Dear Pet Lovers,
We have moved out of Ericsson Pet Farm due to certain circumstances. Thanks to many of our loyal pet lovers to have the same belief in us as a Holistic Health Care for your pets.
Our new address is Blk 326 Woodlands St 32 #01-109.
Please continue to support us. We are hoping to see you soon on our opening ceremony on the 10 Nov 2008 1pm.
About Shampoochie Pet Salon - Holistic Pet Centre
- Holistic Pet Centre
- Singapore
- We strongly believe that our pets should be treated with the same respect for natural living that we give ourselves. A holistic approach to health care for dogs and cats is important for them to live life to its fullest, and for us to get the most out of their company. Call us at 91003489
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Canine Parvovirus Type 2c in the United States
For many years vaccinated dogs have suffered and died from CanineParvovirus (CPV) infections. Since vaccination failed to protect these dogs, peoplespeculated that a new form of CPV was in our midst. Their speculation hasbeen substantiated by the recent press release from Oklahoma State Universitywhich stated that a new form of CPV (CPV-2c) has been identified in dogsacross the United States by the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic laboratory 1.The press release stated that the 2c strain affects puppies and adults, canattack the heart and intestines, and that the mortality can be quite high.The most alarming aspect of the press release is its implication thatcurrently available vaccines are not protective against this lethal CPV-2c strain.This is obviously troubling news fore all dog owners. So we must ask, isthe press release completely true, or does it contain exaggerations intendedto whip up unnecessary hysteria?
The press release is based on the results of a study published by Dr. Kapiland his colleagues in the Journal of Clinical Microbiolgy2. In this study,tissue and fecal samples were collected between February 2006 and August2007 from 54 dogs with confirmed CPV infections. Canine parvovirus type 2c wasidentified in 48% of the dogs while CPV-2b was identified in 46% of thedogs. The researchers also that 66% of the dogs infected with various strains ofCPV had previously received a vaccination.
Since implications of the press release are so frightening, we must digdeeper into the CPV-2c story to fully understand what it means for dog ownersand breeders. The emergence of this new strain of CPV is not surprisingconsidering the history of CPV and the high rate of viral evolution associatedwith its initial emergence in the 1970s. Since the emergence of CPV type 2(CPV-2) in the 1970s the virus has mutated. The v irus mutated into 2 strainsknown as CPV-2a and CPV-2b. In 2000 scientists in Italy were the first toreport the emergence of CPV-2c in dogs. Since that report, CPV-2c has beenreported in Western Europe, Asia, and South America.
Now that a new strain of CPV is present throughout the world, the questionarises: What is meant by the term new strain? We need to realize that theterm new strain actually means genetic variant. In order for a strain ofparvovirus to be labeled a new strain, at least 1 of its approximately 5000nucleotides must be different from a previously identified strain. This is thecase of the CPV-2c identified in the United States. Genetically speaking,CPV-2c differs from CPV-2b by only a few nucleotides. In other words, from agenetic standpoint, the new strain(CPV_2c) is over 99% identical to the oldstrain (CPV-2b).
So there is very little genetic difference between CPV-2a, CPV-2b, andCPV-2c. Does this sligh t genetic variation make CPV-2c biologically differentfrom CPV-2a or CPV-2b? The most prolific researcher of CPV-2c in Italyconcluded in a research report that CPV variants (2a, 2b, and 2c) have similarbiological behaviors3. In that research report, tissue distribution of CPV wassimilar across all 3 genetic variants of CPV. Canine parvovirus type 2a,2b, and 2c were all found in the intestines and in the heart. So the fact thatCPV infects the heart and the intestines is not new information and is notspecific to only CPV-2c. In another paper that investigated the occurrenceof CPV-2c in the United States, researchers stated that dogs infected withCPV-2c exhibited clinical signs and outcomes that were similar to dogs infectedwith CPV-2a and CPV-2b4. So death of dogs due to CPV infection (be it 2-a,2-b, or 2-c) is not new information and it is erroneous to suggest thatCPV-2c is more lethal then older CPV strains.
Since CPV-2c has been discovered in the United Stat es, what are dog ownersand breeders to do? According to the press release, new vaccines should beformulated since previously vaccinated dogs have contracted CPV-2c. Shouldyou switch vaccines? Should you demand vaccine manufacturers make a newvaccine that protects against CPV-2c? The answer to the 2 previous questionswould be yes if we did not have some suitable vaccines currently available foruse. With the information now available in the scientific literature, Ibelieve that there is no reason to suggest that the currently available effectivevaccines will not protect against CPV-2c. Let me explain why I believe thisto be true.
First, a recent research report indicated that one of the original modifiedlive CPV vaccines (based on an old strain of CPV) was protective againstCPV-2c. This study reported that after CPV-2c challenge, vaccinated pups did notbecome ill while unvaccinated pups showed clinical signs of canineparvovirus5. In other words, on of the fir st vaccines, which was formulated yearsbefore CPV-2c was identified, was able to induce protection against this newgenetic variant known as CPV-2c.
Second, certain effective CPV vaccines protect puppies against both CPV-2aand CPV-2b. Since there is very little genetic variant and no knownbiological differences between CPV-2a, CPV-2b, and CPV-2c, why wouldn't theseeffective CPV vaccines protect against CPV-2c? To my Knowledge, no one has data todefinitively answer the question posed above.
Third, NEOPAR© has been tested in a kennel in Oklahoma where this newgenetic variant was diagnosed by the Oklahoma Animal Disease DiagnosticLaboratory. NEOPAR©, when used properly, stopped the CPV-2c in its tracks just likeit stops a CPV-2a and CPV-2b outbreak.
One disturbing aspect of the press release and Dr. Kapil's paper was thatvaccines do not protect against CPV-2c. In Dr. Kapil's study, 66% of the dogswere previously vaccinated. It is important to rea lize that not allvaccines stimulate protection after just one, or multiple, doses. Immunity is oftennot stimulated by vaccination if the animal is stressed, has a suppressedimmune system, or if the vaccine used is sub-potent (few vaccine particlesper dose). Unfortunately, the complete vaccination history for each dog in DrKapil's study was not provided. So, it is possible these dogs could havebeen vaccinated after they were exposed to CPV or they may have been vaccinatedwith a sub-potent vaccine prior to CPV exposure. Many sub-potent vaccinesare on the market today and were not formulated to work in the face of thehigh level of maternal antibody when pups are first vaccinated at 5 to 7 weeksof age. This high level of maternal antibody can render a sub-potentvaccine ineffective. Another important point of Dr. Kapil's study to consider isthat vaccinated dogs were infected with CPV-2b and CPV-2c. Of the 36vaccinated dogs in which CPV was identified, type 2b was presen t in 15 dogs and type2c was present in 19 dogs. So, not only did vaccination fail to protectthese dogs against CPV-2c, vaccination also failed to protect them against theolder genetic variations of CPV. Clearly, vaccines do not immunize 100% ofvaccinated dogs and this is also not new information.
At the present time, we know very little about CPV-2c. However, informationpresent in the scientific literature suggests that CPV-2c is very similarto CPV-2a and CPV-2b; and, that vaccines developed prior to the discovery ofCPV-2c protect dogs from CPV-2c challenge. Even though the full CPV-2c storyhas not yet been established, this has not stopped people from makingpredictions of doom and gloom. Lets not get bogged down by the press releaseintended to whip up hysteria in hopes of creating an economic opportunity for aresearch institution. Let's wait until we have more relevant facts aboutthis genetic variant before we recommend changing the existing vaccinationprotoc ols that have been so successful for so many years. In essence, all thatDr. Kapil's report stated is that CPV-2c (along with other old geneticvariants of CPV) has been identified in previously vaccinated dogs in the UnitedStates. So the implications of the press release of widespread death due toan extremely pathogenic new strain of CPV are a bit far reaching. Let me beclear. Dr. Kapil's study is scientifically sound and the results are clearand straightforward, but the press release is an exaggeration of what isknown and speculates on what we do not know.
References
1 _http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/index.php?o_(http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/index.php?o) .. itemid=291_<http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/index.ph...k=view&id= 437&itemid=291>_ (http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=437&item id=291)
2Kupil, S., Cooper, E., Lamm, C., Murry, B., Rezabek, G., Johnson III, L.,Campbell, G., Johnson, B. 2007 Canine Parvovirus types 2c and 2bcirculating in North American dogs in 2006 and 2007. J. Clin. Microbial.,45(12):4044-4047
3Decaro, N., Martella, V., Elia, G., Desario, C., Campolo, M., Lorusso, F.,Colaianni, M. L., Lorusso, A., Buon-avoglia, C. 2007 Tissue distribution of the antigenic variants of canineparvovirus type 2 in dogs. Vet Microbial. 2007 Mar 31 1;121(1-2):39-44
4Hong, C., Decaro, N., Desario, C., Tanner, P., Pardo, M.C., Sanchez, S.,Buonavoglia, C., Saliki, J.T. 2007 Occurrence of canine parvovirus type 2c inthe United States. J. Vet. Diagn. Invest. 19:535-539
5Spibey, N., Greenwood, N.M., Sutton, D., Chalmers, W.SK., Tarpey, I. 2008Canine parvovirus type 2 vaccine protects against virulent challenge withtype2c virus. Vet. Microbiol. Apr 1;128(1-2):48-55. Epub. 2007 Oct 2.
Canine Parvovirus Type 2c in the United StatesDr. Ben Hatler, NEOTECH, LLC
The press release is based on the results of a study published by Dr. Kapiland his colleagues in the Journal of Clinical Microbiolgy2. In this study,tissue and fecal samples were collected between February 2006 and August2007 from 54 dogs with confirmed CPV infections. Canine parvovirus type 2c wasidentified in 48% of the dogs while CPV-2b was identified in 46% of thedogs. The researchers also that 66% of the dogs infected with various strains ofCPV had previously received a vaccination.
Since implications of the press release are so frightening, we must digdeeper into the CPV-2c story to fully understand what it means for dog ownersand breeders. The emergence of this new strain of CPV is not surprisingconsidering the history of CPV and the high rate of viral evolution associatedwith its initial emergence in the 1970s. Since the emergence of CPV type 2(CPV-2) in the 1970s the virus has mutated. The v irus mutated into 2 strainsknown as CPV-2a and CPV-2b. In 2000 scientists in Italy were the first toreport the emergence of CPV-2c in dogs. Since that report, CPV-2c has beenreported in Western Europe, Asia, and South America.
Now that a new strain of CPV is present throughout the world, the questionarises: What is meant by the term new strain? We need to realize that theterm new strain actually means genetic variant. In order for a strain ofparvovirus to be labeled a new strain, at least 1 of its approximately 5000nucleotides must be different from a previously identified strain. This is thecase of the CPV-2c identified in the United States. Genetically speaking,CPV-2c differs from CPV-2b by only a few nucleotides. In other words, from agenetic standpoint, the new strain(CPV_2c) is over 99% identical to the oldstrain (CPV-2b).
So there is very little genetic difference between CPV-2a, CPV-2b, andCPV-2c. Does this sligh t genetic variation make CPV-2c biologically differentfrom CPV-2a or CPV-2b? The most prolific researcher of CPV-2c in Italyconcluded in a research report that CPV variants (2a, 2b, and 2c) have similarbiological behaviors3. In that research report, tissue distribution of CPV wassimilar across all 3 genetic variants of CPV. Canine parvovirus type 2a,2b, and 2c were all found in the intestines and in the heart. So the fact thatCPV infects the heart and the intestines is not new information and is notspecific to only CPV-2c. In another paper that investigated the occurrenceof CPV-2c in the United States, researchers stated that dogs infected withCPV-2c exhibited clinical signs and outcomes that were similar to dogs infectedwith CPV-2a and CPV-2b4. So death of dogs due to CPV infection (be it 2-a,2-b, or 2-c) is not new information and it is erroneous to suggest thatCPV-2c is more lethal then older CPV strains.
Since CPV-2c has been discovered in the United Stat es, what are dog ownersand breeders to do? According to the press release, new vaccines should beformulated since previously vaccinated dogs have contracted CPV-2c. Shouldyou switch vaccines? Should you demand vaccine manufacturers make a newvaccine that protects against CPV-2c? The answer to the 2 previous questionswould be yes if we did not have some suitable vaccines currently available foruse. With the information now available in the scientific literature, Ibelieve that there is no reason to suggest that the currently available effectivevaccines will not protect against CPV-2c. Let me explain why I believe thisto be true.
First, a recent research report indicated that one of the original modifiedlive CPV vaccines (based on an old strain of CPV) was protective againstCPV-2c. This study reported that after CPV-2c challenge, vaccinated pups did notbecome ill while unvaccinated pups showed clinical signs of canineparvovirus5. In other words, on of the fir st vaccines, which was formulated yearsbefore CPV-2c was identified, was able to induce protection against this newgenetic variant known as CPV-2c.
Second, certain effective CPV vaccines protect puppies against both CPV-2aand CPV-2b. Since there is very little genetic variant and no knownbiological differences between CPV-2a, CPV-2b, and CPV-2c, why wouldn't theseeffective CPV vaccines protect against CPV-2c? To my Knowledge, no one has data todefinitively answer the question posed above.
Third, NEOPAR© has been tested in a kennel in Oklahoma where this newgenetic variant was diagnosed by the Oklahoma Animal Disease DiagnosticLaboratory. NEOPAR©, when used properly, stopped the CPV-2c in its tracks just likeit stops a CPV-2a and CPV-2b outbreak.
One disturbing aspect of the press release and Dr. Kapil's paper was thatvaccines do not protect against CPV-2c. In Dr. Kapil's study, 66% of the dogswere previously vaccinated. It is important to rea lize that not allvaccines stimulate protection after just one, or multiple, doses. Immunity is oftennot stimulated by vaccination if the animal is stressed, has a suppressedimmune system, or if the vaccine used is sub-potent (few vaccine particlesper dose). Unfortunately, the complete vaccination history for each dog in DrKapil's study was not provided. So, it is possible these dogs could havebeen vaccinated after they were exposed to CPV or they may have been vaccinatedwith a sub-potent vaccine prior to CPV exposure. Many sub-potent vaccinesare on the market today and were not formulated to work in the face of thehigh level of maternal antibody when pups are first vaccinated at 5 to 7 weeksof age. This high level of maternal antibody can render a sub-potentvaccine ineffective. Another important point of Dr. Kapil's study to consider isthat vaccinated dogs were infected with CPV-2b and CPV-2c. Of the 36vaccinated dogs in which CPV was identified, type 2b was presen t in 15 dogs and type2c was present in 19 dogs. So, not only did vaccination fail to protectthese dogs against CPV-2c, vaccination also failed to protect them against theolder genetic variations of CPV. Clearly, vaccines do not immunize 100% ofvaccinated dogs and this is also not new information.
At the present time, we know very little about CPV-2c. However, informationpresent in the scientific literature suggests that CPV-2c is very similarto CPV-2a and CPV-2b; and, that vaccines developed prior to the discovery ofCPV-2c protect dogs from CPV-2c challenge. Even though the full CPV-2c storyhas not yet been established, this has not stopped people from makingpredictions of doom and gloom. Lets not get bogged down by the press releaseintended to whip up hysteria in hopes of creating an economic opportunity for aresearch institution. Let's wait until we have more relevant facts aboutthis genetic variant before we recommend changing the existing vaccinationprotoc ols that have been so successful for so many years. In essence, all thatDr. Kapil's report stated is that CPV-2c (along with other old geneticvariants of CPV) has been identified in previously vaccinated dogs in the UnitedStates. So the implications of the press release of widespread death due toan extremely pathogenic new strain of CPV are a bit far reaching. Let me beclear. Dr. Kapil's study is scientifically sound and the results are clearand straightforward, but the press release is an exaggeration of what isknown and speculates on what we do not know.
References
1 _http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/index.php?o_(http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/index.php?o) .. itemid=291_<http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/index.ph...k=view&id= 437&itemid=291>_ (http://www.cvhs.okstate.edu/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=437&item id=291)
2Kupil, S., Cooper, E., Lamm, C., Murry, B., Rezabek, G., Johnson III, L.,Campbell, G., Johnson, B. 2007 Canine Parvovirus types 2c and 2bcirculating in North American dogs in 2006 and 2007. J. Clin. Microbial.,45(12):4044-4047
3Decaro, N., Martella, V., Elia, G., Desario, C., Campolo, M., Lorusso, F.,Colaianni, M. L., Lorusso, A., Buon-avoglia, C. 2007 Tissue distribution of the antigenic variants of canineparvovirus type 2 in dogs. Vet Microbial. 2007 Mar 31 1;121(1-2):39-44
4Hong, C., Decaro, N., Desario, C., Tanner, P., Pardo, M.C., Sanchez, S.,Buonavoglia, C., Saliki, J.T. 2007 Occurrence of canine parvovirus type 2c inthe United States. J. Vet. Diagn. Invest. 19:535-539
5Spibey, N., Greenwood, N.M., Sutton, D., Chalmers, W.SK., Tarpey, I. 2008Canine parvovirus type 2 vaccine protects against virulent challenge withtype2c virus. Vet. Microbiol. Apr 1;128(1-2):48-55. Epub. 2007 Oct 2.
Canine Parvovirus Type 2c in the United StatesDr. Ben Hatler, NEOTECH, LLC
Alert: New Strain of Parvo
To: Local Veterinarians, Groomers, Boarding Facilities, Rescue Groups, and Shelters
From: Wendy Swift DVM, Veterinary Medical Director of the HSKC
Date: August 20, 2008
Re: Please Read!!!!!! New Parvo Strain Hits West Michigan
Parvo 2c has been suspected as the cause of death for at least three adult canines in Kent County and surrounding areas. Two of the three dogs had a known previous vaccine history and tested positive on the Idexx Snap Parvo Test. The most current information on Parvo 2c from the vaccine/shelter medicine specialists around the country is as follows:
Disease: Parvo 2c is a highly virulent strain of the parvo virus that is extremely fatal in puppies and adult dogs. This strain of parvo attacks the circulatory organs approximately 24 hours before attacking the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, by the time a dog is presented for lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea it is generally too late.
Diagnosis: Parvo 2c is detectable on the Idexx Snap Test, but it has been showing as a weak positive on many tests. Viral isolation is the best way to confirm the diagnosis, but it is not going to assist with diagnosis upon presentation.
Treatment: Conservative treatment with supportive care has been rarely successful. Plasma transfusions from recovered dogs have shown to yield the best treatment success at around 64% survival rate.Prevention: Schering-Plough (SP) and Intervet vaccinations have been proven to be 100% effective in preventing this strain of parvo. If you have any questions in regards to SP vaccinations please call 1-800-224-5318 (SP technical support). Fort Dodge vaccines were effective in less than 90% of the tested dogs/puppies, Pfizer was less than 70% effective in preventing disease, and Merial was less than 50% effective. This data was obtained from an independent source, and at this time the only published data is an article from Schering-Plough (S/P).
Cleaning Protocols: There are only two products that kill this virus with a ten minute contact time. Trifectant and bleach (1/2 cup/gallon dilution) will successfully kill Parvo 2c. All other products that claim to kill parvo are not effective per Dr. Hall (Vaccination/ Shelter Specialist at SP) !!!!!!
Prognosis: The prognosis is extremely poor. Most puppies or dogs die acutely from the cardiac components of the disease process. If GI signs are present, the disease has progressed and is most likely fatal.
Please feel free to call me with any questions (616) 791-8218. Over seven veterinary clinics have seen this type of disease locally. The citizens of Kent County need to be aware of the risk associated with this disease. Please inform your clients and protect the canines in your area.
From: Wendy Swift DVM, Veterinary Medical Director of the HSKC
Date: August 20, 2008
Re: Please Read!!!!!! New Parvo Strain Hits West Michigan
Parvo 2c has been suspected as the cause of death for at least three adult canines in Kent County and surrounding areas. Two of the three dogs had a known previous vaccine history and tested positive on the Idexx Snap Parvo Test. The most current information on Parvo 2c from the vaccine/shelter medicine specialists around the country is as follows:
Disease: Parvo 2c is a highly virulent strain of the parvo virus that is extremely fatal in puppies and adult dogs. This strain of parvo attacks the circulatory organs approximately 24 hours before attacking the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, by the time a dog is presented for lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea it is generally too late.
Diagnosis: Parvo 2c is detectable on the Idexx Snap Test, but it has been showing as a weak positive on many tests. Viral isolation is the best way to confirm the diagnosis, but it is not going to assist with diagnosis upon presentation.
Treatment: Conservative treatment with supportive care has been rarely successful. Plasma transfusions from recovered dogs have shown to yield the best treatment success at around 64% survival rate.Prevention: Schering-Plough (SP) and Intervet vaccinations have been proven to be 100% effective in preventing this strain of parvo. If you have any questions in regards to SP vaccinations please call 1-800-224-5318 (SP technical support). Fort Dodge vaccines were effective in less than 90% of the tested dogs/puppies, Pfizer was less than 70% effective in preventing disease, and Merial was less than 50% effective. This data was obtained from an independent source, and at this time the only published data is an article from Schering-Plough (S/P).
Cleaning Protocols: There are only two products that kill this virus with a ten minute contact time. Trifectant and bleach (1/2 cup/gallon dilution) will successfully kill Parvo 2c. All other products that claim to kill parvo are not effective per Dr. Hall (Vaccination/ Shelter Specialist at SP) !!!!!!
Prognosis: The prognosis is extremely poor. Most puppies or dogs die acutely from the cardiac components of the disease process. If GI signs are present, the disease has progressed and is most likely fatal.
Please feel free to call me with any questions (616) 791-8218. Over seven veterinary clinics have seen this type of disease locally. The citizens of Kent County need to be aware of the risk associated with this disease. Please inform your clients and protect the canines in your area.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
What Your Dog Wants You to Know
The Ten Things Your Dog Wants You To Know
If your dog could talk, these are some of most important things she would like to tell you…
If your dog could talk, these are some of most important things she would like to tell you…
1 - My life will probably only last 8 to 15 years. It will hurt me more than you know if I have to be away from you for longer than a day or two.
2 - If you have patience with me and give me time to learn what you would like from me, I can promise you, you will never be disappointed.
3 - Trust me with your life and have faith in our future together. If I don't feel that you honestly believe in me, I will suffer great emotional stress. My sense of self-worth is totally dependent upon your confidence in me.
4 - Don't stay mad at me for long or confine me to a cage to punish me. You have your friends, your job, and your recreation. I HAVE ONLY YOU!
5 - Talk to me about anything you want as frequently as possible. Even if I can't comprehend your precise words, I can understand the meaning of what you're telling me by the tone of your voice.
6 - Remember no matter how you treat me, I will NEVER forget it.
7 - When you consider raising your hand to hit me, remember I have teeth that could break the bones in your hand, but I choose not to bite you.
8 - Before you scream at me for failing to respond to your commands as I usually do, take time to think about what might be wrong with me that would cause me to treat you differently. Maybe I haven't been eating right or drinking enough water. Or maybe my age is catching up with me and I just can't do what I used to do.
9 - Take good care of me when I get old. Someday you will be as old as me and you will see how it feels.
10 - Be there for me through good times and bad. Never say you can't handle taking me to the vets for stitches or surgery. Nothing could make me feel worse. Everything in my life is easier for me to deal with when I have you standing by my side. Remember my love for you is unconditional and it will last for your entire life.
Danielle Hollister (2000)Danielle Hollister is the Writing Host at BellaOnline http://www.bellaonline.com/career/writing.html and Publisher of BellaOnline's Writing Zine http://www.egroups.com/group/bellaonlinewriting to subscribe send email to: bellaonlinewriting-subscribe @ egroups.com
If you like this lovely piece as much as I do, leave your comments below!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Shampoochie Grooming Photos
I was grooming this Chow Chow that has a terrible skin condition. Felt so upset about the condition of this Chow Chow. He is so obedient that although he felt so itchy all the time he did not retaliate at all. SO poor thing. Eyes is also very badly infected as its all red and inflammed.
Solid Gold recalls "Tiny Tots" treats
I came across this news article at http://www.dogfoodproject.com/. Solid Gold has recalled their one of the best dog treats in October. Oh my god! My dogs loves the treats! But I think fret not. It happen to just a certain batch.
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I was just alerted to the following recall:http://solidgoldhealth.com/news/
Tiny Tots Dog Treat Voluntary Product Withdrawl
October 13, 2008
Due to some instances of mold growth in a single batch of Tiny Tots, we have decided to voluntarily withdraw the entire production run from the market. We would like to assure our customers that there have been no reported serious health effects on dogs that have consumed Tiny Tots from this batch.
If you have a bag of Tiny Tots with a Best Before date of April 2009, please return it to your retail store for a full refund. No other batches of Tiny Tots or any of our other jerky treats are affected.
Solid Gold is committed to producing the healthiest food, treats, and supplements for your pet. As always, if you have any questions or concerns please contact us at 800-364-4863 or online at dane@solidgoldhealth.com.
Upcoming changes to Canidae formulations
I came across this news article at http://www.dogfoodproject.com/. This news is about Canidae dog food changing ingredients. Some dogs might be affected by it and some won't. Still it is best that you decide what to do.
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I wanted to give a heads up to dog owners feeding Canidae products about a few details that the makers of this product aren't telling you in their sales pitch for their changed formulas:
Under the new formulation, Canidae dry foods will no longer be gluten free, due to the addition of barley. If you know that your dog is gluten intolerant, start shopping around for a different food.
Even if your dog doesn't have problems with gluten (not all do, and many foods do contain high-gluten grains like barley), the change in formulation to include rice bran and peas may contribute to gas and digestive upset. Dogs who aren't particularly sensitive may not have any problems at all, others will get over it within a few days of transitioning, but again, for individuals with a delicate digestive system, expect that they may no longer tolerate the product.
Millet is generally well tolerated, but again, it doesn't work for every dog.
"Diversifying" ingredients may sound catchy, and Canidae certainly has made an effort to put a positive spin on it in their statement, but please remember that not all dogs do well on foods that include a wide variety of items.
Also note that "Herring Meal" will be replaced by generic "Ocean Fish Meal", meaning the company reserves the possibility to use different fish from batch to batch without having to change the ingredient list. This has not been addressed in their statement at all.
Whether these changes are indeed an improvement, as Canidae claims, is for you to decide - after observing how it affects your dog.
Canidae All Lifestages
Old Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/all_life_stages/dry.html
New Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/all_life_stages/dry2.html
Canidae Platinum
Old Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/platinum/dry.html
New Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/platinum/dry2.html
Canidae Chicken & Rice(Note that after the change it's no longer going to be a true "Chicken and Rice" formula, but instead a "Chicken, Rice, Barley and Peas" formula)
Old Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/chicken-and-rice/dry.html
New Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/chicken-and-rice/dry2.html
Canidae Lamb & Rice
New Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/lamb-and-rice/dry.html
The old formula has already been overwritten. "Lamb and Rice" formula will now also be a misnomer - even though it's legal as far as labeling regulations go. This is the current ingredient list:
Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Canola Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Flax Seed, Sun cured Alfalfa Meal, Sunflower Oil, Lamb, Lecithin, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Linoleic Acid, Rosemary Extract, Sage Extract, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Extract, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract, Inulin (from Chicory Root), Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Solubles, L-Lysine, Taurine, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Mixed Tocopherols (source of Vitamin E), Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (source of Vitamin C), Niacin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (source of Vitamin B2), Beta Carotene, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Folic Acid, D-Biotin, Organic Selenium, Dried Papaya, Dried Pineapple, Vitamin B12 Supplement
-----------------------------------------------------------
I wanted to give a heads up to dog owners feeding Canidae products about a few details that the makers of this product aren't telling you in their sales pitch for their changed formulas:
Under the new formulation, Canidae dry foods will no longer be gluten free, due to the addition of barley. If you know that your dog is gluten intolerant, start shopping around for a different food.
Even if your dog doesn't have problems with gluten (not all do, and many foods do contain high-gluten grains like barley), the change in formulation to include rice bran and peas may contribute to gas and digestive upset. Dogs who aren't particularly sensitive may not have any problems at all, others will get over it within a few days of transitioning, but again, for individuals with a delicate digestive system, expect that they may no longer tolerate the product.
Millet is generally well tolerated, but again, it doesn't work for every dog.
"Diversifying" ingredients may sound catchy, and Canidae certainly has made an effort to put a positive spin on it in their statement, but please remember that not all dogs do well on foods that include a wide variety of items.
Also note that "Herring Meal" will be replaced by generic "Ocean Fish Meal", meaning the company reserves the possibility to use different fish from batch to batch without having to change the ingredient list. This has not been addressed in their statement at all.
Whether these changes are indeed an improvement, as Canidae claims, is for you to decide - after observing how it affects your dog.
Canidae All Lifestages
Old Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/all_life_stages/dry.html
New Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/all_life_stages/dry2.html
Canidae Platinum
Old Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/platinum/dry.html
New Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/platinum/dry2.html
Canidae Chicken & Rice(Note that after the change it's no longer going to be a true "Chicken and Rice" formula, but instead a "Chicken, Rice, Barley and Peas" formula)
Old Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/chicken-and-rice/dry.html
New Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/chicken-and-rice/dry2.html
Canidae Lamb & Rice
New Formula: http://canidae.com/dogs/lamb-and-rice/dry.html
The old formula has already been overwritten. "Lamb and Rice" formula will now also be a misnomer - even though it's legal as far as labeling regulations go. This is the current ingredient list:
Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Canola Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Flax Seed, Sun cured Alfalfa Meal, Sunflower Oil, Lamb, Lecithin, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Linoleic Acid, Rosemary Extract, Sage Extract, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Extract, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract, Inulin (from Chicory Root), Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Solubles, L-Lysine, Taurine, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Mixed Tocopherols (source of Vitamin E), Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (source of Vitamin C), Niacin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (source of Vitamin B2), Beta Carotene, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Folic Acid, D-Biotin, Organic Selenium, Dried Papaya, Dried Pineapple, Vitamin B12 Supplement
Timberwolf voluntarily recalls Ocean Blue and Dakota Bison Formulas
I came across this news article at http://www.dogfoodproject.com/. Its not something that we need to be alarmed but I just that thought that I should let you guys know and take some precautionary measures. Anyway it happens in June 2008. So by now the food shouldn't have any problem now.
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It seems that after the recently "discovered" formula discrepancies, there's another problem with Timberwolf products:
Dakota Bison/Ocean Blue Reported Issues
Timberwolf Organics Customer,
Due to recent reports from some customers, we have ordered that two formulas from three specific dates be pulled from the shelves. These are:
Dakota Bison with 'best by date' of 12 Feb 2009
Ocean Blue with 'best by date' of 20 Feb 2009
Ocean Blue with best by date' of 8 March 2009
The reported symptoms include dogs refusing to eat, diarrhea or vomiting. While the problem is inconsistent (not every dog eating food from those dates/bag show the symptoms and not every bag), to err on the side of caution have decided to pull the formulas produced with the above dates. Initial testing has come back negative for problems and further testing is pending results.
As soon as the cause of this reported problem is determined procedures will be put into place to ensure that an event like this cannot happen again. Please be assured that no other formulas and Ocean Blue and Dakota Bison with dates other than ones listed above are not affected.
We apologize for any inconvenience or problems that this may have resulted in. If you do have a bag with those dates please contact the retailer you purchased it from for an exchange or credit. If you purchased it directly from us please give us a call or email us at customer.support@timberwolforganics.com.
Thank you for choosing Timberwolf Organics.
Sincerely,
Timberwolf Organics Team
--------------------------------------------------------
It seems that after the recently "discovered" formula discrepancies, there's another problem with Timberwolf products:
Dakota Bison/Ocean Blue Reported Issues
Timberwolf Organics Customer,
Due to recent reports from some customers, we have ordered that two formulas from three specific dates be pulled from the shelves. These are:
Dakota Bison with 'best by date' of 12 Feb 2009
Ocean Blue with 'best by date' of 20 Feb 2009
Ocean Blue with best by date' of 8 March 2009
The reported symptoms include dogs refusing to eat, diarrhea or vomiting. While the problem is inconsistent (not every dog eating food from those dates/bag show the symptoms and not every bag), to err on the side of caution have decided to pull the formulas produced with the above dates. Initial testing has come back negative for problems and further testing is pending results.
As soon as the cause of this reported problem is determined procedures will be put into place to ensure that an event like this cannot happen again. Please be assured that no other formulas and Ocean Blue and Dakota Bison with dates other than ones listed above are not affected.
We apologize for any inconvenience or problems that this may have resulted in. If you do have a bag with those dates please contact the retailer you purchased it from for an exchange or credit. If you purchased it directly from us please give us a call or email us at customer.support@timberwolforganics.com.
Thank you for choosing Timberwolf Organics.
Sincerely,
Timberwolf Organics Team
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Should I Groom My Cat?
Recently I have been having quite a number of cats grooming. New or old times of owning a cat doesn't really know the importance of having their cats being groomed regularly. Many in fact thinks that cats groom themselves so they doesn't need much attention to attend to. This is terribly wrong.
Cats are meticulous groomers, most spending their days licking and grooming themselves. A cats tongue is the perfect tool for grooming. Not only does it keep the fur clean, but it also massages their skin and stimulates good circulation. However, no matter how much your cat grooms himself, you should also groom your cat daily. Why?
Grooming enhances the bond between you and your cat, and also lets kitty become used to being handled. Another advantage of grooming is that brushing will remove loose hair, reducing the risk of hairballs. Many cats have difficulty dislodging hairballs which can cause blockage of the intestines. This can be life-threatening. Grooming also gives you the opportunity to check the skin for lumps, cuts and irritations and for fleas and parasites.
How To Groom Your Cat
Introduce your cat to grooming at as young an age as possible. Groom your cat when he is tired and when you are most relaxed. At a start, groom a little each day so your cat can become used to it gradually without becoming too stressed. Praise and spoil him after each grooming session. This helps to create a tighter bond between you and your pet and will make grooming and brushing easier in the future. Use a grooming mitt or glove at first and then progress to a brush or comb when your kitty has become used to the handling. Start brushing along the cat’s back, going from his head to his tail. Do this a few times on one side, and then switch to the other. Each area should be brushed a few times in the direction of the hair growth.Avoid brushing his face and paws.
Grooming Short-haired Cats
Short-haired cats should be groomed with a rubber brush. Wet or dampen the brush to help catch any loose fur and prevent it from flying around your home - especially important if anyone in the household is allergic to cat hair.You can also use a flea comb on short haired cats. These are brushes with very narrowly placed teeth to scrape up the fleas. Start combing small lengths at a time, gently, from the skin out. Dip any fleas found into a bowl of soapy water. To give a shine to the cat’s coat, finish with a grooming glove or slicker brush.
Grooming Long Haired Cats
Use a comb to groom the hair of a long haired cat. Begin combing in your cat’s favourite spots - usually the chin and head. Then, go on to the next area. If there are any matted areas, try gently untangling the hair but you may have to cut it out with blunt tipped scissors.
Follow these simple steps:
First take a medium or course comb and split your cat’s coat into different sections. Be sure to work through the fur in a gentle and slow manner.Next, do exactly as you did in step one but this time use a fine-toothed comb.Follow through now with a good brushing, still working with small sections at a time. This time use a pin brush and work against the grain of the fur.
Once your cat gets used to grooming he will look forward to it each day and the brushing can be very relaxing and de-stressing for you as well!
Cats are meticulous groomers, most spending their days licking and grooming themselves. A cats tongue is the perfect tool for grooming. Not only does it keep the fur clean, but it also massages their skin and stimulates good circulation. However, no matter how much your cat grooms himself, you should also groom your cat daily. Why?
Grooming enhances the bond between you and your cat, and also lets kitty become used to being handled. Another advantage of grooming is that brushing will remove loose hair, reducing the risk of hairballs. Many cats have difficulty dislodging hairballs which can cause blockage of the intestines. This can be life-threatening. Grooming also gives you the opportunity to check the skin for lumps, cuts and irritations and for fleas and parasites.
How To Groom Your Cat
Introduce your cat to grooming at as young an age as possible. Groom your cat when he is tired and when you are most relaxed. At a start, groom a little each day so your cat can become used to it gradually without becoming too stressed. Praise and spoil him after each grooming session. This helps to create a tighter bond between you and your pet and will make grooming and brushing easier in the future. Use a grooming mitt or glove at first and then progress to a brush or comb when your kitty has become used to the handling. Start brushing along the cat’s back, going from his head to his tail. Do this a few times on one side, and then switch to the other. Each area should be brushed a few times in the direction of the hair growth.Avoid brushing his face and paws.
Grooming Short-haired Cats
Short-haired cats should be groomed with a rubber brush. Wet or dampen the brush to help catch any loose fur and prevent it from flying around your home - especially important if anyone in the household is allergic to cat hair.You can also use a flea comb on short haired cats. These are brushes with very narrowly placed teeth to scrape up the fleas. Start combing small lengths at a time, gently, from the skin out. Dip any fleas found into a bowl of soapy water. To give a shine to the cat’s coat, finish with a grooming glove or slicker brush.
Grooming Long Haired Cats
Use a comb to groom the hair of a long haired cat. Begin combing in your cat’s favourite spots - usually the chin and head. Then, go on to the next area. If there are any matted areas, try gently untangling the hair but you may have to cut it out with blunt tipped scissors.
Follow these simple steps:
First take a medium or course comb and split your cat’s coat into different sections. Be sure to work through the fur in a gentle and slow manner.Next, do exactly as you did in step one but this time use a fine-toothed comb.Follow through now with a good brushing, still working with small sections at a time. This time use a pin brush and work against the grain of the fur.
Once your cat gets used to grooming he will look forward to it each day and the brushing can be very relaxing and de-stressing for you as well!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Grooming- The Importance of Grooming Dogs and Cats
If you think that grooming is only for fancy Poodles and Shih Tzu, think again! Grooming is important for every pet in your home. Cats, dogs and bunnies, a professional pet groomer can give your pet more than just a makeover.
Keep in mind that not all grooming involves cutting hair and clipping. Many animals can benefit from a simple haircut. Jack Russell Terriers and Labradors, for example, can have undercoats removed professionally, and dramatically minimize shedding. Longhaired cats can have haircuts too, which will help them stay cool in our hot weather and reduce hairballs.
When your pet is groomed, it does not only look good but in many cases a regular grooming visit can prevent serious problems from becoming fatal. If there are any bumps, lumps, cuts, flakes, skin conditions, ear, tooth, or nail problems, your groomer will often find them.
Once, during a regular grooming, we discovered that the anal glands of one of the dogs I was handling did not appear healthy. After notifying the owner, the dog was taken to the vet. The dog had developed a tumor but thanks to the early discovery and removal, the pet was fine and the owner very grateful. Had the tumor not been discovered quickly, the pet might not have survived.
When your pet is groomed properly on a regular basis they feel better and you'll appreciate them more. Consider grooming your pet frequently, so that another animal professional can look out after your pet.
Keep in mind that not all grooming involves cutting hair and clipping. Many animals can benefit from a simple haircut. Jack Russell Terriers and Labradors, for example, can have undercoats removed professionally, and dramatically minimize shedding. Longhaired cats can have haircuts too, which will help them stay cool in our hot weather and reduce hairballs.
When your pet is groomed, it does not only look good but in many cases a regular grooming visit can prevent serious problems from becoming fatal. If there are any bumps, lumps, cuts, flakes, skin conditions, ear, tooth, or nail problems, your groomer will often find them.
Once, during a regular grooming, we discovered that the anal glands of one of the dogs I was handling did not appear healthy. After notifying the owner, the dog was taken to the vet. The dog had developed a tumor but thanks to the early discovery and removal, the pet was fine and the owner very grateful. Had the tumor not been discovered quickly, the pet might not have survived.
When your pet is groomed properly on a regular basis they feel better and you'll appreciate them more. Consider grooming your pet frequently, so that another animal professional can look out after your pet.
Yes, to some owners they will say I am not a vet so I have no right to pass a comment on the dog's health. To some owners, they rather trust the groomers than the vet. To some owners, they only go to see the vet when their dog is suffering a lot.
To put it plainly, groomers are always the first in line to notice any changes in your pet.
I am sure you go the your hairstylist every 2 months and I know some of my clients go every month. Why? To look good and feel good. Having your pets look and feel good is also very important. Because they are part of your family and also reduces your trip to the vet.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Taiwan TV Dog Blog
Was watching Taiwan Dog Blog this morning at 9am at this Starhub TV. Really amazed at how they are able to come out with this show.
There is one part of the show where its talking about a cafe. What's so special about this cafe is that at the centre of it, is where they house about 30 over cats. Where these cats are house are open areas so there are no no odour at all. Customers of this cafe are able to view the cats in action. They also have a bulldog inside the cafe where the customers can play with him. This cafe not only allows customers to bring their pets but also to view the cafe owner cats in action. The cats have their own big different kind of houses to sleep in. This is like one of a kind.
How nice if I am able to open one like this in Singapore!! But its not allow and worst of all, its the rental that is so expensive.
Carry to dream!
There is one part of the show where its talking about a cafe. What's so special about this cafe is that at the centre of it, is where they house about 30 over cats. Where these cats are house are open areas so there are no no odour at all. Customers of this cafe are able to view the cats in action. They also have a bulldog inside the cafe where the customers can play with him. This cafe not only allows customers to bring their pets but also to view the cafe owner cats in action. The cats have their own big different kind of houses to sleep in. This is like one of a kind.
How nice if I am able to open one like this in Singapore!! But its not allow and worst of all, its the rental that is so expensive.
Carry to dream!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Zen mind, puppy mind
Conan the Chihuahua “prays” with his owner, chief priest Joei Yoshikuni, at the Shuri-Kannondo temple in Okinawa islands, southwestern Japan, on Monday.
NAHA, Japan - At a Zen Buddhist temple in southern Japan, even the dog prays.
Mimicking his master, priest Joei Yoshikuni, a 1 1/2-year-old black-and-white Chihuahua named Conan joins in the daily prayers at Naha's Shuri Kannondo temple, sitting up on his hind legs and putting his front paws together before the altar.
It took him only a few days to learn the motions, and now he is the talk of the town.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23774245/
NAHA, Japan - At a Zen Buddhist temple in southern Japan, even the dog prays.
Mimicking his master, priest Joei Yoshikuni, a 1 1/2-year-old black-and-white Chihuahua named Conan joins in the daily prayers at Naha's Shuri Kannondo temple, sitting up on his hind legs and putting his front paws together before the altar.
It took him only a few days to learn the motions, and now he is the talk of the town.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23774245/
PET HOROSCOPES & ASTROLOGY
Aries Pet Horoscope
Pets born under the sign of Aries are bold and adventurous.
Taurus Pet Horoscope
Taurean pets have a placid nature, except when pushed to the extreme.
Gemini Pet Horoscope
Gemini pets are intelligent, entertaining, and quick to learn tricks
Cancer Pet Horoscope
Your over sensitive Cancerian pet thinks it's one of the children.
Leo Pet Horoscope
Extrovert and gregarious Leo pets need to be admired
Virgo Pet Horoscope
Virgo pets are conscientious, clean, and love to work.
Libra Pet Horoscope
A pretty pet that naturally blends in with its surroundings.
Scorpio Pet Horoscope
Scorpio pets are loyal and expect absolute loyalty in return.
Sagittarius Pet Horoscope
Brave active and bright the Sagittarian pet will always amuse us.
Capricorn Pet Horoscope
Capricorn pets look old before their time
Aquarius Pet Horoscope
If your pet is totally bonkers- it's probably an Aquarian
Pisces Pet Horoscope
Piscean pets will know if you're happy or upset
Pets born under the sign of Aries are bold and adventurous.
Taurus Pet Horoscope
Taurean pets have a placid nature, except when pushed to the extreme.
Gemini Pet Horoscope
Gemini pets are intelligent, entertaining, and quick to learn tricks
Cancer Pet Horoscope
Your over sensitive Cancerian pet thinks it's one of the children.
Leo Pet Horoscope
Extrovert and gregarious Leo pets need to be admired
Virgo Pet Horoscope
Virgo pets are conscientious, clean, and love to work.
Libra Pet Horoscope
A pretty pet that naturally blends in with its surroundings.
Scorpio Pet Horoscope
Scorpio pets are loyal and expect absolute loyalty in return.
Sagittarius Pet Horoscope
Brave active and bright the Sagittarian pet will always amuse us.
Capricorn Pet Horoscope
Capricorn pets look old before their time
Aquarius Pet Horoscope
If your pet is totally bonkers- it's probably an Aquarian
Pisces Pet Horoscope
Piscean pets will know if you're happy or upset
Holistic Dog Health for Your Dog
In recent years, thousands of veternarians have made holistic dog health a greater part of their practice. A vet practicing holistic pet medicine cares for the whole animal instead of just finding a specific problem and prescribing a …
See original here: Holistic Dog Health for Your Dog
See original here: Holistic Dog Health for Your Dog
Holistic Dog Health and Your Dog
by Geraldine Dimarco
Alternative health care for dogs, such as holistic healthcare, is quickly becoming the way for owners to make sure that their beloved pets are healthy, playful, and living long, happy, full lives. In considering a dogs health,maybe nutritional needs are the most important aspects,a dogs nutritional needs are somewhat different from a humans and need a certain balance of nutrients,vitamins,and minerals to make sure everything from their digestive systems to the skeletal
Original post:Holistic Dog Health and Your Dog
Alternative health care for dogs, such as holistic healthcare, is quickly becoming the way for owners to make sure that their beloved pets are healthy, playful, and living long, happy, full lives. In considering a dogs health,maybe nutritional needs are the most important aspects,a dogs nutritional needs are somewhat different from a humans and need a certain balance of nutrients,vitamins,and minerals to make sure everything from their digestive systems to the skeletal
Original post:Holistic Dog Health and Your Dog
Shampoochie Grooming Photos
Biscuits Before
Biscuits After
Momo - this is the best picture i have of her. Though the cuttings looks ugly but i can't do much as Momo has been trimmed before coming to me for touch up. But still I find her very cute.
Bailey - the black cocker. Very obedient.
Bailey - After GroomMonday, September 22, 2008
Pets & Poisons
Many things in your home may be poisonous to your pets. Dogs, cats, and other animals are curious. They like to lick and chew. This places your pets at risk of being poisoned. You can help keep your pets safe by storing and using poisons safely. Be aware of these common poisons in and around your home:
Alcohol
Because of your pet's small size, it cannot tolerate any beer, wine, or liquor. Large amounts of alcohol can be deadly. Do not give your pets alcohol or let them lick up spilled drinks.
Automotive Products
Many automotive products, including car cleaners, antifreeze, windshield washer fluids can be deadly to your pets. Store automotive products in tightly closed containers kept out of the reach and sight of your pets. Make sure you clean up any spills or leaks right away. When getting rid of automotive products, follow the product label directions. Do not pour products into the street or onto the grass or yard.
Chocolate
Chocolate can be deadly to your pets. Baking chocolate is more dangerous than semi-sweet and milk chocolate. Store all chocolate out of the reach and sight of your pets.
Raisins & Grapes
As few as seven Raisins or Grapes can kill your pet!
Fertilizers
Keep your pets away from yards and gardens when you are using fertilizers. Your pets may get poisoned by licking their paws after walking on a newly fertilized lawn.
Flea and Tick Sprays
When you use flea and tick products, always read the product label and follow the directions carefully. If your pet begins to act strangely, stop using the product. Wash your pet off with soap and water, and call the Poison Center or your veterinarian right away. Never use products meant for dogs on your cats or products meant for your yard or house on your pets.
Household Cleaners & Chemicals
Toilet bowl cleaners, bleach, dishwashing detergents, drain cleaners, pine oils, and other cleaning products can be deadly to your pets. Keep your pets out of rooms where cleaners are being used. Your pets can easily get into cleaners left in open buckets or spilled on the floor. Make sure you clean up cleaning supplies and spills right away. Keep cleaners stored in tightly closed containers, out of the reach and sight of your pets.
Medicines and Vitamins
Medicine and vitamins meant for people may not be safe for your pets. This includes over-the-counter medicines like aspirin, ibuprofen, cough or cold medicines and decongestants. Never give medicine meant for one animal to another. Always check with your veterinarian before giving your pets any medicine. Make sure you follow directions when giving your pets medicine. Keep medicines stored out of the reach and sight of your pets at all times. With their curiosity and strong teeth, dogs can easily open medicine bottles and tubes.
Pesticides
Pesticides are chemicals used to kill weeds, bugs, rats, mice, and other rodents. They can also kill your pets. Before you use any pesticide, read the product label and follow directions. If you use baits or powders, put them where your pets cannot find them. Keep your pets off lawns sprayed with lawn chemicals until they are completely dry. Store pesticides in tightly closed containers kept out of the reach and sight of your pets.
Plants and Mushrooms
Many indoor and outdoor plants and mushrooms are poisonous to pets. Pets, especially cats, love to chew on plants. Keep poisonous plants away from your pets! Make sure you know the names of your plants.
Alcohol
Because of your pet's small size, it cannot tolerate any beer, wine, or liquor. Large amounts of alcohol can be deadly. Do not give your pets alcohol or let them lick up spilled drinks.
Automotive Products
Many automotive products, including car cleaners, antifreeze, windshield washer fluids can be deadly to your pets. Store automotive products in tightly closed containers kept out of the reach and sight of your pets. Make sure you clean up any spills or leaks right away. When getting rid of automotive products, follow the product label directions. Do not pour products into the street or onto the grass or yard.
Chocolate
Chocolate can be deadly to your pets. Baking chocolate is more dangerous than semi-sweet and milk chocolate. Store all chocolate out of the reach and sight of your pets.
Raisins & Grapes
As few as seven Raisins or Grapes can kill your pet!
Fertilizers
Keep your pets away from yards and gardens when you are using fertilizers. Your pets may get poisoned by licking their paws after walking on a newly fertilized lawn.
Flea and Tick Sprays
When you use flea and tick products, always read the product label and follow the directions carefully. If your pet begins to act strangely, stop using the product. Wash your pet off with soap and water, and call the Poison Center or your veterinarian right away. Never use products meant for dogs on your cats or products meant for your yard or house on your pets.
Household Cleaners & Chemicals
Toilet bowl cleaners, bleach, dishwashing detergents, drain cleaners, pine oils, and other cleaning products can be deadly to your pets. Keep your pets out of rooms where cleaners are being used. Your pets can easily get into cleaners left in open buckets or spilled on the floor. Make sure you clean up cleaning supplies and spills right away. Keep cleaners stored in tightly closed containers, out of the reach and sight of your pets.
Medicines and Vitamins
Medicine and vitamins meant for people may not be safe for your pets. This includes over-the-counter medicines like aspirin, ibuprofen, cough or cold medicines and decongestants. Never give medicine meant for one animal to another. Always check with your veterinarian before giving your pets any medicine. Make sure you follow directions when giving your pets medicine. Keep medicines stored out of the reach and sight of your pets at all times. With their curiosity and strong teeth, dogs can easily open medicine bottles and tubes.
Pesticides
Pesticides are chemicals used to kill weeds, bugs, rats, mice, and other rodents. They can also kill your pets. Before you use any pesticide, read the product label and follow directions. If you use baits or powders, put them where your pets cannot find them. Keep your pets off lawns sprayed with lawn chemicals until they are completely dry. Store pesticides in tightly closed containers kept out of the reach and sight of your pets.
Plants and Mushrooms
Many indoor and outdoor plants and mushrooms are poisonous to pets. Pets, especially cats, love to chew on plants. Keep poisonous plants away from your pets! Make sure you know the names of your plants.
TOXICITY IS KILLING YOUR DOG
I found this article to be of good use for us to know more about toxic in our pets. I believe to a certain extend all our pets have toxin in their body that's why our pets always falls sick or have skin problems.
Just like humans, we breathe in toxin and takes in toxin everyday. But since dogs and cats is like part of our family (some of us even take them as part of our children or even brothers and sisters), shouldn't we give them a good and healthy life? At the same time, it save us a lot of veterinary fees too.
Do read out the article. Though some of the things they say are not available in Singapore but there are alternative that I can recommend to you.
http://www.healthyhappydogs.com/RemoveToxinsNaturally
Is your dog well ALL the time? Does your dog sometimes suffer from skin problems? Does your dog have allergies? Does your dog maybe have hot spots or some other skin irritation?
Does your dog lick his/her paws constantly? Annoying, isn't it? (for you, I mean - and just imagine how intensely irritating it is for your dog!).
Hopefully things haven't got this bad, but perhaps your dog has even been diagnosed with cancer, Addison's disease, Cushings disease, or Lyme disease? Perhaps your dog is chronically sick in some way, and you're constantly administering costly drugs to your dog?
Well, whether you dog's problems are intermittent and relatively minor, or chronic and major, you CAN do something to improve your dog's health in a significant way ...
Take matters into your own hands and do something worthwhile for your dog!
Toxins are the root cause of allergy symptoms which is why the conventional veterinary medical practices are to treat your dog for allergy symptoms with all sorts of steroids and other toxic and lethal chemical drugs. These drugs DO NOT SOLVE the problem as you know very very well. The worse part of all is that most of these drugs actually make the situation worse by hampering your dog's ability to absorb nutrition and suppressing the immune system.
Just like humans, we breathe in toxin and takes in toxin everyday. But since dogs and cats is like part of our family (some of us even take them as part of our children or even brothers and sisters), shouldn't we give them a good and healthy life? At the same time, it save us a lot of veterinary fees too.
Do read out the article. Though some of the things they say are not available in Singapore but there are alternative that I can recommend to you.
http://www.healthyhappydogs.com/RemoveToxinsNaturally
Is your dog well ALL the time? Does your dog sometimes suffer from skin problems? Does your dog have allergies? Does your dog maybe have hot spots or some other skin irritation?
Does your dog lick his/her paws constantly? Annoying, isn't it? (for you, I mean - and just imagine how intensely irritating it is for your dog!).
Hopefully things haven't got this bad, but perhaps your dog has even been diagnosed with cancer, Addison's disease, Cushings disease, or Lyme disease? Perhaps your dog is chronically sick in some way, and you're constantly administering costly drugs to your dog?
Well, whether you dog's problems are intermittent and relatively minor, or chronic and major, you CAN do something to improve your dog's health in a significant way ...
Take matters into your own hands and do something worthwhile for your dog!
Toxins are the root cause of allergy symptoms which is why the conventional veterinary medical practices are to treat your dog for allergy symptoms with all sorts of steroids and other toxic and lethal chemical drugs. These drugs DO NOT SOLVE the problem as you know very very well. The worse part of all is that most of these drugs actually make the situation worse by hampering your dog's ability to absorb nutrition and suppressing the immune system.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Monday, September 15, 2008
Dog Grooming Tips
Many people overlook the importance of grooming their dog to their overall health and well-being. Grooming is an essential part of caring for your dog, and should be done on a regular basis for the best results. Some of the benefits your pet will reap are increased skin oils resulting in a beautiful, healthy coat, a decrease in skin problems, less shedding around the house and car, and a more obedient pet, just to name a few.
You will need plenty of patience to groom and style your dog if you plan to do it on a regular basis, especially if it does not like this type of treatment. You will need to learn a few tips, ideas, and professional hints on grooming your pet if you ever want your pet to have show quality care by you. A knowledgeable professional pet groomer will be able to give you advice on not just how to groom your dog, but on how to care for your dog as well. You
It is a good idea to start using environmentally safe and animal friendly (non-toxic) substitutes when grooming your dog. You must groom your dog's whole body including the legs, tail, and underbody if you want to do it right. You must groom from the skin outward to truly be effective in taking care of their coat of hair and keeping it healthy. Comb through the unseen healthy hair and remove the shedding hair; this is what most groomers do first before cutting your pet's coat.
You know your dog is well-mannered when it will sit still and allow you or a professional to perform regular grooming and maintenance without any fuss. The more often you groom your dog, the better he will be at receiving your attentions and responding to your commands. This will also strengthen the bond between you.
Last but not least, you might want to rethink your choice to get a dog if you are not ready to handle all the responsibility of grooming and feeding one. If you don't have the time or the desire to do it yourself, then its time to call the professionals. Your dog will love you for it, and you'll feel great about it too.
You will need plenty of patience to groom and style your dog if you plan to do it on a regular basis, especially if it does not like this type of treatment. You will need to learn a few tips, ideas, and professional hints on grooming your pet if you ever want your pet to have show quality care by you. A knowledgeable professional pet groomer will be able to give you advice on not just how to groom your dog, but on how to care for your dog as well. You
It is a good idea to start using environmentally safe and animal friendly (non-toxic) substitutes when grooming your dog. You must groom your dog's whole body including the legs, tail, and underbody if you want to do it right. You must groom from the skin outward to truly be effective in taking care of their coat of hair and keeping it healthy. Comb through the unseen healthy hair and remove the shedding hair; this is what most groomers do first before cutting your pet's coat.
You know your dog is well-mannered when it will sit still and allow you or a professional to perform regular grooming and maintenance without any fuss. The more often you groom your dog, the better he will be at receiving your attentions and responding to your commands. This will also strengthen the bond between you.
Last but not least, you might want to rethink your choice to get a dog if you are not ready to handle all the responsibility of grooming and feeding one. If you don't have the time or the desire to do it yourself, then its time to call the professionals. Your dog will love you for it, and you'll feel great about it too.
Dog Grooming: Most Frequently Asked Dog Grooming Questions & Its Answers
Although it's often overlooked, grooming is an important part of your dog's health and wellness program. Here are some of the most frequently asked dog grooming questions that are asked by our clients:
- When should I start grooming my dog?
Start regular grooming when you first bring your dog home and make it a part of his or her routine. Purchase a good-quality brush and comb and get your dog used to being handled. Praise your dog when he or she holds still and soon he or she will come to enjoy the extra attention. Some breeds have special grooming needs, so ask your professional groomer for advice on particular grooming equipment necessary for your particular dog. - How often should I brush my dog's hair?
Routine brushing and combing removes dead hair and dirt and prevents matting, while giving your pet a healthier and shinier coat.
Your dog's skin and hair coat reflects his or her overall health and nutritional status. Many dogs maintain a healthy skin and hair coat with minimal assistance. Some long-haired or curly-haired breeds require regular brushing every alternate days. For most dogs, a good brushing once or twice a week will do the trick. - How often should I bathe my dog?
Your dog's need for bathing depends on its breed, the skin type and hair coat. It also depends on the owner's preference and how dirty your dog gets. Bathing your dog every week isn't unreasonable, but some dogs will need more frequent cleanings. A good rule of thumb is to bathe your pet only when the coat gets dirty or begins to smell "doggy."
When bathing your dog, make sure to rinse all the soap out of the coat. If there are persistent problems with scratching or flaky skin, he or she may need a special medicated shampoo or have a skin problem that your veterinarian should examine. - What skin problems are common among dogs and what should I look for?
Skin problems - including fleas, ticks and mites or allergies and infections - are common among dogs. Most conditions are manageable with early detection and treatment. If you notice excessive scratching, hair loss or flaky skin, contact your veterinarian. If you frequent your groomer regularly, he/she will be able to notice any skin abnormal skin conditions that sometimes you don't notice. Remember that consistently poor hair coat with lots of skin flaking may indicate a deeper medical problem. - I have problems cleaning my dog's ears. What's the best way to clean his ears and how often should it be cleaned.
Ears also require cleaning, especially in dogs with oily skin or allergies. This is a delicate task and is probably best left to your groomer or vet. However, if your dog is easy to handle (and there is no chance that you will be bitten), you can learn to do this chore yourself. To remove excessive wax and debris from the ears, consider an ear cleaning every two to four weeks. Ask your groomer about products you can use at home, and be sure to ask for a demonstration of proper ear cleaning techniques. - I have problems keeping my dog still so I can trim its nails. Do you have any nail trimming advice?
While clipping nails is a painless and simple process, it takes practice and patience to master the skill. When you muster enough courage to trim the nails of your dog, you'll need a good nail clipper, a nail file to rub any sharp edge away and a styptic powder to stop any subsequent bleeding easily.
Ask your groomer to show you the correct technique, and then get started by getting your pet used to having his or her paws handled. Once you start using the clippers, go slowly. Try clipping just a few nails in one sitting. Maintain a regular schedule and be persistent. Your pet will eventually develop patience and learn to cooperate. - What is the most important thing to include in my dog grooming kit?
The most important thing required in your grooming kit is your own confidence. It will form and take shape within you and grow in time.
So, go ahead and start grooming your dog. If you can overcome your hesitation, beautiful and rewarding experiences are waiting for you. Grooming your dog properly helps to keep him or her healthy while building an important bond between you and your pet.
Dog goes for grooming, comes back dead
This article was taken from Stomp . It was posted on the 23 Feb 2007. A tragic story that happens to a healthy dog when he was taken to a grooming salon. Read the full story at Stomp.
Remember Prevention is always better than Cure!
A grooming session at a pet shop on 9 February 2007 turned very wrong when Nicky, a 7-year-old Maltese (shown above) collapsed during the blow-drying session and was rushed to Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital.
Nicky was pronounced dead upon arrival.
His eyes were found to be wide open and his tongue was purple and sticking out of his mouth.
The vet told owner Alinda Lim, a 27-year-old civil servant with the Ministry of Defence, that possible causes of death were lack of oxygen or heart failure.
When contacted by STOMP, the vet relayed the same story she told Alinda, "Even if a post-mortem was done, there would be no guarantee that the exact cause of death can be determined. There were no external injuries on the dog."
Alinda was too traumatized by Nicky's death to approve a post-mortem at the hospital, and requested for him to be cremated and notified when the ashes were ready for collection.
"The groomer was very defensive at the hospital when I asked him what happened to my dog," Alinda shares, "he said that my dog probably died of old age. He also suggested that Nicky had an undetected illness."
Alinda was doubtful of this being the truth as Nicky was only 7-years-old with no medical history. Nicky's last vet check-up was in December 2006, and the vet declared him healthy.
4 Easy Steps To Grooming Your Dog
Grooming your dog should be a regular routine. It's great practice for you and it also helps your dog get used to being brushed, stroked and handled. Remember grooming your dog starts as soon as it is born by the mother, the only difference is you do not have to use your tongue (no fur balls).
We should start by using a soft brush and covering only small areas at a time with short gentle strokes just to get him use to the sensation against his skin. As the dog stands in a relaxed manner accepting the whole process, give him plenty of treats and praise and he will relate grooming as a positive experience.
Ok... well we better get into these 4 simple steps, you can use to groom your dog.
Step 1 :
Your dog should be in a standing position in a relaxed comfortable state - gently place your hand on his chest to steady him. Being grooming with the rake, using long even strokes. This prevents matting and is very good for his undercoat.
Step 2 :
A fine-toothed comb is very useful for checking to make sure that your dogs coat is free of ticks and fleas. Do this by running the comb through his coat then holding it against a white piece of paper if you see any gritty bits of muck it may be signs of flea dirt.
Step 3 :
Next use a brush to condition your dogs skin and coat .This promotes hair growth by stimulating blood flow to the skin, ensuring that the dogs coat is full and healthy.
Step 4 :
Our last step is to finish him with a grooming glove which will remove any remaining old or dead hair and make him shine in the sunlight leaving him with a well groomed maintained coat.
Using this simple system will help keep his coat looking great and maintained.
When grooming your dog do not let him play with the brush or other grooming tools as this can become established behaviour that could be a future problem so do not let it start in the first place. If he is a playful fellow give him a toy to play with but, only if necessary while you groom him.
Also if you groom your dog up off the ground for instance on a table or bench, make sure that you place a mat on it so they have something to grip their paws onto. A shiny slippery surface makes dogs feel insecure and he will make your life a lot harder if he does not feel safe.
Also if you groom your dog up off the ground for instance on a table or bench, make sure that you place a mat on it so they have something to grip their paws onto. A shiny slippery surface makes dogs feel insecure and he will make your life a lot harder if he does not feel safe.
Remember grooming your dog can be lots of fun that the whole family can get involved with. But there is one very important rule that must be followed.
The dog must enjoy the experience with your patience and understanding seeing the process through his eyes.
Clip Information
There are many hairstyles that a groomer would be able to perform. Some more detailed and timely, would be determined and based on your dogs coat and whether or not it is manageable (in other words, MATTED).
First let me list the basics and then I will explain them.
- Teddy Bear Clip (TB)
- Lamb Clip (LMB)
- Kennel Clip (KC)
- Breed Clip (BC)
- Bath and Tidy (B&T)
- Hand Stripping (HS)
- Creative Cuts (CC)
Keep In mind that almost every groomer has his / her own name for these exact clips, so what you may be thinking of, they may be calling by another name.
- Teddy Bear Clip: A teddy bear clip is normally leaves the “Long and Fluffy” look. The length is normally a ½ inch or longer and completely scissored. Keep in mind that under certain circumstances a teddy bear can be adjusted in length to suit the owner’s preference and can be shortened but maintain the “long and Fluffy” look.
- Lamb Clip: A lamb clip leaves the back, neck and belly a shorter length (about 3/8” or ¼”) and the head, tail and legs are hand scissored and left neatly formed and fluffy. Again, this hair style can be left longer or shorter depending on personal preference.
- Kennel Clip: A Kennel Clip leaves the entire body one length all over leaving the Head, face and tail to scissor. Depending on your preference there are different lengths of kennel clips. Starting at about a ½” and ranging to as short as 1/16” there are even shorter but normally aren’t recommended to be used unless the dog has extreme matting and has no other alternative.
- Breed Clip: A breed clip is basically the specific hairstyle your specific purebred dog would have. Each breed would have their own style and would be either a scissored or a clipped pattern.
- Bath & Tidy: A bath and tidy is what a short coated breed would receive, A long coated breed without any standard patterns or a dog in between hair cuts. A bath and tidy consist of; A Bath, Blow dry, Nail Trim, Cleaning of the ears, Clear hair from Sanitary areas such as Groin and bum, Light trim on feet and featherings and clean up eyes and face.
- Hand Stripping: Hand stripping is used mainly for showing on specific purebred dogs, although some owners prefer the hand stripped look over the clipped look and have this preformed to their specific breeds that are not showing. Hand stripping is used with a stripping knife and shortens the hair to a breed specific pattern or style without the use of the clippers whatsoever. Scissors or thinning sheers would be used to shape the pattern edges.
- Creative Cuts: A Creative Cut is a clip that is not a standardized breed clip. This clip is really more of an extension of your groomers creative side and can entail just about anything your mind can think up. Creative cuts can be modified with colors, beads, gems, braids, or can be shaved or scissored into any non specific specialized breed clip.
Basic Dog Grooming Tips You Need To Know
Brush your dog often.
Brushing will stimulate oils in your pets skin & keep it moist & healthy. Daily brushing will prevent matting of your dogs coat. Brushing is a great way to show your dog attention. Brushing eliminates dead hair in the coat that contributes to shedding.
Brushing will stimulate oils in your pets skin & keep it moist & healthy. Daily brushing will prevent matting of your dogs coat. Brushing is a great way to show your dog attention. Brushing eliminates dead hair in the coat that contributes to shedding.
Maintain the length of your dogs nails.
You can walk your dog often to wear down nails. Clip your dogs nails on a regular basis. If they are cut too short they can bleed & sting. Groomers usually charge a little less than veterinarians to cut nails. It is best to clip your dog's nails every 2 to 3 weeks.
You can walk your dog often to wear down nails. Clip your dogs nails on a regular basis. If they are cut too short they can bleed & sting. Groomers usually charge a little less than veterinarians to cut nails. It is best to clip your dog's nails every 2 to 3 weeks.
Bathe your dog regularly.
Buy dog shampoos & conditioners from pet stores. There are many different type of shampoo that can be used on different types of skin and coat. Do not use flea & tick shampoos unless your pet needs them, they can dry out your pets skin. Be sure to rinse your dog thoroughly, leaving soap on skin can cause problems.
Bathing a dog with knots & mats will worsen them, be sure to eliminate these before or immediately after the bath. When drying your dog use low heat. Dogs are sensitive to burning, keep this in mind while adjusting water temperature.
Bathing your dog will cut down on chances of infestations of fleas & ticks. By washing away dead hair, regular bathing reduces shedding of your dogs coat.
Keep your dogs ears clean.
Do this with dog ear cleaner and not with water! Put a small amount of ear cleaner on a cotton ball and swab outer surface of the inner ear. Keeping your dogs ears clean & dry will reduce chance of Ear Infections & Ear Mites. You can also buy ear wipes from any pet store to keep your dogs ears clean.
Dog groomers & veterinarians can also clean your pets ears for you. Many longhaired dogs grow hair in their ears that needs to be pulled to prevent Ear Infections. This hair can be gently pulled out with hemostats. Most people leave this to their groomer.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Shampoochie Grooming Photos
Moby - Bulldog
Moby - doing skin treatment for his skin problem
See how relaxing he is
See how relaxing he is
Able to see his long huge tongue
Moby is currently on Immunotherapy due to allergies. His condition is a long term treatment due to his immunity problem. We suggested to his owner using PetAlive Immunity & Liver Support, Energy Tonic and DetoxPlus. We also recommend his owners to try feeding Addiction Herb Lamb . We told his owners that he can continue to give the medication that the vet told him to as it has no side effects.
As for the skin treatments, it has to depends on Moby's condition. We suggest every 2 to 3 weeks. First treatment usually can't see much but at least this is the first step.
Moby get well soon ok. :)
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Monday, September 8, 2008
Dog Grooming Tips
No matter what breed of dog you plan to purchase there are some grooming tips you will want to know. All dogs need proper grooming for the health and attractiveness of the breed. Read on to find out what you need to do in the grooming process and learn how beneficial it is to not only to your dog but for you as well.
Coat Grooming
All dogs have coats; some are short, long, wire-haired, curly, straight, or wavy. No matter the coat, you will need to invest in a good brush. The brush you decide upon needs to be the type that will get through your dog's hair without causing harm to skin or pull on the hair. Wire steel brushing are great to use to get loose hair before it falls on your furniture and carpet. You can also purchase wire combs, which are best for smaller breeds since they tend to be a bit smaller.
Choose the size of your brush or comb in accordance with the size of your dog. If you have a large dog, choose a larger brush that will cover more area as you brush. If you have a small dog, a smaller brush will be easier to use to get behind the ears and other small areas. Bathe your dog when he is visibly dirty or has a foul odor. Shampooing dries out a dog's coat and can rip some dog's natural oils from its hair. These natural oils protect the dog's skin and in some breeds, repel water.
Trimming Nails
The frequency of trimming your dog's nails depends on if your dog goes outdoors often especially on concrete and how fast the nails grow. If your dog runs on concrete then the nails usually file down to an appropriate length. If not, you will have to purchase some nail clippers especially designed for dogs.
When cutting, place the clipper above the wick. The wick is the part of the nail where you see the nerve. You don't want to clip the nerve because it will bleed and does cause some discomfort to the dog. Sometimes it is hard to see where the wick begins so you may have to take your dog to the vet or professional groomer for clippings.
Ear Cleaning
All dogs need to have their ears cleaned. This is because wax and dirt accumulates in them, which can lead to bacteria growth. You can usually tell when your dog needs an ear cleaning if he is shaking his head often and scratching. However, if after cleaning out his ears, your dog continues to exhibit this behavior, you need to consult with your vet because he may have an ear infection or other health concern.
Tarter Control
Yes, even dogs need their teeth cleaned. They have specially made toothbrushes for dogs that you can purchase at your local pet store. You can train your dog to sit still while you brush his teeth. Some dogs will not allow their owners to do this so you may need a professional groomer help you with this task.
Spending Quality Time
Not only will proper grooming keep your dog looking nice and healthy, but also it will allow you to have one to one time with your pet. Life can get hectic and even dogs can tell that you are busy. Time spent with your dog will keep your pooch happy and will remind you why you love your dog so very much.
Coat Grooming
All dogs have coats; some are short, long, wire-haired, curly, straight, or wavy. No matter the coat, you will need to invest in a good brush. The brush you decide upon needs to be the type that will get through your dog's hair without causing harm to skin or pull on the hair. Wire steel brushing are great to use to get loose hair before it falls on your furniture and carpet. You can also purchase wire combs, which are best for smaller breeds since they tend to be a bit smaller.
Choose the size of your brush or comb in accordance with the size of your dog. If you have a large dog, choose a larger brush that will cover more area as you brush. If you have a small dog, a smaller brush will be easier to use to get behind the ears and other small areas. Bathe your dog when he is visibly dirty or has a foul odor. Shampooing dries out a dog's coat and can rip some dog's natural oils from its hair. These natural oils protect the dog's skin and in some breeds, repel water.
Trimming Nails
The frequency of trimming your dog's nails depends on if your dog goes outdoors often especially on concrete and how fast the nails grow. If your dog runs on concrete then the nails usually file down to an appropriate length. If not, you will have to purchase some nail clippers especially designed for dogs.
When cutting, place the clipper above the wick. The wick is the part of the nail where you see the nerve. You don't want to clip the nerve because it will bleed and does cause some discomfort to the dog. Sometimes it is hard to see where the wick begins so you may have to take your dog to the vet or professional groomer for clippings.
Ear Cleaning
All dogs need to have their ears cleaned. This is because wax and dirt accumulates in them, which can lead to bacteria growth. You can usually tell when your dog needs an ear cleaning if he is shaking his head often and scratching. However, if after cleaning out his ears, your dog continues to exhibit this behavior, you need to consult with your vet because he may have an ear infection or other health concern.
Tarter Control
Yes, even dogs need their teeth cleaned. They have specially made toothbrushes for dogs that you can purchase at your local pet store. You can train your dog to sit still while you brush his teeth. Some dogs will not allow their owners to do this so you may need a professional groomer help you with this task.
Spending Quality Time
Not only will proper grooming keep your dog looking nice and healthy, but also it will allow you to have one to one time with your pet. Life can get hectic and even dogs can tell that you are busy. Time spent with your dog will keep your pooch happy and will remind you why you love your dog so very much.
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