Dog Pawlor

Animal cruelty is a daunting subject, but it is something we should not ignore. Many of us probably have heard or seen cases of cruelty to animals and taking a proper action is very important in such situations. No animals deserve cruel and unethical treatment. The American Society for the Cruelty for Animals (ASPCA) defines animal cruelty as acts of violence or neglect perpetrated against animals. Cruelty to animals can fall into to two main categories: intentional cruelty or neglect.

Intentional cruelty involves inflicting wounds or harm on animals including torturing, maiming or even killing. Engaging in intentional cruelty is a sign of a serious psychological problem and those individual may also have engaged in other crimes or predisposed to be a perpetrator of many other acts of violence.

Neglect is the failure to provide basic necessities such as food, water, shelter and veterinary care. Unlike intentional cruelty, neglect can often be unintentional, as a result of mere ignorance of the owner. Many unintentional neglect cases can be corrected by educating the owner. If the owner refuses to cooperate or fails to correct the problem, the animal can be removed by law enforcement agencies.

Each state/local animal cruelty laws are different. In most states, intentional cruelty is a felony. Agencies (animal control agency, humane society, or animal shelter) that has authority to enforce such laws rely on tips from concerned citizens to investigate and solve the situation. What you can do to help is to learn signs of animal cruelty and observe your neighborhood animals. If you see signs listed below, call the local agency that is responsible for investigating animal cruelty. You can remain anonymous if you wish to. Avoid direct confrontation with an owner of an animal you suspect being abused.

Signs of Possible Animal Cruelty:

• Wounds (fresh or ones left untreated)
• Excessive amount of scars
• Limping
• Apparent medical problems that are left untreated (excessive hair loss due to mange, large growth on the body, enlarged eye, etc. – anything that seems abnormal left untreated for a long period of time)
• Sick animals left untreated
• Emaciated
• Embedded collar
• Dogs who are (often chained) denied access to food and water repeatedly
• Excessive flea and/tick infestation left untreated
• Left (often chained) outside without adequate shelter, especially during extreme weather

Along with reporting animal cruelty here are other things you can do to help:

• Support your local animal shelters and animal welfare groups by donating and/or volunteering
• Support organizations such as ASPCA, HSUS, etc.
• Talk to your kids about being kind to animals

If you see a case of animal cruelty, please don’t turn your back. Because that animal needs your help and you CAN make a difference in his/her life.

Tags: Animal Welfare

Thousands of dogs become lost every day. It is important to make sure your dog has a proper identification in case he/she becomes lost. With a proper identification, there are far better chances your dog will return home sooner and safer.

Collar and ID tag:
An ID tag attached to a collar is the most common and economical way to identify your dog. One of the downside of the ID tag is that it is easily removed – accidentally or intentionally. One of the solutions to such situations is to microchip your dog.

Microchip:
A microchip is a tiny computer chip that contains unique identification number programmed into it. The chip, about the size of a rice grain, is injected under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The procedure can be done at participating veterinarian’s office. Once injected, the identification number cannot be lost or altered. Many shelters and veterinarians are equipped with microchip scanners. If they pick your dog up as a stray, they will first scan your dog to see if he/she has microchip implanted. Once the number is read, they can contact the microchip manufacturer’s registry or national database to get information on the dog’s owner. The cost of microchip varies, but usually runs about a little over $50.

Tattoo:
Tattooing is another way of permanent identification. Tattooing can be applied at the veterinarian’s office or by a skilled individual at tattoo clinic. The procedure can be done in a few minutes with little pain. Anesthesia is usually unnecessary, but if your dog is having other procedures such as spay/neuter or teeth cleaning, it may be a good idea to have it done then. Once the tattoo is applied, be sure to register the number with an organization like National Dog Registry.

Permanent identification is also a good way to protect your dog from a pet thief. For example, if a pet thief tries to sell a dog with microchip or tattoo to a research laboratory, the lab will not accept the dog. Even if your dog has microchip or tattoo, be sure to have your dog wear a collar and id tag.

Tags: Identification

Your pets are important members of your family. Be prepared for disasters of any kind by making a plan ahead. Remember, disasters can strike anytime, anywhere!

Here are some tips on preparing for disasters:

Make a list of safe places to stay in advance:

• Make a list of pet-friendly hotels and motels outside of your immediate area
• Check with your families and friends outside of your immediate area to see if they can accommodate you and/or your pets if a disaster strikes
• Make a list of human societies and animal shelters near you

Prepare emergency supply kits for EACH of your pet:

• Food (dry and/or can), food bowl, and manual can opener
• Water and water bowl
• Medications, if any
• Medical records, vaccination certificates
• Well-ventilated, secure crate or carrier
• Extra set of leash, collar, and ID tag
• Photos and descriptions of your pet, in case of accidental separation during the evacuation
• Name and phone number of your veterinarian
• Cleaning supplies such as paper towels, rags, trash bags, pet-safe disinfectant
• Blanket and toy
• First aid kit

A proper identification is very important at all times!

• Be sure that your dog is wearing up-to-date identification at all times
• Include the alternate phone number (other than your home telephone number) on the identification tag
• Collars can be lost- consider micro-chipping your pets

Notification:

• Place a decal on your front window or door to let the authorities know that there are animals inside in case when you are not home at the time of the disaster

Tags: Safety

Following foods are toxic to your dogs. Avoid feeding them to your dogs!

• Alcoholic Beverages
• Avocados
• Bitter almonds
• Broccoli (in large amounts)
• Caffeine – i.e. Coffee beans & grounds, tea, etc.
• Chocolate
• Cigarettes, tobacco, cigars
• Fatty Foods
• Grapes and raisins (including all associated products, such as juice or wine)
• Hops (use in home beer brewing)
• Macadamia nuts
• Moldy or spoiled foods
• Onions or onion powder
• Pits and seeds from fruits (apple, apricot, peach, plum, and some varieties of cherry)
• Potato peelings and green parts of potatoes (green peelings, sprouts and foliage)
• Processed Sugar (can cause diabetes)
• Rhubarb leaves
• Salt
• Tomato leaves & stems (green parts)
• Yeast Dough

Tags: Safety

Why is chocolate toxic to dogs?
Theobromine, a naturally occurring stimulant found in chocolate is responsible for a toxic reaction. Theobromine occurs naturally in cocoa beans which is present in all chocolate products. Dogs do not metabolize theobromine as fast as humans do – therefore, it can cause a serious reaction on their heart, kidneys, and central nervous system.

How much chocolate is too much for dogs?
The amount of theobromine in chocolate depends on the kind of chocolate and the serving size. Baking chocolate contains far more thebromine than milk chocolate. On average, baking chocolate contains 390mg thebromine per ounce and milk chocolate contains 44mg thebromine per ounce.

To determine “how much is too much?” can be difficult since many factors such as the dog’s health, age and size are involved. However, it is estimated that toxic reactions can occur with the theobromine ingestion of 45mg per pound of a dog’s body weight.

What are the signs of chocolate poisoning in dogs?
Common signs of chocolate poisoning include (but not limited to) vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, restlessness, excessive panting, muscle twitching, and increased heart rate. Seizures, coma and even death can occur with chocolate poisoning.

If you suspect your dog has ingested chocolate, seek veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY!

Tags: Dog Health, Safety

Do you give up having a dog because you or any members of your family are allergic to dogs? There is no such thing as “non-allergenic” dogs, but there are some breeds that cause fewer allergy problems.

Many people think that pet allergies have something to do with the amount and length of animal’s fur, but this is not true. Offending allergens to humans are found in dog’s dander (dead skin that is shed), saliva and urine. Dander is the most significant dog allergen among these allergens. There are some dog breeds that produce less dander and they are called hypoallergenic breeds.

Hypoallergenic DOES NOT mean non-allergenic. Those who are allergic to dogs can still have reactions from hypoallergenic breeds, but because of their coat type, they may have fewer allergic reactions.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds (Listed in alphabetical order):

American Hairless Terrier
Basenji
Bedlington Terrier
Bichion Frise
Chinese Crested (Hairless, Powder Puff)
Coton de Tulear
Irish Water Spaniel
Kerry Blue Terrier
Maltese
Poodles (all sizes)
Portuguese Water Dog
Schnauzers (all sizes)
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless)

Tags: Allergies

Anyone in any age group can be allergic to dogs. In a worst case scenario, you don’t know that you are allergic to dogs until you actually have one. Offending allergens to humans can be found in dog’s dander (dead skin that is shed), saliva and urine. Once allergens are airborne, they adhere to clothing, walls, furniture and other surfaces and remain active in the environment for a long time.

Reactions to dog allergens can include stuffy nose, inflamed eyes, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulties in breathing, asthma, rashes, etc… Healthcare professionals suggest that the best treatment is to avoid contact with dogs, but to many of us, this is not an option. If you are one of those unfortunate ones who are allergic to your own dog, here are some steps you can take to relieve your allergy problems:

• Wash your hands every time after you touch your dog.
• Clean your house frequently and thoroughly, especially carpets and upholstered furniture. Wash walls and baseboards and clean air ducts. Wash draperies and rugs in hot water.
• When vacuuming, wear a dust mask. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter. Bare floors are better than carpeted floors for allergy sufferers, but if you are unable to remove carpets, steam clean them frequently.
• Replace central heating/cooling air filters frequently.
• Use air cleaner with a HEPA filter.
• Do not allow your dog to enter your bedroom. Keep the bedroom door closed at all times.
• Cover central heating/cooling air vents with thin, dense material such as cheesecloth in your bedroom.
• Wash your dog’s bedding and toys frequently in hot water.
• Bathe your dog once a week and brush him/her frequently. Use shampoo that does not dry out your dog’s skin. You may also add a supplement that contains quality essential fatty acids (important building blocks in healthy skin) that helps reduce dry skin and flakes to your dog’s diet.

Tags: Allergies

For most of us, getting a prescribed medication only takes a few steps: See a doctor, get a prescription, and fill it at a pharmacy – either retail or online. So, when it comes to getting a medication for your dog, what are the options?

The easiest and most common way to get a prescription for your dog is to get it from your veterinarian. This works fine for something like antibiotics for infections, but what if your dog needs long term medications like arthritis medication, eye drops for glaucoma treatment, etc? By using an online pet pharmacy, you can often save money and trips to your vet’s office.

How Does Online Pet Pharmacy Work?
Ordering from online pet pharmacy is easy, just like ordering any pet supplies. Only difference is you will need a prescription from your veterinarian. There are usually four different ways to submit the prescription: mail the prescription; fax the prescription; have your veterinarian call the pharmacy; or have the pharmacy call your veterinarian.

How to save money on your dog’s medications:

* Always compare prices of pet medications.

* Search online coupons for the merchant you are using.

* Most online pet pharmacies also sell non-prescription items as well. So you can add these items to your prescription order. You may qualify for multiple order discounts or any special offer (such as free shipping) they may have.

Tags: Dog Health, medications, Save Money

Do you ever wish you could take extraordinary pictures of your dog? Most dogs do not know how to say cheese or pose for pictures, but it can be done – and you don’t really need to hire a professional photographer to do the job. All it takes is a little practice and patience.

Here are some dog photography tips!

Preparation:
Unclutter the area that you are taking pictures of your dog in. Keep backgrounds as plain as possible. Have treats and/or your dog’s favorite toys handy. They are great attention getters.

Choosing a right environment:
Take pictures where your dog can relax and be himself. Avoid an unfamiliar environment or place with distractions, such as a park with many people and other dogs. Try to take pictures outside so that you can avoid using flash. When outside, make sure your dog is not under direct sunlight or he will be squinting his eyes! Choose lighter color background for dark color dog and vise versa.

Eye-to-eye contact:
Avoid taking pictures from your eye level. Kneel or sit (or even lie down) and hold the camera at the dog’s eye level to capture his sweet, innocent or even mischievous expressions. Nobody can resist those big, droopy puppy eyes!

Practice makes it perfect:
Taking a lot of pictures will increase your chance of capturing the perfect moment. Try both vertical and horizontal shots and different angles to create different effects.

Be patient:
Do not force your dog to pose or act in a certain way. Just wait for your dog to situate himself for the photo session and be himself. Dogs have short attention spans, so try to keep the photo session short.

Tags: Dog Photography, Fun Stuff

Good oral hygiene is a very important part of your dog’s overall health. People tend to think giving biscuits and dental bones/toys would to their dogs would be enough to keep their teeth clean, but it’s not that simple. They do help reduce plaque on your dog’s teeth, but not all. Plaque left on your dog’s teeth hardens into tartar. Your dog can develop dental problems and even other health problems as a result of tartar built-up (calculus). If you notice symptoms like bad breath, swollen and bleeding gums, changes in eating or chewing habits, do not ignore them. Your dog could be suffering from serious periodontal disease.

With a proper care, dental problems can easily be prevented. Here are some tips to good canine oral hygiene.

Visit your veterinarian for checkup:
Thorough dental checkup should be a part of your dog’s annual physical examination. If tartar buildup is present, your dog may need professional dental cleaning. Ask your veterinarian when to schedule periodic cleanings.

Brush your dog’s teeth regularly:
Brush your dog’s teeth at least twice a week or more (preferably daily) with a toothbrush and toothpaste especially made for dogs. Do not use human Toothpaste. It can upset your dog’s digestive system.

Provide chew toys and chewables:
Exercising and massaging gums with chew toys and chewable such as rawhide help strengthen gums and reduce plaque. They also satisfy your dog痴 need to chew and can be great stress relievers. Always supervise your dog while he chews.

Tags: Dog Health