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Category: Dog Tips

  • Heatstroke in Dogs: It Can Be Serious!

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    Just like with people, dogs can struggle with the heat. They can overheat and get heatstroke, which can be deadly to them! For this reason, you need to understand what heatstroke is and how you can prevent it. You also need to know the signs that you should look for, as well as what you can do if your dog overheats or you find yourself dealing with a dog with heatstroke.

    So, what is heatstroke?

    Heatstroke is a condition that dogs get when they are outside in the heat and their bodies can’t find a way to cool off. Though they may sweat a little through their paws, there are times when panting isn’t enough to cool them down!

    Once a dog’s body temperature is one hundred and five degrees (or higher), they start to suffer from heatstroke. This can damage their organs and make them sick. Their organs may start to shut down, and it can be fatal!

    What are the signs of heatstroke?

    I recently wrote an article about overheating in dogs. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    Basically, here are the signs that you need to keep an eye out for.

    • Heavy panting, which can turn into heavy breathing
    • Drooling
    • Increased heart rate
    • Vomiting and diarrhea (with or without blood)
    • Disorientation
    • Lethargy
    • Weakness
    • Seizures
    • Death
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    What are some causes of heatstroke?

    The simple truth is that there are certain characteristics which make certain dogs more likely to suffer from heatstroke. This can be:

    • Age. Younger puppies and older dogs struggle more with the heat than adult dogs.
    • Breed. Certain breeds are more likely to suffer from heatstroke. This includes breeds with thick fur, as well as dogs that struggle to breathe on a regular day due to their flat face.
    • Being overweight. Overweight dogs are going to struggle with the heat more than dogs that are at a healthy weight.
    • Medical conditions. Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease and laryngeal paralysis can make it harder for dogs to deal with the heat.

    That being said, any dog can suffer from heatstroke for the following reasons:

    • Not having enough water. Dogs can get overheated if they don’t have enough water to stay hydrated during hot summer days.
    • Spending too much time in the hot sun. Just like us, dogs need time out of the direct sunlight, whether they hang out in the shade or they spend time indoors in the air conditioning.
    • Exercising during the hottest part of the day. You may need to stop taking long walks with your dog when the temperature is too hot.
    • Leaving a dog in the hot car. Too many dogs get left in a hot car and suffer from overheating due to it!
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    What is the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

    When a dog first becomes overheated, heat exhaustion can set in. Dogs can be lethargic and weak. They may have vomiting and diarrhea. Their body temperature may be normal at this stage of overheating.

    However, if left untreated, it can turn into heatstroke. When this happens, your dog’s body temperature can rise. His or her body organs may start to shut down, and your dog may become unconscious and die.

    How does your veterinarian diagnose heatstroke?

    Heatstroke is often diagnosed by taking a dog’s temperature and observing the clinical signs. Your veterinarian will do a physical examination to make sure that your dog is doing alright.

    Your veterinarian may also request blood work in order to see how your pet’s organs are doing. You want to make sure that the organs haven’t been damaged due to heatstroke.

    What is the treatment for heatstroke?

    The first thing that needs to be done is to get your dog’s temperature down. 

    This means getting him or her out of the hot sun. You may want to take him or her in the air conditioning. If you don’t have air conditioning, you may want to use a fan to help him or her cool down.

    Spraying or wetting your dog may help to cool him or her off. 

    You are going to want to use cool water (not cold) in order to help him or her cool down.

    Make sure that you seek veterinary care. 

    Once your veterinarian diagnoses your dog with heatstroke, he or she will come up with a plan to help. He or she may recommend hospitalization, fluids, and medications, depending on your dog’s condition.

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    Heatstroke can be a fatal disease that your dog can get from being outside in the hot sun for too long! Because of this, you need to be careful with your dog (and yourself). Make sure that you and your dog have a way to get out of the hot sun and, during the hottest part of the day, you may want to stay inside in the air conditioning.

    If your dog is showing signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, you need to get him or her cooled down. You should look for lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and even disorientation. However, you don’t want to cool him or her off too quickly! Make sure that you seek veterinary care so that your dog has the best chance of living a long and healthy life.

    ***

    Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Why Dogs Eat Poop

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    The simple truth is that dogs are known for eating many things, even if it isn’t good for them. Many eat the garbage and things outside that may give them a stomachache. Some dogs eat socks and other objects that don’t even look for smell like food. Then, there are the ones who eat their own poop (or everyone else’s)!

    Why do dogs eat poop?

    Dogs often eat poop, and it can be quite disgusting for most pet owners. They may eat their own, raid the cat’s litter box, or even eat poop from the wildlife outside.

    They can do this for many reasons, which include:

    • Normal puppy behavior. Eating poop can be a natural behavior in puppies.
    • Boredom. They can also do it because they are bored. Under stimulated puppies and dogs may play with their stool because they don’t have any toys that they want to play with.
    • Mimicking others. Your dog may also see other dogs doing it and feel the need to do the same.
    • Deficiencies in the diet. If your dog isn’t eating a normal, balanced diet, he or she may try to get what is lacking from the stool. He or she may also have an enzyme deficiency.
    • Poorly digestible diet. There are times when your dog is unable to digest the diet he or she is being fed, which can lead to deficiencies in the diet.
    • Intestinal parasites. If your dog has parasites, he or she may not be getting the nutrition that is needed.
    • Hunger. Some dogs are just hungry and will eat anything!

    Why is it bad for dogs to eat poop?

    Coprophagia, the term for eating poop, can put your dog at risk for internal parasites. If they eat the poop that has parasites in it, like the wildlife that goes through your backyard, they are likely to get the same parasite.

    It can also make your dog’s breath smell terrible. If you don’t do anything about your dog’s problem, it can even cause nutritional deficiencies.

    What can you do to stop your dog from eating poop?

    Though you may want to panic, you don’t have to. You are going to want to make sure that your dog is healthy and doesn’t have intestinal parasites. You can do this by taking your dog to the veterinarian for his or her annual checkup. At that point, you may want to deworm your pet, just in case he or she does have worms.

    If he or she continues the behavior, you may want to do something about it. You could try to do any (or all) of the following:

    Look into supplements for poop eating. 

    These supplements are made to change the flavor of the poop so that your dog is less likely to eat it.

    There are many different products available, such as this one from Amazon.

    A meat tenderizer is something you may have at home that can achieve the same result.

    You may also want to use a basket muzzle, especially when your dog is outside. 

    A basket muzzle will not hurt your dog. Instead, it will just keep him or her from eating things in the yard, such as poop, mulch, and other goodies that they feel like they just have to eat!

    There are many different basket muzzles on the market. This is one such muzzle that you may want to try.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Pick up the poop right away. 

    If you don’t want your dog to eat his or her own poop, you need to pick it up right away. This won’t give your dog a chance to go after it!

    Give your dog a better environment. 

    If your dog is eating poop out of boredom, you may want to look into enriching his or her environment. You may want to buy him or her some toys for entertainment. If he or she eats too fast, you may want to buy balls that you can put food in, so your dog has to work for his or her food.

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    When your dog eats poop, it can be really disgusting. However, there are some things that you can do about it. You first need to make sure that your dog is healthy and there is no medical reason why he or she is eating stool. Then, you may want to pick it up right away to take the opportunity away from him or her. You may also need to get a basket muzzle and some toys so that your dog isn’t eating it out of boredom!

    ***

    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • What to Look for In a Pet Sitter

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    It is almost that time of year again when most people go away for a few days to relax, unwind, or explore somewhere they have never been before. That is fun for most people, though pet owners also have to worry about what they can do with their beloved babies while they are away.

    Many people decide to place their pets in a kennel. I recently wrote an article about choosing the right kennel for your pet. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, you can read it right here.

    That being said, many people would prefer to hire a pet sitter to check in a few times a day or have someone stay at the house so that their pets receive plenty of attention.

    Not sure how to choose a pet sitter? Here are some tips to help.

    You need to know exactly what you want in a pet sitter. 

    Do you want someone to come in three to four times daily to let your dogs outside for an hour or so? Do you want someone who will walk your dog like you usually would? What about playing?

    Even if you have a cat, you may want someone to come sit with your pet for a little bit each day. Would you prefer someone to stay overnight, so your pets aren’t alone?

    If your friends have used someone, don’t hesitate to ask who they use. 

    It may also be helpful to ask them what they liked and didn’t like about a particular person. This may help you determine the questions you need to ask to feel comfortable leaving your pets with them.

    If your friends don’t have any ideas, you can look at the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS). This is a nonprofit trade association for pet sitters and their businesses. You can look up pet sitters by zip code. These are professional pet sitters, meaning that it may cost you more than hiring a high schooler in the neighborhood.

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    You may also want to check into a pet-sitting company. 

    These companies are often bonded and insured, which can provide you with even greater peace of mind. They may offer background checks and training, which can make you feel even better.

    These companies, especially those with multiple sitters, may be able to help if something happens to your pet sitter. If your sitter is running late due to an emergency, they likely have arrangements in place to help cover these situations.

    You should also find out what the pet sitter will do in the event of an emergency. 

    While you may hope that your pet sitter will take your dog to the veterinarian if needed, they may have a trusted veterinarian they use when owners are out of town.

    If they are happy taking your dog to his or her veterinarian, you need to talk to your veterinarian’s office and let them know that you will be out of town and are letting the sitter make the decisions for you if you are unavailable.

    When you narrow down your search, you should meet with them in person (along with your pet). 

    Not only do you need to feel comfortable, but your pet also needs to be happy with your choice. You will want someone who is genuinely interested in talking to you and asking questions about your pet, as well as someone eager to get to know your pet. Watch how they interact. Does your dog seem happy to see the pet sitter, or is he or she acting leery around them?

    Be ready for your pet sitter. 

    You should have a detailed list of all the things you expect from them, including specific times. If you want your pet fed at a specific time of day or walked during lunch hour, please let your sitter know.

    You should also keep all the supplies in one area so that they are easy to find. Make sure that any food that your dog eats (as well as a cup showing them how much he or she needs to be fed) is right there, as well as any treats that your pet is allowed to have. Toys, leashes, and other supplies should all be in the same spot, so your pet sitter doesn’t waste time looking for things.

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    Hiring a pet sitter is a big decision. You will need to find someone whom you trust, as well as your dog trusts. But before you get that far, you need to figure out what you want in a pet sitter. Do you want someone to come for an hour, three or four times a day? Do you want someone to stay at your house overnight? Do you want someone to play with your pet or take your dog for extra-long walks?

    When you figure that out, you can start looking by asking around. You may feel comfortable hiring the high school girl next door; however, you may also want to consider a company that specializes in hiring pet sitters. These companies are often bonded and insured, prepared for any unforeseen event that may occur. This may give you extra peace of mind when you head out on vacation!

    ***

    Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Tips to Keep Your Pets Happy As Summer Heats Up

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    As June gets closer to July, which quickly turns into August, the temperatures are getting hotter and hotter. In fact, there are many days when it feels suffocating to step outside your home!

    Just as we have trouble in the heat, our pets can also. They can also get overheated and suffer from heat stroke. Just like it can be terrifying for us, it can be for them too. It can be deadly, so you need to be prepared to help your pets throughout these hot summer months!

    Here are some ways that you can help your pet this summer.

    Make sure that your pets have plenty of water. 

    Your pets need to drink plenty of water in order to cool down and stay hydrated. You may even want to add some ice cubes to your pet’s water to help keep him or her cool.

    Your dog may enjoy having a pool. 

    Just like we like to jump in the pool to cool down, there are many dogs who love splashing and playing around in a baby pool.

    This may help keep them cool, especially when they have been active outside. However, they may just enjoy it, even if they weren’t running around and playing. It can just be a nice way to cool off.

    Amazon offers many different doggie pools, like this one, to help keep your dogs as cool as possible this summer!

    Product Available on Amazon

    Do your best to keep your pets in the shade. 

    Lying around in the sun can be nice, but everyone needs a place where they can get out of it! If your backyard doesn’t have any shade trees, you may want to look into a dog house or shed where your pets can hide.

    If there aren’t many places to hide, make sure that you look under your vehicles before you leave. 

    Many animals will hide in the shade of a vehicle, and can get run over when their owners leave. For this reason, you need to look around before you drive off.

    Be careful with exercise. 

    On really hot days, you might not want to take your dog on his or her usual five-mile walk. That may be too much. You can take shorter walks instead. You may want to get up early before the day gets too hot, or wait until it is cooler in the evening. Some people may do a mile in the morning and one in the evening to still get their dog (and themselves) some exercise.

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    When you do go out, make sure that you take plenty of breaks. 

    Don’t overdo it. If you or your dog needs to take a break, do so. Take along plenty of water so that both of you can stay hydrated while you are out. And if you need to stop early, please do so for the health and safety of you and your pet.

    Never leave your pets in a hot car. 

    It is way too hot to leave your pets in the hot car, even with the air conditioner running. It doesn’t take long for your car to get over one hundred degrees, which can really hurt your pet (if not kill him or her).

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    The best way to keep your pets happy and healthy as the temperatures rise is to make sure that they have enough water. If you have a dog that loves to play outside, a kiddie pool may be the best. It is a good way for them to cool off after a good romp. You should also make sure that there is plenty of shade in your yard, so that they can get out of the sun if needed.

    ***

    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Tips to Choose The Right Kennel For Your Pet

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    As summer approaches quickly, more and more people are starting to plan their summer vacations. Many rush to different beaches where they can spend time lying in the sun and playing in the water. Others prefer to go to a remote cabin in the woods. Some people enjoy visiting amusement parks, while others prefer to explore different cities and cultures.

    Regardless of your plans, you will likely not be able to take your beloved pet with you. For this reason, you may be looking for the perfect kennel. Here are some tips to help you find one.

    Do your research. 

    Ask around to find out which kennels your friends have tried and liked. Don’t be afraid to ask your veterinarian. Many veterinarians receive recommendations from their clients about kennels, and they can pass them on.

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    Start early. 

    Many of the good kennels fill up quickly, so you should book your kennel as soon as you book your vacation. In fact, you should be doing your research before you even do that!

    Many people prefer to use kennels that have both an indoor and an outdoor area. 

    This allows your pet to get plenty of exercise, no matter how busy the kennel is. If your dog is in a kennel all day and only gets a few short walks a day, he or she is going to be wound up when you get back home. This may be fine for a few days, but a week or more might be overwhelming for your dog, especially if he or she is really active.

    Will they let you visit the facility? 

    When visiting, you’ll want to take a look around and assess the cleanliness of the kennel. Though there are going to be times when multiple cages are getting cleaned at once, the kennels should be in good condition, one that you wouldn’t be afraid to take your dog.

    What about your dog? 

    Some kennels offer trial days, where you can board your dog at the kennel for a few hours to ensure they are comfortable with the place. That being said, if the kennel you want to use is too busy or full, you may not be able to try this.

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    With various diseases that can spread rapidly throughout a kennel, it is essential to know which vaccinations are required. 

    At the very least, you will want to ensure that all dogs entering the facility have a valid Rabies vaccine and one that protects against Kennel Cough. The distemper shot, for both dogs and cats, is also a good idea.

    Don’t hesitate to ask kennel owners about any certifications and licenses that they may have. 

    Though all states are different, kennels may need to have different licenses to operate. Many kennels want to ensure they have the right employees and may require them to hold certifications in first aid, among other things.

    You may also want to know how many caretakers are on staff at any given time, along with the number of pets being boarded. 

    If there is just one person to take care of forty dogs, he or she will have their hands full. That being said, you shouldn’t expect kennels to be fully staffed at all times.

    You may want to consider meeting the caretakers before you take your dog to the kennel. 

    Though many kennels hire high schoolers to help with the extra load in the summer, you are going to want to make sure that there are plenty of adults around so that your dog is safe with the kennel.

    You should ask about what they will do in case of an emergency.

     You want to know if your kennel will take your pet to the veterinarian in case of an emergency. Although they may have one that they work with closely, you may also want to find out if they are comfortable taking your pet to the veterinarian that your pet is used to.

    You may also want to inquire about their policies regarding dogs that are stressed or nervous in a new environment. 

    What will your kennel do to make sure that your dog is more comfortable? Are they able to spend more time with pets that are pretty scared? Can they walk the dogs around for those who are too nervous to do much of anything? Will they make sure that your dog eats?

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    Choosing a boarding kennel can be overwhelming, but when you find the right one, you can leave your dogs to go on vacation without worrying about them. For this reason, you need to take your time and ask around. Then, ask the kennel questions until you feel confident. You may even want to tour the facility and see if your dog can stay there for a few hours to make sure that he or she will do fine when you are away.

    ***

    Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Tips to Make Camping With Your Dog Fun

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    Spending quality time with your dog can be a great way to pass the time. In fact, you may even decide that you want to go hiking and camping with your dog.

    I recently wrote an article about hiking with your dog, to ensure that both you and your dog have a good time. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    If you decide to take your dog camping with you, you need to plan ahead in order to make sure that the trip is a success for both of you. Here are some tips to help.

    Make sure that your dog is ready for the trip.

    Before you even think about traveling, you need to make sure that your dog can behave him or herself. Training is essential to make sure that everyone can have a good time.

    Getting a good physical is also helpful so that you know that your dog is healthy enough for a trip. Though anything can just “pop up,” you will make sure that your dog seems healthy for a trip.

    Pack enough things for your trip. 

    Though you may think that all you need is your dog before you go, the truth is that you need more than that.

    You are going to need to pack food and bowls. You shouldn’t forget water. Many dogs are used to the water in their home, and they may not drink other water as well as they do at home. If your dog is used to a lot of treats, you should bring them along as well.

    Amazon offers this all-in-one dog travel set, which includes two collapsible bowls, a water bottle, and even a treat bag, to make packing for your dog easy.

    Product Available on Amazon

    You also need to make sure that you have the right equipment. 

    You need a good, steady, and strong leash and harness or collar. You don’t want your leash to break when you are out and about.

    You may want to bring your dog’s bed so that he or she gets a good night’s sleep every night, as well as any toys that you may want. A tether to hook him or her up when you are just hanging around the campsite is also a good idea.

    It might be a good idea to take some extra special treats along. Though you wouldn’t want to try new treats while you are away camping, it is a good idea to find treats that are special for your dog, ones that will make him or her drop everything to get.

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    And a crate.

    You are going to want to make sure that your dog has a place where he or she is safe. Just like at home, your dog needs to know that he or she has a place all of his or her own. If your dog wants to be left alone, he or she has a place to do so.

    Then, you need to make sure that you plan ahead. 

    You need to make sure that you can take your pet wherever you go. This includes making sure that the campground allows dogs. You should read up on any rules that are in place, such as leash laws and other things.

    You also need to take care when you are planning. You may need to add in a few rest stops to ensure that your dog has time to go to the bathroom and get some extra energy out when you are on a long trip.

    This may include the weather. You should make sure that you are prepared, no matter what the weather brings. You may want to bring extra water along if it is going to be really hot. If they are calling for storms, you might want to plan some extra inside activities. You should also bring extra towels to dry your dog off before he or she heads in!

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    Though your dog may be well-behaved at home, you shouldn’t expect that in a strange environment. 

    This doesn’t mean that you should expect the worst. You just need to make sure that you keep a good eye on your dog at all times.

    This includes watching out for other dogs. Camping sites where dogs are allowed may be filled with other dogs. Your dog may be good around other dogs, but those may not be. It is often better to keep your distance, either way.

    Dogo App

    If your dog needs some extra training before you venture out, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more! 

    It is a good idea to have a first-aid kit along when you travel. 

    This should also include your dog’s vaccine records, just in case the campsite requires it. You may also want to bring some gauze and elastic bandages in case your dog gets cut. It may be a good idea to know the closest animal emergency hospital in case you need it. You don’t want to be stuck in an emergency, without knowing where to turn.

    Amazon has many first-aid kits for dogs, like this one, that you may want to check out. It will even work well at home or in your car!

    Product Available on Amazon

    Camping with your dog can be loads of fun, if he or she is ready. You want to make sure that he or she is well-trained and can get along with others. If your dog gets car sick, it might be easier to leave him or her at home!

    You also need to make sure that you take everything that you need, including bowls and water. Don’t forget special treats, and make sure that you bring his or her crate along. You may even want to have a first-aid kit, just in case!

    ***

    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Tips to Hike Safely with Your Dog

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    There is no bad time to get out and explore the world (or at least take some hikes around your home). Many people love hiking in the spring, because they enjoy getting out after a long winter. Others prefer the summer because they have plenty of extra time to explore. Then, there are others who enjoy spending time out in nature when the temperatures start to cool off. They also enjoy watching the leaves change color in the fall. 

    What could be better than taking our beloved dog along for the hike? Nothing, really, unless you are not prepared. Here are some tips to make sure that you have a safe hike with your dog.

    Make sure that your dog is ready for it. 

    It is important that you take into consideration the health of your dog. Does your dog love to run and play outside for hours? Then, a hike may be fun for both of you.

    Your puppy or older dog may not be able to go for miles! The puppy may not have enough endurance, and your older dog may have some arthritis, which may be holding him or her back. Your smaller dog may struggle with a long walk, especially if you are a fast walker. Shorter walks on flat surfaces may be fine for puppies, older dogs, and small dogs.

    Make sure that your dog is well-trained before heading out on a hike. 

    Your dog needs to know some basic commands while out on the trail. At the very least, your dog should know how to stop, stay, and come.

    Dogo App

    If your dog needs some extra training before you venture out, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more! 

    Then, don’t forget to plan where you are going. 

    You should never just decide to go for a hike with (or without) your dog. Instead, you should have a plan, along with a map of the route that you are taking.

    While doing this, you will be able to find out if you and your dog are in good enough shape to complete the route. You may want to talk to others who have traveled that way, to make sure that the footing is good. They may also be able to tell you about things that you need to look out for.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    On the day of your hike, you should check the local weather reports to make sure that you will have good weather that day. 

    If they are calling for rain, you may want to stick to a shorter hike if you decide that you want to head out anyway.

    Always, always, always let someone know where you are going. 

    Though you may not be a child telling your parents where you are going, the truth is that it is a good idea to let someone know your plan. That way, if you don’t come home when you are supposed to, someone will know to come looking for you.

    Take enough supplies along. 

    You should bring water and snacks on every hike that you take. This also goes for your dog. He or she is going to need water to keep going, too. You can’t just assume that your dog will find water in the creeks and streams where you are going. Not all of these water sources are safe for your dog to drink from.

    You also need to carry a bowl around for him or her to drink out of. Lucky for you, they make collapsible bowls that you can easily carry on your hikes.

    Amazon offers this all-in-one dog travel set, which includes two collapsible bowls, a water bottle, and even a treat bag, to keep your dog happy on the trail all day long!

    Product Available on Amazon

    Make sure that your dog is protected against fleas and ticks before heading out. 

    The truth is that your dog should be protected all year long against these nasty critters. That being said, many people don’t give the preventative during the fall and winter. However, the fall can be the worst time for fleas and ticks, because they are looking for a warm place to live.

    You and your dog could get infected with a disease carried by ticks, such as Lyme disease. Flea bites can cause a lot of problems, including itchy and sensitive skin.

    I recently wrote an article about why you should keep your dog on heartworm, flea, and tick prevention year-round. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out right here.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Hiking can be a great way to spend some time with your dog. However, if you aren’t careful, it can turn into a nightmare. You need to make sure that both you and your dog are in good enough shape to get through the hike. Training is also a necessity, so that you can keep your dog under control at all times. You also want to make sure that you plan your trip, take plenty of supplies (including a water bowl), and let someone know where you are going!

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Why Does My Dog Need to Be on Heartworm and Flea/Tick Medications All Year Round

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    One of the most common questions that I get asked as a veterinary technician is why we recommend that their dogs be on heartworm and flea/tick medications all year-round. Everyone sees the cost of the medications and wants to try to save money. Others don’t want to give their dogs anything more than they need.

    However, skipping these medications can be a mistake. Here are some reasons why you should keep your dog on heartworm and flea/tick medications all the time.

    Fleas can be a problem, no matter what the season is. 

    Though many people think that fleas go away in the fall and winter, the truth is that the fall is usually when they are at their worst. They are doing everything they can to find a warm place to survive the winter, and we see fleas regularly during the fall and winter months.

    Even worse, many dogs and cats have a severe allergy to fleas. Even one flea can set off a reaction that leaves them absolutely miserable! They itch, scratch, and bite themselves all day long, even after the flea has jumped off!

    Ticks can also be a problem all year round. 

    Ticks can live outside until the ground freezes. This means that they are also looking for somewhere safe to live. They hide in tall grass and bushes, attaching to any dog (or person) that walks by.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Even worse, if your dog has a tick attached for more than thirty-six hours, he or she may get a disease transmitted by the tick. Most people think of Lyme disease, but there are many others out there. These diseases can become crippling if not caught early.

    If you take your dog off heartworm medication, you must test him or her every year before starting back up on it. 

    This will ensure that your dog doesn’t get the disease in the few months that he or she wasn’t on the preventative. If you give a heartworm-positive dog heartworm preventative, the results can be deadly!

    Heartworm disease can kill your dog. 

    If your dog gets heartworm disease, it means that he or she has worms that live in the heart. These worms can cause a lot of damage to your dog’s heart and lungs.

    Even worse, the treatment can be fatal. Though you need to kill off the worms in your dog’s heart, you can’t do it too fast. If too many worms die quickly, it can be deadly for your dog. This is another reason why you can’t give preventative to dogs who have heartworms!

    Most heartworm preventatives also protect your pet (and your family) from intestinal parasites. 

    Your pet probably comes into contact with many intestinal parasites during his or her lifetime. These include tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, and others.

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    Worms can cause diarrhea and vomiting in your pet. You may also notice weight loss. If you give your pet preventative, it will help keep him or her parasite-free!

    And though you think that preventative care is expensive, the truth is that it is much more costly to treat! 

    If your pet gets heartworms, you will be dealing with multiple treatments, which can be fatal to your pet.

    If your pet brings in fleas, you may have to treat every one of your pets in the household, along with the house. Even worse, it can take up to three months to eradicate fleas once they get inside your home!

    Then, your pet may be facing tick-borne diseases. He or she may need to be on antibiotics for a month or longer. And once your pet gets Lyme or another disease spread by ticks, he or she is more likely to get it again. You can also get them.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Though you may not want to spend the money (or give your dog more medication than he or she needs), the truth is that it is better to give preventatives all year long! With the weather changes, we see fleas and ticks all year. They are really bad in the fall as they start to look for warm places to live. Even better, these preventatives will take care of any intestinal parasites that your pet may have, which will help to keep your family healthy!

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    Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Tips For Traveling With Your Dog

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    Many people love their dogs and spend as much time with them as they can. This includes vacations. They enjoy sharing their new experiences with them. However, traveling with a dog can be a little stressful. With some careful planning, you can make your life work with pets.

    Here are some tips to make traveling with your dog.

    Make sure that your dog has a collar with identification on it.

    Your name and phone number should be on the collar so that, if your dog gets lost, you are able to get him back. You can also go a step further and get him a microchip. This ensures that your dog will be brought back to you.

    Photo Off of Amazon Website

    Amazon sells these amazing customizable collars, which will help you get your pet back, in case he or she gets away.

    Pack appropriately for your dog.

    Make sure that you bring his or her bed, bowls, and food. Many dogs enjoy their familiar toys when they are on a road trip. Anything that reminds your dog of home is good to take along.

    Don’t forget that some water can taste different, so it might be a good idea to bring some water from home to ensure that your dog gets enough to drink while you are away.

    Use carriers or seat belt restraints when traveling by car.

    Putting your dog in the back of the pickup truck is not a safe option when traveling. Many dogs jump (or fall out) and get hurt. Sometimes this causes death.

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    Instead, put them in a carrier, so they can move around and still be safe. If you have a bigger dog, you should get a seat belt restraint. Both of these things will keep your dog safe if you are in an accident.

    Product Courtesy of Amazon

    Amazon has this great product, with two leashes that buckle into your seat belt, as well as a collapsible water bowl.

    Do a few practice car rides to see how your dog will handle a long car ride.

    Dogs can get car sick, too. They can also get anxious and really wound up in the car. Prepare for this by taking them on several short rides to see how they will react. You may have to talk to your veterinarian about getting a sedative to make the car ride a little less stressful.

    Make sure that you take a lot of breaks.

    Though many people love to rush to their destination, it is not possible with dogs. They need to take frequent bathroom breaks. Taking short walks every few hours is a good idea so that they can stretch their legs and get something to drink.

    Before you even leave for your destination (or sooner than that), make sure that your dog can stay with you at the hotel or bed and breakfast.

    Not all hotels and bed and breakfasts are dog-friendly. You need to make sure that you can find places where you can take your dog. You can’t leave him in the car overnight.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Taking your dog along on vacation is a great idea, with plenty of planning. Make sure that your dog has a collar and identification. If possible, get him microchipped so, even if he gets lost, you will be able to find him. Make sure you plan ahead with where you are staying and pack appropriately. Be sure to bring his bedding, bowls, food, and water.

    Travel safely in the car with either a crate or a seat belt restraint. It might be a good idea to take a few trips around town to see how your dog reacts in the car. While on the road, be sure to take plenty of breaks and walks to keep both you and your dog limber on the long drive. With all of these tips, you should have a wonderful vacation with your furry friend.

    Product Courtesy of Amazon

    Amazon offers this all-in-one dog travel set, which is the perfect place for you to start traveling with your dog!

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    It is also important to know that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.