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- | [[//www.youtube.com/embed/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8rdO_rCQsk|external site]]How do you actually feel about Dogs? | + | (Image: |
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Good Morning from the Golden Retriever Channel. This pupper is taking-in rain. Who turned on the sprinkler in the sky? Another good day in his life, so far. | Good Morning from the Golden Retriever Channel. This pupper is taking-in rain. Who turned on the sprinkler in the sky? Another good day in his life, so far. | ||
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- | Do you have a dog? Does someone you know have a dog? Are you just interested in learning more about dogs because you want to get one? Whatever the case may be, there are some things you must know about dogs. Take the below advice into consideration if you have any kind of interest in dogs. | + | Dogs have an uncanny ability |
- | Take care to keep your dog cool while traveling during the summer by car. Even with your air-conditioning on, the dog may become over-heated | + | [[http:// |
- | If your young dog is teething and gnawing at everything, buy him a fun chew toy and keep it in the fridge. Not only does this provide him with a good alternative to your furniture, but the cold will help to make his gums feel better. Most younger dogs gnaw out of necessity, not poor manners. | + | When training |
Start training your dog as soon as you bring them home. Create a vocabulary list that all your family members will use to command the dog and stick to it. Dogs can become confused if the same words are not used to give them directions. The dog will see "get over here" | Start training your dog as soon as you bring them home. Create a vocabulary list that all your family members will use to command the dog and stick to it. Dogs can become confused if the same words are not used to give them directions. The dog will see "get over here" | ||
- | If you are thinking about adopting | + | Be a good neighbor and discourage your dog from barking, unless he is alerting |
- | If your vet gives you medication to take home and administer to your dog, be sure and ask for ideas on getting him to swallow it. Dogs differ in their tolerance | + | Ease your dog into knowing a new baby that comes into your home. Dogs can be very jealous |
- | Your dog needs attention and shouldn' | + | Ask the vet about how much the dog should eat each day. While some people follow the direction on the back of the dog food packaging, they are sometimes incorrect and may make your dog overweight. Speak with a vet about your dog's needs and what they should have. |
- | If you are considering owning a dog, keep in mind the size of your home when selecting the breed. Large dogs do not mix well with small apartments unless you have the ability to walk them frequently. They need exercise and room to roam. In this situation, a smaller barred might be the better choice. | + | Do not buy the cheapest |
- | Determine | + | Respect |
- | To make your dog happy and increase the bond between you, try learning how to give him a massage! It's been shown in recent studies that structured massages are highly beneficial to a dog's health and can improve their overall well-being. This [[http:// | + | Let your dog know who is boss! Unless shown otherwise, a dog will naturally assume that he is the leader of the pack - once this has been established it is quite difficult |
- | If your dog gets anxious and lonely when you leave, put some music on before you head out. This will help him feel more secure and provide him with a little company. This could be the perfect fix to keep him calm until you return. | + | You may need to trim hair that grows near the [[https:// |
- | Always use a leash when your dog or puppy is out in public. This helps you make sure your dog always stays by you and prevents them from wandering off or getting into trouble. This can also help you restrain your dog if something upsets them so that they don' | + | If you pick up a dog from a shelter, |
- | Put your dog through obedience training. A well-trained dog is a joy to live with for both you and them. Teaching them simple commands like "Come,"u009d " | + | Be prepared for natural disasters that also impact |
- | When training your dog, always make sure that you enter a room before allowing the dog to. This is important because | + | Make sure that you carry small bags and gloves with you while you are out walking your dog. If he uses the bathroom outside, |
- | Never leave your dog inside your vehicle. Remember that your dog needs supervision and that it could become dehydrated very quickly, especially during the hot summer months. It is best to leave your dog at home for a few hours if you have to go somewhere and cannot take your dog inside. | + | You should take the time to reflect about your lifestyle before getting a dog. You may want to get a dog, but there are lots of hard responsibilities |
- | If you want to take good care of your dog, you need to learn to think like a dog. Does your pet seem distressed? Think about what you might want if you were a dog. Is your pet having trouble sleeping? Consider where you'd want to sleep if you'd been born with a tail. Taking your pet's needs into account can make it easy to solve any problem. | + | A dog needs plenty |
- | A new puppy should be socialized as early in life as possible. Your dog can be socialized | + | Dogs love the outdoors. For the most part, dogs really enjoy being outside and being able to stretch their legs. Remember this when choosing the right dog for your family. If you live in an apartment, it is not really fair go look at a dog that needs lots of exercise, unless you are planning on jogging with your dog twice a day. |
- | Do not give in to the temptation to get a puppy without knowing how to take care of it properly. Educate yourself about the needs of the breed you are considering before actually visiting a breeder | + | It is important that you give your dog plenty |
- | If you do your best to care for your dog's health | + | As was mentioned in the opening of this article, dogs make amazing pets. They are loving, loyal and protective. To be a responsible dog owner you must educate yourself on the best dog-care tips and advice. Apply the knowledge you've learned from this article |
- | Frustration Free Tips On Caring For Your Dog | + | Simple |
- | Owning a dog is a big responsibility. You need to have a happy, healthy dog. If you know how to find a balance with your canine, make sure you learn by reading ahead. | + | Every dog is unique, like a fingerprint. They even have their own likes and dislikes, aptitude for patience or impatience, and some are loving while others are distance. How you care for them depends as much on who they are as your own situation, but the advice |
- | Always give your dog plenty of attention and affection. When your dog behaves properly, make sure you let the dog know you are happy and give them some affection. This will help reinforce the good behavior and the dog will try to behave in this manner for the positive attention.. | + | Never lose your temper or punish |
- | If your puppy or dog is constantly chewing up your furniture, invest | + | Much like people |
Brushing your dog's teeth is important, but it is not easy. If your dog is resisting, once a day simply lift their lips and use your finger to rub their teeth lightly. Do it quickly at first, and then begin to draw out the time you spend performing this action. This will help them get use to the process. After that, you can begin using an actual brush and toothpaste. | Brushing your dog's teeth is important, but it is not easy. If your dog is resisting, once a day simply lift their lips and use your finger to rub their teeth lightly. Do it quickly at first, and then begin to draw out the time you spend performing this action. This will help them get use to the process. After that, you can begin using an actual brush and toothpaste. | ||
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When training your puppy or dog, keep the sessions short! Experts say that a dog has the attention span of a small child, sometimes less, and that longer sessions will actually cause him to forget everything you've learned together. Use positive reinforcement and limit your training sessions to no more than 15 minutes. | When training your puppy or dog, keep the sessions short! Experts say that a dog has the attention span of a small child, sometimes less, and that longer sessions will actually cause him to forget everything you've learned together. Use positive reinforcement and limit your training sessions to no more than 15 minutes. | ||
- | Be a good neighbor and discourage your dog from barking, unless he is alerting you to danger. Most people get used to the sound of their dog yelping, but others find it a constant annoyance. If your dog barks often, consider talking to your vet about what could be causing it and how you can put a stop to it, for everyone' | + | You don't want to buy the bargain |
- | If you are struggling | + | Do not try to save money by choosing the cheapest dog food. Your dog will be healthier |
- | Be careful if you're searching for a new dog on Craigslist or other classified ads. Many people exaggerate the truth in order to unload problems | + | If your dog does something that you do not like, try to avoid just saying no. To your dog, no doesn' |
- | Your dog needs to exercise regularly. Like humans, dogs must exercise | + | Some breads are prone to illness, and you need to know if yours is one of them. You might be able to prevent some conditions from developing by taking a little extra care of him from the beginning. Your vet will be able to tell you how you can help your pet prevent illness that it is prone to getting. |
- | A dog should not be left outside all day. Yes, people do this too often, but dogs require interactions with people and other dogs for their well-being. When your dog is the only one you have, leaving | + | If you are in the market for a pedigree pup, you just may find him at the pound. Some owners leave their dogs, which gives you an opportunity to give them a better life. Contact your pound and ask them what breeds are currently there. You can save the life of a dog this way. |
- | Try to provide | + | Never leave your dog home alone for more than a few hours each day. For example, if you are planning |
- | When you own a dog, you typically understand the general costs of ownership, such as food, vet visits, and grooming. A generally overlooked cost is emergency situations. Although it may not happen frequently, you should have a bit of money set aside for any emergency that may arise. It's better to be prepared for an emergency | + | Dogs sometimes get tiny cuts on their paws. Small cuts can be treated by washing, flushing with hydrogen peroxide |
- | If you are training | + | Invest in a separate tub if your dog gets frequent baths. Buy a large metal basin where you will have plenty of room to scrub, but won't risk clogging the pipes in your bathroom. Giving him a bath outside |
- | You need to consider your own life when you are thinking | + | Be thoughtful |
- | Know the symptoms of dehydration in your dog, as it is a common ailment that can be dangerous. Particularly during hot dry summer months, your dog may pant excessively and experience | + | If you pick up a dog from a shelter, make sure that he has been seen by a medical professional. You don't want to bring home a sick dog unless |
Clean up after your dog when they go to the bathroom in public. Many dog owners let their dog do their business wherever they please whether its on a sidewalk, neighbor' | Clean up after your dog when they go to the bathroom in public. Many dog owners let their dog do their business wherever they please whether its on a sidewalk, neighbor' | ||
- | Make sure that you buy an appropriate [[http:// | + | Always try to do your training in an area where the dog has some distractions around them. Rarely are you going to be in a situation where you need your dog to obey and it is completely quiet. It is best for you to practice your training with the television on, kids running wild and maybe some music playing. |
- | When choosing a vet for your dog, make sure that it is a good experience for both you and your dog. You want your dog to feel comfortable so that the visit will go smoothly. It's also important to find a vet that helps you fully with any concerns that you may have. | + | It is natural to want to get your dog trained as quickly as possible. However, remember |
Use the tips you just read to care for your dog. Make more of an effort to attend to your dog's health and happiness and you'll see a big improvement very soon. You owe it to your dog to provide him with the best life possible. | Use the tips you just read to care for your dog. Make more of an effort to attend to your dog's health and happiness and you'll see a big improvement very soon. You owe it to your dog to provide him with the best life possible. | ||
- | Making A Zip Line For Your Dog | + | Best Advice for Dogs with Skin Issues |
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+ | I still need to publish a real post about Mr. Stix's full backstory, but this feels more pressing. | ||
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+ | Before I tell the ongoing saga with Mr. Stix's skin. Here is my best advice for dogs with skin problems. | ||
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+ | See a board-certified veterinary dermatologist as soon as you can. Yes, your main veterinarian can probably help, but it's honestly best to go right to the top experts. | ||
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+ | Agree to whatever skin scrapings / cytology the veterinary dermatologist recommends. This provides information about what types of secondary infections currently grow on your dog's damaged skin. | ||
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+ | Do NOT assume every skin issue is allergies. It often is some sort of allergic process, but NOT always and assuming so (and acting accordingly may only delay real solutions and subject your dog to all kinds of quack advice and home remedies). | ||
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+ | Buy the best quality fish oil and Vitamin E supplements you can afford, if it's recommended for your particular case of a dog with skin issues. | ||
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+ | When necessary, agree to the skin biopsies (yes, like minor surgery) and have them reviewed by a veterinary pathologist that specializes in dogs with skin issues. The one we used is at Texas A&M. | ||
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+ | Follow your veterinary dermatologist' | ||
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+ | Mr. Stix's Story as a Dog with Skin Problems | ||
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+ | This is what Mr. Stix's nakey spot looks like when it's normal. Photo from May 2019 soon after his hip surgery. The bald patch is permanent. That's not the issue. | ||
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+ | This is how bad the red / peeling areas got in mid-2020 when we saw our main veterinarian, | ||
- | Keeping our dog safe, and abiding by the rules of many of the places we visit, means that Myles spend a lot of time on-leash. Though we’re always exploring new places, life at the end of a six foot tether doesn’t provide him with much freedom. So, to give Myles more room to wander while we’re camping, we made an inexpensive zip line for our dog! | + | This is how it looked when Mr. Stix first saw the board-certified veterinary dermatologist in early August 2020, but the specialist had me STOP the animax and instead use a prescription anti-bacterial ointment (mupirocin) |
- | Zip Line vs. Tie-Out | ||
- | The zip line has a lot of advantages over cable tie-outs, which people often use to keep dogs from wandering off. | + | But, without the daily topical steroids (which long term are a bad idea), Mr. Stix's skin got much, much worse -- even breaking open and scabbing over. |
+ | Our veterinary dermatologist had recommended doing the skin biopsies right away in August 2020, and I *almost agreed to it then, but I was VERY worried about the cuts resulting in skin that would NOT heal. And, I figured it was at least worth a try to use the prescription antibiotic ointment and other supplements and stuff. | ||
- | First, jumping up every two minutes to untangle your dog doesn’t happen with a zip line. If you have a dog who’s constantly wrapping his tie-out around the picnic table, tent stake, trees, and your chair, you know how impossible it is to relax with those shenanigans going on! | ||
+ | But, by around Thanksgiving, | ||
- | Second, you’ll never again feel the dread of watching your dog bolt to the end of their unforgiving cable tie-out. The zip line has more give and protects pets from injury. | + | Post-Biopsy Diagnosis |
+ | As I expected, despite all the know-it-alls trying to tell me it was an allergic issue, it turns out that Mr. Stix instead has an autoimmune condition called erythema multiforme. They believe it was triggered by the trauma of his earlier injuries. They don't think it is life-threatening. They don't think it will spread to other areas of his skin. Just the already damaged, permanent nakey spot. | ||
- | Third, the zip-line won’t trip you when you’re stumbling around the campfire in the dark! | ||
- | Materials | + | With that information in hand, we updated the treatment plan to include a topical, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory ointment (tacrolimus -- often pricey, but we used a Good RX coupon at Costco to get the cost down). They use a version of this medication orally for people who have had various kinds of transplants. It's the smallest / safest option for treatment, |
- | All you’ll need to make a zip line for your dog is some nylon rope and two spring clasps. Any hardware store will have these materials, or you can order them online for about fifteen dollars. | ||
+ | I was so hopeful it would work at the once-daily application, | ||
- | We chose a rope with a smooth cover, which makes it comfortable to handle when we’re putting it up and taking it down. It also has a bit of stretch for some shock absorbency to protect Myles from a sudden stop. | ||
+ | So, in early 2021, we started applying it twice daily on the advice of our veterinary dermatologist. | ||
- | Rod used his Eagle Scout skills to handle the knot tying. He made quick work of the two bowline knots, attaching the spring clasps to the ends of rope. | ||
+ | But, it still hasn't healed completely. It often improves a lot and then comes roaring back, so we had another appointment to see the specialist last week. We had to try something new. | ||
- | Melting | + | Enter the Big Immune-Suppressing Drug |
- | Deciding On Length | + | Despite my concerns and form of veterinary PTSD about major immune suppression drugs (after our experiences with Lilly), I agreed last week to add oral cyclosporine, |
- | The most difficult part of making your zip line will be deciding how long it should be. | ||
+ | It smells like it's made from skunk butts, so each gel-cap pill is individually packaged, and you keep them in the freezer because that can help with nausea it can cause (since it's recommended you give on an empty stomach). | ||
- | We decided on a 50 foot line, which gives Myles plenty of room to explore. And because having too much is better than not enough. | ||
+ | I found some good info on this med, and our veterinary dermatologist assured me that it has been safely used in veterinary medicine for like 20+ years, etc. | ||
- | That length also gives us more flexibility if we’re at a campsite with few anchor points. If we don’t have trees, we can attach one end to the ladder on the back of our motorhome and the other to a picnic table or post. | ||
- | Setting Up The Zip Line | ||
- | Before setting up your dog’s zip line at a park or campground, check the rules to verify that they allow the rope to be wrapped around the trees. Also, placing a 1 to 2 inch webbing between the tree and the rope will help protect trees with soft bark. Nails and screws should not be attached | + | The med only comes in doses of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg, and at his size Mr. Stix's ideal dose is around 88 mg once a day. So we went with 75 mg (25+50) |
- | It takes about five minutes | + | It takes like 3-7 days for the med to build up in the blood to therapeutic levels, but it takes more like 4-6 weeks to know if it' |
- | The rope is placed high enough | + | We made it to day 4, then the barfing started. |
+ | Anxiety | ||
- | We also use the dog zip line when our campsites have a ramada. It’s easy to wrap the line around two posts and snap the ends back on the rope. | + | I wish I could say that this is all going to be fine, but I just don't know. I feel like I just have to accept that the skin will never fully heal, even though seeing his raw spots up close while applying |
- | One Zip Line For Two Dogs | ||
- | When we still had Ty and Buster, we made separate runs for each dog on the zip line. | ||
+ | I supposed to check in with our veterinary dermatology team next week to confirm that Mr. Stix's weirdness and apparent suffering has improved. | ||
- | We’d wrap the rope around the first tree and clip the spring clasp back to the rope. Then we’d make a complete pass around a second tree, creating the first section of zip line where Ty’s attached in the photo below. Then we’d wrap the rope around a third tree and clip the spring clasp back to the rope. That created the second run of zip line where Buster is attached in the photo below. Giving the boys their own space kept them from getting tangled around each other! | ||
- | Connecting Dogs A Zip Line | + | It took a lot of convincing to get Mr. Champion of My Heart to agree to try the cyclosporine, |
- | Pets should never be attached to a zip line by their collar, because it could choke them if they became tangled. When he’s on the zip line, Myles wears his harness, which has a loop on the back to connect the leash. The final step is to slip a heavy-weight carabiner through the leash handle and snap it on the line. | ||
+ | He is only 3 years old. I don't want to make anything worse. It honestly felt like I'd poisoned him. | ||
- | What’s " | ||
- | Place your pup’s water bowl within easy reach and you’re done! Just remember never to leave your pal unattended on the zip line. | + | The good news is that most of the time his skin doesn' |
- | Have you tried a zip line with your pets? Please share your experience | + | His nakey spot is prone to sunburn anyway, and the topical tacrolimus increases the risk of burning, so I used his earlier sun-reflecting coat (which started to look ragged) as a pattern and sewed him a new / light sun protection coat. He looks very cute in it. |
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- | (Image: [[https:// | + | (Image: [[https:// |
- | I am just very curious | + | Do you like more info about Pets? Give a review further down. We will be pleased to see your ideas about this piece. We are looking forward to see you back again later on. Do you know another individual who is sincerely interested in the subject? Feel free to share it. Thanks a lot for your time. Revisit us soon. |