How to Treat Gingivitis in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

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Does your dog always have inflamed and painful gums? He or she may suffer from gingivitis. Gingivitis in dogs is an inflammation of the gums, often being the early stage of periodontitis. This condition is treatable, but if left untreated, it can turn into an advanced periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss.

Food particles and bacteria that accumulate along the gums can form plaque, which, combined with saliva and minerals, will turn into tartar. Gingivitis can become severe and painful, and the gums may even begin to bleed. This condition can be prevented by brushing your dog’s teeth regularly, as it is done in humans.

Many dog owners do not think about the oral health of their pets until it is too late. Here’s what you need to know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for gingivitis in dogs…

Gingivitis Symptoms

Gingivitis can start with a slight inflammation at first, which the dog owner may not notice because their pet does not show any visible symptoms. As the inflammation progresses, the symptoms will become more severe, and the owner will realize there is something wrong with their dog.

The most common symptoms of gingivitis in dogs:

— The appearance of a thin, red line along the gums.
— The gums are swollen and painful.
— Bad/smelly breath.
— Stains on the teeth from the accumulation of tartar.
— Gingival bleeding.
— Refusal to consume food.
— Difficulty chewing.
— Pawing at the mouth.
— Excessive salivation.

In cases where gingivitis turns into periodontitis, gingival retraction and tooth loss will also occur.

Gingivitis Causes

One of the most common causes of gingivitis in dogs is lack of oral hygiene. It promotes the accumulation of excess dental plaque and inflammation of the gums.

Dental plaque is made up of bacteria that accumulate on the surface of the teeth. It accumulates when food debris and sugar come in contact with the normal bacteria that are commonly found in your dog’s mouth.

Dental plaque begins to calcify (harden) as it builds up on the tooth surface and turns into tartar.

The more tartar builds up, the more it accumulates bacteria and irritates the gums. The more tartar accumulates on a tooth, the more it begins to form as a pocket at the base of the tooth that will collect more food and bacteria, which will worsen your dog’s gingivitis. Over time, the gums will become red, sensitive, painful, and may even bleed.

Other causes for gingivitis in dogs are:

— Poor nutrition
— Diabetes
— Respiratory infections
— Trauma

Another cause could be the breed’s teeth anatomy. Toy breeds have crowded teeth due to their small mouths, which favors the accumulation of food between them and the growth of bacteria.

Gingivitis Treatment

Unlike periodontitis, gingivitis is reversible.

Gingivitis can be treated by regular brushing of the teeth and good oral care. If your dog has accumulated tartar, then you will need the intervention of a veterinarian who will perform a descaling.

You can use a laser therapy device for dogs at home if you are unable to brush your dog’s teeth or brushing does not work. This therapy is relatively new and non-invasive.

The benefits of laser therapy in pets are supported by numerous studies. Laser therapy can:

— Remedy inflammation.
— Improve the gingival mucosa and tooth structure.
— Reduce bone loss in periodontal disease.

This technique has advanced quite a lot in recent years, and now there is no need to go to the vet to benefit from laser therapy. You can now perform the treatment right from the comfort of your home.

How to use the laser device for gingivitis in dogs:

— Place the laser device along the outside of the mouth near the upper premolars and hold it for 4 minutes.
— If your dog has a problem in the lower gums, place the device on the jaw bone near the lower premolars and hold it for 4 minutes.
— For dogs suffering from stomatitis, place the device where the teeth end to reach the back of your pet’s throat.
— Use the laser device twice a day until your dog’s gums heal.

How Do I Know If My Dog Likes Daycare?

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If you’re a dog owner, you know the satisfaction of coming home after a long day of work to a dog that is excited to see you. It’s one of the best feelings in the world, making it that much harder when you have to leave the next morning again. If you’re gone for long hours during the day, it may be time to consider dog daycare to keep your pup entertained and cared for during your workday.

Finding a good dog daycare doesn’t have to be difficult. Once you research daycares in your area and make the necessary introductions, there are a few telltale signs to look out for to determine if your pup will enjoy spending the day at daycare. Keep reading for more information about how to tell if your dog might like daycare.

What is Doggy Daycare?

Most dogs, puppies especially, have an increased need for socialization, stimulation, and exercise. Too much time alone or in a crate can be unhealthy. Doggy daycare is a great way to get your pup the attention that they need and deserve while you’re at work or away from home for extended periods of time. Many busy pet parents take advantage of doggy daycares because it allows your pup to meet and play with other dogs, get more mental stimulation throughout the day, exercise, and understand how to behave better around strangers.

Once your pup has a few days or weeks to get used to the new routine of going to dog daycare on a daily basis, here are a few signs to look out for in order to tell if they are enjoying their time or not.

They Get Excited To Go

Just like your pup likely perks up and gets excited when you mention the word “walk” or “park,” they may start reacting the same way around the time that you usually take them to daycare. This is a good sign that they like going just as much as they like going for a walk or playing fetch with a ball at the park. They may even perk up at the mention of the word “daycare.”

They Are Calm When You Arrive

Another easy way to tell if your dog enjoys going to dog daycare is if they are calm when you arrive at the facility. Many dogs will try to resist going somewhere they don’t enjoy, such as the vet or a grooming appointment. They may act anxious or show signs of aggression. However, if when you drop them off every morning at the daycare they are excited or their tail is wagging as you go in, it’s a good sign that they are happy to be there.

They Respond Positively to the Staff

Most dog owners know that when your pup doesn’t like someone, they show it. Their tail stops wagging, they get still, or they may even growl. On the other hand, when your pup likes someone, it’s just as easy to tell. When you drop them off at daycare in the morning, are they excited to see the staff or are they scared? If they’re excited, it’s more likely that they like the dog daycare you chose.

They Are Happy & Calm at the End of the Day

If, in general, your dog seems happy all the time after you’ve started bringing them to dog daycare, you don’t have to worry about whether or not they like it there. The best dog daycare will make sure that your dog is entertained and cared for while you’re at work or gone for the day.

If you’re worried about leaving your pup home for long periods of time while you work, or even if you work from home and don’t have the time to give your dog the attention he or she needs, dog daycare can be a great option. Not only will it benefit your dog and keep them happy and healthy, but it will allow you to take care of your responsibilities without having to worry about the health and well-being of your favourite furry friend. If you need help finding a good dog daycare or puppy classes in your area, be sure to talk to your vet or a local pet store in order to find for your dog the care they need and deserve to live a happy and healthy life.

What is Crate Training & Why is it Important?

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If you have recently brought a new puppy into your home, you’ve likely started to think of all the ways that they need to be trained over time. Maybe you’ve decided to enroll them in puppy classes, or maybe you’re taking the time out of your day to train them on your own. Whatever the case may be, one of the best techniques for teaching your dog to self-soothe or deal with anxiety is crate training. Crate training is something that should be started as soon as possible after you bring your new puppy home for the training to be the most effective. Keep reading to learn more about what crate training is and how it can benefit both you and your dog over time.

What is Crate Training?

A crate should be a safe haven for your dog. It is a place where they can rest, escape the busyness of the house, or confront new situations or people with ease. If you introduce your pup to a crate early on, they will be set up for a lifetime of successful behavior. It’s important for your dog to be comfortable in their crate — if they are scared or anxious, you will likely find that training them is much more difficult.

Why is Crate Training Important?

Crate training doesn’t just make life easier for your puppy, it makes your life easier as well. There are a number of obvious benefits to having your pup get used to being in the crate, including the fact that it will make it easier to travel with them, keep them sequestered if you have to leave for a short period of time, learn to wait for potty breaks to go to the bathroom, and more. Crate training your puppy at an early age teaches them that the freedom to roam around is a privilege that they can only earn through good behavior.

How to Crate Train Successfully

The most important part of crate training is to make it a positive experience for your dog. You can give them treats when they go to their crate or even feed them their meals in the crate so that it becomes a comfortable place where they can relax. Make sure that everyone in the family understands the importance of crate training so that you all can be on the same page when it comes to caring for your pup.

Crate Time Depends on Age and Level of Training

Your puppy should be spending a great deal of time in their crate when you first bring them home. As mentioned earlier, it’s important to get them to understand that the freedom to roam is a privilege that must be earned. You can take them out of their crate for specific training times, like when it’s time to eat, or when it’s time to go to the bathroom. If you don’t have the ability to give them special attention when they are out of their crate, it’s best to keep them inside until you can focus on teaching and training or playing with them while they are out.

The older your pup gets and the more they start to behave well while out of the crate, the less time you need to keep them in there. As with any kind of training, it’s important to reward good behavior with something exciting such as treats.

Crate Training is Beneficial for Dogs of All Ages

As your dog gets older, it may not seem to need its crate anymore. However, the crate has likely become your pup’s safe haven, and if they continue to go to their crate to sleep or to relax, you can keep the crate out. No matter how old your dog may be, if they have been successfully crate trained, they will likely enjoy using the crate throughout the span of their life.

Consistency is Key

As with any kind of training, puppy classes, or even dog daycare, the key to success and good behavior from your pup is consistency. The more consistently you train or build a routine for your pup, the more they come to expect rewards or punishments based on their behavior. If you are looking for more tips for successful crate training, puppy classes, dog daycare, or anything else concerning your new puppy, be sure to reach out to your vet or local pet store today!

What Causes Pet Allergies? (And All About Hypoallergenic Dogs)

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According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, as many as 15% of people in the United States have some form of pet allergy. The most common culprits are cats and dogs, but other animals such as horses, rodents, and birds can also cause allergic reactions.

Symptoms range from mild (sneezing, watery eyes) to severe (difficulty breathing, hives), and can be triggered by contact with an animal’s fur or skin, dander, saliva, or urine. While there is no cure for pet allergies, there are several ways to manage the symptoms.

For example, allergy sufferers can take medications to relieve the itching and swelling, and they can also use air filters and vacuum cleaners to reduce the amount of pet dander in their homes.

Yorkshire Terrier

What Are Hypoallergenic Dogs?

Dog lovers rejoice! There are several types of dogs that are categorized as hypoallergenic by the American Kennel Club. That’s not to say they don’t shed, but rather, they shed so little that they are unlikely to trigger an allergic reaction.

There are a number of different breeds that fall into this category, which we will look at soon. While there is no guarantee that a hypoallergenic dog will not cause an allergy, they are often a good choice for people with mild allergies.

These dogs produce less of the protein that is responsible for triggering an allergic reaction, and they also tend to shed less fur and dander. As a result, they are often considered to be a safer choice for people with allergies.

Hypoallergenic Dogs

Here are three common hypoallergenic dog breeds…

Poodles

The brainiacs of the canine world, Poodles tend to produce less dander than other breeds, but they are not immune to it. Their single, low-shedding coat makes them popular dogs to cross other breeds into like the Cockapoo, the cross between a Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, or the Aussiedoodle, the cross with an Australian Shepherd.

Poodles come in three size varieties — Standard, Miniature, and Toy — and their distinctive appearance is perfect for show dogs or family pets. Poodles are known for being highly trainable, and they excel in obedience, agility, and other canine sports.

Poodles are also relatively easy to groom, thanks to their hypoallergenic coat which repels dirt and debris. Just be sure to give them plenty of exercise. Poodles and their crosses tend to be active, spirited dogs that might exhibit destructive behavior if under-stimulated.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are a toy breed of dog known for their long, silky coat. They are also one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Yorkies were originally bred in England to catch rats in clothing mills.

They are lively and spunky dogs and make great companion animals. Yorkies are also relatively easy to train, and they do not require a lot of exercise. However, they do need plenty of grooming, as their coat can quickly become tangled and matted if left unbrushed for long periods.

They are also small dogs that can be yappy and barky, especially if not socialized well.

Maltese

Maltese

The Maltese dog is a small, purebred canine that has been around for centuries. One of the oldest breeds of domesticated dogs, the Maltese is known for its gentle personality and lovely silky coat. Though they are often thought of as delicate lapdogs, Maltese dogs are actually quite resilient and can make great companion animals for people of all ages.

With their cheerful dispositions and loving natures, it’s no wonder that Maltese dogs have been such popular pets throughout history. If you’re looking for a loyal and affectionate furry friend, the Maltese dog is definitely worth considering.

Final Thoughts

It would be sad to love dogs and be unable to have them because of your allergies. However, with many hypoallergenic dog breeds around, you’ll find something that will suit your household and your respiratory system will rest easy!

Top 5 Dogs For Apartment Dwellers

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Many people believe that dogs need a lot of space to run around in order to be happy. But is that really true? Can dogs be happy living in apartments, or do they need their own yard to play in?

In this post, we’ll take a closer look apartment living with dogs and the types of dogs that typically do well in an apartment. So whether you live in an apartment and are considering getting a dog or you already have one, this post is for you!

Can A Dog Be Happy In An Apartment?

While a sprawling backyard may be the ideal setting for a dog, it is certainly not a prerequisite for canine happiness. In fact, there are many benefits to living in an apartment with a dog. For one thing, apartment living can help to foster a closer bond between owner and pet.

Without the distractions of other pets and people, dogs in apartments are more likely to form close attachments to their owners. The key to having a happy dog is exercise.

As long as your dog is mentally and physically stimulated each day, any dog can be happy in a small space.

Here are the Top 5 Dogs For Apartment Dwellers…

Toy Poodles and Doodle Crosses

Poodles and the small Doodle crosses like the Cavapoo and Maltipoo are often considered to be ideal apartment dogs. They are small, relatively low-maintenance, and quiet. However, some people worry that Poodles will be unhappy in an apartment because they need a lot of exercise.

While it is true that Poodles need to stay active, they can be perfectly happy in an apartment as long as they get a daily walk or run. Poodles are also very intelligent dogs and can be easily trained to use a designated potty area. With a little bit of planning, Poodles and small Doodle crosses can be wonderful apartment dogs.

However, the larger, more energetic Doodle crosses like the Labradoodle and the Goldendoodle might require more space. Retrievers are larger sporting dogs that tend to have higher energy levels.

Maltese

Maltese are small, gentle dogs that make great companions. They are known for their affectionate nature and love of people. Despite their small size, Maltese are active dogs that need plenty of exercise.

A daily walk is essential, and they also enjoy playing fetch and going for runs. While Maltese do well in apartments, they need plenty of stimulation to stay happy and healthy. This can be provided through interactive toys, such as Kongs filled with treats, and by ensuring they have regular opportunities to socialize with other dogs. With the right environment, Maltese can thrive in apartments and make wonderful companions.

Great Dane

Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are actually quite adaptable with low to moderate energy levels and can be perfectly content in a smaller space, as long as they get plenty of exercise. The key to keeping a Great Dane happy in an apartment is to provide them with plenty of opportunities to run and play.

This can be done by taking them for regular walks or runs, or by playing fetch in a park or backyard. As long as they are given the chance to burn off excess energy, Great Danes can be happy and healthy in any type of home and will be content being couch potatoes for the rest of the day.

Greyhound

Another larger dog, Greyhounds may be fast, but they certainly don’t have the exercise requirements of a say, Siberian Husky or Border Collie.

While Greyhounds are historically known as racing dogs, they actually make excellent apartment pets. These dogs are gentle and loving, and they can be content with minimal exercise.

Greyhounds are also relatively quiet, so they won’t disturb your neighbors. In addition, their short coats are easy to maintain, and they don’t require a lot of grooming.

Cocker Spaniel

While all dogs need some space to run and play, a Cocker Spaniel can be happy in a smaller space as long as its needs are met.

A good daily walk or run will help to keep your dog healthy and happy. In addition, Cocker Spaniels need plenty of mental stimulation to avoid boredom. Interactive toys and games, such as hide-and-seek or fetch, are a great way to keep your dog’s mind active.

Finally, Cocker Spaniels thrive on human companionship and need plenty of attention and affection. As long as you are prepared to meet your dog’s needs, you’ll have a loyal and loving companion in any home.

Final Thoughts

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog – it just means doing your research to find the best breed for your lifestyle. Every dog is different, so be honest about what you’re willing to deal with and what kind of personality you’re looking for in a pet.

With a little patience and some homework, you’ll be able to find the perfect four-legged friend for your next home.

Inflammation and Pain in Dogs: How Can They Be Reduced Effectively?

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Pain is a sensation that most of us want to keep a secret. Well, your fur baby isn’t so different. As a survival technique, many dogs will automatically conceal their pain, which leads to the misunderstanding that they do not feel the pain the way we do. We now know that dogs have a neurological system quite similar to humans, and we better understand detecting and treating their pain. If you’ve seen your dog acting strange recently, it might be because they are in discomfort. They might be suffering from an accident, an illness, or a sickness, hence the pain. Perhaps they are beginning to feel the effects of age.

What is pain, and how much does my dog experience it?

Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience connected with tissue damage. Pain is subjective and elusive. Pain evaluation in dogs is difficult because they naturally conceal their pain from predators. Dogs show pain differently than humans. A dog in pain may not scream like you, limp, or display other indicators. But if it hurts you, it hurts a dog.

A typical bodily reaction to injury or sickness is inflammation. The body defends and mends itself by dilating blood arteries and directing white blood cells to the injured location. Five signs of inflammation in dogs are redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function.

What are the signs of pain and inflammation in my dog?

Most dogs show pain indicators. However, they may not be clear. Pain changes some behaviors in most dogs. A dog may hesitate to climb stairs, hop into a vehicle, or oppose being touched. Older dogs often have arthritis. Anyone who has seen an aging dog struggling to stand up might understand their pain.

Signs of pain include:

— Behavioral changes like decreased appetite, quietness, and depressed attitude
— Licking of the painful or inflamed area
— Slowing down
— Limping
— Restlessness
— Vocalizing due to pain

How can the pain be reduced?

Signs are crucial to help your dog to reduce pain. If your dog has undergone surgery or any kind of medical procedure, it is obvious that he or she will be in pain, and this pain needs to be managed by drugs such as non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). Prostaglandin is a chemical produced when the body is in pain and has inflammation due to cell damage.

Opioids are a group of painkillers used to treat more intense pain, including morphine, codeine, fentanyl, buprenorphine, and hydromorphone. Opioids may treat advanced cancer patients, manage severe arthritis pain, and treat severe post-surgical pain. Opioids may be used in some situations to help a dog with chronic pain retain a higher quality of life.

Natural ways to counter pain

Some compounds, such as fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids) and turmeric, are naturally anti-inflammatory (curcumin). These naturally occurring chemicals are safe for most dogs and can reduce overall body inflammation.

Dogs are prone to joint inflammation, as arthritis is prevalent among heavier breeds. The joint supplement glucosamine chondroitin is simple to administer. Osteoarthritis is a typical source of discomfort in elderly dogs. As your dog ages, the cartilage in their joints can deteriorate, causing swelling and pain. This thin layer of cartilage creates the joint fluid that offers a cushion in the joint. Glycosaminoglycans, which have natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, are found in glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, which can help your dog’s joints feel better.

A fantastic ingredient to include in your dog’s diet is curcumin. Curcumin, an active component derived from the Indian spice turmeric, provides several healthful benefits (healing properties) for the body, including lowering the risk of cancer in animals, especially pets.

Never overdo any drugs, and consult your veterinarian before using any medication. Not all human medicine can be used in dogs, although the two might experience the same pain.

Laser therapy is also very effective in treating inflammation and pain in your pet dog. Cold laser therapy can also be used at home to treat minor pain. You can use a cold laser therapy device at home, or you may use it most of the time at your vet’s office. The cold laser device will eventually reduce pain without requiring surgical manipulation.

Mobile Pet Grooming in Miami is Just the Treat Your Furbaby Needs!

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People who don’t have dogs don’t understand just how important they are. The cliche is that they’re our furry little kids, our constant and most faithful companions. I don’t have to tell you that dogs are the only creatures on the planet that instinctively love you more than they love themselves. They’re so eager to help us with whatever we need.

Whether hunting, helping the blind get around, or even just providing much needed emotional support and companionship, they fill our lives with the kind of joy that we frankly don’t deserve. Their love for us is so complete and unconditional that it’s impossible not to love them in return.

Every single fiber in my being wants to make my dog’s life a great one. I want every ounce of love he feels for me to be returned a thousand times over. It’s not enough just to keep our fuzzy friends alive… it falls to us to make sure they live happily. Walks, good food (including scraps snuck from the table), toys and belly rubs are a great start, but there’s something else I do that really shows my little buddy how much he means to me: pampering! When it comes time to make my puppy (he is two years old and will always be a puppy) feel like the most handsome little man in the world, I take him to the groomers.

A professional grooming experience is just as great for dogs as it is for us. They love the pampering and the attention! The first time mine had a special day at a groomer he was a nervous, anxious little ball of whimpers – for about twenty minutes. Since then, he’s been happy to go ever since. In this article we’ll explore some of the benefits of giving your best friend the spa treatment they deserve.

It’s Good for Your Pet

Let’s get the most important thing out of the way right off the bat: grooming is important for your pet’s wellbeing and can contribute to a richer, healthier life. Taking your fuzzy buddy to a salon does more than just make them look and feel their best. It can help them live their best, too. Your friendly professional groomer works with dogs every day, and has learned how to help identify problems before they become problems. Everything from skin conditions to ear infections and circulation problems can hide underneath the fur.

Matted hair, for example, is a danger to long-haired dogs, and can cause skin trouble and be a good hiding spot for ticks, fleas, and other pests. A good session in a salon can detect these problems and remove the underlying causes before they create a gigantic vet bill.

As you can see here, that opinion isn’t just mine. The American Kennel Club recommends getting your dog groomed once every six weeks specifically for the potential health benefits. While they note that some grooming can be done at home – indeed, this is also a great way to increase the bond between the two of you – there’s no substitute for putting the job into the hands of folks who know what they’re doing a lot better than you. While you can take care of things like daily hair brushings and occasional nail trimming at home, most of the things that actually help maintain your dog’s health are best handled by your friendly neighborhood professionals.

But let’s be real here: that’s not the main reason to give your dog the experience. The health benefits, while excellent, aren’t why most people take their pets to the salon. It’s because they want to let their pets experience top-notch indulgence. Not only will they look better than ever, complete with a clean coat of perfectly styled fur and immaculately trimmed nails, but the actual grooming experience itself will be something that your pet loves. Warm baths, massages, and positive attention (usually with treats) will be the highlight of your pet’s week.

Finding the Right Groomer

Fortunately, getting the right groomer is pretty easy these days, especially in a major metropolitan area like Miami. There are plenty of salons to choose from, and it can be a little overwhelming trying to sift through which ones are worthy of your time. You want your baby to have the best, after all. You might want to forego a trip altogether, and there are options for that, too. If you want them to come to you, Miami Mobile Dog Groomers are also worth consideration. There are major benefits to booking with a mobile option, as they can come to pamper your pet in a location where your fur baby is most comfortable. This also avoids the problem of transporting your dog, which can be a hassle if they have issues with a trip in the car.

There are a few things you want to look for when selecting where you’ll go. For one, you want to look for a wide array of services. You shouldn’t settle for a simple wash and blow dry; your faithful pooch deserves more than just that. You want to make sure the services provided are cosmetic, indulgent, and in the interest of your pet’s health. Looking at reviews will be your best bet for this; there are few people more critical of a service than pet owners reporting on how their pets have been treated.

At the end of the day, there are no downsides to calling on the services of a trustworthy groomer to take care of your dog. I’ve been taking mine faithfully once every few months since he was old enough to go out into public, and he absolutely loves it. He looks great, he feels great, and he’s always happy to get spoiled. You owe it to your faithful fiend to give them something special. I knew that it would make my own dog happy. What I didn’t expect was how happy it would make me.

The Top 5 Healthiest Human Foods for Dogs

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When it comes to sharing food with your canine companion, there seems to be a common misconception that “dogs shouldn’t have table scraps.” While you shouldn’t be tossing them pieces of everything that you eat, some human foods are great for dogs. With that said, here are the top five healthiest human foods for dogs…

1. Peanut Butter

That’s right, it just so happens that the favorite treat your dog loves to have in their kong is one of the healthiest for them as well. It’s rich in good fats, protein, and vitamins B and E. Plus, it helps to keep their jaws and mouth in good shape because just swallowing it is quite a workout for a dog.

2. Carrots

The beta-carotene and vitamin A in carrots will keep your dog’s coat, nails, and eyesight in great shape. While most dogs aren’t huge fans of raw carrots, you can steam or boil them at a low temperature until they’re soft and mix them in with other foods for a nutritional boost. Dogs that do like raw carrots can have them as great edible fetch sticks.

3. Yogurt

Yogurt is an easily digestible, high-protein food that can help your dog gain lean muscle mass and stay in shape. However, try to avoid flavored yogurts or those that are high in sugar and opt instead for plain and/or unsweetened kinds. If your dog is overweight, it might be best to avoid giving them too much of any form of dairy. If they’ve recently undergone a course of antibiotics or dealt with some form of gastrointestinal illness, you can feed them kefir and other probiotic yogurts to help restore their gut microbe balance.

4. Cheese

Cheese can be a filling and nutritious snack for you to share with your dog, as long as he’s not lactose intolerant! If you’ve never given them cheese before, make sure you start with small servings and monitor them for allergic reactions. In terms of what kind of cheeses to feed them, it’s usually best to avoid exotic and rare cheeses and opt instead for cheddar, mozzarella, or cottage cheese.

5. Chicken (or Salmon)

Both of these are great for dogs because they’re high in proteins and healthy fats, but it’s important to make sure you’re not feeding them any small bones, as they are a choking hazard.

Combine Healthy Snacks with Quality Dog Food

Top-quality dog foods from brands like Applaws only use the best ingredients. Always feed snacks in moderation, as treats alongside a healthy diet. If you have a fussy dog, tempt his appetite with Toppers added to dry food. Applaws bone broth is 100% natural.

Although all of the above human foods are great in moderation, some of them contain lots of calories or sugars, neither of which are good for your dog. Thus, it’s always best to base their diet around a solid dog food and use the above list as a rough guideline of what you should try to share with your dog on occasion.

4 Tips on How to Help Your Cat Handle the Summer Heat

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It is one of those periods in which we crave all-year round. Then, when it comes, we all moan because the Summer heat gets a little too hot to handle!

While we can’t truly verify that statement for cats, there is no doubt that they feel the heat in a similar way to us. It can get difficult for them and can increase the risk of all sorts of conditions, which all of the cat insurance claim statistics will most definitely vouch for.

Bearing this in mind, let’s now take a look at some methods that you can adopt to make life in the warmer months a little easier for your feline friend…

Pale colored cats are most at risk

Just like humans, pale-colored cats don’t fare quite as well in the sun. While their fur will protect most of their body, you’ve got to keep an eye on areas such as their noses and ears which aren’t covered as much by fur.

When we talk about “keeping an eye on them,” you can actually take on a similar approach as to what you would do with yourself. It’s now possible to buy sun cream that is specific for cats and you could consider applying some whenever the heat picks up for those aforementioned body parts.

Create some shade

If you’re keeping your cat indoors during the summer (which is always the best option), then you need to make sure that there’s some form of shading in place. This could be in the form of a parasol in the garden which covers the window, or simply closing the curtains during the hottest parts of the day.

Let’s not forget that just because your cat is indoors it does not mean that the temperature is low enough. One only has to look at glass-heavy rooms, such as conservatories, which can get exceptionally hot in the warmer months.

The best bet is to try and understand where the sun rises and move your cat around the house accordingly. Fortunately, many cats will do this of their own accord.

Understand the signs of overheating

Cats will start to feel the effects of overheating long before they’re actually in any danger. This is why you need to be on the lookout for certain signs, such as excessive panting or drooling, which will signify that they’re too hot.

What’s more, you should also look out for behavioral changes such as lethargy or a lack of appetite, as both can be early indicators that something isn’t quite right.

What should you do if this happens? It’s time to ramp up your cooling down and rehydration efforts. Or, if you’re concerned that your cat has been struggling for some time, it can be advisable to call your local veterinarian.

Get innovative with ice

Cats love to lounge around, and this is often made all the more comfortable with the help of a cooling mat. These can be placed in the fridge for a short while, and can then be used to help keep your cat cool for a number of hours.

There are other ways to use ice too, such as putting some in their water bowl (which will help to keep it cooler for longer), or even wrapping a few cubes in a towel and placing this on their tummy.

PTSD in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

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Just like humans, dogs can indeed suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after experiencing a shocking event. But how can you identify PTSD in dogs? What are the causes? And most importantly, what are the treatment options for PTSD in dogs? Let’s find out.

Causes of PTSD in Dogs

The causes of PTSD in dogs are quite similar to the ones found in humans suffering from this condition. They mostly include traumatic experiences that are easily recognizable. You would definitely know if your dog has gone through any of these situations:

Military or police work: dogs that work for the military or the police can develop PTSD. Detecting bombs, tracking down criminals, and sniffing out missing persons can be triggers for this condition in dogs. Of course, experiencing traumatizing events such as bombings, shootings or losing a partner are major triggers too. Just like with humans, military and police work are one of the main causes of PTSD.

Physical or emotional abuse: PTSD can also develop in a dog that is constantly suffering from physical or emotional abuse. This mainly refers to being severely mistreated and neglected by humans. For example, being hit by their family or being forced to live in a backyard with terrible conditions.

Accidents: traumatizing events such as car accidents can also result in PTSD in dogs.

Natural disasters: experiencing a natural disaster such as hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes and floods can trigger PTSD in dogs. This can happen as a result of the disaster they experienced or because they were stranded or separated from their family.

Loss: experiencing the loss of a loved one is one of the most known causes of PTSD both for dogs and humans. When a dog loses their pet parent or someone they truly love from their family, they can develop PTSD as a result.

Abandonment: as sad as it sounds, dog abandonment happens more often than we wish it would, and it is one of the causes of PTSD in dogs. This condition can also develop after the dog is forced to live as a stray.

Animal attack: if a dog suffers from an attack by either another dog or a different animal, this can lead to PTSD. That’s right, being bitten by another dog can have severe emotional and psychological effects on your pup.

Being raised in a puppy mill: puppy mills are a huge problem to our society nowadays for multiple reasons, one of them being the trauma it can cause both for the newborns and the exploited mothers.

Lack of socialization as a juvenile: dogs who didn’t learn how to socialize with other dogs or people when they were puppies can develop symptoms similar to the PTSD experienced in humans when exposed to these situations. Dr. Liz Stelow, chief of service of Clinical Animal Behavior Service at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of California, Davis, claims that many dogs who have never experienced any of the PTSD causes mentioned before, can still develop anxiety and phobias due to the lack of juvenile socialization.

Signs of PTSD in Dogs

The problem with PTSD symptoms in dogs is that most of the symptoms can also be associated with other conditions such as stress or separation anxiety. The best way to clearly identify if these signs are caused by PTSD is to combine them with their causes and have your dog seen by an animal behaviorist.

But we’ll get to treatment and diagnosis when the time’s right. First, let’s review the most common signs of PTSD in dogs:

Aggressive behavior: dogs who suffer from PTSD can display aggressive behavior in multiple situations, such as being frightened due to a trigger that reminds them of their traumatic experience. For example: being forced out of their comfort zone or interaction with other dogs or humans.

Flee: dogs with PTSD can run off whenever they feel uncomfortable in a certain space or around certain people. This sign is extremely dangerous because your dog won’t think before fleeing, they will simply run away without considering that they might get hit by a car or get lost from their home.

Hyper-vigilance: dogs who are hypervigilant are always on alert. They never seem to relax and be fully calm. This can happen all the time or just when you take them out of their comfort zone, or take them somewhere that might remind them of their traumatic experience.

Sleep disruption: just as it can happen to humans, dogs who suffer from PTSD can have trouble falling and staying asleep.

Decreased interest: another sign of dogs with PTSD is a decreased interest in activities, toys, foods, or places they used to love. If your dog used to have a great time at the park, and now they seem uncomfortable and just want to go home, it might be a sign of PTSD.

Hiding: dogs with PTSD tend to have a hiding spot they run off to whenever they are triggered and start to feel anxious. This can be under your bed, behind a piece of furniture, or under a table.

Avoidance behavior: when a dog with PTSD is feeling uncomfortable, they might show avoidance behaviors that mean they want to leave, such as hiding, staying still, or jumping up and pawing their pet parent.

Physical signs: PTSD in dogs can also manifest as physical signs that can easily be confused as symptoms from another anxiety condition, such as urinating and defecating inside the house, howling, shaking, pacing, panting, barking, whining, tucked tail and/or pinned back ears.

Treatment of PTSD in Dogs

Treatment of PTSD in dogs typically includes a combination of both medical and behavioral treatment options.

The main behavioral treatment used for dogs suffering from PTSD is called desensitization. This therapy consists of exposing the dog to a low level of the feared stimulus in a controlled and safe environment. As time passes by, the level of stress the dog is safely exposed to starts to increase. The goal of this therapy is to help the dog build tolerance for the trigger that makes them feel that way. The pup will hopefully learn that the presence of that stimulus will not be followed by an unpleasant or dangerous situation.

Desensitization therapy is also commonly accompanied by counter-conditioning. This process will change the bad perception the dog has of a stimulus or situation into a good one. This can be accomplished by including the presence of objects the dog actually likes, such as toys, treats, play and/or praise.

The best treats to use for PTSD treatment for dogs are calming chews for dogs. You can use them for counter-conditioning and positive reinforcement training, while also supplying your pet with the benefit they provide: naturally calming them down.

Both of these PTSD treatment techniques should be supported by mental stimulation, playtime with well-socialized dogs, daily exercise, and positive reinforcement training.

The medical treatment for dogs with PTSD will depend on the intensity of the symptoms. The most common drugs prescribed for dogs with PTSD are anti-depressants and sedative drugs. But you should never provide any of these medications to your dog by yourself, you should only do so under vet recommendation since they may have serious side effects.

One last but truly important factor in the treatment of PTSD in dogs is patience. Your dog won’t get better overnight. This is a process, and it should be accompanied by love and patience.