Cats, Dogs And Human Food - How Can Our Food Harm Our Pets?

Cats, Dogs And Human Food - How Can Our Food Harm Our Pets?

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We're all guilty of it - giving in to those big begging eyes pleading at us for a scrap from the table during dinner. Fido knows just how to get you to concede, and most of us justify that a little won't hurt, or we don't even think of the potential danger at all. But the truth is that human food can be harmful to your pet, and in some cases, can be fatal. It's important to know how certain foods can be unsafe so that you can avoid them for the sake of your animal.

Here is how a few of some of the most common "human foods" become harmful for pets:

Chocolate and other foods containing caffeine

Caffeine is one of the greatest culprits because it contains an alkaloid called theobromine. Theobromine acts as a cardiac stimulant and a diuretic, which in turn can cause a heart attack or other heart and nervous system problems in animals.

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic are potentially harmful due to the fact that both contain thiosulphate, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in cats and dogs. Of the two, onions are the most toxic, as consumption of simply one serving by your pet could result in anemia.

Milk

Milk can harm your pet due to the fact that many dogs and cats tend to be lactose intolerant. The consumption of milk and milk products by a lactose intolerant pet creates a breeding ground for bacteria, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Bones

Bones, although commonly known as a great treat for your dog, are potentially very dangerous for pets. Once eaten, bones can splinter and get stuck in the intestines, causing damage or fatality. In most splinter cases, the bones must be removed surgically.

Other Foods

Other human foods to avoid when feeding your pet are: macadamia nuts, potato peelings and green-looking potatoes, rhubarb leaves, moldy/spoiled foods, alcohol, yeast dough, tomato leaves and stems, broccoli, and raisins or grapes.

Some human foods potentially cause only mild digestive upsets, while others can be fatal. Regardless of the level of danger, the best choice for your pet is to keep him from any potentially harmful foods in order to ensure his health and safety.

During the holiday season, veterinary clinics have noticed a rising in the number of pets that they treat for food-related illnesses. The increase in pet illness is due to the fact that animals are partaking in human foods during mealtime. Although not well known by the public, the consumption of human food to pets is potentially harmful to animals, and in some instances, can be fatal.

The rise in food-related illnesses by pets is a clear indication that the dangers of human food consumption by animals are not understood by the masses.

So, the next time your pet looks up at you with those pleading eyes, show him you care by doing what is truly best for him and feeding him only products meant for pet consumption. In the end, both you and your pet will be glad that you did.

Obedience Coaching For Your Canine

Obedience Coaching For Your Canine

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There are canine that do not have unhealthy behaviors, and even when their homeowners are trying arduous to tech them to obey some easy instructions, these dogs are hardheaded. Chances are high, many owners would just dump them to canine pounds as a result of they are already fed up, and will no longer perceive the habits anymore.

This stuff ought to have been averted if obedience training was used and implemented. Largely obedience training in canine is used to create a groundwork from which the dog and his grasp will discover ways to successfully correspond to each other.

Moreover, obedience training can be employed by canine owners whose canine are behaving badly. It's one way of incorporating self-discipline in the dog's behavior. This sort of training makes him realize that certain behaviors are not allowed and that he mustn't act that way.

When obedience coaching is integrated to a dog's conduct, the canine, in flip, will be able to respond correctly with the correct habits that's expected of him to manifest.

Consequently, many canine homeowners are wondering whether or not it could be better if professional ought to handle their canine's obedience training. Normally, it needs knowledgeable coach or an obedience school to show the proper option to observe a command. Nevertheless, if the canine owner feels he can just do the same, then, there is no particular condition for that matter.

Nevertheless, whether the obedience training is completed at dwelling, by a professional coach, or in an obedience faculty, there are issues that should be thought of when incorporating this type of training. Here is a list of the issues that must be taken into account.

1. Enjoyable

Obedience coaching does not necessarily mean that strict rules ought to be imposed. It is because the canine is not conscious of the the explanation why he needs to be trained. Therefore, for him to answer the commands, the training should be done in such a manner that the canine sees the activity as something that's fun.

The dog would be capable of reply positively if he sees that every time he follows what he is asked to do, he will get rewards or praises, and that's having fun for them.

2. Consistency

In the course of the course of obedience coaching, it is actually essential to have consistency within the training. For example, if a canine was allowed to sit on the rug the other day and when the dog tried to take a seat on the rug at present, he was scolded. Issues like these should not be taken for granted. This can be very necessary to show the canines what he should and shouldn't do and keep on with it. Confusion will solely make the issues worst.

3. Obedience training instructor/coach

When folks choose to enroll their canine in an obedience class, you will need to analyze the trainer earlier than the owner leaves his dog. The character and character of the trainer is extremely important. They should be professional enough to know the right way to deal with the dog's behavior and how you can practice them properly.

4. Referrals

It is best not to strive new and unfamiliar obedience training schools. This may very well be actually dangerous both for you and in your dog. It will be better if canine homeowners will ask for some referrals from their veterinarians, dog breeders, or other people who can give their sincere opinions.

5. Prices

Not all obedience training colleges are created equal. They vary relying on the kind of providers that they offer. Due to this fact, it is best to think about the amount of fees that they supply and the dog homeowners ought to know how to analyze if the costs are worth it.

6. Strategies used within the coaching

It's highly advisable that dog homeowners should ponder first on the form of methods being used in the training. It is because some obedience coaching colleges don't use the suitable technique in training the dog. On this manner, canine owners don't get the outcomes that they'd paid for within the end.

Indeed, obedience coaching could be very helpful in fulfilling many of the canine's essential needs. It offers them one thing to direct their abilities and actions thereby making them reliable and completely happy pets.

Most individuals simply don't know this but one of many reasons why canine behave inappropriately is as a result of they don't have the correct path to guide their actions and that they're confused on how to reply appropriately with the environmental and social variables that they encounter.

With obedience coaching, canine will certainly be on their technique to happier and more enjoyable stick with their masters and the folks round them.

Dog Containment: Understanding Dog Behaviour

Dog Containment: Understanding Dog Behaviour

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You'll find different sorts of dog behaviour which you should really watch out for before dog containment. There are some worth monitoring meticulously to allow the dog owner to cope with these attitudes properly. It is also important to figure out how you'll be able to avoid your pet from acquiring disagreeable manners.

Dogs' Social Behaviour

Dogs are fundamentally social animals. If you leave these animals alone, they turn out to be tendency saddened and are inclined to bark and howl excessively or destroy things inside the home. Nonetheless, proper instruction with Dog Containment can overcome this difficulty.

For some dogs, this can be an act of playing and enjoying all of the points within the property. They are normal for them. Dogs chew on objects, dig holes, or tug at almost everything due to the fact they are plain actions determined by animal instinct. However, these good-natured dog behaviours can hastily turn into destructive manners when the dog becomes bored or lonely. In place of playing with you or sleeping if you go out, it is going to commence entertaining itself by destroying anything it sees.

This can happen if you leave your dog without firm and fail to intermingle with them frequently. It could also come about when you usually do not give them toys and chew items which keep them occupied. A different cause for monotony is burrowing holes so what they will need is always to be busy about some thing. It truly is a matter of a variety of well-managed activities with your dog done often to stop them from acting out. By bringing them outside to a secured and enclosed spot and enable these animals to play and run about, you may burn off lots with the dog's extra power. Now, is dog containment the answer to these issues?

Resolve the Complications of Misbehaving Dogs

Typical walks are an incredible approach to control the irregular behaviour of dogs. You ought to take your dog out far more usually than merely to relieve themselves. Stay clear of finding impatient and converse along with your dog even though strolling in the park. It really is a fine time for bonding and allows your pet to entertain themselves. It really is also the top method to begin teaching them essential talents and what they must keep away from whilst on the road. When the dog has unacceptable mannerisms, it may be time for a lengthy instruction along with the use from the dog containment tools. There is a schedule to follow, a strategy to fulfill and goals to be met. You must be patient even though to be capable of reaching these objectives.

Canine Health Problems

Canine Health Problems

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If you are a dog enthusiast just like me then once the playtime has ended and the water and food bowl are full your next concern is probably the overall health of your hound. While many dogs are very resilient they aren't indestructible. Canine health problems can range from straightforward parasitic problems like ticks and fleas to complete internal health concerns. Let's take a look at dogs in general and what they want to stay happy and healthy.

Dog health care involves the complete dog, not just one specific area. The fundamental requirements are good food, water that is clean and exercise together with a clean area to live in with the waste material removed often. Some dogs appear to really like the odor and taste of animal waste, so it is important to keep them from eating it as it can contain worms as well as other diseases.

The various ages and kinds of dogs require various types of food; for instance, you feed a puppy a different diet then you do a bigger mature dog. A lot of the cheaper foods available have additives in them that aren't healthy for a dog to eat. One method to increase the health of your dog and avoid canine health problems is to read the nutrition labels to determine what is in their food and to prevent feeding your dog foods that can cause difficulties with their digestion.

Be Proactive Towards Dog Health Issues

As with health problems among humans, a proactive strategy is best. This might mean educating yourself as to the needs of your dog and remembering that some breeds tend to be more susceptible to problems with bones or hip displacement whereas other highly developed and special breeds may have tendencies to other problems. If you get educated on what is the distinction between a small problem and what's the root disease, it can mean a lot of time, effort and cash saved in the treatment and cure of canine health problems.

The very best method of treatment is to cure the illness rather than treating the symptoms. This might include homeopathic or other treatments for some issues. One example of this is to use natural ways of controlling fleas or ticks, including common herbs that can be sprinkled in their bedding. Using this method minimizes harmful powder from being absorbed through the skin and into the underlying tissues and organs.

Along with digestive problems and genetically prone tendencies, there are common canine health problems that may happen especially if your dog tends to be left alone for any significant time period. Dogs, like humans need others of their kind to be happy and healthy. Being left alone can cause depressive disorders and owner separation anxiety. There is also the possibility your dog could dig his way out of the yard and become a stray and get into fights with other dogs.

Many canine health problems can be found early if you pay attention to your dog and what bowel and bladder habits she or he has along with their diet. If you notice a sudden change in these habits then you might want to have your dog looked over, particularly if there are dark spots in the feces or if your dog has trouble during his or her toilet time. Monitor what your pet eats and any abnormal reaction, this way you can find out if there are any allergens involved. If so then you can find a food that does not include what they're allergic to and steer clear of the issues.

Pet insurance is one of those topics that's discussed amongst canine owners. Some owners don't see a requirement for it yet others do, particularly if they have a breed of canine that's susceptible to developing canine health problems later. Insurance coverage can help save some costs in vet bills by covering the costs of any procedures or treatments that might be necessary for your dog health care.

Most canine health problems can be found early and handled when owners take the time to educate themselves regarding their dogs and the problems and situations that could occur and how to proceed in an emergency scenario. This knowledge can save your pet's life and let you make a difference if something does happen. Dog health is a matter of responsibility and caring, therefore owners ought to be proactive in keeping educated about their lifelong companion and friend.

How Can I Tell if My Dog Has Worms?

How Can I Tell if My Dog Has Worms?

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Dogs usually aren't too worried about consequences. They love to eat things they shouldn't, roll around in things they shouldn't, and in general, act like a dog. Unfortunately, many of these things can bring on unwanted visitors like worms into your dog's world.

Fortunately, if you detect worms early it keeps them from getting worse, thereby making the problem as easy as possible on your dog.

Symptoms for dogs that may have worms:

* Coat no longer shiny

* Not hungry

* Can't get enough to drink

* You see worms or eggs in your dog's feces - This is the most common way to confirm worms. Remember though, not all kinds of worms are visible to the naked eye.

* Visible worms in the area around dog's rear - Tapeworms can appear as small moving segments, and later dry out to look like grains of rice.

* Rubbing the rear on the ground or against furniture - if your dog has an itch in its rear, it may be from worms in the area. However, this could also be from gland issues not related to worms.

* Vomiting, possibly even with visible worms.

* Bloated stomach or belly - This can often occur in puppies who receive worms from their mother.

* Weakness, constant hunger, weight loss - Worms can steal the nutrition your dog should be getting from it's food. This can cause your dog to be weak or constantly hungry, and in some cases, may be losing weight.

* Diarrhea, especially if it contains blood.

Symptoms for dogs [http://www.symptomsfordogs.com] that have worms can usually be treated, should be addressed right away for best results.

How a dog gets worms:


Heartworms can be transmitted from mosquito bites.

Tapeworm infection can be caused by swallowing infected fleas.

Hookworm infection can be caused by swallowing the hookworm eggs or larvae. This can also affect the fetus inside the womb of an infected mother. Drinking water with hookworm larvae in it may also result in hookworm infection.

Roundworms can also infect a puppy fetus while inside the womb. Ingesting infected animals can also infect your dog with round worms.

Whipworms infection occurs due to drinking contaminated water or eating something contaminated.

To prevent worm symptoms for dogs:

Get puppies tested early. As soon as three weeks after birth. They may already be infested and will need to be treated right away.

Get your dog a yearly exam and have a stool specimen checked. Several products exists that protect against roundworms and heartworms.

Keep fleas away. Fleas can transmit tapeworm if your dog swallows them.

Keep your dog away from wildlife, where parasites abound. Dog parks that are not well maintained are a common source of parasites.

Prevent your dog from eating dead animals, such as those of birds, rabbits and rodents. Carcasses can carry worms.

Prevent your dog from eating feces. Yes, this should be obvious, but it is the most common way a dog gets intestinal parasites.

If symptoms in your dog indicate worms, take him/her to the vet to diagnose the condition. Provide your dog with proper treatment to avoid any complications.

Home Remedies for Dog Hair Loss

Home Remedies for Dog Hair Loss

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Just like how we suffer from hair loss, dogs too have this problem! Hair loss in the course of shedding is usual for dogs. For example, German shepherds and Bernese mountain dogs will shed more hair than wheaten terriers and a few types of Spaniels. Also, all the dogs will shed more during the longer days beginning in the summer than they will during the shorter days starting in the winter. This is due to the seasonal shedding rotations related to variations in light. However, when extreme shedding occurs, especially to the point of baldness, dog hair loss can be a signal of deeper issues.

Symptoms of Dog Hair Loss

Hair loss in dogs is more often than not accompanied by other symptoms like itching and skin irritation. A dog's hair loss indication can be the effect of numerous medical problems including mange, mites, ticks or dermatitis. Home remedies for treating dog hair loss are safe to try to provide momentary relief, but a definite opinion of the reasons should be taken from a vet. Mentioned below are some of the home remedies you can try to get rid of the problem of hair shedding.

Tips of Home Remedies for Dog Hair Loss

1. One of the best ways to reduce excessive shedding in dogs is to start with a healthy diet. Feed your dog with a homemade mix of fully-cooked rice, cooked vegetables and boiled chicken. This home food remedy may reduce the allergies caused by food to your dog and helps in reducing the hair fall.

2. Goldenseal is an excellent natural treatment for dog hair loss as long as it is not overdone. Make a weak mixture of goldenseal tea and apply it to the affected area. Goldenseal is powerful, so be sure not to make the tea too strong.

3. Another home remedy for hair shedding in dogs is to mix a small amount of flaxseed oil in your dog's food. Flaxseed oil contains high amounts of Omega 3, an excellent natural treatment for dog hair loss. After a few weeks you would see the change in your dog's hair fall. It is good for other health benefits too.

4. Olive oil is a good home remedy to apply on dog's coat and skin. It will help moisturize as well as pacify any pain caused by severe itching. Another benefit of olive oil is that it will choke mites, if those fleas are the cause of dog's hair loss. Olive oil is said to give the dog a fine and healthy coat with an amazing shine.

5. Lemon juice has natural antibacterial properties that can be used to treat excessive hair shedding in dogs. Introduce a slice of lemon in warm water and leave for five hours. Strain afterward and apply the lemon juice mixture as a rinse or as a spot treatment.

6. An additional home remedy to follow is to pat your dog in the backyard after the bath and then brush him down. By this way, all the unwanted hair on the dog's coat is removed. Regular baths encourage loose hair to fall out in the tub (or outside) instead of on your furniture. However over-bathing can cause dry skin, which causes fur to fall out.