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Dogs are noted for their hearty appetites. Dog owners have seen how the dog eats things that are repulsive to humans. Dogs would not pass up the chance to feast on the contents of the trash can in spite of the fact that they are regularly provided nutritious food. Dogs also have the disconcerting habit of eating their own and other dog’s poop. Dogs have the disgusting habit of drinking from toilet bowls. Humans most loved pets have the unaccountable predilection for vomit as well.

Dogs have been the most loyal companions of man. It is quite surprising therefore that in spite of the long years of association, some behaviors shown by the dog cannot be understood by man. Humans consider spoiled food, feces and vomit as gross but dogs would consider these items as gourmet food.

Studies conducted on canine behavior have failed to come up with the exact reason for the dog’s repulsive eating habits. It was speculated that eating vomit is an ingrained habit that was passed on to present day dogs by their ancestors. This habit is done for the purpose of concealment. Dogs in the wild have to hide from their predators thus feces and vomitus which are dead giveaway of the dog’s presence are eaten. In this case the habit to eat feces and vomit is done for self preservation.

Wolves are the ancestors of modern day dogs. It is the custom of wolves to hunt together and to help in caring for the pups. After feeding on the hunted animal, dogs would return to the den and regurgitate the eaten food to feed the young. For a dog vomit is regurgitated food. Even after domestication, this habit would still kick in from time to time.

Dogs, as mentioned are voracious eaters. Dogs would find the smell of the partially digested food in the vomit very appetizing. Dogs eat repulsive smelling rotten food thus it is more understandable if they devour the still warm vomit.

Eating vomit is not really a dangerous habit of the dog. As long is the vomit does not have toxic substances, it would not really harm the dog. An owner may not be too concerned with the disgusting habit of the pet. Dogs are very affectionate pets thus a dog parent that receives sloppy kisses from the pet may want to prevent the dog from eating vomit. Stopping the dog from vomiting can be a challenge given the indiscriminate eating habit of the pet but an owner can prevent the pet from eating the vomit by cleaning the mess as soon as it is created by the dog.

Learn more about why dogs eat vomit and first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.

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For those dog owners who have made it a habit to take their dogs on car rides know that just the two words “car ride” is enough to have them racing for the door and the car. The natural inclination for the dog to seat upright in the seat with their eyes glued on their surroundings is quite enjoyable as they are exhibiting real happiness.  There is however a significant hazard that is evidenced by the number of dogs and other pets that are victims of car accidents, a danger that could easily be resolved by ensuring that the pet is secured in a proper seat or carrier. In addition to injuries to the pet the possibility of the pet becoming a dangerous projectile is another critical possibility.   Keeping your pet safe in the car is always the pet owners resposibility.

There are several ready alternatives for keeping a pet secure in the car, the first and most available is the dog crate or carrier. Most pets have a crate or carrier that they use in the home.  We have managed to find an easy way to use the seat belts in the car to help tie the animal and crate securely in the car. The use of the dog crate could also be effective in reducing the tendency for the dog to get sick in the car. Placing the crate between the front and backseat is an effective way to secure the pet while travelling.   This doesn’t work with soft dog crates, and depending on your car and how much leg room you need, it may not be practical.

A seatbelt harness is the most effective tool for securing the pet in the car. This item attaches to your normal seatbelt and it provides the same kind of protection that your seat belt provides to you. Prices for these harnesses vary,  but most go for roughly $35 – $45.They are not as quick and easy to set up as a crate however they do provide for the maximum protection for that pet that you love. Unlike a crate, a harness will allow your dog the option of thrusting his nose out of the window and getting the full panorama of the ride.

The use of so called “barriers” that keep to dog from entering the driver’s area are not recommended because they do not offer much actual protection from the impact of an accident.  These barriers should only be used if you have no alternative as they offer little or no protection. There are also “barriers” available that simply block the dog from moving from the rear of the car to the front. This eliminates the chances of them interfering with the driver, but does little to protect the dog in case of an accident, and are more expensive than harnesses. These should probably be used only as a last resort. Car rides with a canine companion can be one of the great pleasures in pet ownership. Don’t let a trip turn into tragedy because of an unsecured passenger, whether on two legs or four.

What wouldn’t you give for your best buddy ?  If your pooch happens to be your best friend, then you would stop at absolutely nothing to please and surprise it.  One of your first possible choices could be dog and owner gift baskets.  Another very pleasurable surprise you can bestow on your pet is a designer dog bed .

Designer dog beds are excellent gift ideas for the spoiled pup .  They have everything that will satisfy your pet’s needs.  After all, here’s what every dog bed is created to provide:

• Comfort.  The most comfortable beds are ultra-soft, plush, and tufted.  Padded for comfort, they consist of a poly-fiber cushion made of durable foam and polyester material.  This can withstand a lot of weight, pressure, and chewing.  In line with size and comfort, they come in standard sizes with different measurements and dimensions to suit any dog’s height and weight.  They’ll fit dog crates and carriers, baskets and vehicles, like cars and bikes.
• Hygiene.  Each bed should be made from lightweight material which is simple to clean.  Add to that the feature of being hand- and machine-washable .  When the material is both washable and reversible , you end up with clean-smelling fabric.
• Safety. A bed with a non-skid bottom is essential if your playful pet is excitable and loves to jump on his bed .  This is a nice safety feature that will prevent slips and falls that can cause damage to your house or injury to dog .
• Style.  There are a variety of beds are designed for your dog’s age .  You can choose from cute, little paw prints to cartoon characters to solid plains and prints, depending on your taste .  Some beds are even designed with synthetic fur or sheep skin for more texture.
• Rest and sleep.  Padded and cushioned, these beds are shaped to fit the curve of your dog’s body.  Enabling your pet to sleep restfully is part of training it to relax while you’re away or out of the house for a few hours .

Since we’re into being best buddies with your pet dogs , there are other dog accessories which a pampered pooch can make friends with.  Aside from dog beds, they’ll get a tickle out of dog dresses and dog collars.

As to dressing up your dog, you can try cheap or go designer.  Of course, designer would be the cuter but more expensive option. When choosing a dog’s apparel , remember first-off that your dog should approve of it .  This means that your dog should feel comfortable wearing it.  To be respectiful to your pet, get him something that looks good, silly or funny to a point, but never stupid .

When it comes to a dogs collar , you can choose between the standard, durable leather dog collars and the fancier, bejeweled rhinestone dog collars.  Again, the rhinestone collars would be more pampering if you have a large enough budget.

Since the whole idea is to pamper your pooch, then get the best your budget can afford .  Spend and spoil to your heart’s content if it so pleases your best buddy in the end.

Norrbottenspets was the name given to the spitz type breed that was developed in the early 1600s. This breed is also known as Nordic Spitz and Pohjanpystykorva in its country of origin. This breed was made the national dog of Sweden. Because of its endurance and other admirable qualities, this breed was claimed both by Sweden and Finland. A Norrbottenspets is really a small dog but it has a compact, well muscled body.

Close fitting soft and very thick fur covers the dog’s square shaped body. The dog is insulated from very hot or cold weather by the white fur with red and brown markings. The luxuriously furred tail that curls loosely over the back is a one of the breeds attention-getting characteristics.

This dog breed was originally developed to be an all around farm dog although it excels most as a hunting dog. The remarkable courage and excellent hunting abilities more than make up for the breeds small size. Improving the innate hunting ability of this dog would be an easy matter because it possesses a high level of intelligence and noted to have the canine eagerness to please attitude .

The Norrbottenspets is different from other hounds that are classified as scent or sight hunters given that this versatile breed uses both senses to capture the game. The dog does not resemble a fox but it has gained a foxy reputation because of its slyness when hunting. As soon as the dog is released in the hunting area, it will use it senses to flush and chase the game. The dog uses rapid barking to corner the game and to cover up the sound of the approaching hunter.

This rather small dog has a big personality. The dog has an affectionate nature that makes it an ideal dog for older couples needing companionship and security. The Norrbottenspets is a vivacious, energetic and playful dog that bonds closely with their human family. These characteristic traits allow the dog to participate in all the activities of the family.

The breed was in fact named as one the 10 top breeds acclaimed for their gentleness with children. Loving and kind, a Norrbottenspets will exhibit a stable temperament in any situation. Unlike other breeds, a Norrbottenspets will not be aggressive or react negatively if harassed or teased by children . A Norrbottenspets is a healthy breed thus the family would be assured of about 20 years of security and com-panionship.

Many dogs are taken to veterinary clinics due to diarrhea. Dogs usually suffer from frequent passing of soft stools that can last either for a few days or for longer periods of time. Diarrhea is not an illness rather the condition indicates that the pet’s health, specifically the gastrointestinal system is not A-okay.

Loose bowel movement of dogs is often associated with the inability of the gastrointestinal system to function normally but this condition can also indicate infection, food allergies and intestinal parasites. Dogs have a reputation for being voracious and indiscriminate eaters. Ingestion of spoiled food and substances that are not tolerated by the dog’s stomach will result to diarrhea. Dogs inclination to gnaw and swallow foreign object can be the cause of diarrhea.

Treatment for canine diarrhea calls for knowing the underlying cause of the condition and restoring the normal digestive balance. Over the counter medications can be used but the most effective way of dealing with the pet’s diarrhea is through dietary change. What can you give a dog with diarrhea?

Diarrhea normally resolves in a day or two after the normal balance of the dog’s system is restored so that a pet owner may not have to take the dog to a veterinary facility. However, pet owners should be aware that frequent passing of stool can lead to dehydration. It is very necessary to ensure that the dog is provided with enough water to drink. It would even be much better if the drinking water is mixed with Gatorade or any other oral rehydration therapy as this will rehydrate the pet and replenish fluids and electrolytes. Fasting for 24 hours for mature dogs and 12 hours for puppies will allow the stomach to rest. A bland diet of boiled rice or chicken can be given to the dog after the fasting period.

Fasting should stop the runny stool as the dog is already “empty” but if the pet continues to pass voluminous runny stool, it is necessary to pay the vet a visit. Persistent diarrhea that may be going on for weeks results from conditions not associated with the dog’s dietary indiscretion. Diarrhea that has been going on for weeks or even months can no longer be blamed on the dog’s indiscriminating habits as this condition often results form an underlying medical concern such as bacterial and viral infection, distemper or parasitic infections that causes an imbalance in the dog’s system.

Learn more about what can you give a dog for diarrhea and first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.

Dogs are one of the animals that eat anything thus you should not be surprised if your Fido has decided to help you with the task of weeding the garden. Dogs have a rather amusing habit of eating grass. Dogs have a reputation for being indiscriminate eaters and eating grass would be much better than eating spoiled food and eating its own or other dog’s poop. Many pet parents, especially those that ensures that the pet received top quality food will be mystified at the dog’s taste for grass. A dog owner would wonder what makes his dog eat grass?

Dogs have descended from wolves and it is believed that wolves have survived in the wild with grass as a part of their diet. Wolves are generally carnivorous as these wild animals subsist by eating their prey but when prey is not available, wolves would supplement their diet with grass. The inclination to eat grass was associated with the dogs survival in the wild that necessitates eating herbivores. These plant eating preys are totally consumed by dogs so that the grasses, leaves and berries ingested by the prey are also eaten by the dog. Dogs in the wild have eventually developed a fondness for grass as these herbaceous plants have supplemented the dogs’ diet.

With the above mentioned fact, a dog’s inclination to eat grass becomes perplexing to the owners. Modern day dogs have no need to supplement their diet with grass as they are regularly provided with food. The dog though would still be seen munching grass as if enjoying the world’s most expensive salad. In spite of the fact that dogs have the reputation of eating anything, the habit of eating grass was explained by dog experts.

One of the considerations made is the nutrient deficiency of commercially prepared dog foods. Dogs have an uncanny ability to know what is wrong with their diet. Eating grass is believed to be the dog’s way correcting a dietary imbalance. Not only do dogs have big appetites, they are not choosy eaters as well.

It is not surprising for dogs to have upset stomachs if they have ingested something that was not accepted by the dog’s system. Nature have given dogs a one of a kind remedy for upset stomach. A dog‘s remedy for an upset stomach is to eat grass. Grass blades are not unlike fingers stuck to the throat to induce vomiting. Grass is an effective bowel cleanser that eradicates parasite infestation.

We all care for our pets and want the best for them, but what happens when they become sick or injured?

We have all been in that situation of facing an extremely expensive bill from the vet but frankly not all of us can afford to pay it.Following the economic crisis, many more people are facing a situation where they simply can not afford to pay these expensive and unexpected vet bills. This has resulted in a 57{d4f4ff813a06e2c77cbb9c6effe011ebffe2f8986e44983e90e08c54deb62f63} increase in the number of pets being abandoned by their owners. It may seem unthinkable to have to give up the pet you love, but many people simply don’t have any option because they haven’t got pet insurance.

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Dog arthritis is one of the most common diseases that affect canines; especially large breed dogs (60-90 lbs) the best thing you can do is to prevent the occurrence of this disease with the appropriate supplements when your dog is 4 or 5 years old and not wait until symptoms show, but if your dog is already presenting symptoms and/or pain you should consider the option of natural treatment for your pet’s condition.

Osteoarthritis in dogs (or just dog arthritis) can be treated effectively with natural supplements that are as effective as commonly prescribed drugs and much safer because of the less risk of side effects. Prescribed drugs may relieve pain, but they also can cause further degeneration of your dog’s joints and health, which could include, damage to the liver, kidneys, muscles and gastrointestinal bleeding, among others.

Just as human arthritis, dog arthritis tends to get worse with age, and you can find some senior dog food formulas that claim to contain glucosamine and chondroitin, both of them are supplements used to prevent and treat dog arthritis, but in the majority of cases, the amount included is not enough to do any difference in your dog’s symptoms. So, probably the best option is to feed your dog regular dog food and back that up with a supplement. Below you will find some of the most effective supplement used for the treatment of arthritis in dogs.

Herbal Glucosamine Blend, which is one of the most comprehensive canine muscle and joint support formulations available today, it includes Glucosamine HCl, MSM and Vitamins B1, B2, B6 and C, along with a proprietary herbal blend of Yucca, Devil’s Claw, White Willow, Meadowsweet and Alfalfa.

Glucosamine is essential for the formation of joint cartilage and synovial fluid, MSM, has an anti-inflammatory effect slows the progression of arthritis and relieves pain.

Alfalfa and Yucca extract, a combination of five time-honored herbs for chronic rheumatic conditions it also includes Burdock, Licorice, and Shepherd’s Purse. This extract is designed to help the body cope with the pain, swelling, and stiffness of arthritis and rheumatism while maintains the tone of the liver and kidneys to help eliminate excess waste materials and water from the joints.

Ortho-Flex Joint Ease Supplement for dogs this formula is a supplement for muscle, ligament, tendon, cartilage, and bone problems. It does not only to help in the relief of pain, but to also treat the underlying problem. It really helps older animals. This formula contains Chondroitin Sulfate, which is used to help dogs with joint conditions and arthritis.

The benefits of using natural, organic pet products are in the preventive measure, you want a healthy pet with a longer lifespan, but also an enhanced quality of life, there’s no use on living longer if the quality of life is not good, holistic pet care, will provide a better quality of life for your pet and ultimately will save you money with less visits to the veterinarian, bills and prescriptions.

Dr. Jeff has a major in Animal Science and Pre-Veterinary and runs the day-to-day operations of her home-based business and website in which you can learn how homeopathic remedies could prolong and improve your pet’s life. She can also help you start your own home-based 100{d4f4ff813a06e2c77cbb9c6effe011ebffe2f8986e44983e90e08c54deb62f63} natural pet supplies business, you can visit online at:

http://arthritisdogsreview.com/

The dog’s skin is the largest organ of the body, however, there is a very limited number of ways in which it reacts to trauma. “Hot Spots” or acute moist dermatitis are generally spots on the dog’s skin brought on by the dog’s itching, biting and scratching and can seem to arise rather abruptly.

These areas can become fairly large and may show up just about anywhere on the dog. I find it frequently in the springtime when the temperatures are hotter as well as the humidity is higher.

The dogs with the thick undercoat, for example, Labs, Golden Retrievers and Rottweilers are prone to getting these kinds of spots on their face and neck, but while the spring can bring skin challenges, the cold weather can too – dry, itchy skin can sometimes be caused by a dog’s flaky skin.

Very often, areas found at the base of the tail are very likely as a result of fleas simply because fleas would rather gather in these places.

Quite a few dogs are so sensitive to fleas, the bite of one flea is sufficient to trigger the dog to itch all over. Any sort of injury can begin the process which the dog then exacerbates by relentless chewing and licking which in turn results in a vicious cycle and will cause the hot spot to spread.

The dog ordinarily has bacteria that exists on their skin and as long as the skin is healthy, the microorganisms hardly ever lead to any complications. However when a problem develops, say for example a fleabite, cut or allergic reactions, the dog starts to lick, bite, chew and scratch which often disrupts the protective layer of the skin. Once that happens, the microorganisms on the skin, as well as the germs in the mouth, set up housekeeping in the skin. This creates a swiftly spreading infection which can be quite painful. The spot on the skin is red, raw and seems moist because the wound oozes serum and pus. The hair then mats down over the wound and the infection then spreads beneath the hair.

If this happens to your dog, a visit to the veterinarian is generally called for. Most often, the dog’s fur has to be trimmed away to halt the spread of the infection and sometimes, these hot spots are so painful, the dog may need to be sedated in order to have the region cleansed and shaved. Antibiotics are prescribed to manage the infection and follow-up antibiotics are sent home. Sprays, ointments and medicated shampoos are often prescribed to continue treatment at home. For some dogs, a special collar may be used that will deter the dog from chewing at the spots.

The underlying cause of the skin problem must also be resolved to make sure the problem doesn’t recur. If fleas can be found, then year round flea control may be recommended. If you’re unsure if your dog has fleas, here’s a guide as to how to tell if your dog has fleas with photos and a video for guidance.

Pollen, food, and other allergens can also bring on hot spots if a dog is allergic to something. Sometimes special diets with essential fatty acids and a novel protein source such as salmon, lamb or venison might be prescribed to help heal the skin. Blood and skin tests can be performed to help identify what the dog is allergic to and special allergy injections or prescription diets is often given.

Check your dog daily for itchy spots and use a reputable dog flea treatment regularly to help prevent hot spots caused by flea allergies. Daily grooming and brushing can keep mats from developing. If your dog is itching excessively, take him to the veterinarian to handle the itching before the infection can develop.

If you’re considering getting a dog, why not consider adopting a new friend? Shelters are generally full to overflowing, with dogs ending up there through no fault of their own. Adoption fees are often less than the cost of a new puppy, with adoption fees set to cover any healthcare, food and housing costs of the dogs in their care, but your decision should be based on finding the right dog for you.

There are as many pure breed dogs as cross-breeds in rescue, so if you’re considering adopting a pure breed dog make sure you know what to expect with any hereditary health issues.

On a recent visit, I saw one Great Dane, 2 German Shepherds, 2 Dalmatians and 3 Labrador Retrievers that were most definitely purebreds. They ended up in a shelter because of owners who don’t know how to train them – or have no time for them. Labs, in particular, are often dropped off at shelters for “chewing things up” – but that is the nature of that breed when young.  They are “mouthy” and will chew everything in sight until trained what is and isn’t permissible as a chew toy.  Many Lab owners take drastic steps to control chewing by buying special gates and pens or confining the dogs to special rooms when the owner is absent.

Although it’s true that a few dogs may end up at the shelter due to barking or antisocial behaviour, those problems are able to be worked through if you are dedicated and committed.  All dogs simply need a bit of obedience training to become valuable companions.

Some shelter dogs may have been through various situations before landing at the shelter. They may have been maltreated, abandoned by a roadway, become lost and wandered alone for some time and they won’t understand what’s happened, but if given a second chance in the right home with the right commitment any dog will thrive and give you as much love as you give them. Giving a dog a second chance isn’t just something you do for them, you benefit hugely too. A lot of people who’ve adopted a dog say they believe their dog ‘knows’. Whether they do or not, it doesn’t really matter because when you bring a dog – any dog – into your home, you also bring unconditional love too, unlike any other.

Once you bring your new dog home, the best thing you can do is to instil a routine for at least a few weeks. For some dogs who’ve had a tough start, a routine is something they grasp onto for security. My own rescue dog likes the security of knowing when it’s breakfast time and when it’s bedtime (whether we like it or not!), where he eats (I have three dogs, each with their own raised dog bowls feeding station), where his lead is for ‘walkies’. Dogs are quick to adapt to the schedules of their people and some canines seem to have their own inner clocks.

Dogs are quick to adapt to the schedules of their people and some canines seem to have their own inner clocks.As much as you can set a schedule, your dog will also set their own. Your dog may want to play early in the morning and again in the late afternoon – and if you have children, no doubt your dog will learn when to expect his small human friends home!

In all cases, dogs need kindness given – in some cases with rescue dogs, you may need to change how you normally discipline to correct unwanted behaviours. Most rescues offer full post adoption support, so it is best to seek advice from them and a behaviourist if you are unsure. Remember that some dogs may have been mishandled or mistreated. If you quickly raise an arm or make a sudden movement and notice your dog will cringe or growl – you know there is some history there to overcome. Kindness and patience will solve the problem but it will take time to gain the total trust of the animal.

From the first day you bring your adopted dog home, put your hands on him often and get him used to gentle strokes, building up trust with you. Look at his ears, his paws; look closely through his fur or at the skin of his belly.  What are you looking for? Nothing. You are letting the dog know from the first meeting that you will be touching and looking at him closely. Many dogs will become very nervous at this attention but it is important to establish your “right” to do this as ease of grooming, dog baths and veterinary visits depend on being able to handle the dog in this way.

You also start basic behaviour training the moment you bring the dog home. Spoil him with healthy dog treats – but make him “sit” before getting each biscuit.  Take him for walks or bring it to a dog daycare to allow your pet understand and experience what it truly means to be socialized. Let the dog know what is expected of him and through your voice let him know what is good and bad. Knowing what is expected of him allows a dog to settle in and learn to trust his new owner.