues related to stress. She develops skin infections easily. And she doesn't not approve of flea spray on her pet bedding or drops on her fur. She and I negotiated and what I decided on, was instead of giving her a full dose once a month. I put about half the drops on every 2 weeks. This way she gets regular baths (weekly to every 2 weeks, depending on how soon she walks into the bathroom and demands a bath. Or whether she's found something stinky to roll in outside. LOL.) and I don't feel like I'm wasting money on medicine that gets washed off. She has pet beds in each room and I put old sheets on them for her to nest in. Each week the pet beds get sprayed and she gets clean sheets. Fleas don't have anywhere to breed but she doesn't have to lay directly on the chemical stinky stuff. Which she won't. She'll protest loudly first. Ever hear a hound dog cuss? I should video that sometime. I'd get a lot of hits on YouTube. *laughs*

:dogwalking:

So far rowdy is doing ok with out the heart worm meds,I thought I could give her half a dose but the vet said that the way the pills are made the meds could be unevenly mixed in the pill.She also had a prob with itching but I got iodine shampoo wich cleard that up so now I only use it when needed,All he hair on her butt and back grew back really nice.I tought I may get some fly wpes I use to use on my horseits like a baby wipe with repelent in it..may be to strong for a small dog or dogs ingeneral..I will check it out.She loves a bath ad gets in the shower with me all the time just to injoy the water,this year I had a kiddy pool with a non slip servface for her and Diva the pug to play in..both my fur kids are spoiled to the core.

[Inuus]

I dont know about the rest of you but well, my Boxer Gouda gets the best food/toys/treats/supplements etc etc that I can afford(and sometimes I cant afford..lol). I do tons of research and belong to a few boards which are a wealth of information.

Just curious about a few things:

What food do you feed your dog(s) and why did you choose that food?

I feed Gouda Taste Of The Wild Pacific Salmon. I feed it because its grain free and is what I feel si the best food for the price.

What supplements if any do you give your dog?

Gouda is in remission from Cancer and has lived longer then any of the Vets including her oncologist said she would. I give her safflower oil daily because the oncologist suggested it and in some tests was shown to help dogs with Goudas specific type of cancer. I just ordered some coconut oil and will try that for the first time. She has terrible allergies and its suppose to have a lot of great benefits. One last thing I give her daily is Apple Cider Vinegar. It has some great health benefits as well. Just Google coconut oil and ACV

How many times a week do you buy something for your dog(food, treats, toys etc)

It seems I can not go to a store without buying her something!

Are you fanatical (like me) about making sure they get all their preventatives (heartworm fleas/tick etc) and do you make sure they get all their vaccinations and check ups?

I took Gouda in 1 month earlier for her annual check up just because I couldnt wait to see if any signs of the cancer was present, which it wasnt! :) I'm weird I know!

Bottom line for me I will sacrifice my own "extras" to make sure Gouda is taken care of properly. As far as her Cancer treatment...uumm lets just say I have never admitted out loud how much that cost me lol


Here she is with HER chicks she adopted

http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n553/GoudasMom/Goudachicks2.jpg

[DapperButch]

Me in bold black type.




Just curious about a few things:

What food do you feed your dog(s) and why did you choose that food?

I feed Gouda Taste Of The Wild Pacific Salmon. I feed it because its grain free and is what I feel si the best food for the price.

Until semi recently, I fed my dog, Innova. I changed from Innova because in June (July?) 2010 the company that makes Innova dog food (Natura Pet Products) were sold to Procter and Gamble. P & G were the ones who took over Eukanuba and changed their ingredients to what most in the "dog food world" would say are inferior ingredients to what they had prior to the sale. Since a dog food company has up to 6 months to change their ingredient label after changing the ingredients of the food that is actually in the bag, I was not waiting to find out my dog was eating crap for 6 months.

I spent A LOT of time researching the dog food I would chose, including looking at the 2011 Whole Dog Journal list of approved dog food.

I personally was looking for the standard quality ingredients that most dog owners are looking for. In addition, however, I was looking for fruits/veggies of the anti-oxidant variety and supplements that I am partial too.

It is ironic that you bring up cancer, Innus. The reason why I care about the anti-oxidants and certain supplements (Omega 3, for example), is because I am looking for a food that will help prevent my dog from getting cancer (you ever notice the high rate of cancer in dogs? higher than in humans). Since my own cancer, I am conscious of what veggies I eat for their anti-oxidant effect and what supplements I take. It makes sense to me that if I can get a dog food that has broccoli instead of cucumbers (a higher anti oxidant value) for example, all things being equal, I should choose that dog food.

After I stopped the Innova I was using Organix and was considering changing to Paul Newman's organic when I saw my vet for my dog's annual visit. My vet suggested Hills/Science Diet because she said that Hills and Purina (one of the Purina dog foods, specifically...can't remember which one) were the only two companies that did actual long term research with dogs on site for health. Vet told me all the vets at her clinic gave their dogs Hills/Science Diet. I didn't care as I wanted organic for my dog. Plus, I didn't need one of the Hills special diet ones and I didn't like the Science Diet's ingredients. (and the idea of Purina made me shudder...but that is my own issue).

A week later I had to take my dog to an emergency vet appointment (long story, but he is fine) at a different clinic. The vet there was this really bright, young, new vet. So, I figured hey, she would be good to ask...right out of school, so she is up to date on the latest information. What did she say? Hills/Science Diet. I told her that I really wanted to do organic with my dog and she made an excellent point. Organic dog food is not regulated the same way our organic food is. And we don't really have any way to know how old the food is. Some dog food sit on shelves for a while. How do I know if it is still fresh without preservatives. Plus, the whole issue of Hills/Science Diet and Purina being the only dog food out there to produce data on their products.

So, I figured I needed to look at Science Diet again. I went to Hills website and found that they now sell "nature's best". I was quite pleased with the ingredient list. It had the good stuff I would exepct from a quality food, PLUS the fruits/veggies/supplements I wanted my dog to have. So, I switched. (nature's best chicken and brown rice dinner, specifically).

One last comment. I am not anti-grain when it comes to do food, as long as it is brown rice. In fact, I prefer it in there.

Good topic. I was actually going to bring this one up when I was looking for dog food, but figured that no one would be interested enough to respond!



What supplements if any do you give your dog?

Gouda is in remission from Cancer and has lived longer then any of the Vets including her oncologist said she would.


None, but I would if I found his food to be lacking. Or, like you, if my dog had cancer in the past (I personally, take supplements!)

How many times a week do you buy something for your dog(food, treats, toys etc)

It seems I can not go to a store without buying her something!

I do pretty well with not buying stuff all the time. My issue is the amount of guilt I feel if I do not take him for a long walk every night and the guilt I feel if I go hiking/biking/anything outside, without him. THAT I cannot do!

Treats I give my dog are the treats from Wellness brand or Blue Buffalo.



Are you fanatical (like me) about making sure they get all their preventatives (heartworm fleas/tick etc) and do you make sure they get all their vaccinations and check ups?

Of course!

I took Gouda in 1 month earlier for her annual check up just because I couldnt wait to see if any signs of the cancer was present, which it wasnt! :) I'm weird I know!


Weirder - until this past year I took my dog in every 6 months...for no reason...just wanted an every 6 month check instead of a yearly check!

I am assuming I would be less insane if I had human children (well, less insane with my dog, is what I mean).

I'm impressed you waited 11 months! ha.

Also, I am very happy to hear that your pup is doing so well!

[Inuus]

DapperButch I'm sure we could have a lot of interesting conversations about our dogs and health. I might not take great care of myself but Gouda gets the best(I'm sure Freud would have a hay day with that).

I have always been against Hills Science diet but now you have me interested in reading more about the Natures Best

I too look very closely at the ingredients. I have no problem with Brown Rice either, and like you I make sure there are a lot of fruits an veggies as well.

I need to stop being so lazy and make her homemade treats. I used to do that a lot but now I usually just do it as Christmas presents for my friends dogs.

What kind of dog is yours? If you mentioned before I guess I missed it

[AtLast]

Question-

My lottle guy is positive and now symptomatic for hip dysplasia. Not as difficult to deal with in terms of pain and disability as it is with large breeds. But, when he is in pain, I am a mess.

I give him supplements including omegas and flax seed oil and glucosemine & condroitin with MSM. But I have heard that dogs can be given "people" supplements for the G & C and it is much less expensive. Does anyone know about this? My concern is the dosing and I always am concerned about additives and if they are things that dogs can digest. Yet, I am in for some vet bills along the way with this including surgeries later and saving a few bucks would help. He already is on a Rx diet for urinary issues (he can develop kidney stones) and that costs a mint. But, far better than developing stones.

Also- any ideas of where I can get a good deal on a lightweight ramp? I was able to build him an outdoor ramp for my backyard stairs, but I want to eliminate stairs anywhere, including up onto my bed. His "staircase" to slumberland has to become a ramp.

Thanks and blessings to all of our fur people!!!

[DapperButch]

Question-

My lottle guy is positive and now symptomatic for hip dysplasia. Not as difficult to deal with in terms of pain and disability as it is with large breeds. But, when he is in pain, I am a mess.

I give him supplements including omegas and flax seed oil and glucosemine & condroitin with MSM. But I have heard that dogs can be given "people" supplements for the G & C and it is much less expensive. Does anyone know about this? My concern is the dosing and I always am concerned about additives and if they are things that dogs can digest. Yet, I am in for some vet bills along the way with this including surgeries later and saving a few bucks would help. He already is on a Rx diet for urinary issues (he can develop kidney stones) and that costs a mint. But, far better than developing stones.

Also- any ideas of where I can get a good deal on a lightweight ramp? I was able to build him an outdoor ramp for my backyard stairs, but I want to eliminate stairs anywhere, including up onto my bed. His "staircase" to slumberland has to become a ramp.

Thanks and blessings to all of our fur people!!!

Sorry to hear your guy is having trouble.

I would be hesitant to give my dog human supplements unless I was told by a vet it was safe to do so. You don't think your vet would be honest if you asked him/her this? I mean, since you are asking us I am assuming you think your vet would tell you it is not safe, even if it is? If you can't trust your vet to answer this question, I personally would get a new one!

[DapperButch]

DapperButch I'm sure we could have a lot of interesting conversations about our dogs and health. I might not take great care of myself but Gouda gets the best(I'm sure Freud would have a hay day with that).

I have always been against Hills Science diet but now you have me interested in reading more about the Natures Best

I too look very closely at the ingredients. I have no problem with Brown Rice either, and like you I make sure there are a lot of fruits an veggies as well.

I need to stop being so lazy and make her homemade treats. I used to do that a lot but now I usually just do it as Christmas presents for my friends dogs.

What kind of dog is yours? If you mentioned before I guess I missed it

What breed? That is an interesting question!

My dog is a shortie Jack Russell terrier. Some call this breed a English Jack Russell terrier, while others call this breed an Irish Jack Russell Terrier! Essentially, he is a Parson Russell Terrier who is short (10"-12" at the shoulders).

Some argue it is the original Parson Russell.

They are not yet recognized by the AKC, even though they have been around for years. They should be in the next couple of years, I suspect. They have fallen under the Foundation Stock Service as the Russell Terrier. They have been recognized by the UKC for many years and are very popular in England. Prince Charles typically has 2 at any given time for his fox hunting. He pops them on the back of his saddle and then drops them to the ground when he needs them to chase the foxes out from underground.

Although they originated in England, and many breeders seek out Irish born Jacks for their lines, the AKC has chosen to go with the "stylings" (sorry can't think of a better word) of the Australian born for breed standard (all about the same, but you know). It caused quite an uproar.

Anyway, THAT is why my guy is!

Damn, could have just done this:

http://www.akc.org/breeds/russell_terrier/

Anyway, he is the perfect breed for me. I love the big dog in the small dog body the terrier breeds encompass. He is a rough and tumble guy and has the stamina of the big dogs. He loves to hike for miles and miles and is afraid of nothing. He rocks.

[Inuus]

If you can't trust your vet to answer this question, I personally would get a new one!

Yes exactly how I feel. I have been through SO many Vets. I actually interview them before I decide. I'm quite lucky now the Vet I have understands me very well and knows how to "handle" me so to speak. One day he said to me "Sue, there are people who treat their pets like pets nothing more. Then there are people who treat their pets as they would their own children....and we both know what category you fall into" He wasn't being condescending or patronizing, he just understands how to approach me if you can understand that.

I agree with DabberButch, I would he hesitant to do anything unless I asked my Vet. But then again I trust him so that makes a huge difference.

Do a search there are lots of forums and email groups that offer a wealth of information. It helps to talk to people who are going through or have gone through the same problem. I joined a canine liver disease email group when Gouda had severe problems with her liver following her chemo. It helped a lot.

[Inuus]

My sister had a Parsons Russell, boy that dog had loads of energy and wasnt afraid of anything! She now has a PR mix who isnt as wound up as her other dog was...but you can still see the typical terrier in her.

Terriers dont work well for me just because of what they were bred for. I hope one day to have my own little hobby farm and terriers although very useful on the farm for varmit control can be hard on chickens and other poultry. Plus by nature I'm fairly sedate and well they just wouldnt work as well for me. I would really like to have an Anatolian Shepard when I do get a hobby farm.

[*Anya*]

ALH- for a ramp, I would try eBay or Amazon. Probably could get a great deal.

[AtLast]

Sorry to hear your guy is having trouble.

I would be hesitant to give my dog human supplements unless I was told by a vet it was safe to do so. You don't think your vet would be honest if you asked him/her this? I mean, since you are asking us I am assuming you think your vet would tell you it is not safe, even if it is? If you can't trust your vet to answer this question, I personally would get a new one!

I asked because of being told by another person at the dog park and just thought I'd see if anyone hear has any knowledge about it. I am going to call the vet and ask her. Actually, I wouldn't give him anything "people" unless I checked it out.

She has prescribed "people" OTC things at times whic has cut down costs. I agree with you, however, if I could not ask due to feeling she would not be honest, I would change vets.

I am taking him to the specialist that originally diagnose the knee problem and explained about what could happen if and when the hip dysplashia became symptomatic. I want a second opinion from him about where my little guy really is in terms of how this will all go.

Making many adjustments with activity and what is OK for him to do. Going to go look at ramps tomorrow. But, Anya, you have a good idea about Ebay. I just want to get the bed thing taken care of right away as those are the stairs he uses the most.

Trying to catch him before he tears down them (going down stairs is the most difficult for our pooches) is quite a feat! When I am in the bedroom and know I will be there, I move the stairs away. But, he thinks he can do anything and I can just see him taking a jump off the bed!! So, I have to be right there id the stairs are moved away from the bed.

Ugh... I have to go to work now and move them out of the way and put his bed on the floor so he won't go up and down while I am out. Little goof!

[DapperButch]

My sister had a Parsons Russell, boy that dog had loads of energy and wasnt afraid of anything! She now has a PR mix who isnt as wound up as her other dog was...but you can still see the typical terrier in her.

Terriers dont work well for me just because of what they were bred for. I hope one day to have my own little hobby farm and terriers although very useful on the farm for varmit control can be hard on chickens and other poultry. Plus by nature I'm fairly sedate and well they just wouldnt work as well for me. I would really like to have an Anatolian Shepard when I do get a hobby farm.

Yes. I think the one thing people miss when they pick out a dog is if the breed is a good match for them. All people seem to care about is what the dog looks like. Unless you are typically an active person, don't get a Parson Russell/Russell Terrier, let you say. The dog will just drive you nuts AND it isn't fair to the dog.

By the same token, don't get a 5 pound poodle if you want to hike 5 miles in the woods every day.

Dogs should be chosen based on personality type/what they were bred to do. Otherwise, we just keep filling up the shelters with dogs that don't match our personalities (more often active dogs go to shelters). When you get a dog you should plan to have it for the rest of its life. If you know you are going to want kids in the next 5 years, get a kid friendly dog. It is only fair to the kid and fair to the dog.

/rant

[AtLast]

Yes. I think the one thing people miss when they pick out a dog is if the breed is a good match for them. All people seem to care about is what the dog looks like. Unless you are typically an active person, don't get a Parson Russell/Russell Terrier, let you say. The dog will just drive you nuts AND it isn't fair to the dog.

By the same token, don't get a 5 pound poodle if you want to hike 5 miles in the woods every day.

Dogs should be chosen based on personality type/what they were bred to do. Otherwise, we just keep filling up the shelters with dogs that don't match our personalities (more often active dogs go to shelters). When you get a dog you should plan to have it for the rest of its life. If you know you are going to want kids in the next 5 years, get a kid friendly dog. It is only fair to the kid and fair to the dog.

/rant

Really sound advice. Thousands of dogs end up in shelters and rescue organization each year because people don’t research breeds and mixes of breeds. Could be avoided. When I had Boxers, I did a lot of "talking out of" them to many people. People would see mine at the dog park and say they wanted one and when we talked about activity levels and the fact that the breed does have many health issues that can come up- they re-thought things. Which is a good thing- a Boxer in an apartment is not good unless you have a walker as well as during time off interact and exercise the dog. All dogs need our attention and training and interaction. They do not do well being thrown in a back yard and ignored. And that isn’t a good life for a dog anyway.

I adore Boxers, and really miss having one, but as I am aging and dealing with severe arthritis issues, it is far better for me to have a small dog. And my Frog Dog has many of the silliness traits of a Boxer and smarts. They have some health issues as well, but since I had several Boxers through the years, I'm good at scoping out good breathers as this is an area of concern as well as spine problems if you allow them to do things they are just not built for. The hip dysphasia felt like it came out of left field, but I am getting lots of tips on his care. Plus my vet has 5 Frenchies!!

He is active and social, but I can get away with a couple of days of just leash walks in the neighborhood when my joints are acting up. Now that he needs changes in kinds of activity and some pacing with length of walks, I figure we are in sync! He likes to "garden" with me in the yard and I can roll a ball around for him a bit, just not bounce it so that he goes and jumps for it. We will adjust. And I am really glad that it is less taxing on a smaller dog and much easier to deal with in terms of surgery. At first, I was really down and focused on the pain. I am already seeing that the changes made are reducing this.

I like that Frenchies are quiet overall (but are alert watch dogs) and have short hair. But it is imperative that the owner know that they are very susceptible to heatstroke. I am glad I live in the climate that I do. These little guys would have to be in air conditioning on all of the time in some areas.