Managing Your Dog’s Medical Care When Illness Strikes
Like our own health, most of us do not think much about our dog’s illness until it strikes. I’ve always been a lucky dog owner. I’ve had healthy dogs that have lived to ripe old ages with little to no medical intervention. I figured that if I exercised and fed my dogs properly and took care of their immunizations and other preventive care like heartworm, all would be well. However my lucky streak finally ran out when one of my dogs developed urinary tract stones that required surgery for removal.
The experience was pretty darn stressful. It all started when Tilde began having accidents all over the house. At first, I thought that she was displaying dominant behavior (marking) with our foster dog. But then she starting straining to pee, and when she did pee it was tinged with blood. I panicked, and after a $300 trip to the emergency clinic (that revealed nothing) and a $650 surgical procedure, I realized that if I had done just a few things differently, I could have saved 1) myself some money, and, 2) my poor Tilde from going through a battery of unnecessary tests.
Here’s what I suggest all dog owners be mindful of when dealing with an illness:
Be Attuned to Changes in Your Dog’s Physical Behavior
Make note of differences in coat, demeanor, gait, eating and elimination. You know your dog better than anyone. The way you approach your dog’s health should be no different than the way you do your own health. When you don’t feel well, you make note of your symptoms, address them as best as you can on your own, and if that fails to resolve the situation you see your doctor, right? After a series of questions about your symptoms, your doctor will make a recommendation – either to do a series of tests if the symptoms indicate more than one potential issue, or specific tests if the symptoms more clearly describe a particular malady. The more descriptive and specific you are about your symptoms, the quicker and easier it is for your doctor to diagnose your illness. Well, the same goes for your dog.
For example, it was very clear what Tilde’s symptoms were. Because of my worry, I took Tilde to an emergency clinic. I provided a detailed description of when and how she was urinating (or trying to urinate). The attending Vet named a plethora of other potential problems, and recommended some blood tests to aid in the initial diagnosis. Now, had I done some homework up front, I would have questioned that recommendation and asked about an alternative course of action. But because I didn’t and was overwhelmed with worry, I just followed the Vet’s lead instead of actively participating in the decision-making process about her care.
Research, Research, Research!
There is valid info out there on dog health that you can learn much from, so long as it’s a reputable source. Prior to any hospital or vet visit, do some research so that you are literate about the potential problems your dog may have. Look for articles that are written by vets, and have images illustrating the symptoms (when there are visible indicators).
If you “Google” your dogs symptoms, you’ll find dozens of sites with good information. But don’t jump to conclusions about a diagnosis. If you find that 70% of the research you do indicates the same potential illness, then that will guide you in your visit to the vet or clinic. This is the knowledge that you need to talk intelligently with your vet about your dog’s diagnosis so that you can get the answers you need to understand the problem, or make sound decisions about your dog’s treatment.
Take an Active Role in the Treatment of Your Dog’s Medical Care
I can’t stress enough how important it is that you actively participate in the decision process regarding your dog’s medical care. It’s not about what’s right or wrong. It again goes back to knowing your dog, and clearly articulating to your vet his/her symptoms so that the most accurate diagnosis and treatment can be made.
To use my situation as the example, the attending vet at the hospital was confused by Tilde’s initial blood test results, and indicated that she might have diabetes or a plethora of other issues that I have since forgotten, not to mention a high-cost ultrasound for the stones. I was advised that Tilde should be tested for all these different issues to properly address the problem, and because I was distraught and love my dog, I was ready to submit to all those tests to ensure the proper diagnosis. $300 later, I realized that I should have authorized only one – an x-ray – because it was the most appropriate for her symptoms, and would have revealed the stones that were causing the problem. Since there was nothing life-threatening at the moment (although they certainly made me feel like it was!), we could have continued with other tests once the x-ray was evaluated. Instead, I left the emergency clinic with little more than I had when I arrived, beyond what I already thought – that Tilde didn’t have diabetes or any of the other illnesses that were suspected – and I was determined that I would manage the next day’s visit with Tildes’ vet much better.
When we arrived at the vet the very next day, the same recommendations for testing were made. It was suggested that Tilde receive a few tests rather than just an x-ray. I diplomatically asked if we could just proceed with the x-ray, and then depending on the results, decide from there how to proceed. Tilde’s vet was super – he agreed to the approach, and once the suspected stones were confirmed, surgery for their removal was scheduled the next day. I saved around $200 in unnecessary tests that day – and my dog received the medical care she needed.
Bad Foods for Dogs
You may have seen many articles on the best and healthiest diet for your dog, but what foods should your dog not eat and what will help your dog’s health in the short and long term.
There are many different cases to look at when defining bad foods for dogs but there are guidelines that can be followed to prevent dog pests, dog diarrhea, and many other illnesses that can affect your dog. Routing through trash is another bad idea for your dog and if you discover this is a problem then it should be strictly disciplined.
So what should you avoid to maintain your dog’s immune system and keep their digestive system intact? Here are some bad ideas and health effecting foods that may harm your dogs health if you’re not careful. Please note that some dog food quality standards may have changed since the writing of this article.
Processed foods
These canned processed foods are nothing but bad news for your dog, after all the processing they are left with not much nutrients for your dog, the quality of meat is poor and other chemicals used in this food make for a bad dog diet and although some rare cases may exist it is generally best avoided.
Chicken Bones
Chicken bones, although you may suspect that it is ok to feed you dog on these leftover bits of meat can be harmful to your dog and when your dog chews the bone it can break and cause a choking hazard and mouth damage.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains caffeine which is considered bad for your dog’s nervous system and heart. And also contains sugar and sweetness that is not good for your dog.
Other Bad Foods
Citrus oil extracts, grapes and raisins, rotten foods and mushrooms amongst others.
Be sure to check labels and research anything you are thinking of feeding your dog before hand.
Dog Trainign – Dog Bad Breath
Bad dog breath can be a bad problem for your dog and you, at times a dogs breath an be unbearable and make bonding with your dog a chore you’d rather avoid at all costs. This may not be due to your dog and more down to the care you have not realized that your dog should have.
Dog’s bad breath like most other dog symptoms can be the cause of many different issues separately or together, this makes the cause hard to diagnose without a proper examination from a professional dog carer or vet.
Common causes of dog bad breathe –
Maybe your dog is finding it hard to eat or swallow which can lead to dog’s bad breath and other illnesses that are related.
Saliva drooling from your dog’s mouth may also be a cause of bad dog breath, as more saliva gets built up in your dog’s mouth is makes it easier for bacteria to breed resulting in bad breath.
The last and most common form of bacteria build up is from not cleaning or not properly cleaning your dog’s teeth, this enables tartar to form and make the bad odor you are forced to smell day in day out.
Many believe that food choice and what you feed your dog is a problem when dog breath is concerned, as this may be true to an extent this is more of a temporary short term problem and the reason above is more likely to be the problem cause.
There are plenty of dental hygiene products available in pet shops and online, some work better than others on different dogs but you best bet is to clean your dog’s teeth regularly to stop the bacteria build up, this is where the problem begins and where you should target your efforts.
If you fear the problem has got too far to recover or damage or the gums and teeth is visible you should contact your vet as soon as possible for help and a proper diagnosis of your pet.
Natural Cures For Dogs
Most dogs are scared of loud noises, specifically thunderstorms and other unexpected sounds that rattles their little ears —especially for puppies. Dogs are not used to hearing loud popping sounds and their ears are sharper and more sensitive than adult dog’s ears.
When dog owners deal with the possibility of having a panicked stricken, nervous puppy, some owners use tranquilizers as a last resort during a looming thunderstorm. Of course this is an intense treatment that is not really recommended. There is a new solution, a safe, drug-free, over-the-counter supplement that is available to dogs with anxiety called melatonin.
Natural Cures for Dog’s – Two All-Natural Supplements Used To Prevent Stress & Fleas
You have probably heard of melatonin already, many pet owners have used it. It is a naturally occurring hormone that is secreted by a small endocrine gland called the pineal gland. This is located at the bottom area of the brain.
Melatonin aids in regulating and maintain the body’s circadian rhythm (the body’s 24-hour internal clock that prompts mammals of when to fall asleep and when to get up). In human beings, melatonin is used as a natural sleeping aid. In dogs, however, this natural hormone is given to alleviate the fear of thunder and other frightening sounds. Many dog owners also use melatonin to help combat against other stress related issues that their dogs may suffer from.
Melatonin – Used To Help Treat Your Dog’s Fear Of Thunderstorms
Experts say that Melatonin has a positive result with at least 75% of dogs who take the supplement. With many dogs, melatonin is most effective when it is given prior to a thunderstorm. In other dogs, however, do best when the supplement is administered as they are starting to show signs of nervousness and panic.
Additionally, Melatonin works within the body for about 8 hours and should never be administered to pregnant dogs. Consult your vet before you give to your dog for the recommended safety dose.
Using Natural Plant Oils To Get Rid Of Fleas
Another all-natural product which can aid in curing one of your dog’s worst enemies is natural plant oil used to stop fleas. A new solution has finally available for many dog owners who are looking for a safer and more natural way in treating fleas. This is known as aromatherapy. This is described as a mixture of different plant oils as a natural substitute to strong chemicals used in controlling fleas.
These potent oils are extracted from plants using a special type of distillation process better known as steam distillation. The formula is rubbed into the dog’s coat and is believed to be very helpful in treating and averting fleas. Several of these natural plant oil products also have essential oils such as lavender, lemongrass, and peppermint. All of these ingredients aid in creating a very soothing effect on your dog’s skin and coat. These are also very effective in warding off mosquitoes.
Article by Kelly Marshall from Oh My Dog Supplies – the top place to buy dog beds online
Luxated Patella and What This Means to Your Dog and You
Scenario: Let’s say that your child is playing fetch with your one year old Chihuahua when all of a sudden, he cries in pain. You notice that he starts to limp with his lower back leg. Then suddenly, he skips on the other three legs for about 2 to 5 strides and then starts to run normal again as if nothing happened.
Now, let’s say that this incident occurred 3 to 4 more times within the past couple of months, but is becoming more frequent. Should you bring your dog to the vet? The answer is yes, right away! Your dog could be suffering from luxated patella.
Luxated Patella – Is It Necessary To Take Your Dog To The Vet Just For An Occasional Limp?
Luxated patella, also called as “trick knee” or “slipped kneecap”. This painful condition is hereditary in which the kneecap regularly dislocates or moves out of position, especially toward the inside. This condition usually occurs in both legs, but usually to a different extent.
The patella is found in the center of a dog’s knee joint. In a regular knee, the kneecap rests in a rather deep groove where it slides up and down in a usual, controlled way. So, when the groove is too shallow or out of shape, the patella pops out of the groove and shift to the sides, usually toward the inside of the patella. This may cause the leg lock up while the foot is held off the ground, causing your dog to cry out in pain and limp.
Luxated patella is known to occur in smaller breed of dogs, although it can affect medium and larger sized breeds. When it hits, this condition can cause lameness and pain for your dog. In slight cases, the patella slides out of the groove and then slides back without any lasting discomfort or lameness. Your dog will yelp in pain, hold his leg up for a few seconds, and then feel fine again when the knee moves back into place.
Then sometimes, the patella will actually pop out for longer periods or more often, causing injury to the knee capsule. The pain lasts longer and the dog usually appears bowlegged.
Luxated Patella – More Scoop on The Inherited Disorder
As mentioned before, luxated patella is an inherited disorder, meaning that the condition is present at birth. The presence of this problem, however, does not make your dog crippled. So, don’t worry; your dog can still live normal and happy, with the ability to do all of the activities he loves engage in, and for the rest of his life.
Don’t forget, without any treatment or if treated the wrong way can actually cause your dog’s knee to become subject to worse injuries, such as a torn ligament.
A slipped kneecap in an older is the leading cause to diseases of joints and bones. This can actually cause in arthritis in dogs. This is why we recommend that you take care of this problem immediately.
Authored by Kelly Marshall from Oh My Dog Supplies – to find dog steps in all shapes and sizes, visit http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com/dog-supplies/dog-steps/