Total Dog Magazine

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  • Kids Nagged Dad for a Dog So He Came up With This Unusual Plan

    Kids Nagged Dad for a Dog So He Came up With This Unusual Plan

    When this father’s children refused to stop pestering him about getting a dog, he decided he needed to adopt a novel approach. He got legal on them.

    Before agreeing to bring a dog in to their home some ground rules had to be agreed. Naturally a contract was drawn up so everyone was clear what was what.

    rjohnstone13 posted on Reddit the newly adopted Family Dog Contract.

    Here are some highlights:

    • Dad never has to pick up dog poop. Ever. The dog’s poop is picked up at least 3 times per week by children to dad’s satisfaction.
    • The dog does not slobber or have a runny nose. All parties agree that those kind of dogs are gross.
    • Dad has unrestricted veto power over the dog’s name.
    • The dog is never referred to as a child or sibling. All parties agree that the dog is a dog.
    • The dog does not receive organic, gourmet or special diet dog food. All parites agree that plain old dog food is fine.

    So, how did it go?

    “Two weeks after contract was signed, we got a three-year-old white fluffy mutt from a shelter that weighs 15 lbs., was already house-trained and doesn’t shed or drool.

    “We named him Kershaw (veto power not exercised). It’s been two years, and the kids (now ages 12, 13 and 15) have been pretty good about doing everything.

    “Kershaw eats dry dog food from Trader Joe’s, and so far hasn’t created any indoor messes that have required the use of harmful cleaning chemicals. Everyone (including Dad) adores the dog, which has been a fantastic addition to (though not member of) our family.”

    http://i.imgur.com/PGou9qP.jpg

  • Campaigners Launch Petition to End India’s Illegal Dog Meat Trade

    Campaigners Launch Petition to End India’s Illegal Dog Meat Trade

    An animal welfare organisation has launched a petition to end the illegal and brutal dog meat trade in Nagaland, India which is taking the lives of tens of thousands of dogs each year.

    The Humane Society International, which has worked to save the lives of thousands of dogs targeted by dog thieves in China and bring an end to the infamous Yulin dog meat festival, has revealed that the Asian country is not alone in its barbaric actions towards its country’s dogs. India too has a hidden and cruel trade of dogs for human consumption, despite the practice being illegal and considered taboo by most states.

    In the northern state of Nagaland, where dog meat is considered by some as ‘healthy’, the Humane Society International (HSI) in India estimates that more than 30,000 stray and stolen pets are smuggled every year where they are sold in live markets and beaten to death with wooden clubs.


    Photo Credit: Alokparna Sengupta/HSI

    The consumption of dog meat is already against the law in India, contravening the country’s food safety regulations. The cruel transport and treatment of animals also violates animal transportation provisions and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. However, these provisions are being openly ignored by the traders and the local authorities are failing to implement the law in Nagaland state.

     

    Disturbing video footage, which we have deemed too disturbing to show here, was taken by HSI/India at local markets in Kohima and Dimapur, showing that the laws are being blatantly flouted.

    HSI/India’s managing director, N. G Jayasimha, who witnessed the killing, said, “It has been a heart-breaking experience to go to Nagaland and watch these terrified dogs being subjected to such a horrific death. I see animal suffering every day as part of my job at Humane Society International/India, but the brutal dog trade of Nagaland is some of the worst inhumanity to animals I have ever witnessed, and it still haunts me. The underground pit in Kohima where we filmed was like a nightmare.


    Photo Credit: Alokparna Sengupta/HSI

    The look of helplessness and fear in the eyes of these animals was devastating: hog-tied in a bag unable to move, their muzzles tied shut so they could hardly breathe, witnessing other dogs around them being beaten and killed. It was clear to me that many of the dogs were stolen pets still wearing their collars, but whether street or pet dogs, none of these animals should ever have to endure such cruelty. This further reiterates the need for India to have stronger animal protection laws because even this brutal clubbing of a dog would only cost the killer a Rs 50 fine. In launching our campaign today, HSI/India is determined to end this trade, starting with working with the authorities to see that the ban is properly enforced.”

    HSI/India has written to the Chief Minister of Nagaland to urge the government to implement the existing ban on dog meat consumption, patrol trade routes and shut down markets. The organization has also launched an online petition (you can join here) calling on the authorities to enforce India’s dog meat ban immediately.

  • Why Are Dogs in Bradford Swallowing These Weird Things?

    Why Are Dogs in Bradford Swallowing These Weird Things?

    The Yorkshire city of Bradford is home to strangely high proportion of dogs who, it seems, are eating some odd things that were not designed to be processed by the natural digestive system of the canine body.  Stones, babies’ dummies, socks and even kebab sticks were among hundreds items vets working on behalf of the charity PDSA had to surgically removed from dogs in 2015.

    The vet charity treated nearly 400 pets for swallowing things they shouldn’t. And it appears that pets in Bradford are the most curious in the country, as the charity’s vets saw a whopping 33 cases in the city alone.

    PDSA, which has 51 Pet Hospitals across the UK, has compiled a list of the ‘top ten’ items pets swallowed according to the number of cases:

    1. Bones – 59 cases
    2. Stones – 29 cases
    3. Corn on the cob – 28 cases
    4. Plastic e.g. parts of kids toys, food wrapping – 25 cases
    5. Rubber balls – 19 cases
    6. Rubber e.g. parts of dog toys – 19 cases
    7. Socks – 11 cases
    8. Thread – 9 cases
    9. Babies’ dummy teats – 9 cases
    10. (Joint) Kebab sticks/Peach stones – 7 cases of each

    PDSA vet Rebecca Ashman said staff have also removed more bizarre objects in the past, from tent pegs and knives to radio aerials.

    Rebecca said: “You’d be amazed at some of the crazy things pets eat. Our top ten list highlights the objects we saw most frequently last year, but every now and again we see even more unusual cases.”

    Thanks to funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, PDSA is educating pet owners about the phenomenon of pets eating strange objects – known as ‘pica’ – and how to keep their animals’ safe.

    Rebecca added: “Pets, especially puppies and younger dogs, like to use their mouth to investigate objects as well as to eat. Sometimes a pet will swallow an item by mistake, even though they had only meant to investigate it.

    “We might think it’s comical but in some cases it is incredibly dangerous and can even prove fatal. If an object moves along the digestive system, it can cause a tear or life-threatening blockage.

    “If you have pets at home, try to keep anything dangerous or easy to swallow out of paws’ reach. Only let them play with suitable pet toys and try to supervise them to avoid any accidents. If you do suspect your pet has swallowed something you should contact your vet for advice immediately.”

    PDSA vets say training pets from a young age can help to curb their temptation to chew objects, and they can learn basic commands like ‘drop’ and ‘leave’.

    For more free pet health information and advice visit www.pdsa.org.uk

    UK hotspots for pets swallowing strange things:

    PDSA Pet Hospital (city) Number of pets swallowing strange items
    Bradford 33
    Glasgow Shamrock Street 23
    Gateshead 19
    Oldbury 17
    Bow 16
    Sheffield 16

    Corn-on-the-cob down the gob requires veterinary job for unfortunate Bulldog

    Greedy American Bulldog Hooch needed emergency surgery after wolfing down a corn-on-the-cob husk from his owner’s bin.

    Sarah Baldwin, from Elland, West Yorkshire, had placed the husk in the bin after having a quick bite to eat before work. But no sooner had she left the house when Hooch (11) stuck his head in the trash and got his paws on the tasty treat.

    “The next day he wasn’t himself at all,” said mother-of-three Sarah (40).

    “He was sick, he wasn’t eating and didn’t want to walk. One of my sons had seen him finishing off the corn-on-the-cob so we did a quick Google search and were horrified at how dangerous they can be for dogs.”

    Hooch was rushed straight to PDSA’s Bradford Pet Hospital where vets performed X-rays which revealed something lurking in his intestines.

    The family were warned that their beloved pet would need an emergency operation to remove the cob as it could cause a fatal blockage.

    PDSA Head Nurse Miriam Wilson, said: “We could feel an obstruction in Hooch’s intestines and the X-ray was consistent with a foreign body.

    “As Hooch was getting increasingly unwell we knew we had to perform emergency surgery to remove the corn-on-the-cob husk. We had to open up Hooch’s intestine to remove a large piece of corn husk and some smaller pieces that had broken off”.

    “Unfortunately Bradford seems to be a bit of a hotspot for pets swallowing strange items and corn-on-the-cob cases are ones we see quite a lot. It’s important pet owners recognise how dangerous they can be, especially at this time of year as it’s barbecue season. In most case it is fatal if it’s not treated, as the husk can completely block the digestive system.”

    Hooch was kept at the hospital for two days before being discharged on pain relief and antibiotics. He has since gone on to make a full recovery.

    Sarah said: “I was so worried when Hooch was in hospital but I can’t thank PDSA enough for saving him.

    “The whole thing has really scared me, so much so that it’s put me off corn-on-the cob for life!”

  • Staying Safe When Walking Your Dog

    For those of us partial to a heart-warming re-homing story or the occasional cheeky Labrador video, the pet news is a regular coffee break go-to. Unfortunately for dog owners, it seems that dog thefts and malicious acts against our pets are constantly in the headlines at the moment.

    Coupled with the time of year, many of us are still walking our dogs in the hours of darkness, making those usual strolls seem a little more secluded and lonely.

    spot

    While it’s nice to think that your faithful friend will protect you if you were ever threatened, for most of us our soft, loveable pets are more likely to lick a perpetrator then growl at them. We also know that most dogs can’t resist anything edible, making recent ‘spiking’ stories (The Mirror, 28/02/16) even more worrying.

    Staying safe when out and about is a matter of keeping alert, but it helps to reinforce those key safety guidelines that we often forget to put into practise when we’re going about our daily routines. Read our top tips and add your own safety advice to the comments below.

    Tell somebody where you’re going

    Even if the rest of the house is still sound asleep when you’re heading off into the elements, send a text or write a note letting everybody what route you’ll be taking and what time you set off. It’s also worth going on a route that you regularly take with the family so everybody has a good idea of roughly where you’ll be at what time. For more information about walking alone (or working alone if you’re a professional dog walker), The Suzy Lamplugh Trust website is full of useful advice on personal safety – http://www.suzylamplugh.org/personal-safety-tips/

    It’s also worth sticking to routes where you know you’ll have phone reception if you should injure yourself on your walk or see anything which immediately causes suspicion.

    Clear your head

    For many, an early morning or evening walk is an ideal time to relax, but try not to listen to music at times when you need your wits about you. As well as potentially failing to hear oncoming traffic, it makes it easier for somebody to approach you from behind without your knowledge. Wearing things around your neck (such as head phones or placing a lead around your shoulders) also makes it easier for somebody to apply pressure to your throat. Wear a hat instead of a hood too – hoods restrict your peripheral vision, making it harder to see traffic and anybody else who might be around.

    If you’re worried about visibility in poor light, LED dog collars and fluorescent strips are widely available from pet stores. If you can, try and spread any fluorescent clothing/lighting evenly about you and your dog – this will ensure that it’s clear you’re a dog walker (as opposed to a single person or cyclist) to oncoming traffic.

    Set up a walking group

    Most dog owners get to know all the local dogs – from the bulldog around the corner to the dachshund from the park. If there’s fellow dog owners you get on with, set up a walking group with set times that suit everybody. If you live in a rural area, this may be even more essential when your usual routes become increasingly isolated in the colder months.

    Dog in woodland

    Don’t assume a boisterous dog is safe off its lead

    If your dog is unpredictable around other dogs, don’t assume an early morning jaunt is going to mean you’re the only one about. A classic long lead will allow you to give your dog some freedom and bring him in if any other dogs come in sight.

    101

    Sadly, there have been numerous news articles of late reporting ‘spiking’ in popular dog walking spots. The Mirror and the Manchester Evening News have shared news of spiked food reports at Dovestone Reservoir (North West), Wandsworth (London) and Connah’s Quay (North Wales) in recent weeks. If anything makes you suspicious, call the local police line and report what you’ve seen. If you can try to alert other dog walkers and report your findings to the RSPCA.

    Dog Thefts

    Contrary to popular belief, it isn’t only pedigree dogs that get stolen for selling on. Criminals can target any pet where there’s a chance of a reward. When you’re out and about, always keep your dog in sight and train him to be obedient to your calls (easier said than done!). By simply calling him back and giving him some fuss and a small treat when he responds, you can soon train your dog to come running even when they’ve spotted something that really tempts them! It’s also worth making your garden secure from snoopers by fitting a bell or security light on your garden gate. It goes without saying that dogs should be micro-chipped, but the Blue Cross also suggest avoiding adding your pet’s name on their identification tag.

    This article was provided by the pet care team at Swell Pets. Specialising in dog food, bedding, healthcare and grooming, please contact our team for advice on caring for your dog – http://www.swellpets.co.uk/dog/dog-food-698.html

    screenshot-www.swellpets.co.uk 2016-03-14 11-31-12

  • Fat, Badly Behaved Dogs Lead UK In To Animal Welfare Disaster

    Fat, Badly Behaved Dogs Lead UK In To Animal Welfare Disaster

    UK pet nation heading for animal welfare disaster

    Lack of training and socialisation causing behaviour meltdown in 250,000 dogs

    …and fat pets are fast becoming the majority with 5.5. million fed fatty treats

    Badly behaved and overweight pets are fuelling a pet welfare crisis in Britain, according to the annual PAW Report from vet charity PDSA.

    The latest Report reveals some shocking findings with a rise in dog aggression directed both at humans and others pets, and concerns relating to destructive behaviour, both caused by a cocktail of boredom, lack of training and socialisation and worryingly low levels of regular exercise. A quarter of a million dogs are behaving aggressively towards people every week. And dog hostility towards other pets, including attacks, rising annually to over 600,000.

    fat dog photo

    The Report also shows that pet obesity levels are continuing to increase. 80% of vets and vet nurses now predict there will be more overweight pets than healthy pets in five years time, and with 5.5 million pets being fed fatty treats the pet obesity epidemic is set to balloon.

    Another staggering finding is that 2.4 million dogs in the UK are not given the opportunity to safely exercise off the lead outside of the home or garden on a daily basis – with over 800,000 of these dogs never going for walks. This can lead to destructive behaviour and anxiety, as well as aggression and is also contributing to the rise in pet obesity.

    These statistics are taken from the PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report*, the largest ever annual assessment of pet welfare (which has surveyed 21,000 pet owners over the past four years). Produced in conjunction with YouGov, the 2014 PAW Report exposes a grave lack of understanding when it comes to meeting some of the most basic of pets’ needs, says PDSA Head of Pet Health and Welfare, Nicola Martin: “We are undoubtedly a nation of animal lovers, with four out of five pet owners stating they feel physically or mentally healthier because of their pet.

    “However, our latest findings reveal that anti-social behaviour in dogs continues to rise due to a worrying lack of training, socialisation and exercise. Owners are sadly continuing to feed the wrong types of food with portion sizes out of control. Preventative health is also a major concern – the basics such as vaccinations and neutering are often ignored by owners, leaving their pets vulnerable to a wide range of deadly diseases.”

    In response to these findings and in an effort to gain an even deeper understanding of the health and happiness of UK pets, PDSA is encouraging pet owners to take part in its Big Pet Survey: pdsa.org.uk/bigpetsurvey. The charity aims to build the biggest ever insight into the wellbeing of the pet nation.

    Nicola continues: “The more people that take the survey and share their views with us, the more we can identify the most vital and pressing pet welfare issues, and provide the right support and solutions to help make improvements.”

    Key findings from the PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report:

    Dog Behaviour

    1.5 million dogs are not properly ‘socialised’ as puppies – which involves exposing them to everyday sights and sounds before 12 weeks of age.

    62% of pet owners having been concerned or frightened by another dog’s behaviour

    250,000 dogs are showing aggressive behaviour towards people every week and 30% of pet owners reporting they have been bitten or attacked by a dog

    Over half of veterinary professionals report an increase in levels of dog on dog attacks

    Over 800,000 dogs never being taken for off the lead walks, and nearly 250,000 never even walked on a lead

    Obesity

    5.5 million pets still being fed fatty treats, fuelling the pet obesity epidemic

    80% of veterinary professionals predict there will be more fat pets than healthy weight pets in five years time

    Owners over 55 are least likely to seek vet advice regarding their pet’s diet.

    Preventative Health

    Millions of pets still at risk of deadly diseases, such as parvovirus, due to lack of vaccinations and neutering

    Just 66% of dog owners are aware that microchipping will soon be compulsory in England and Wales

    Pet Ownership

    5 million pet owners did no research at all before taking on their pet with many largely unaware of the specific needs of their chosen pet

    25% of pet owners would consider getting a puppy from a puppy farm where there welfare needs are unlikely to have been properly met

    86% of pet owners believe online sales of pets should be regulated

    For more information, and to take part in the next PAW Report, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/bigpetsurvey

    Photo by swong95765

  • Dog-friendly Sweet Potato and White Fish Bake Recipe from the K9 Cafe

    Dog-friendly Sweet Potato and White Fish Bake Recipe from the K9 Cafe

    A recent survey by pet insurer, Direct Line, discovered that one in five pet owners worry about whether they are feeding their dogs the right diet while just over two thirds were worried their pets were not getting the right nutrition. With many foods often associated with good health for humans such as raisins, grapes or onions being potentially lethal to dogs, Direct Line has opened the ‘K9 Cafe’ with TV chef and dog lover James Martin to educate dog owners on exactly what they should and shouldn’t feed their pets.

    The ‘K9 Cafe’ launches with four videos which see James Martin and vet Marc Abrahams turning their hands to some canine cordon bleu, to showcase a range of expertly-crafted recipes for dog owners and their dogs. The show’s very own four-legged experts are then invited to sample the results once the recipe is complete.

    Here is the video and recipe for their dog friendly sweet potato and white fish bake.

    Let us know how you get on and what your dog thinks! Tune in next week where we’ll be running a second video from the series or see them online now: https://www.directline.com/pet-insurance/health

     

    dog eating photo
    Photo by Magnus Bråth

     

  • Taking Dogs Abroad – How to Take Your Dog on an Overseas Holiday

    Taking Dogs Abroad – How to Take Your Dog on an Overseas Holiday

    In recent years, pet travel between Britain and other EU countries has opened up a great deal due to the introduction of pet passports, writes Melissa Hathaway. These documents allow properly vaccinated and health checked animals to travel abroad and (crucially) re-enter the UK without pets and owners having to go through the excruciating process of pet quarantine confinement.

    This has allowed loving owners to take their pets with them when going on holiday. However, should you wish to take your beloved canine companion with you on holiday, there remain certain things to consider – the main question being: Do the benefits of taking your pet with you outweigh the problems and distress it may cause? In many cases, the answer is ‘Yes’. Although kennels are often extremely good, and many people can find kind neighbours to look after their pets in the familiarity of their own homes, some dogs find separation from their owners distressing.

    dog beach photo

    This is particularly true of rescue dogs which may have been passed from home to home in the past, and fear that each new separation will be forever. It’s not just the dogs who have separation problems, wither. A 2007 survey suggests that a massive 72% of owners worry about their pets when on holiday, and many are likely to take shorter holidays due to the need to return swiftly for the sake of a dog or a cat. Many people and pets thus clearly cannot relax properly when the human part of the partnership is away on holiday. For these people, pet passports are a boon. However, for those who have dogs with less separation problems, or less prone to personal worry about their dog’s welfare, there may be a few more factors to weigh up when deciding whether or not to take your dog abroad.

    Transportation

    Transportation of animals to faraway locations is a perennial problem. People going on long-haul flights often worry that their animals will become distressed, confined in pet carriers and exposed to all the noise, pressure changes, strange smells and so on which are inherent in an aeroplane flight. Such things are often scary for people, and it is impossible to explain them to animals. Sedation is one option if the journey is not a long one, and most vets will be experienced in such matters and able to provide drugs which will either calm your animal or send them to sleep for the duration. It is well worth noting that animal protection legislation ensures that all European airlines have to treat your pets with the greatest care and respect – although this may not be true of airlines elsewhere in the world, so be sure to research your plane provider’s pet policies before booking a flight. Sea travel is another option, for those who have the time to spare. Some Transatlantic travellers have found an excellent solution to the transportation problem in the form of travel by boat. The British have long been renowned as avid pet-lovers, which perhaps explains why the British Cunard Line is the first in the world to allow animals onto a specially adapted cruise liner. The Queen Mary 2 has a ‘Pets on Deck’ programme, in which cats and dogs can be brought on board ship and treated like honoured guests for the duration of the voyage. The liner treats lucky pets to luxury kennels (with their own ‘butler’), an indoor animal play-area, plentiful walks on deck, gourmet pet food, and frequent owner visiting hours. Ideal – if you can afford it!

    Dangers and Diseases

    When the pet passport scheme was first introduced, it was controversial due to the worry that it would allow diseases like rabies to re-establish themselves in the UK. Over the past few decades, the UK authorities have been extremely successful in eradicating dangerous animal-borne diseases from the British Isles. However, they remain at large in many other countries worldwide, raising concerns that the free movement of pets between such countries and the UK would undo the good work of the past few decades and once again see rabies sweep across Britain. However, the authorities were not immune to such concerns. The pet passport scheme ensures that only the most stringently health-checked and vaccinated animals are allowed to travel, and imposes restrictions upon countries were dangerous animal diseases are particularly prevalent. Nonetheless, you may want to have a look at the disease dangers for dogs within the nation you are planning to visit, and either have your dog vaccinated against them or take relevant precautions against them. Some dangers, of course, are not infectious, but no less dangerous for the health of your dog. Particular plants and fungi, deadly to dogs, grow in certain parts of the world. Take note of the kind of poison-hazards you may have to watch out for. Furthermore, be aware that road safety rules are not as stringently enforced in many places as they are in Britain – so it will be a good idea to keep your dog on a tight lead when near main roads!

    Is Your Holiday Pet-Friendly?

    Finally, the accommodation you stay in and the kind of activities you want to participate in are of extreme relevance. Is your hotel or apartment dog-friendly? If you plan to have a beach holiday, are there dog-friendly beaches? If you want to spend your time going round museums, who will look after the dog while you are out? If you’re going on a holiday with plenty of walking through the countryside – then that would naturally be a fantastic experience for your dog, and one on which it would be a shame for him/her to miss out!

    Often Worthwhile

    With all of this in mind, it should be remembered that, with the right consideration and precautions, taking your dog on holiday can be a fantastic experience. You will not be worried about your dog’s welfare at home, your dog will not be pining for you, and you will both get to enjoy all the delights that foreign climes have to offer.

    Photo by kajo0069

  • Want To Know What Your Dog Gets Up To While You’re Out?

    Want To Know What Your Dog Gets Up To While You’re Out?

    Do you want to know what your beloved pet does behind your back? Channel 5 are looking for animals to take part in ‘The Secret Life of Pets’. Whether your dog is stealing your food, your cat is disappearing all day or your hamster is acting strangely we will find out what is really going on.

    The Secret Life of Pets is an entertaining and informative brand new 8 part TV series for Channel 5. The show looks into the extraordinary and bizarre secret lives of our pets. We discover what our pets really get up to behind those puppy dog eyes, what they are hiding in the garden and how they have learnt to open the fridge door! Using the latest and most innovative filming techniques this series shows us what life is like from a pet’s-eye-view.

    To be in with a chance of getting your pet on TV please can you email me some information about your pet along with a photo of you and your pet, your contact number and address. Apply ASAP by emailing rob.myler@itn.co.uk to avoid disappointment!

    dog home photo

    Photo by MarcooJethro®

  • Dementia in Dogs – What Are The Early Symptoms?

    Dementia in Dogs – What Are The Early Symptoms?

    If you think your elderly dog may be going senile and losing his mind, you may be right.

    Studies have shown that over one third of 11 year old dogs suffer from dementia, or canine cognitive dysfunction. By the time they reach 16 years, they are all showing some signs of this condition, writes Audrey Harvey BVSc(Hons).

    Dogs with dementia typically have memory loss, confusion and disorientation. They stare into space and wander aimlessly around your house. They forget their toilet training, and act like they’ve never had any obedience training at all. Night times can be difficult; they are often wakeful and pace the floor, which keeps you awake too. These symptoms are due to a lack of dopamine in the brain.

    old dog photo

    The characteristic behaviours associated with dementia in dogs appear slowly and progress gradually, so it’s easy to miss the early stages of this disease in your four legged family member.

    What can be done to make life easier for your old friend?

    Medication

    Drugs such as L-deprenyl can improve your dog’s condition because it makes what dopamine that is left in your dog’s brain last longer. It can take a couple of months to see any response, but over 75% of dogs showed improvement on this treatment. The earlier your dog starts taking this medication, the better his response is likely to be.

    Diet

    Antioxidants and omega fatty acids can improve your dog’s mental abilities, and positive results can be seen within 8 weeks of changing his diet. There are commercial kibbles available from your veterinarian that are specifically designed to treat dementia in dogs.

    Training and Environment

    Even though your dog is getting older, he can still learn new tricks. It’s a good idea to use hand signals as well as verbal commands so that if one of his senses fails, he can still understand what you want him to do. Use food rewards and take into account his reduced mobility when you are training him. This will help to slow the onset of dementia.

    Environmental enrichment includes such things as playdates with other dogs, and daily play time with interactive toys. These too have been shown to improve an elderly dog’s mind.

    With a little bit of effort on your part, your older dog will be better able to cope with the changes in his mental abilities. Old age isn’t an illness and dementia shouldn’t stop you enjoying the company of your canine senior citizen.

    Photo by normanack

  • More Than 1 Million Dogs Fed Crisps & Pizzas – Is It A Wonder Obesity Is On The Rise?

    More Than 1 Million Dogs Fed Crisps & Pizzas – Is It A Wonder Obesity Is On The Rise?

    Research published by pet insurer Direct Line has revealed that even our dogs now gorge on junk food at a time fears of pet obesity are on the rise.

    The study shows that millions of dogs are eating human treats regularly, with a third of pet owners admitting to feeding their dogs snacks like crisps and chocolate – most of which are unhealthy, and some are even potentially toxic.

    Over 1.3 million dogs (15 per cent) are scoffing crisps and almost as many (1.1 million) eating pizza. Dogs are even being fed takeaways, with over a third of a million dogs eating deep fried chicken from KFC (4 per cent) and the same number being fed food from McDonald’s. In fact, over 2.3 million dog owners feed their pets human food instead of their regular food.

    dog eating photo

    Edward Barclay, head of pet insurance at Direct Line, commented: “Fast food takeaways can be extremely dangerous for dogs, who love to rummage through leftover containers in search of a tasty morsel. Direct Line’s own veterinary nurses have seen cases of dogs that have needed urgent medical attention after digesting fried chicken bones, or even whole corn on the cobs, which have resulted in severe digestive problems.”

    Photo by dickuhne

  • Help! My Dog Has Canine Osteoarthritis, Should I Change His Diet?

    Help! My Dog Has Canine Osteoarthritis, Should I Change His Diet?

    If your dog has just been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, you may be confused and worried about the effect of his condition on his enjoyment of life. Fortunately there are several things you can do to slow the progression of the disease, and keep him happy and mobile. Lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory/anti-pain medication and nutritional supplements are the cornerstones of treating osteoarthritis.

    Lifestyle Changes

    The great thing about making lifestyle changes for your dog is that they are within your control. They are not going to be easy to make, but keep in mind that pet dogs are like toddlers in that they are largely a reflection of their parents. Managing your dog’s lifestyle is almost completely your responsibility.

    Here is what you should be focusing on:

    Weight Reduction

    This is a biggie! The target weight for an arthritic dog should be leaner than normal to ease the burden on his joints.

    Aim for a gradual reduction in weight. Numbers are your friend in this: weigh your dog regularly and chart it; initially every two weeks, then every month. Once his target weight is reached, put him on the scales quarterly or semi-annually. Similarly, use a weighing machine or a measuring cup to ensure that his food intake is regulated.

    As your dog gets older, his energy needs will reduce. If you continue to chart his weight, you should have no trouble noticing the weight gain and reacting to it.

    A weight reduction program is a lot easier to write about than to implement. You must ensure that all members of the family realise the importance of the program. Table scraps have to be few and far between; better still, eliminate them completely. Your pet will not be happy during the period that he is losing weight. But, once his weight is stabilised, he will be healthier and happier than before.

    Exercising Your Dog

    Exercise is important for your arthritic pet. Not only will it help him remain at his target weight, but regular mild exercise has been known to improve the health and mobility of the affected joints. It reduces the pain of arthritis and the progression of the disease while maintaining good muscle mass.

    The important part of any exercise program for arthritic dogs is that it is low impact.

    Try to prevent him from jumping; also, avoid asking him to repeatedly climb up and down stairs. Remember that medications could mask his pain, thus allowing him to get more vigorous than is good for him. To prevent such ‘accidents’, it is best to exercise him on a leash.

    Swimming is an excellent exercise for dogs with osteoarthritis. It encourages mobility in the joints, but without painful weight-bearing. Hydrotherapy also builds up muscle mass which helps to support the painful joint.

    Medication and Nutritional Supplements

    As well as help you with a weight loss diet, your veterinarian can prescribe pain relieving medication and suggest nutritional supplements that will make your dog feel better. Glucosamine and chondroitin are safe and effective at relieving joint pain and can be used in conjunction with prescription treatments. It’s very important that you give the correct dose of medications in the correct schedule as some drugs can have side effects. You may also want to consider other natural therapies such as acupuncture or laser treatment, which may help ease arthritic pain.

    Supleneo flex is a nutritional joint supplement, which is suitable for all breeds, sizes and ages of dog and contains the key ingredients that can improve joint health, such as glucosamine.

    In addition, Supleneo flex’s natural liver flavour means dogs love the taste, making it’s easy and fun to give them their supplement every day. It is low calorie, so you can give it to your dog, instead of a treat without worrying about weight gain.

    For further information go to www.freedomtomove.co.uk

    Conclusion

    Canine osteoarthritis is not life-threatening, but it is progressive and can make your dog extremely uncomfortable.  With your help and support, there is no reason why he cannot enjoy a happy and fun-filled life.

    [note color=”#fddda5″]For further information about canine arthritis and canine arthritis treatment, including an on-line symptom checker please go to www.freedomtomove.co.uk[/su_note]

  • Gluten Free Dog Food UK

    Gluten free dog food UK options are more popular today than ever. Following international pet food recalls and a wider awareness of dog allergies related to nutrition (caused by gluten, corn and other stimulants), more and more UK dog owners are seeking gluten free diets for their canine companions.

    Gluten Free Dog Food UK

    Feeding gluten free dog food to your canine friend would naturally lower its predisposition for diseases such as diabetes, celiac disease, allergies, and chronic and degenerative diseases.

    As a gluten free diet is closer to that of what a dog would eat in the wild, the dog is able to process thier food more effectively, bringing about results such as increased energy and activity and decrease in arthritic pain and symptoms related to digestive system complaints.

    One of the more common dog food allergens is wheat or, more specifically, the gluten in wheat. Dogs can have gluten allergies like humans as well. Luckily there are gluten free dog food products on the market that can alleviate this problem. Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat.
    Some people and dogs are allergic to this protein. There is also gluten found in rye and barely so if these ingredients are found in your dog’s dog food then your dog may also present an allergic reaction to those too.

    Even though some firms call their dog food’s ingredients gluten-free if it doesn’t have wheat or grain, you really want one that’s oat, barley, and rye free too. Celiac disease – the inability to digest gluten) is more common in people and animals that formerly thought. Having raised a child with celiac, I have had to learn all about this.

    A few years ago there was a huge pet food recall due to a contaminated form of gluten that contained a compound called melamine, which can be fatal to animals and humans.

    It was a very tragic time as a lot of dogs that ate the infected food ended up dieting. Ever since then, the issue of gluten has become a very popular topic, and the question always arises of how beneficial gluten free dog food actually is. Humans are prone to a type of disease known as celiac disease, which is also less formally known as gluten allergies. What most people don’t know though is that dogs can develop celiac disease just as easily, which is why monitoring gluten intake is a very important aspect of your dog’s health.

    Many dogs may also experience allergic reactions to corn. Symptoms of such reactions may include irritation of the skin, ear infections, bloating, inflammation of the kidneys and liver, head tremors, hair loss, hyperthyroidism and heart diseases. Moles and warts may also develop on the skin and even loss of hearing can occur. Dog foods that do not contain corn are also usually gluten free dog food and are rich in protein. When purchasing dog food, it is important to read the labels and examine the three ingredients that are listed first. These ingredients comprise of 75 per cent of the content of the food and as such are the most important.

    Gluten allergies are not deadly, but they can be very debilatating for your dog, and if it is the case that gluten is the cause of the problem, a high gluten diet will obviously aggravate the situation. Many vets will prescribe a gluten free dog food for your dog, but it is quite possible to make your own using natural, gluten free ingredients.

     Gluten Free Further Reading

    Gluten-Free Diet Fad: Are Celiac Disease Rates Actually Rising?

    What’s Eating You? Maybe It’s What You’re Eating

  • Feeding Older Dogs

    Feeding older dogs doesn’t have to mean drastic changes. Obesity is possibly the most common health related problem to affect dogs as they get older. An overweight dog is an unhappy dog and subsequent health problems can drastically reduce a dog’s life and render his later years void of any real quality. The key is to be aware of nutritional requirement changes when feeding older dogs, adjust slowly and gradually and keep on top of your older dog’s specific feeding requirements on a regular basis.

    Feeding Older Dogs: Nutritional Requirements

    All dogs relish a tasty treat and they are an excellent way to reward good behaviour, but if overused your dog could end up suffering from obesity before you even realise you are spoiling him. It is important to pay close attention to your dog’s diet for many reasons, but particularly if your dog is overweight. A balanced diet is essential to keeping a dog fit and healthy.

    Feeding Older Dogs

    Modern prepared foods contain an adequate supply of essential nutrients without too many calories, as do many home mixed diets. Complete, dry dog food is popular today, as it is an easy to prepare meal which contains a good supply of all the right nutrients. Commercial canned foods, whether mixed or on their own, are a good source of nutrition and are easy to prepare and store. Some dog owners favour a nutritional supplement to add to the dog’s meal, rice is a good source of carbohydrates and is easily mixed with other foods.

    Feeding Older Dogs: Be Treat Aware

    Certain treats make a nutritious supplement to a meal and also serve as a good reward for him, but dog biscuits alone to not offer adequate nutrition to be served as meal on their own.

    The majority of young, healthy and active dogs are at a low risk of becoming overweight as most of their calorific intake is used during play but as they get older and their metabolic rates slow in conjunction with a decline in expended energy, the chances of calories leading to a piling on of the pounds grows higher every day.

    If you have ever taken your dog off the lead in a large forest or field you will have noticed that they will always do more miles than you because they run off and come back as you are walking and thus for every mile you walk, they will normally RUN four!

    This is one of the reasons that young, active dogs stay healthy whether their diet is perfect or not. But there will come a point in the dog’s life when he or she is unable to do as much exercise so it is important to control the diet accordingly.

    Scroll down for some expert nutritional advice in our Q&A with Suzie from  Pawtions.co.uk about the benefits of portion control

    feeding older dogs

    Monitor Lifestyle Changes in Your Older Dog

    During the more active years, it is still important to take care of your dog’s diet to ensure that they are receiving a good balance of protein and other valuable nutrients. Your vet will be able to advise you on this matter should any uncertainty arise.

    You may not notice it at first, but should your dog become obese there are certain tell tale signs apart from the obvious physical weight gain. A diminished level of activity not conducive to their age is always a cause for concern, but a likely cause is that he or she has put on a little weight.

    Another symptom is laboured breathing. If your dog struggles for breath after an activity which he or she could once perform effortlessly then perhaps it is time to get the scales out.

    Avoiding Weight Gain in Older Dogs

    As a dog owner it is often difficult to notice if your dog is putting on weight because you see them every day. Paying close attention to other elements of their physical state may enlighten you to any weight problems.

    As the majority of dogs become less and less active in their later years it is often difficult for them to loose weight through increased exercise, so it is up to you as an owner to monitor and control what your dog eats. Prevention, as is so often the case, is better than cure, especially when it comes to a more senior dog and weight control.

    A good way of monitoring weight is by simply reducing portion size. It is often the case that a regular portion of dry or complete dog food offers more than enough nutrition and therefore it is quite possible to reduce the meal sizes without affecting the nutritional intake of the dog. In this day in age, with the science behind many commercial pet foods, you may be able to find the perfect, balanced diet your breed of dog needs, relating to their age, on your supermarket or pet shop shelf.

    Target Weight When Feeding Older Dogs

    You should have a target weight in mind and plan thoroughly to ensure your dog does not err over or above it to any great degree. Your vet should be able to advise what your dog’s ideal target weight is – don’t go on breed averages – one Labrador could be as many as 10lbs heavier than another yet still be perfectly fine weight wise.

    If your dog has put on a few too many pounds as they have gotten older, a diet is needed. Unlike us, a dog is unable to steal biscuits or cakes in the middle of the night so they are not reliant on their own will-power to lose weight, they are reliant on YOU ensuring they don’t become dangerously obese, so don’t give in to his pleas for a chocolate digestive every time you go to the kitchen!

    As a dog owner it is important for you to be disciplined. Your dog will probably not notice the reduced size of his meals. But you will, so ensure you don’t sneak him a treat unless you have reduced a similar amount of calories from his main meal – it’s a balancing act of which you have complete control and your dog is relying on you to get right.

    Older dogs have special needs in many areas and diet is one of the most important.

    Don’t let your dog’s later years in life be ruined by health problems that can easily be avoided when it comes to weight, too many calories or general nutritional mismatch between your dog’s age and their specific daily nutritional requirements. If you feed a natural diet, monitor the volumes. If you feed a commercial pet food, make sure you have the most suitable one for your dog’s age, weight, breed and activity level. When it comes to feeding older dogs, the science is all there, you just need to follow it.

    Expert Advice from Suzie, Pawtions Veterinary Nurse and Nutritionist

    feeding older dogs

    Why is portion control so important for dogs?

    At Pawtions we believe that portion control is very important to maintain a healthy life for each and every dog. When faced with the massive choice of dog foods available to us, it is very easy to become confused when trying to work out how much food our dog actually requires. Feeding guidelines are often very generalised and can’t take into consideration your dog’s age, breed, level of exercise, or whether your dog has been neutered.

    We often over-indulge our dogs out of love, but a quick treat a little too often or a bowl of leftovers from your own meals may lead to dietary problems or your dog becoming overweight. This can also upset the careful balance of nutrients provided by the dog food. By feeding a portion size which has been recommended for your individual animal – such as that provided by Pawtions – you know that you are providing enough nutrients, vitamins and minerals to meet your dog’s unique needs.

    In their PAW report of the last year the PDSA assessed the weight and general health of nearly 30,000 dogs across the UK. They discovered that 35% of UK dogs are overweight. This is a very alarming figure, especially when we consider ourselves a nation of dog lovers. An overweight dog cannot possibly enjoy life to the full, is likely to encounter more health problems, which may sadly lead to an early grave.

    What are your key priorities when choosing the perfect plan for dogs from Pawtions?

    We understand that all dogs are unique, so we make sure we have all the information we need to really help us to understand each dog better.

    By asking the owner relevant questions about their dog, our veterinary nutritionist can work out the portion size for each and every dog individually. This takes the confusion away from the owner when trying to work out how much food their dog actually needs. It also means continuity in the household when the job of feeding pets is shared by several people.

    In order to provide customers with a recommended feeding plan, we ask them to provide us with vital pieces of information including:
    • age
    • breed
    • weight
    • sex
    • whether your dog is neutered
    • daily exercise
    • physique
    • any special dietary requirements
    • your preferred flavour

    It’s very important that the information customers provide is as accurate as possible and also kept up to date. We recommend that owners regularly weigh their dogs so that we can change their portion size should their nutritional requirements change.

    However, the Pawtions perfect plan isn’t just about the food! We also include treats, poop bags, flea and wormer treatment (just when they’re needed) and free gifts to provide a complete care package.

    Do you think age and breed make a difference in selecting the right diet for your dog?

    Yes, definitely! By telling us your dog’s breed we are able to check whether this falls into the recognised weight bracket. If the dog’s weight doesn’t fall within this bracket, we discuss this further with the owner, as all dogs are unique, and breed standards can very significantly.

    We understand that small dogs may prefer a smaller kibble, and larger breeds a larger one. Also, different breeds are classed as puppies and senior dogs at different ages. Therefore knowing the breed allows us to decide when to recommend a change from a puppy diet to a maintenance one, or a maintenance diet to a senior one.

    Puppies require very different levels of nutrients to adult dogs, so must be fed a diet that meets their specific needs. They also need more regular feeding, and we take this into consideration when calculating portion size.

    However, as dogs age, their energy levels decrease, reducing their calorific need. Their nutritional requirements also change with the aging process and we believe the diet should change to support this.

    What 5 top tips would you give dog owners who might be thinking about changing diet to a more portion controlled diet?

    When thinking about changing your dog’s diet to a recommended Pawtions plan you should consider the following points:

    1) If your dog has serious medical problems, we strongly advise you contact your vet before
    you make any change of diet.

    2) Provide us with as much information as possible so that we can recommend the right Pawtions plan for your dog.

    3) It’s really important to make sure you gradually introduce a new food. The best way is to start adding a small amount to the current food. Slowly increase the proportion of new food to current food over the period of a week until a complete change is achieved.

    4) We encourage you to weigh your dog regularly so that we can make any alterations to the diet as necessary.

    5) If you have any questions regarding your dog’s health or diet, we encourage owners to ask, it could be important. We are here to help.

    Lastly, tell us a little about Pawtions. Where did your inspiration to start the company and healthy menu for dogs come from?

    The idea for Pawtions stemmed from our founder’s own frustrations with looking after and feeding Bella, his cocker spaniel. First he would have to drive to a supermarket or pet store and carry a big heavy bag back to the car. Then, once home he would have to find somewhere to store it. He found there was a tendency to be over-generous when the bag was first opened and the food fresh, whilst towards the end of the bag the food often become dried out and crumbly, losing its appeal. He also found that he would run out of food, treats and poop bags at the most inconvenient times.

    But the biggest problem came with the inconvenience of deciding how much to feed, due to the vague feeding guidelines, and then weighing out the correct amount every day!

    At Pawtions we know what it means to be lucky enough to own a dog and we want to encourage people to be more aware of their dog’s nutritional needs. Through our complete care package we hope to promote responsible dog ownership. The package includes wormer and flea treatment throughout the year, so you’ll never forget when treatments are due, free tasty treats, and free poop bags. Now and again we’ll also pop in a surprise toys as a little present for your best friend. All this is delivered to your door every 4 weeks.

    To find out more about Pawtions and investigate a plan for your dog, visit www.pawtions.co.uk today!

    Resources: Older Dogs

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HimMjk-1rg4

  • Small Breed Dog Food

    Small Breed Dog Food

    Small Breed Dog Food – Is A Specialist Diet For Small Breeds Worthwhile?

    Small dog breeds have specific, specialist nutritional requirements. In the case of a small breed puppy, their stomach is not large enough to hold sufficient food in one feeding to provide his daily nutritional needs without causing stress to their system, so smaller, broken down meals are advised. This is why some commercial dog food suppliers are now providing dog owners with the option of specialist small breed dog food.

    Small Breed Dog Food (Chihuahua)

    Small Breed Dog Food For Puppies

    When a puppy graduates from mother’s milk to solid food at about six weeks of age, he will require three to four meals a day, with the exception of Toys, who may need four to six meals. When he reaches about four to five months old, twice-a-day feedings may be sufficient. He can graduate to once-a-day meals at eight to nine months of age.

    A pup’s nutritional requirements for growth and development are greater than those for an adult dog. If you opt to feed your small dog breed pup a commercially prepared diet try to ensure it is a feed specially formulated for puppies and enables the youngster to get the full range of nutrients he needs.

    Balanced Diet: Small Breed Dog Food

    A small dog breed pup who eats a complete and balanced commercial puppy diet – whether it is a small breed dog food prepared diet or another puppy formulated specialist food – doesn’t need additional supplements. Adding supplements can cause nutritional imbalance as most modern commercial dog foods are prepared to contain all required nutritional elements your small breed puppy will require in this important growth stage. However, if you are supplying your dog with a home-cooked or fresh-diet meal plan, supplements may be necessary. Consult with a veterinary nutritionist to get further advice.

    Dry food can be moistened with warm water to encourage puppies to eat. Milk can be used, too, but only in extremely small amounts. Goats milk for puppies is often favoured by many breeders. Cow’s milk causes digestive upset in some puppies and dogs. A tablespoon of canned food can be added to increase interest, as well. These are general guidelines for feeding your small dog breed pup; consult with your veterinarian for more specific advice. If your pup doesn’t appear to be developing as you believe he should, feeding small breed dog food without first consulting a specialist in the area of dog nutrition would not be advised as your dog may have underlying problems that need to be investigated by a professional expert first.

    Small Breed Dog Food: Adults

    Feeding Adult small dog breeds: The adult small dog breed is a mature dog, usually age one year or older. Healthy adult dogs who are not pregnant, nursing, or hardworking have somewhat low nutritional requirements. Feeding is fairly straightforward if you’re feeding commercially prepared kibble. Buy a complete and balanced diet made for the adult dog and give your dog the recommended amount once or twice a day. Add a tablespoon of canned food for taste if you wish. Adjust the amount according to the small dog breed’s activity level and body condition.

    Feeding Hardworking small dog breeds: Highly active small dog breeds use a lot of energy. The hard-working dog can require two to three time more kilocalories per pound of body weight than what is required for normal activity. To maintain good body condition and keep up his stamina, the hardworking small dog breed must eat a high-energy diet.

    Many veterinarians recommend commercially prepared “performance” diets for highly active dogs. Higher fat, higher-protein diets supply the working dog with needed calories. Because performance diets are higher in protein than maintenance diets, there s a misconception that the active dog just needs extra protein. However, all nutrients are required in greater amounts. Additionally, research indicates that moderately high-protein diets are unlikely to cause kidney damage – in spite of some breeders’ and owners’ beliefs that it does.

    Feeding Your Elderly small dog breed: Older small dog breeds (those who have reached the last 25 percent of their expected life span) are usually less active than adult dogs and pups. Thus, their energy requirements are reduced and they can gain weight easily if fed too much or fed a high-calorie diet. Some veterinarians recommend “senior” diets; foods high in nutrients but reduced in calories to keep senior small dog breeds at a healthy weight.

    Feeding Small Dogs

    How Often Should a Small Dog Breed be Fed?

    There’s no exact answer on how much and how often to feed your small breed because it depends on the size, age, and activity level of each individual small breed. Feeding amount and schedule also depend on which diet you’re using and how cold it is outside. (Dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors in cold temperatures require more food.)

    Begin by following the feeding instructions spelled out on the dog food package. Realize that these instructions are a starting point, and apply to all breeds of a certain weight. Your small breed is an individual and every dog is different.

    Following that, observe your dog’s body condition:

    Is my puppy too thin?

    An overly thin small breed will have visible or easily felt ribs and hip bones may be visible. The waist and belly are obviously tucked up when viewed from the side. Increase food. Speak to your vet to find out if there are any underlying medical conditions causing your dog to be underweight.

    Just Right: The ribs should have just a little fat over them; you should be able to easily feel them with slight pressure. Your small breed should have a waist when viewed from above, and the belly should be tucked up when viewed from the side.

    Is My Dog Overweight?

    Too Fat: If you can’t easily feel your small breed s ribs and can easily see fat covering them, he is too heavy. His waist is absent or barely visible when viewed from above, or his belly may hang. Decrease food.

    How often you feed your small breed depends on how old he is and his (or your) personal preference. Pups must be fed several times a day, usually three..The average adult small breed can be fed once or twice a day, in the morning, evening, or both. Many owners like the idea of feeding twice a day, while others find it inconvenient and opt to feed once a day. Toy puppies have a very rapid metabolism and may require four to six meals a day to avoid hypoglycemia, a life-threatening drop in blood sugar levels. By six months of age, most Toy pups can cut back to three or four meals a day.

    Dogs are creatures of habit, and seem to enjoy eating at the same time every day. Feeding your small breed pup at the same time every day helps establish eating habits and makes housebreaking easier. Pups usually need to urinate or defecate after eating. If you feed him at the same time every day, you can predict when nature calls.

    Note: Free-feeding, leaving food out for the small breed at all times, is not recommended because it can lead to excess weight gain.

    Small Breed Dog Feeding: Conclusion

    Dog owners are fortunate to live in an age where there is an increasing awareness about proper dog nutrition. We understand that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to feeding dogs. Specialist diets, such as small breed dog food, large breed dog food and dog foods specialist formulated for active/working dogs allow us to match our dog to a nutritional plan that perfectly matches their age, weight, breed and overall lifestyle. If you are considering feeding a dedicated small breed dog food, it makes sense to first understand the basic principles of why your breed would benefit for a tailored feeding plan.

    As with humans, dogs all have varying degrees of dietary requirements. Olympic athletes may require double the volume of calories in comparison to an ‘average’ person even if they are the same age, weight and height. On this basis, feeding a dog on the wrong diet could lead to weight gain, weight loss or even more serious health and behavioural problems. Dedicated diets can be a great benefit to owners who are keen to make sure their dog is receiving the right nutrition to match their breed’s individual requirements. On this basis it would be worthwhile to investigate the options when it comes to selecting small breed dog food that has been specifically formulated to provide the proper nutrition for your dog.

    Small Dog Breed Resources

     

  • Dog Obesity Warning: Overweight Dogs Die Young

    Dog Obesity Warning: Overweight Dogs Die Young

    Fat pets will die young warns PDSA as it launches biggest ever pet health campaign – Long Live Pets

    The UK’s pet owners are warned today that they are killing their pets with kindness, as new PDSA figures show dog obesity is rising at a dramatic rate!

    Dog Obesity Map

    Leading veterinary charity, PDSA used the first day of Crufts to reveal its dog obesity map. This ties in with the launch of its ‘Long Live Pets’ campaign, the PDSA’s biggest ever pet health initiative, designed to promote a healthy life for all pets and starts by addressing the weighty issue of obesity.

    PDSA has also developed its own version of Body Condition Scoring to help owners learn more about a healthy body shape and to help them identify when their pets are piling on the pounds.

    Sadly, dogs, like humans, are failing to win the battle of the bulge, with many owners putting their animal’s lives in danger by feeding them chocolate*, ready meals and fatty foods. One in three dogs seen by PDSA PetCheck nurses are overweight.

    Dog Obesity Health Problems

    This means that the life ‘pet-spectancy’ of many beloved UK pets will be cut short as a result of this obesity epidemic, warns the charity for pets in need of vets. An overweight Labrador for example, could have its life cut short by as much as two years and is more likely to develop chronic diseases such as arthritis when younger. Overweight pets are more likely to develop conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart and kidney problems.

    PDSA Chief Veterinary Surgeon, Richard Hooker, says: “Our Long Live Pets initiative will address key pet health issues, starting with pet obesity. It is our biggest ever pet health campaign, and our objective is to implement a number of pet health care initiatives such as our Pet Fit Club slimming competition and national sponsored dog walk, which will raise awareness and hopefully achieve positive results for obese pets and address the burgeoning waistlines of the UK pet population.

    “As the UK’s leading veterinary charity we provide over 1.8 million treatments to sick and injured pets every year, which means we have a wealth of knowledge and expertise on important pet health issues. As such, we have a duty of care to educate owners about the health and lifestyle needs of their pets to ensure they have the best quality of life possible.”

    PDSA pet health checks of more than 9,000 dogs** during 2006 and 2007 reveal which UK regions are home to the portliest pooches. Nationally, PDSA data also shows a dramatic rise of 9 per cent in the number of overweight dogs seen in 2007 – 30 per cent of dogs health checked in 2007 were considered overweight, compared to only 21 per cent in 2006.

    When applying PDSA’s 30 per cent overweight figure to the entire UK dog population (around 6.5 million) it means that around 1.95 million UK dogs are overweight! And, if each of those pets was carrying just one extra inch around their waist that would make for one gigantic waistline – stretching the length of more than 500 football pitches!

    The PDSA study also shows that hotspots for overweight pets are areas where people are more likely to be obese. PDSA found the number of fat pets in the Midlands stood at 29 per cent in 2007 compared to 19 per cent in 2006. Recent human obesity figures*** showed the Midlands had the largest number of people classed as obese. Meanwhile, the lowest dog obesity figures were in London at 19 per cent. Human obesity is also low in the Southeast. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland all score poorly on dog obesity with 30 per cent classed as overweight by PDSA veterinary staff. The overall worst region for dog obesity is the Northwest where 31 per cent of dogs seen are overweight.

    Interestingly, child obesity figures also mirror PDSA’s dog obesity statistics with one in three Year 6 children classed as overweight or obese.****

    Richard Hooker, adds “Kindness can be misplaced and feeding any animal too many treats can have serious health consequences. The research we have done shows that there is a real need for owners to help their overweight pets lose those excess pounds. Controlled portions of pet food and regular exercise are vital to ensure a healthy life for all our pets. In a nutshell, exercise, nutrition and body awareness are key.”

    Case study:
    PDSA pet slimming success story, Scooby, will be the star of Crufts after losing 2.5kg and four inches from her waist while taking part in PDSA Pet Fit Club, a 100 day diet and exercise programme. A table will be laid out with the food Scooby ate before her diet including fish and chips, curry, pizzas and ice cream. Scooby now enjoys a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle and has continued to lose weight in recent weeks.

    At the start of her diet, Scooby was carrying 81% extra weight and 8 inches too many around her waist! If all of the overweight dogs in the UK were carrying Scooby’s extra inches, that would mean 15.6 million excess inches or 246 miles of dangerous flab, nearly twice the length of the M25! And this is probably just the tip of the iceberg as most dogs in the UK are a lot bigger, and wider than Scooby.

    Thanks to her weight-loss, Scooby now has a much improved quality of life and will no doubt live a lot longer than she would had she remained dangerously overweight.
    For more information about PDSA visit www.pdsa.org.uk

    Obesity is one of the most common health related problem to affect dogs, especially older ones. An overweight dog is generally an unhappy dog and subsequent health problems can drastically reduce a dog’s life and render his later years void of any real quality.

    Dog Obesity Kills Silently

    All dogs relish a tasty treat and they are an excellent way to reward good behaviour, but if overused your dog could end up suffering from obesity before you even realise you are spoiling him. It is important to pay close attention to your dog’s diet for many reasons, but particularly if your dog is overweight.

    A balanced diet is essential to keeping a dog fit and healthy.

    Modern prepared foods contain an adequate supply of essential nutrients without too many calories, as do many home mixed diets.

    Complete, dry dog food is popular today, as it is an easy to prepare meal which contains a good supply of all the right nutrients – provided you do your research and select the most appropriate food for your particular dog and their individual lifestyle.

    Commercial canned foods, whether mixed or on their own, are a good source of nutrition and are easy to prepare and store. Some dog owners favour a nutritional supplement to add to the dog’s meal, rice is a good source of carbohydrates and is easily mixed with other foods.

    Certain treats make a nutritious supplement to a meal and also serve as a good reward for him, but dog biscuits alone to not offer adequate nutrition to be served as meal on their own.

    The majority of young, healthy and active dogs are at a low risk of becoming overweight as the majority of their calorific intake is used during play.

    If you have ever taken your dog off his lead in a large forest or field you will have noticed that he will always do more miles than you because he runs off and comes back as you are walking. This is one of the reasons that he is so healthy. But there will come a point in his life when he is unable to do as much exercise so it is important to control his diet accordingly.

    However, during his more active years it is still important to take care of his diet to ensure that he is receiving a good balance of protein and other valuable nutrients. Your vet will be able to advise you on this matter should any uncertainty arise.

    You may not notice it at first, but should your dog become obese there are certain tell tale signs apart from the obvious physical weight gain. A diminished level of activity not conducive to his age is always a cause for concern, but a likely cause is that he has put on a little weight.

    Another symptom is laboured breathing. If your dog struggles for breath after an activity which he once could do effortlessly then perhaps it is time to get the scales out. As a dog owner it is often difficult to notice if your dog is putting on weight because you see him every day. But paying close attention to other elements of his physical state may enlighten you to any weight problems.

    As the majority of dogs become I their later years it is often difficult for them to loose weight through increased exercise, so it is up to you as a dog owner to monitor and control what the dog eats. A good way of doing this is by simply reducing portion size.
    Be careful about overfeeding a dog on treats

    Be careful about overfeeding a dog on treats

    It is often the case that a regular portion of dry or complete dog food offers more than enough nutrition and therefore it is quite possible to reduce the meal sizes without affecting the nutritional intake of the dog. You should have a target weigh in mind and plan thoroughly the weight loss programme so you can monitor his progress. One advantage of a dieting dog is that he will never sneak a biscuit on the sly so you can keep an exact record of what he has eaten.

    As a dog owner it is important for you to be disciplined. Your dog will probably not notice the reduced size of his meals. But you will, so be sure not to sneak him a treat and hope it does not affect him, because it will, and you will be doing him no favours. So no matter how hungry he looks it is imperative that for him to loose weight you must stick religiously to the diet, or there will be absolutely n point in even starting it.

    * Chocolate can poison dogs and other pets, because of the toxic effects of theobromine – a common component of chocolate intended for humans. In dogs the effects of chocolate poisoning appear within 4 to 24 hours of ingestion and can have fatal consequences.

    ** Results are based on over 9,000 dogs given PDSA pet health checks between March and October 2006 and March and October 2007.

    *** Human obesity research by Southampton and Portsmouth Universities on 18,000 adults. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=454673&in_page_id=1770

    ****Results from the National Child Measurement Programme launched in 2005

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