Prepare your puppy

Before your first trip to the doctor, prepare your puppy for the experience by gathering the information you need. Write down your puppy’s behavioral issues, whether it has been potty-trained or not, and any other important information. The doctor’s assistant will most likely discuss vaccinations, parasite testing, and heartworm prevention with you. She may even call you back to discuss your puppy’s progress with potty training.

You should prepare your puppy for its first visit by bringing a stool sample and medical records with you. This way, you can explain to the doctor at your local Clearbrook Animal Hospital the medications your puppy is taking. You can also bring some favorite treats with you. Avoid bringing your puppy if you are afraid of needles as this could affect your puppy’s anxiety and it may even get worse when you don’t bring it.

Before your puppy’s first visit, make sure to call the clinic ahead of time and find the least-busy one. This way, your puppy won’t feel intimidated by all the other dogs. Besides, the first visit may be stressful for a puppy, and it’s important to keep it calm and relaxed. A doctor’s office can help you relax and make the process less stressful for your puppy.

Bring information about your pet

Your first visit to the doctor is an opportunity for you to voice any concerns and ask questions. Your doctor will examine different areas of your pet, such as the heart, lungs, abdomen, and skin. He will also check for any obvious signs of illness, like parasites. Your vet will also give your pet a thorough examination, including examining your pet’s ears and nose.

Young pets will typically get their vaccinations in spaced intervals. It’s also a good idea to bring a copy of your pet’s current medications and food. Having this information on hand will help your doctor better understand the medications you give your pet. Your doctor will also be able to answer any questions you might have about your pet’s medication.

Bring a favorite toy or treat for your pet to give to your doctor. If you’re nervous about needles, you should avoid the exam room. Pets can sense your anxiety and respond accordingly. Depending on your budget, it can help to bring certain information about your pet to your first visit. You may wish to bring your pet’s immunization records from its previous doctor, and you should have these transferred to your new vet’s office.

Be sure to have your previous doctor’s signature to transfer the records. Be sure to bring the animal’s medical history from emergency clinics and specialty hospitals, as well. If your animal has any allergies, you should make sure your vet is aware of these as well.

Set up an appointment

Setting up an appointment for your first visit to a doctor is an important part of your pet’s care. It allows you to ask questions and voice concerns. Your doctor will check different parts of your pet, including its heart, eyes, nose, teeth, ears, and poop.

Be sure to bring your pet’s adoption papers if possible, as this can help them understand the animal’s medical history and vaccination needs. Clients often call a doctor and ask if they should come in for a pet’s health condition. Because vet visits can be expensive, clients want to know what they are paying for.

A doctor should explain why a visit is necessary and how long a lingering issue could lead to more costly treatments. After all, you don’t want to put your pet at risk for something worse than it is. It’s a good idea to ask friends for recommendations or read online reviews before selecting a clinic.

Make sure to choose a Fear Free doctor which you can click here to learn about. Be sure to check out their business hours. If they’re open at odd hours or don’t have evening hours, this could be a good choice. If you’re not sure, try setting up an appointment online for a second visit or maybe even a third or fourth.

Bring your pet to the vet

Whether you’re a first-time owner or an experienced vet, bringing your pet to the vet clinic is a vital step in keeping your pet healthy. A visit to the vet clinic will help diagnose many conditions and provide peace of mind for you, your family, and even your emotionally intelligent pet.

The first step you’ll want to take when you bring your pet to the vet clinic is to check your animal in. Upon arrival, you’ll fill out a form, which will ask you a few questions about your pet. You’ll also want to inform the staff of any special needs or medications your pet is currently on. You’ll want to make sure the doctor knows what medications your pet is on, and bringing them along will make it more comfortable for them.

After you’ve taken your dog to the vet, make sure he or she is calm and at your side in the waiting area. Pets who are afraid of doctors can be anxious, so make sure to keep your voice calm and talk to your pet. Try to keep the animal in a comfortable position like these here: www.nectarsleep.com/dog-sleeping-positions, and make sure no other animals are directly in your dog’s line of sight.

Even if your pet has no prior fear of doctors, they’re used to holding nervous animals. You should also prepare for your pet’s visit by acclimating him or her to the car. A familiar car ride can help calm an anxious pet, so make sure to schedule an appointment during a time when the clinic is less busy.

The post What to Expect from Abbotsford Vet Clinic and Veterinary Hospital appeared first on Dog Carion.

Keep reading for a checklist to help parents who are planning on buying a puppy for Christmas.

Find a reputable breeder

The sad reality is that there are several unethical breeders out there looking to scam innocent people out of their hard-earned money. That’s why it’s so important to source a reputable breeder when choosing your puppy. If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at Kennel Club Assured Breeders to make sure you’re working with someone legitimate. The Kennel Club is the UK’s largest organisation dedicated to dog health and welfare and is a safe and reputable source when it comes to breeders and further information about your puppy.

Have an honest conversation with your family

While you don’t want to ruin the surprise of gifting your family a puppy this Christmas, it’s important to have a serious conversation with each family member before even considering adopting a puppy. Make sure your children understand the daily demands of a dog, such as walking and feeding.

It’s also important to speak with your partner about who is going to look after the puppy during the day or to arrange doggy daycare local to you if you both work full time. The last thing you want to do is return your puppy after a few months because not everyone was on board, so make sure you have these important conversations ahead of time to allow for a seamless transition.

Purchase puppy insurance

Like with any living thing, things can go wrong and illness can strike. Make sure you and your family are prepared for the worst by purchasing puppy insurance well in advance. This will not only cover you financially should your dog become ill or require routine treatments, but it’s also really handy when it comes to doggy daycare as pet insurance is often a requirement.

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Boerboels are incredibly reliable, friendly, trustworthy, courageous, and intelligent. They are easily trainable and have amazing instincts. This South African breed was primarily used by farmers before individuals began to see it as a pet.

If still hesitating whether to keep one, have a look at the reasons below.

High intelligence

An incredible benefit of owning such pups is their intelligence. The intelligence of this powerful breed is believed to stem from its natural pack instincts. Pet owners with leadership skills won’t go through a lot of trouble to train this breed, as it will follow their commands. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t expect these canines to follow your command instantly. See this site for more information on dog intelligence.

The training process is demanding in view of effort, dedication, and time. The key to successful training is repetition, which allows your canine to master the techniques you teach him/her. This type of Boerboel can grow into a powerful watchdog if trained properly. The easy-going personality of these creatures in the stages of preadolescence can transform into great courage and loyalty with proper training and love.

Remarkable courage

Another reason to consider welcoming such a canine companion to your family is its natural bravery and courage. Passers-by and visitors see Boerboels as large and dominating, which provides an additional layer of security to homeowners keeping one. The loyalty of these fearless canine companions is unquestionable.

Boerboels might exercise force on offenders who threaten to harm their loving owners. Purchasing such a pup is a wise idea if your intention is to make the home safe. As a pet owner, your role is to get to know the personality of your companion instead of mistaking it for blind loyalty. It should be showered with lots of care and love to earn its loyalty. Once you earn the loyalty of a Boerboel, this pet will be prepared to sacrifice its life for you if necessary.

Daily exercise for both you and your canine

Another benefit of adopting a Boerboel is the opportunity for both parties to get proper exercise. The impressive size of these canines provides them with enough energy to walk around the neighborhood and come back home. While your companion is getting its share of daily exercise, you’ll enjoy some extra exercise as well. This article, https://www.health.com/pets/dog-exercise, provides eleven creative ways to sweat with your dog.

If you’ve been meaning to shed a couple of extra pounds, your daily walking routine goes in favor of both parties, not just your canine. Daily walks enable Boerboels to stay in shape, as they can easily become overweight. Unless you stimulate your companion to be physically active, it’s in the nature of this breed to be lethargic.

An outdoor breed

Another reason why a multitude of individuals chooses to adopt Boerboels is their ability to thrive outdoors. These furry creatures adore spending time outside in the front of the house or in the backyard. Nevertheless, homeowners are advised to put up tall fencing to prevent them from wandering around the neighborhood without any supervision.

While this dog breed is capable of thriving outdoors, it’s also suitable as a stay-at-home pet. Consequently, individuals whose households aren’t too spacious or lack a backyard shouldn’t be discouraged from adopting these four-legged friends. Anyhow, in small spaces, they tend to knock over items around the house, but they do it accidentally.

Long life expectancy

Last but not least, many people choose to take care of Boerboels due to their long life expectancy. There is a wide range of elite boerboels for sale available at respected breeders. Health tests for elbow and hip dysplasia should be performed on both parents of the pup to prevent health issues in the long run.

The average life expectancy for this dog breed is from ten to twelve years if proper care, diet, and exercise are provided. Regular vet visits assist in keeping your canine in good shape.

In conclusion

A Boerboel is a great choice of pet.

Adopt one!

The post South African Mastiff Boerboel Puppies for Sale appeared first on Dog Carion.

Fleas and ticks may live and flourish in mild and moderate conditions, so protecting your dogs throughout the summer is critical. If you reside in a region where the weather remains warm all year, you should keep your pet on topical flea treatment all year.

Even northern areas, however, typically get a few mild, spring-like days throughout the winter months. Fleas and ticks have plenty of chances to get on family pets and into your home during these short warm spells. Fleas may continue to proliferate once inside, dwelling on the flooring, carpets, and everywhere else your pet dwells. Ticks may crawl from your dog and then onto the people in the home if you don’t apply tick prevention to him.

What Are Dog Flea and Tick Preventatives?

There are many products ready to support keeping your dog parasite-free. Pesticides, repellents, and growth inhibitors are examples of such goods. To avoid infestations, each of these kinds of preventatives targets pests at distinct phases of their life cycle.

Some treatments are exclusively effective against a single species, most often fleas. Flea dips, washes, and powders are examples of such products. Additional treatments may be required to guarantee your dog is protected against both fleas and ticks.

Combination flea and ticks preventatives for dogs, such as Nexgard, offer a variety of substances to combat various pests. These preventative measures primarily protect against external parasites, but they may also protect against worms, mites, or parasitic infections.

Choosing a Dog Flea and Tick Joint Medicine

When it refers to flea and ticks prevention for dogs, there is no lack of alternatives, making it difficult to choose the ideal one. Your veterinarian is an incredible guide for cutting down your options and determining the best match.

Here are some of the variables to consider when deciding which sort of flea or tick treatment is best for the dog.

Method of Implementation

Flea and tick repellents are most commonly available in two forms:

Oral: A chewable pill that your dog swallows.

Topical: A liquid that is applied between your dog’s scapulae or extends down off his body.

For dogs that are finicky eaters or just have sensitive stomachs, topical bug and tick flea preventative are an excellent alternative. Nevertheless, if you do have small kids or other animals, be sure they don’t approach or lick the substance before it has a chance to dry.

Spot-on flea preventative treatments (https://www.petmd.com/dog/parasites/dog-flea-tick-treatment-spot-on)  may have a medicinal odor, induce temporary itching/irritation, or even cause hair loss. Topical ointments are just not a good solution for dogs that enjoy swimming a lot or need to be bathed often. Water might have an impact on the product’s effectiveness.

Because they may be given as a treat, oral medications can be a simple and handy alternative for dog owners. If you are using oral medications, ensure your dog eats the full pill and doesn’t vomit it away before it is even absorbed by their system.

If your dog throws up after taking an external flea and tick prevention, contact your veterinarian for re-dosing instructions and to report a possible reaction to the medication. Feeding oral preventatives after a meal may help reduce upset stomach and improve product absorption.

Though if your dog doesn’t spend much time outdoors, fleas may readily enter via window screens, other dogs that go outside, or maybe even a human’s clothing and shoes. That is why, irrespective of how much time a dog stays outside, doctors will always suggest flea and tick prophylaxis.

Lifestyle

While no breed is especially susceptible to fleas or ticks, certain dogs may be at a greater risk owing to their attitude and breed features. Working, herding, and hunting dogs may devote the most of their days in the field, whilst other dogs prefer to spend their days at home, only going out sometimes.

Lifestage

If your dog is still considered to be a puppy or a is a toy dog breed, you should see your veterinarian to choose a product that is suitable for their weight or age. The majority of flea and tick repellents have an age requirement of 6-8 weeks, and always read the product insert for confirmation.

Making the right choice for your dog’s flea and tick medicine

It can be hard to find the best way to keep your dog from getting fleas and ticks, because there are so many options. Your veterinarian can help you narrow down the search and find the best match.

Without a prescription, over-the-counter preventatives are available

Many flea/tick topical preventatives fall into this category since they are not taken into your pet’s body in the same manner as prescription medications are, thus no prescription is necessary. Because these preventatives are classified as pesticides rather than drugs, they are likely to be controlled only by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Pest and tick treatments, washes, dips, collars, and various “spot-on” treatments are examples of OTC preventatives.

Preventatives are accessible without a prescription.

Some flea/tick exterior preventatives come into this group since they are not absorbed into your pet’s system in the same way as prescription drugs are, thus no authorization is required. Because these preventatives are categorized as pesticides rather than pharmaceuticals, they are likely to be governed primarily by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Tick and flea therapies, shampoos, washes, collars, and different “spot-on” remedies are samples of OTC preventatives.

What Variables Affect Over-the-Counter vs. Prescription-Only Prescription?

Many factors impact whether a bug and tick preventative is offered from OTC or via prescription. Companies take this into consideration:

The ingredients. Where you can get the medicine is significantly determined with its active ingredient(s) and the risks of taking it incorrectly or at the incorrect dosage. The components in prescription drugs are all well regulated, while those in over-the-counter medications really aren’t, which implies that over- or under-dosing is significantly more probable.

It is also managed as follows: Is the medicine used internally as a capsule or tablet? A solution that you apply to your pet’s skin? Perhaps a substance that must be delivered via the skin? How easy is it to utilize?

It is governed by the following federal agencies: Because this drug is merely a pesticide, you will need a recommendation from your veterinarian if it is controlled by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Because this substance is classed as an animal medication, you will almost certainly need a prescription if the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is really the regulator.

The post Will An Over-The-Counter Dog Flea And Tick Treatment Work For My Dog? appeared first on Dog Carion.

So why not give them the best training we can. Training our dogs doesn’t just mean well-behaved fur babies that we can take anywhere we want. Training our dogs means that they’ll have a better life. It stimulates their brain and keeps them occupied.

Dogs need structure and balance. They need rules to follow because that’s what their natural instincts dictate to them. Without these rules, dogs become anxious, aggressive, and hard to control. This can make it hard for their owners to do basic tasks with them like going for a walk or going to the vet. That’s why making sure you train your dog is so important.

Brain games are a good way to enforce this training and it comes with some added bonuses for you and your dog. They’re simple to find, easy to do, and they’re super affordable.  Let’s review some of the positive reasons you should teach your dog some brain training games. Once you see the benefits, you’ll be looking for brain training games to play with your pup!

It will increase your dog’s physical health

            There are a lot of good reasons to play brain games with your dog and this is the most important. A lot of people don’t realize the effect boredom and lack of mental stimulation have on your pet.

            Mental stimulation helps your dog stay alert and engaged throughout the day. Without it, your dog can become depressed, anxious, or frustrated. This can lead to several behavioral issues such as aggression, barking, digging, and other destructive behavior.

            Lack of mental stimulation can also cause your dog to not be as active as it should be. If your dog is bored and decides to lay in their bed and sleep, then they can get joint problems, muscle atrophy, and even obesity because they’re not working their muscles in the way they were made to be worked.

It will make them happy

            Speaking from experience, when I’m bored, I’m not happy. It makes me feel lost, lonely, and depressed. When your dog is bored, they feel the same thing you do. They become lost, lonely, and fall into depression.

            I’m not saying that you need to provide them with a new activity for every second of the day but leaving your dog to sit in their bed or crate all day long without something fun to do isn’t going to get their tail wagging.

            By bringing them to the dog park or for a walk, you’ll be providing their noses with new smells, their eyes with new sights, and their ears with new sounds. It’ll excite the brain, increase their mobility, and they’ll be happier as a result. If you don’t have time to do this every day, then giving them plenty of toys or puzzle games will give them an outlet to channel their busy minds.

            For more ways to make your dog happy and healthy, click here.

It supports the mental welfare of older dogs

            Just like humans, dogs can become forgetful or confused as they grow older. A cognitive decline can occur in many dogs as they reach their senior years. It’s a fact of life and a very normal part of the aging process. By keeping their minds engaged and stimulated, you’re actually treating this cognitive decline and increasing neurological connections within the brain.

            Since it can be difficult for elderly dogs to go out for runs or walk upstairs, they can be prone to lying about all day in the hopes they can rest their joints. By giving them a light brain puzzle game that makes them work for treats, you’re providing them with both mental and physical stimulation that they need to keep their brain healthy.

            If you’re looking for more ways you can support your aging dog, click the link below. You may find it a helpful resource https://www.npr.org/2010/11/23/131516152/helping-your-good-old-dog-navigate-aging

You’ll have a blast

            There’s nothing more fun than watching your dog having a blast. I know I get excited when my dog’s tail starts wagging. Playing brain games with your dog, regardless of if you’re an active participant, will bring you joy for this reason. This will do wonders not only for their mood but for yours.

            It’s also a great way to reinforce the bonds you share with your pet. By participating in their everyday life, you’ll be building upon your relationship. This will ultimately make you and your dog happier companions overall.

            Giving your dog mental stimulation doesn’t have to be difficult. You can provide them with enough stimulation by doing simple things for them. Taking them for a walk or car ride is a quick way to enrich their lives. By giving them some brain games like a Kong or a puzzle treat game to play with throughout the day, you’ll be providing them with the stimulation they need to stay active and healthy.

Now that you’ve seen the benefits of playing brain games with your dog, I hope you consider adding some to your dog’s daily or weekly routine. It’ll add so much more entertainment and growth into their lives.

            Remember, dogs only know what we give them. They see us as their pack leader and as such, it is up to us to provide them with the very best. By enriching their lives, the best that we can, we’ll be doing them a great service. They’ll stay happy and be able to live long and fulfilled lives alongside us.

            Occupied dogs are happy and well-behaved dogs. By giving them something to do or encounter, you’re keeping them and yourself out of trouble.

The post Reasons that Brain Training 4 Dogs Are Good appeared first on Dog Carion.

 Dog Anxiety is used to describe a condition where a dog exhibits distress or behavioral problems as a result of fear, nervousness, or concern.

In dogs and even humans, fear and uneasiness are usually normal responses to certain stimuli. Heightened levels of anxiety expressed in behavioral abnormalities can be signs of an anxiety disorder.

In dogs, behaviors like that are very unhealthy and can be potentially dangerous to owners.

Anxiety in dogs is actually quite common. Over 70% of dogs show signs of it and fear but the severity of symptoms varies from dog to dog. Studies even show that some breeds are more likely to develop an anxiety disorder than others.

However, regardless of the breed of your dog, this article seeks to help you understand dog fears, spot any symptoms of it and aid you in helping your pet prevent and manage their stress

What causes dog anxiety?

 This can be caused by a variety of reasons. The most common include;

• Fear 

Anxiety caused by fear is characterized by a feeling of apprehension in the dog when they come in contact with the stressor. Sometimes, when the fear is caused by a previous traumatic event like drowning, for example, even the slightest similarities with the memory of that circumstance like trying to give them a bath in a bathtub, is enough to generate a response from your pup.

Fear can be triggered in a dog for different reasons. It also could be their response to loud noises like fireworks, unfamiliar people, storms, strange places or environments, being locked up, etc

• Separation.

Separation is the most common cause of specific anxiety in companion or pet dogs. It is characterized by overdependence or attachment to their family or owners.

When their beloved one leaves, the anxiety kicks in and they exhibit distress behaviors such as barking or howling, chewing, destruction, and toileting or house soiling.

They may also be restless, shake, salivate, refuse to eat, become quiet and withdrawn, and in some cases, attempt escape resulting in injuries and self-harm.

Dogs who have experienced some form of loss of attention and love like dogs that have been abandoned, had multiple owners, or been adopted from shelters develop this type of anxiety more than others.

● Aging

Anxiety caused by aging occurs in older dogs, typically 8-11 years old or even older. There is often the result of a decline in a dog’s cognitive functions caused by Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). This is similar to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease in aging humans.

The gradual loss of senses and mental alertness can be quite confusing and terrifying for the pet. This will cause them to become nervous, skittish, easily startled and generally increase their anxiety level.

Signs Of Dog Anxiety.

Anxiety in dogs is usually detected by these symptoms:

● Aggression.

This is the most dangerous symptom of it. It can be in a direct or indirect form, depending on the conditions. Direct aggression is more dangerous and happens when a dog acts aggressively toward people or other animals. They usually bark, growl, bare their teeth and in some cases, attack and attempt to bite the object of their antagonism.

Indirect aggression, also dangerous, happens when a person comes between the dog and the object of their aggression. Nevertheless, this symptom, in extreme situations may turn dangerous or life-threatening for the people involved, especially kids.

Dogs could end up urinating or defecating in the house even when they are housebroken. Those with separation anxiety do this only when their owner is away.

● Depression.

The pet becomes quiet, lacks interest in playing or other things they once enjoyed, and changes sleeping or eating patterns

● Destructive behavior.

This includes digging, chewing, or shredding objects. This particular sign is very common with separation anxiety. Some dogs destroy areas around the exits their owners use and become injured when trying to escape their confinement.

Other signs include:

● Panting and pacing even when it’s not hot.

● Shivering.

● Drooling.

● Self-harm, including excessive licking or chewing.

● Running away or cowering in the corner of a house.

● Repetitive or compulsive behaviors

Dog Anxiety Treatment

If you spot signs of dog anxiety in your pet, there’s no need to fret. It can be solved by training, prevention plans, and if needed, medications. Some ways to treat your dog include:

● Exercising your dog. This includes taking walks and playing outdoors. It helps relieve them of their anxiety.

● Mental stimulation with puzzles or tricks, especially for dogs with anxiety caused by aging.

● Music Therapy.

Studies show that music decreases anxiety in dogs. Soft rock, reggae, and classical music were found to be the most effective. Playing music that your dog likes at a reduced volume will help calm them down.

Some examples of some songs you can play include:

1. Through A Dog’s Ear by Lisa Spector and Joshua Leeds.
2. Noah’s Harp: Surrender by Susan Raimond.

• Physical contact:

Touching or massaging your dog, especially at pressure points like the feet, the ears, and the top of the head regularly helps them stay relaxed and reduces their stress and anxiety levels.

• Desensitizing your dog to the stressor.

 This involves helping your dog get used to the object of their stress long-term. For example, for dogs with separation anxiety, you can practice leaving them alone for short periods, increasing the periods as your dog gets used to it.

• Counter-conditioning.

This is a process of training your dog to associate their stressor with something good. For instance, for a dog scared of noises, you can give them treats to reward while setting off those sounds at a reduced volume and increasing the volume subsequently as they get used to the sound.

● Pheromones.

Calming pheromones like dog appeasing pheromones (DAP), also known as apasine, reduce anxiety by making the dog feel safe and secure.

Calming pheromones like dog appeasing pheromones (DAP), also known as apasine, reduce anxiety by making the dog feel safe and secure.

Anxiety meds for dogs

In cases of a serious anxiety disorder, your veterinarian may prescribe antidepressants like fluoxetine and clomipramine.

• Benzodiazepine with an antidepressant will help your dog’s anxiety in known and predictable anxiety-inducing events like storms, fireworks, or car rides.
• Selegiline which helps reduce the symptoms of cognitive decline is beneficial to dogs with aging anxiety.

Other medications include:

• Other medications include:

  ● Alprazolam (Xanax).
  ● Amitriptyline.
  ● Buspirone.
  ● Clomipramine (Clomicalm).
  ● Dexmedetomidine (Sileo).
  ● Diazepam (Valium).
  ● Fluoxetine (Reconcile or Prozac).
  ● Lorazepam (Ativan).
  ● Paroxetine (Paxil).
  ● Sertraline (Zoloft).

Dog Anxiety Prevention

To calm an anxious dog there are some measures you can employ. They include:

1. Learn to read your dog’s body language. This will aid you in recognizing situations where your dog feels scared or uneasy.
2. Exercise and proper nutrition. Regular physical and mental exercise will keep your dog’s anxiety levels from rising.
3. Regular grooming. It involves coat washing, nail trimming with a dog nail grinder, and brushing so that ill health or injury doesn’t cause your dog any anxiety. It also helps you observe your dog’s body for signs of self-harm, excessive chewing, and licking.
4. Helping your dog socialize especially when they are younger will help them adjust to the presence of people and other animals and prevent fear and anxiety.
5. Situation Avoidance. Knowing the triggers of your dog and preparing for those situations ahead will help you control them better. Avoiding things that have been identified as your dog’s stressors will help you manage your dog’s anxiety level.

Conclusion

The best way to treat anxiety is to talk with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian’s expert advice and diagnosis will help you properly recognize the type of anxiety your dog suffers from, and its possible causes and triggers.

Visit a vet as soon as you notice any signs of anxiety in your dog and never try to self-prescribe or use a medication without a prescription from a professional,

The post Dog Anxiety: Causes, Treatment And Prevention appeared first on Dog Carion.

Fortunately, with a little patience and the right tools, trimming your dog’s nails can be easy and painless for both you and your pup. In this article, we discuss how to trim dog nails safely. We also provide resources for how to find quick and effective training if your dog is not comfortable with the trimming process.

How often should you trim your dog’s nails?

Trimming your dog’s nails is a regular part of grooming. It can be done as frequently or infrequently as needed, depending on the size and shape of your dog’s nails. Ideally, you should trim your dog’s nails once a month.

If your dog’s nails extend beyond the bottom of his paws, you may need to trim them more often until they reach a manageable size that is approximately 2mm (0.08 inches) away from the blood vessel. On the other hand, if your dog’s nails are short and healthy, you only need to trim the tips of each nail just enough so that they don’t snag on things or grow into the pads of their feet.

It’s also important to note that puppies’ nails grow much faster than adult dogs, so you’ll likely need to trim their nails more frequently about every two weeks.

What are the risks of not trimming your dog’s nails?

If you don’t trim your dog’s nails, they can grow so long that they curve and dig into the pads of your dog’s feet. This can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your pup and can lead to infection or even blood loss, which are often caused by the buildup of bacteria under the nail. it forces your dog to bite or scratch on its nails, which can lead to more serious injuries such as torn skin.

The sound of every footstep clicks loudly as they walk across a hardwood or tile floor. On carpeting, their snails may get caught up in the pile and suffer painful conditions such as arthritis that needs veterinary attention over time due to long nails being too sharp causing breaks.

It may also cause deformities or broken bones. They may not be able to flex their paws enough to pick up food or toys, which can result in malnourishment or missed playtime. Overgrown nails can also increase the risk of tripping and injuring yourself or your pet. 

If you see your pet limping because of an unhealthy nail it’s best to cut off that extra length right away so they don’t continue suffering for our help to find treatment options.

What tools do you need to trim your dog’s nails?

There are three different styles of nail trimmers that you can use on your dog, but the most important thing is to find a pair that feels comfortable for you to use. Some people prefer scissors-style and guillotine-style clippers, while others prefer pet nail grinders.

Grinders are a good option for trimming a dog’s nails because they are safer and provide more accuracy. It is a small electric grinding device that is used to grind down the nails, which is a less painful way to trim your dog’s nails. It is an alternative to using a nail clipper that can be painful to your dog.

The main advantage of using a nail grinder is that there is less chance of hitting the quick and you have more control over this process. You should get a dog nail grinder if you want a stress-free experience for both you and your dog. 

How to Get Your Dog Comfortable With Nail Trimming?

You might be wondering how long it takes to get your dog comfortable with nail trimming.  It usually takes about one week for a dog to get used to nail trimming. However, if it takes your dog a little longer to get accustomed to it, don’t worry. Keep calm and maintain a positive attitude. Continue to offer praise and treats as often as necessary. There are some things that you can do first to help them transition into something that works.

The first thing you should do is to introduce your dog to the noise that the grinder makes. You can do this by running a trimmer without trimming anything or with a grinding disk, and then slowly increasing the speed. Your dog will probably be frightened at first so don’t force them to look at it. Let them see the tool from afar and then slowly approach it.

After some time, they will get used to the sound that it makes, which is good because it means that there won’t be any accidents when you start using the trimmer on their nails. You can also use a nail grinder with an attachment (nail guard) on your dog’s nails, but make sure that it isn’t too loud if you want them not to be afraid of it.

Another thing that you can do is give your dog tasty treats and lots of praise while they are watching you trim their nails. This way they will associate nail trimming with something positive and they won’t be afraid of it anymore.

You should start with the nails on your dog’s front paws and then slowly move to their back paws. If you are trimming their nails for the first time, you should use a guard on the nail grinder to prevent them from getting hurt.

Also, make sure that you don’t grind too much of their nails at one time. You should start with a small amount and keep adding more as they get used to it until you get rid of all of their excess nails.

How to Trim Your Dog’s Nails?

It is not a difficult process, but some tips may help you to trim your dog’s nails safely. First, you need to make sure that the trimmer is in good condition. If it is broken, you should look for a new one.

Here are some useful tips:

1) Prepare everything before trimming your dog’s nails and make sure that you have all the necessary equipment ready: nail grinder, styptic powder, towel or mat, and gloves (if you need one).

2) Make sure that the surface where you are going to do this is clean and free of any distractions or possible dangers for your dog. It should be a quiet and calm place with no other animals around.

3) Put a little bit of  styptic powder on the nail that you are going to grind. It will stop bleeding in case you accidentally hit the quick.

4) Put on your gloves and hold your dog’s paw tightly. This is important because if you lose your grip, it can be dangerous for both of you.

5) Turn on the trimmer and start trimming slowly near the end of the nail. Do not touch it with the trimmer yet. Wait until your dog feels comfortable with this situation and don’t pull their paw away from you or there is a risk that they will hurt themself by pulling hard and cutting the quick.

6) When your dog is comfortable with this situation, move forward to touch their nail with the trimmer slowly and continue trimming until it is smooth enough for his nails to not hurt them anymore (if possible). You can also ask someone to help you by holding your dog’s paw as well.

7) Repeat this procedure on all of your dog’s nails until they are smooth enough for him/her not to feel pain or discomfort when walking or running on hard surfaces.

Trimming Dog’s White Nails:

If you have a dog with white or light-colored nails, then you’re lucky because you can easily see the blood supply in its nail, which is commonly called the quick. You just want to cut off a little bit at a time until you start to see a wet spot inside the nail. That’s when you will stop trimming because you are getting close to the blood vessels.

When you’re trimming the nails, make sure that you trim them in the direction of their growth. It means just look at the nail and see where it’s growing and then trim it off at that angle. Don’t trim it on a different angle because you’re more likely to hit the quick that way.

Trimming Dogs Black Nails:

If you have a dog with black or dark-colored nails then trimming can become more difficult. The best way to trim dark nails is to trim small bits at a time. It’s better to make a lot of little trim than try to take too much off and hit the quick. If the end of the nail looks white or light gray, trim a little bit more off the end.

Look at the nail head-on after every trim you make when you see a small shiny dot appear in the center of the nail, it’s where you need to stop. The little dot means that you are just about to reach the quick. As soon as you see it, stop trimming the nail (if it is too late and the quick has already been cut, apply styptic powder to stop bleeding).

Conclusion:

Nails are an essential part of a dog’s anatomy, they aid with the balance, speed, grip, and overall safety of your dog. Untrimmed nails can grow so long that they touch the ground when the dog is walking. This is painful for the dog and can make it run in pain. If you follow these steps carefully, you shouldn’t have any problem grinding your dog’s nails. Remember that it takes patience and practice to get used to this process. Also, make sure that you have a lot of tolerance and love for your dog before starting this process.

The post Do Dogs Really Need To Have Their Nails Trimmed? appeared first on Dog Carion.

Image: Stylish Hound

The only problem with this is that you’re only human. You can’t entertain your big, furry toddler for every last second of the day! And in the era of working from home, this goes double. At least the ‘terrible twos’ is a temporary state of being for less hairy kiddos.

What’s the way around this? Bribery. Well—not bribery, but you can buy yourself some time. If you’ve never heard of a snuffle mat, prepare to be educated! You can thank us later, by the way.

What is a snuffle mat?

Made from a holey plastic sink mat and a whole lot of ruffled fabric, a snuffle mat is snack time and playtime rolled into one. It’s a colourful, aesthetically pleasing mat, but it isn’t its appearance that captures canine attention. Rather, it’s what humans scatter and hide throughout all those layers of fabric: kibble. Once the mat is suitably loaded, dogs will follow their nose to locate and devour their favourite treats. It’s physical and mental stimulation all in one!

Image: Stylish Hound

Why use a snuffle mat?

Besides the obvious life hack of it keeping your dog occupied? Well, for one, it gives your dog some incidental exercise. For two, it slows digestion and encourages slower eating habits. But, most prominently? It taps into a dog’s foraging instincts. When dogs receive their regular meal on a literal silver platter, eating is a fast and mindless activity. Domestication blunts a dog’s natural hunting instincts. Give them a snuffle mat, however, and this sharpens their mental faculties and natural hunting instincts. It reminds them what it means to be a dog. Their nose is what helps them to forage like their wolf ancestors, as well as make sense of everything in the world that they encounter.

So, a snuffle mat makes for a smarter, happier, all-round occupied dog? You’ll be adding this to the cart, right?

Interesting tidbits (that aren’t kibble)

Did you know that 15 minutes of snuffling burns as many calories as a one-hour walk? You heard that right! This is the most cost-effective piece of exercise equipment you will ever buy, and your dog won’t even realise they’re exercising. It’s like the canine equivalent of dancing or roller skating in that way.

Image: Stylish Hound

Moreover, the mental exercise that snuffle mats encourage can be invaluable to dogs. A lack of physical or mental exercise manifests in doggos in the form of anxiety or agitation. Some problem behaviours can include destructive chewing, hole-digging, and barking for the sake of drawing attention. However, give your dog a snuffle mat (or another form of puzzle) and this can deter these destructive behaviours, as well as reduce stress and hyperactivity. Sniffing is actually a calming, pulse-lowering activity for dogs. (Perhaps it’s their way of self-grounding.)

When you bring out a snuffle mat, be sure to supervise your pooch’s playtime. There is only so much kibble to locate, and once the ‘Easter egg hunt’ is complete, your dog may begin to roughhouse with the snuffle mat. To avoid flipped mats or ripped fabric, put the mat away once your doggo is done. And, despite what they say, sometimes you can get too much of a good thing.

Snuffle away

Now that you know the ins and outs of snuffle mats, it’s time to treat your dog to one. Whether you want to sneak in some cheeky extra canine exercise, provide your dog with mental stimulation, or just buy yourself some ‘alone’ time, you can’t go wrong with a snuffle mat. What are you waiting for? Grab one of these highly aesthetic snuffle mats from Stylish Hound or even make one yourself! Here’s to some fun wolf roleplay for puppers—and some quiet time for paw-rents. Snuffle away, my friends. Sniff and ye shall be rewarded.

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Why Choose Organic Dog Beds?

One material that is common in all things fabric from clothing to sleeping mattresses and pillows is cotton. And it is not only humans who need fabrics that are safe and comfortable to the skin, pets too will surely benefit from a natural, organic solution as it relates to their sleeping solution. And if you are wondering what the fuss is all about as regards organic pet beds, below are some of the reasons why they come highly recommended by experts. 

• Made from chemical-free materials that are safe for pet’s health
• An environmentally friendly solution that will put you and your pet on the track to a sustainable lifestyle
• Made to be pressure relieving and supporting to the body so you can rest assured your dog won’t wake up feeling physically sick
• Ensures your pet catches enough sleep and wakes up feeling well rested with enough energy to jump around
• Durably made to support the rigorous nature of the dog lifestyle which could be hard for regular pet beds and mattresses to support
• With custom options available like those provided by some retailers in the market, you get to choose how you want your organic dog bed to look
• There is also the benefit of a washable dog bed that you can easily toss in the washing machine to ensure your pet and your home stays clean

How to Shop for Organic Dog Beds?

This is where you need to be extra vigilant. You don’t want to get swayed by cheap prices and marketers with sweet tongues who will talk you into buying a crappy piece of dig furniture that won’t be safe to use. So when in the market for an all-natural dog bed or mattress, you want to take note of the following information. 

Manufacturing Material

The first thing to take note of is the material the bed is made from. And the best options in the market usually feature cotton and foam that is sourced from countries with a good tradition of respecting organic farming practices. While most of the mattresses around are made from foam that does not fit into the context of being sustainable, you want to go the extra mile to ensure that you pick an option that doesn’t feature synthetic materials. 

Size 

Okay, now you get to determine how large you want the bed to be. While it is true that, unlike humans, dogs don’t roam about the bed when they take their beauty sleep, but you do want to ensure that there is enough space to support quality sleep. So you may want to get an option that has enough room for them to grow into if you are shopping for a puppy. 

Ideally, you can find them available in different dimensions which include small, medium, large and extra-large. So you shouldn’t have a hard time finding the right option to fit into your dog’s sleeping space or accommodate the size of your furry companion. 

Choose the Right Filling 

Another critical aspect of the dog bed shopping process is to consider which filling option will be right for your pet. The right option for a dog with arthritis and joint pain issues will be an orthopedic pet bed that features quality memory foam that can support their health. But you want to also make sure to shop in the green category of your pet store when looking for this option. This website has more on the best materials to fill a dog bed. 

Care and Maintenance

You also want to go for an organic dog bed that is easy to maintain. What you should look out for here is that it is easily washable in the washing machine and can also support the use of cleaning agents without doing damage to the construction. You want to be careful to use only pet-friendly washing ingredients that are made from organic sources that won’t be toxic for pets to breathe or sleep on. 

Price Perfect 

Now you have to conclude how much you can cough out for an organic pet bed. The good thing is that they don’t cost much and you can find good deals online if you search carefully. But the best way is to make a budget of how much you can splurge on new pet furniture before checking the available options online. You want to be careful not to fall for cheap prices as it is common to find many cheap deals when shopping in the pet section in many online stores. 

Where to Find Organic Dog Beds?

There are mostly available for sale at your local pet supply or furniture store where you can visit and check the different options available for sale. It is also possible to find quality options on sale online if you go through popular online retail shops that stock pet supplies. You want to do well to read through the review section to be well informed on what others have to say about the quality of the beds. You can find out more on this page https://petcomments.com/do-dogs-need-beds/ about why your dog needs a bed. 

Final Note 

When it comes to the best option for a dog sleeping solution, organic dog beds and mattresses are good options to choose from. You want to do well to follow the shopping guide provided above when in the market for one. 

The post How to Shop the Right Organic Dog Beds? appeared first on Dog Carion.

If this is you then congratulations, there are answers to your questions and they are all good news. The good news is that there is a natural approach to treating your dog’s ailment and it works quite effectively. All you need to know about it is further down this article so keep reading.

The answers you seek lie in the natural product called colloidal silver. This is a natural product made up of the mixture of a liquid base and tiny silver particles. It has the ability to penetrate the cells of the body and kill the pathogens responsible for any illness your pet has.

Amazing right? Well, there’s even more. The use of this product is not limited to only one type of animal. You can use it for dogs, cats, bunnies and any other furry member of your family. The benefits of colloidal silver for dogs and other pets amongst other things will be discussed as you read further.

A Brief History

Dating back to the Greek and Roman empires, the use of silver as a method of food and wine preservation as well as a method of controlling infections have been seen in various records and documentations. Hippocrates, the man said to be the father of medicine taught and used silver as a remedy for treating wounds as well as the prevention of illnesses.

Around the middle ages, when the plague affected Europe, wealthy families made their kids suck on silver spoons to protect them against the plague.  While there were no scientific studies to back the efficacy of this practice, majority of the wealthy families who used this method fared better compared to others who did not during that era.

During the colonization of America and beyond, silver was used to keep water and milk from going bad. In fact it was a common practice to keep silver coins at the bottom of a barrel to keep germs at bay. In the latter half of the 19^th century, due to the industrial revolution and scientific advancements, the effect of silver could be studied and applied in the field of medicine.

Until the 20^th century when penicillin and other antibiotics were found, colloidal silver was used to treat illnesses. Because it was cheaper and easier to make, antibiotics replaced it until recently. It is making a comeback as a result of the body’s lower resistance to it as well as the rising cost of healthcare. You can click here for more historical background on this product.

What is Colloidal Silver

This is a solution made of silver particles and another substance usually a liquid, gel or cream in order to evenly distribute the silver particles during use. It can be used by both humans and animals due to the natural antibiotic, anti-fungal and anti-virus properties it possesses.

As a result of these properties, it makes it a great pathogen fighter that can be used to treat all kinds of common pet conditions as well as infections such as yeast infections, cuts and scrapes, rashes ear infections and eye problems. It can also be used as a preventive measure to ensure that your pet continues to be healthy and infection free.

This solution can be used both internally and externally. This is because it is odorless, and tasteless. You can check here https://www.quora.com/What-is-colloidal-silver to learn more.

Benefits of Colloidal Silver for pets

The benefit of this natural product is quite an extensive list, this is because it can help to prevent or manage a ton of conditions in your pet. There is even a possibility of curing such ailments. Some of the benefits you can get from using it for your pets include:

Prevention of infections

It has proven to be a very effective remedy to both prevent and treat infections such as bacterial, viral and fungal.

Injuries

This solution is also very helpful in the treatment of injuries. This is because it helps cuts/injuries heal at a faster rate.

Ear infections

By adding just a few drops to the problem area, your pet can heal faster from any ear injury or infection in a few days.

Eye infections

Colloidal silver has a history of preventing blindness in new born children as at the 19^th century. This is further proof to show that it is a great remedy for the treatment of eye infections in your pet. Applying it does not cause any burning or stinging effect and is safe for use.

Better alternative to antibiotics

It is also known to be an antibiotic, therefore can be used to counter microbes that cause disease in pets. It is also free from mutation of bacteria unlike antibiotics, this ensures that your pet will not experience any resistant strains against it. You will do well to find more about how colloidal silver can help your pets.

How to Use it for Dogs

One of the coolest things about this product is the ease at which it can be administered. It has no taste or odor, this makes it a great option because it does not in any way alter whatever food or drink it is applied to.

The three common ways you can give it to your pet is either orally, topically or by inhalation. They all have different effects therefore the method of administration depends greatly on what you are trying to achieve.

To administer orally, all you need to do is use a dropper to administer a few drops to your dog’s mouth multiple times daily. It tastes quite similar to water therefore; your dog should have no problems taking it.

For topical administration, you can either spray directly on the problem area or use as a compress. You can apply multiple times daily without discomfort as it does not burn or sting.

Finally, the process of inhalation is most recommended when your pet has problems with the lungs especially conditions like pneumonia and bronchitis. You should let the process last for at least 10 to 15 minutes daily.

Conclusion

As a pet owner, one of your major concerns is the health and safety of your pet. There is a lot of information about different remedies to consider on the internet. It can get really overwhelming especially if you are not sure which one to trust. This is the security that colloidal silver gives you as it has centuries of history and results backing it up.

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