Life-Threatening Bugs to Be Aware of (A Guest Post)

It's been quite a while since we've had someone do a guest post for us. And we're truly sorry for not visiting you guys. Don't worry! Them goggies are in SUPER condition. 

We've had a few bumps in the road-- Chooey's eye surgery, Baby Girl's spaying and surgery, Asti's corneal ulcer due to old age... and Cheetos (don't get me starting with Cheetos). I got battle scars: attempted bites, scratch marks, and nail punctures.

Thousands of dangerous insects and bugs present today could harm you, your family, and even your pets. They could be living in your home right now. To prevent any life-threatening events, you need to be aware of some of the common dangerous bugs. Once you know more about them, you can avoid interacting with them and do whatever it takes to exterminate them.

Black Widow

A black widow is highly poisonous and has a venom that is 14 times even more potent than that of a rattlesnake. Though the death rate when bitten by this spider is 5%, they do cause several symptoms that may kill you if not addressed quickly. Here are some effects of getting bitten by a black widow:

• muscle aches
• nausea
• difficulty in breathing

The good news is, they will not try to bite you unless they feel threatened. Also, you will not feel any pain. However, you might not notice it because of the same reason. Children who weigh under 15 kilograms and the elderly need to avoid interacting with a black widow at all costs since they are most vulnerable. People with heart conditions are also at higher risk of suffering from severe symptoms.

Fire Ants

As the name suggests, these ants are red and attack people with both a sting and bite. You will need to avoid fire ant mounds as these mounds will contain more than 100,000 of these bugs. Once they've latched on people, they will continuously inject histamine, which is their venom, into the body. They will only stop once you brush them off or kill them. Its sting may not be life-threatening, but the infections that may occur because of it may be unsafe. If you get bitten, you may experience one or a couple of these:

• pain, swelling, itching, and redness of the puncture site
• excessive sweating
• slurred speech
• chest pain
• shortness of breath

Kissing Bug

You can find this bug mostly in the southern part of the United States. The kissing bug carries with it Chaga's diseases. You may suffer from this condition when the insect delivers its feces into your bloodstream. Chaga's disease will cause severe symptoms, like:

• body aches
• swelling and redness at the bite site
• fever
• fatigue
• nausea and vomiting
• liver enlargement
• edema around the eye
• heart failure and other conditions

Ticks

Ticks bring with them various kinds of infections. The most common ones that people know of are Lyme disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. However, they could also infect you with other viruses and bacteria like Heartland virus, Possawan virus, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. All of these infections can be life-threatening not only to you, humans but also to your pet companions.

Asian Giant Hornets

This strain of hornet is the biggest and deadliest one in the world yet. You can find these scary bugs, mostly in Southeast and East Asia. However, you may also encounter them in Virginia and Illinois. The Asian Giant Hornet has such a potent venom that can damage your blood cells, which could lead to kidney failure. If you do not get it treated swiftly and correctly, you may die. These giant hornets are attracted to your sweat and the taste and smell of alcohol and sweets.

Arizona Bark Scorpions

Not all scorpions have potent venom, but those that do can kill a person. The Arizona Bark Scorpions are one of the most dangerous scorpions that you can find in the United States. You can search for them in the Sonoran Desert, which is in Arizona and California. These scorpions don't have the best vision, and they rely mostly on their sense of smell and the vibrations they feel. If you get stung by this scorpion, you may experience:

• painful swelling at the sting site
• difficulty in breathing
• muscle spasms

Puss Caterpillar
If you see something that looks cute in the wild, try to restrain yourself from touching it. It could be a puss caterpillar, which has strands of hair coming out from all sides. These hairs are toxic that will stick on your body and can cause a very painful reaction. It is known to be the most dangerous caterpillar in the U.S. Once you get stung, you will feel immediate pain not only on the infection site but even in your bones. Also, the sensation will rapidly worsen. Looks really can be deceiving!

Africanized Honey Bees

The other name for these species is a killer bee. This strain was the result of the accidental cross-breeding of African honey bees and European honey bees many years ago. You can now encounter these deadly bees in southern Texas and San Francisco. The problem with this hybrid is that they react much faster when disturbed. They could attack any living creature that creates colony disturbance at a much more aggressive way compared to other species. Once you remove the bee's stinger and venom from its body, it will immediately die.

Brown Recluse Spider

For those of you living in the Southeastern and Midwestern states, be cautious of these spiders. They look different from other species as they don't have eight eyes, and has a violin pattern on their backs. Good news for you is, they will not attack you if you do not aggravate them in any way. They hide in warm and dark environments, so there is a possibility that they could be living in your closets.

Precautionary Measures

To avoid any life-threatening events, you will need to be more careful and be more aware of your environment. Your home could be harboring some insects, arachnids, bugs, etc. that may be harmful to your health. Try to have an exterminator come and check out all parts of your house regularly.

Also, you need to know more about what kinds of insects are in your state. You need to be aware of these pieces of information to discover what you need to do to avoid them and when you get bitten by them.

For your pets, take a step further by buying them the best flea and tick shampoo. If they use this shampoo, both you and your animal companion will benefit from it.

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Cornerstone to Your Dog’s Health

I just love a good, informative article about dogs. So, today, although we've been really busy in the household, I'd love to share this with everyone.

Spending on pets continues to exceed almost all other retail sales in the U.S., with an increase of 4.2 percent last year.  Total up owner’s expenses for pet food, veterinary care, services and supplies like over-the-counter medications, beds, bowls, collars and toys, and they top $58 billion – an all-time high, according to the latest industry report.

Owners spent the most money on food – 22 billion, thanks to extending their interest in the quality and source of food to their pets, says the American Pet Products Association, which issues the annual economic review. Veterinary visits were second in expenditures at $15.7 billion.  Noteworthy is the fact that as owners spend more on food; vet visits continue to rise for their dog’s diet related health issues. Experts in canine nutrition surmise that while today’s pet food provides the necessary nutrients for physical well being, dogs struggle to digest essential elements from the food.

The manufacturing of dog food removes native enzymes and various microbes that assist digestion.  This is problematic because dogs lack any digestive enzymes in their saliva leaving them to rely on probiotic components in their food for a healthy digestive process.   To remedy dog food’s limitations health conscious owners are adding probiotic supplements to their dog’s food.  Dog supplements formulated to strengthen the canine digestive process combined with a nutrient dense dog food creates the conditions for superior health.  The veterinarian profession is slow to direct dog owners to adopt supplements, however feeding regimens that include added probiotics are reducing diet related veterinarian visits. 

Selecting a healthy dog food requires a basic idea on the percentages of protein, fat, and fiber required in a dog’s diet and a source for comparing various brands (Visit DogFoodAdvisors.com or see the Dog Infographic on Dog Food below).

Selecting a healthy dog supplement requires choosing a formulation containing specific types of enzymes.  Dogs have very short and acidic GI tracts, the acids neutralize enzymes found in simple pet store supplements, for this reason certain types of enzymes are required in canine formulations (Visit VitaHound.com).

Chronic conditions related to diet develop very slowly over years, selecting the right dog food and dog supplement early in dog ownership prevents the conditions in a dog’s body that produce disease.   A nutritious diet and a vital digestive system is the cornerstone of any dog’s health and typically permits them to age gracefully in their senior years with limited veterinarian care.

Author: Brent Harte

We are dog lovers, in the business of developing superior canine health care products.  Google Author Brent Harte

Want to learn more about the Dog Food Industry? Check this infographic out.

More Dog Infographics at our Pinterest Board.

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Keep Your Pets Safe Around Your Swimming Pool (Guest Post)

We interrupt our weekly programming with this guest post by Kaitlin Gardner on canine pool safety.

By Prachya Singhto [CC0], via Wikimedia Commons

It may be something most backyard pool (and pet) owners overlook, but the fact is that not all dogs are natural swimmers. Additionally, having a backyard pool does present a risk—even to animals that are comfortable in the water. But there are some easy, inexpensive ways to ensure that your pets stay safe around your pool. Here are a few links to some great ideas for blending pets and pools:

• 9 Must Read Tips to Keep Your Dog Afloat
• Keep Your Dog Safe Around the Pool this Summer
• 6 Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Pool Infographics

A Few Simple Steps

For any pet that is comfortable in the water, especially many breeds of dogs, a cool pool on a hot day is a welcome sight. What’s more, getting in is easy! But keep in mind that dogs don’t necessarily know how to get out of a pool. Many pool owners have had to rescue perfectly good swimmers because their dogs insist on trying to struggle out of the pool on one of the edges, which is nearly impossible for any dog and may result in injured paws and claws.

David Stowell [CC-BY-SA-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Before you allow your dog free access to your pool, train him as you would for any other task. With a few treats in hand, leash your dog and walk him over to the steps in the shallow end. As you both enter the water together, he will likely try to paddle without even using the first step. Still, try to get him to stand on the first step before you unhook his leash. Then let him paddle around the shallow end.

By David Shankbone (Own work) [CC-BY-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

After just a moment in the water, show him the treats and call him. Stand on the pool deck so that he must exit the pool using the first step. Once he is up on the deck, give him the treat. Enter the water again with him, but this time, stay in a little longer. When it is time to exit, again, stand on the deck and show him the treats. If he begins to swim over to the edge of the pool away from the steps, get back into the water and go toward him. Show him the treats and entice him over to the steps. Exit the pool and when he follows you out of the pool using the steps, give him a treat. This will reinforce the habit of exiting the pool at the shallow end.

Cover it up

By vastateparksstaff [CC-BY-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Pool covers are another way to not only keep your pool’s heat contained, but keep unwanted critters (pets and wildlife) out of it. While solar covers that lay on the surface of the water won’t do much for keeping an animal out, they may even present further risk if the animal is caught underneath and is unable to find its way out. If you have a dog or other pets that don’t see well, it may be worth the added one-time investment in a more sturdy cover that is attached to a track on each side of the pool, which automatically covers the pool tightly and securely. Other covers that roll out may also be attached to the pool deck.

Fencing Options

To keep unwanted animals (and people!) out of your pool with no maintenance and just a one-time expense, it may be wise to install a “play-pen” style fence around the perimeter of your pool. These fences contain the pool and pool deck (including portions of grass or flowerbeds) and can also feature a self-closing gate that shuts securely.

When choosing the height and style of your fencing, think about your dog’s habits and abilities. Small dog only? Large dog that can jump or dig? Of course, if you have small children in addition to dogs or other animals that need protecting, a five-foot fence with a secure latch is a perfect solution.

Author's Bio:

Kaitlin Gardner started AnApplePerDay.com to further her passion for a family friendly, green living lifestyle. She is married to her college sweetheart and lives in Pennsylvania. She and her husband enjoy going for long hikes, to get out and enjoy nature. She is working on her first book about ways to live an eco-friendly, healthy, natural life.

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Dogs in Action: Ball Acrobats and Whitey Update

Whitey's update is at the bottom of this post.

Cheezy the Dog vs. Squeaking Ball in the Air

Coal vs. Puppy vs. Cheezy vs. PJ vs. Squeaker Ball.
Squeaker ball loses from the start.

*****

Thank you for all paws and prayers sent our way, everybody. We had Whitey admitted at the vetties for two days.

He's still emaciated and dehydrated, so we're taking care of him with round the clock care. He gets force-fed water 4 times a day (because he's not on IV drip), and he eats 3-4 times a day, too. You'd think he's just pretending to be sick because he's grown picky. He hates recovery food and will only eat liver, chicken meat or beef meat-- oh, and cream cheese, too!

The vet says he has Chronic Renal Failure. I'm still researching on ways to manage it. We're now on kidney care and iron supplements, diuretics, and Doxycycline. I'll be talking about this another time, though. 

For those who's dealt with kidney failure before, could you share your experiences with us.

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How To Make Your Garden Safe and Pet Friendly (and Update)

I've always talked about dogs before... Today, I want to talk about pets in general. After all, we have crazy pigeons and a pond filled with shubunkins and kois.

This is our fish pond at night!

We are a nation of animal lovers without doubt. Pets are almost as important to some people as their children, and they will go to any expense and effort to keep their furry friends safe and happy. You can find cats and dogs with diamond studded collars often being carried everywhere by eccentric masters. I often wonder if their feet ever touch the ground. This attitude completely dumbfounds other people. I guess being an animal lover is just a part of your genetic make up.

Siamese Cat 01 by Tigikrak, CC-BY-2.0

Keeping pets can be an expensive business. Take for instance, veterinary bills for inoculations or illnesses that can run into thousands of pounds. The cost of a pedigree animal to begin with is astronomic. It can be an emotional and financial disaster if harm comes to your pet. We will address here, a few things you can do to keep your pet happy and safe in your garden.

Dogs

Your pedigree pooch is probably your best friend too. What can we do to make his life a little better? Well, if he spends a lot of time in the garden, he will be glad of a drink and somewhere to cool off occasionally. A shallow pond is ideal for this. The pond will need to be filtered to some extent and biological filters can be found in aquatic centres or online for a low price.

A suitable area of shade from the sun should be arranged, dogs aren’t keen sunbathers and suffer readily from the heat. The shade can be provided by a tree, bush, or a purpose built shelter. It need not be a complicated affair.

Dogs love to dig so an area of unplanted ground may save your lawn from devastation. It is best if the ground is not too compacted so may benefit from being turned over occasionally.

Jackson, Lawn Ornament by Greg, CC-BY-2.0

Good quality and sturdy garden fencing is a vital part of your scheme. Dogs can scramble over high fences, but you are usually safe with a fence of six feet or more. This is achieved with 1 foot gravel boards and 5 feet panels. The gravel board could also be half buried to prevent your dog digging a way out.

Avoid thorny planting in the garden for dogs, they are not as agile as cats and can cut themselves. If the cut becomes infected, it could lead to more vet bills.

Cats

Cats are far less demanding than dogs but still need a little consideration. If your cat is the love of your life and you wish to keep it enclosed in your garden, adaptations are available for your existing fence and are easily installed.

It is always a good idea to provide your cat with an enclosure into which a dog could not fit, if one gained access to your garden. A bolt hole, if you will.

A clean water source should be kept in the garden at all times, though the cat doesn’t need to cool off in a pond.

I Luv Catnip by barockschloss, CC-BY-2.0

Investing in some catnip plants could give your cat a constant high. It is probably best to keep these plants in pots and just put them out for a treat occasionally.

Fish

The poor fish will be under attack from cats, dogs, and birds. If your situation requires it, a mesh cover will need to be placed over the pond. Koi carp and other fishes are very expensive and need close care. Ensure that your fish have the best filtration system you can afford. That is, of course, unless you have a natural, self-sustaining pond.

Planning your garden correctly need is a one-time expense. With a little imagination, and by using the tips here, you will be able to keep your best friend healthy, safe, and happy. We owe them that at least.

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Infographics: Statistics on Choosing Veterinary Careers

Who doesn't love taking care of animals?

Let's face it, if you want to earn money and help care for animals aside from your own, the best career to choose from includes being veterinarian, a vet technician or a vet technologists.

Here's a great infographic share by Brown Mackie College.

"Veterinary Careers" infographic brought to you by Brown Mackie.

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Oh, Bloody Poop!

I just hate it... I just hate dealing with bloody poop.

 

First, it was Shark with Parvo... Then, it was China and PJ with Parvo. This time, it's Buchi with bloody stool.

Warning: The image you're about to see will scar you for life!

I blurred it, but be warned! The actual non-pixelated photo is directly at the bottom. Time to close your eyes. 

Now that that's out of the way, let me tell you the story of Buchi's bloody dog poop. Yesterday, one of our housemates called me to check where Buchi was. And she starts the conversation with something like this, "don't get worried, okay?"

Seriously?!? If it's something about the dogs, I get all ballistic and insanely worried. So, I follow her downstairs and she presents me with the bloody mucoidal stool of the evil Shih Tzu who's full sickies (just kidding on the evil part)!

Lo and behold, a new present in the form of feces with blood and mucus. (Apologies for my bluntness. I just too stressed at the moment).

Actual photo. Sorry for grossing anybody out.

I immediately take a sample of the messy thing, place it on a container, take its picture, and have Buchi taken to the vet.

Bad News: It got me worried sick (especially since we've been having the bi-monthly vet check-up  since June 2013). I've considered a number of things: from the meds his taking tirelessly and his current lifestyle because of the E-collar.

Good News: The vet says she couldn't find anything on the sample. However, she did mention that Buchi had an upset stomach due to overeating. Yes, thin dogs DO overeat. 

Nonetheless, Doctor M prescribed Vibravet (Doxycycline monohydrate) for Buchi's stool problem. 

Treatment: Just to follow our new medication and keep a close eye on the culprit (*cough* evil little Shih Tzu with skin and poop problems).

And the usual Dextrose Powder.

Has anybody ever experienced dealing with so many problems at one time?

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Keep Your Dog Smiling Pretty (Guest Post)

Your dog’s smile is an important part of her health. They need your help to keep their pearly whites, well – pearly. Not to mention the inevitable tartar build up and periodontal disease your dog will face if you neglect this important part of dog ownership.

If your dog is over five years old there is an 85% chance they will suffer from periodontal disease, which develops when food particles and bacteria collect along the gum line form plaque which turns into a harder substance known as tarter over time. If left untreated, the gums will become inflamed, separate from the teeth, which leave pockets for bacteria to grow – aka periodontal disease. If your poor pup gets to this stage she will feel intense pain, lose some teeth and gain mouth abscesses. Visit this website for a list of periodontal disease symptoms.

Rin's got chews... not the indestructible ones, though.

The bacterial infection can easily enter the blood stream and cause all sorts of problems, so it’s time to take an interest in the health of your dog’s smile. Here are some things you can do to help prevent the big-bad yourself: gum and teeth inspections, brushing, adequate chewable.

Gum and teeth inspections

Get your dog’s teeth inspected by your veterinarian and ask questions during your annual checkup. Get your dog used to you poking around his mouth with baby steps. Start by touching her lips for a moment, letting go and then giving a treat.

Work your way up to lifting up the lip, then lightly touching the teeth, but never push the dog past the point of comfort. Look for plaque and tartar, gum inflammation and abnormal gum lines (gums that have a slight wave or curve where they meet the tooth instead of a straight line). Once your dog is used to inspections, you are ready to move on to brushing.

Make sure you are brushing your dog’s teeth properly

· Use toothpaste made for dogs, NEVER human toothpaste!

· It’s best to start the healthy habit young, but it’s never too late.

· Brush every other day (at least three times a week), because plaque turns to tartar in just two days. If your dog has already developed periodontal disease then brush daily.

· Get the dog used to brushing in stages.

· Don’t punish the dog if they resist, but slowly allow your dog to get used to the necessary procedure.

Let your dog chew

Feeding dry kibble food, bones and rawhide naturally helps remove plaque and tartar. There are also some good toys and treats that will help with plaque, just make sure they are approved by the VOHC which means they are proven to reduce plaque by 20%.

Following these tips will help freshen your dog’s breath while improving your dog’s overall health. You classy canine companions don’t always know what’s good for them, but if you are gentle in your presentation of dental hygiene your dog will smile pretty for years to come!

Author's Bio:

I’m Cindy Romero, an animal rights activist and mother to two dogs who love to brush their teeth every day.

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Pet Dentistry: Do It For Your Best Friend's Health (Guest Post)

Most humans go to the dentist on a regular basis (or at least, know that they’re supposed to!) We know the importance of having our teeth cleaned and examined. However, many pet owners don't stop to think about the oral health of their animals. Just like humans, dogs develop plaque and tartar on their teeth. If these substances continue to build up over time, there can be some very serious consequences for your pet. These consequences don't just involve the teeth. There are several health problems that your pet can develop as a result of poor dental health.

Common Dental Problems in Dogs and Cats

The primary problem that dogs and cats will develop if their teeth are not kept clean is gum disease. This is a result of plaque and tartar that develops at or below the gum line. The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis characterized by red and inflamed gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis which causes an erosion of the bones supporting the teeth and can lead to tooth loss.

Rin, our resident senior, is all smiles!!!

Dogs are also susceptible to cavities. These can become very painful and lead to abscesses and tooth loss. Some dogs will have enormous jaw swellings from painful abscesses of the teeth.

General Health Problems Related to Gum Disease

Problems with the teeth and gums are bad enough for your pet. However, gum disease in dogs and cats can cause a host of general health problems for your friends. Abscesses in the upper teeth can lead to sinusitis and infection of the occipital region. These will require long courses of antibiotics for proper treatment.

Bacteria entering the bloodstream from infected gums have been proven to contribute to numerous problems in dogs and cats. In dogs, bacteria from the gums can cause problems with the heart including endocarditis. Liver disease in dogs has also been attributed to bacteria from gum disease. In cats, bacteria entering the bloodstream from the gums are believed to contribute to kidney disease.

Ways to Combat Pet Dental Problems

The first line of defense in combating pet dental problems begins at home. Pets should have their teeth brushed every day. There are special dog and cat toothpastes and toothbrushes on the market to make this job easier. Pet owners can also help keep tartar down by giving their dogs and cats high-quality kibble based food to eat. Animals given only a soft diet tend to develop more dental issues. Feed your dog crunchy biscuits designed to break down tartar as a treat.

*Image of a smiling a dog courtesy of Ms. Anderson.

As with humans, dogs and cats should have regular dental exams and cleanings provided by their veterinarian. Veterinarians have the tools to safely and effectively remove plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth of both dogs and cats. During this examination, the veterinarian will check for signs of cavities and other dental problems. Animals should have their teeth cleaned at least once a year. Some animals may require more frequent cleanings.

If pet owners will diligently clean their pet's teeth at home, many serious health problems will be avoided. Do what’s best for your best friend and don't neglect your pet's dental health.

Author's Bio:

Erica Anderson is a veterinary technician and writer from Arizona. She loves writing about parenting, gardening, and pets.

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Wordless Wednesday: Pigeon Babies

Dad's the white pigeon. The ones at the boxes are their babies.

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6 Reasons Why Your Dog Needs a Wireless Dog Fence (Guest Post)

So this is my third straight guest post feature. I'm supposed to insert a funny picture of the dog's 'reindeer mischief' but that'll have to wait for the next time.

Today's guest post if brought to you by Rohit for Petsafe.

Dogs are considered to be the best animals to keep as pets, making the relationship between a dog and humans is one of the most widespread form of interspecies bonding. Dogs not only make good guards but also provide us humans a companion that we will never find as dogs are the only species other than humans that are capable of displaying ‘acts of selfless love’. We have all tried many old fashioned and modern methods of pet containment and as the world is going wireless, why not containment systems for pets like dogs. 

By Ildar Sagdejev (Specious) (Own work) [GFDL or CC-BY-SA-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0], via Wikimedia Commons

The revolutionary underground fence has further been evolved through the use of modern technology into an even better product called the wireless pet fence. It involves plugging in of a simple transmitter that emits GPS signals which determine the perimeter of the fence. If the dog gets out of the signal’s defined proximity it delivers a mild static shock via the collar worn by the dog which is totally harmless to the animal. Let’s discuss the advantages of using this amazing product. 

1. More Freedom To The Dog

With the system being totally wireless and doesn’t involve the installation of a physical boundary, the length of this invisible leash and the perimeter can easily be altered by the owner, thus providing the dog with a functioning area that is almost entirely devoid of boundaries. More area to play will definitely make a happier dog and the owner tension free that the dog might accidently cross a boundary as the range of the collar is under the owner’s control.

2. Easy Installation As Compared To Other Methods Of Containment

The apparatus involves plugging in of a transmitter and adjusting the range according to your needs. It doesn’t need any sort of physical installation of any wires or fences to mark the boundaries of containment, the system is totally ‘do it yourself’ and is easily installed with the involvement of any trained personnel thus making it far more effective than the underground fence.

3. Cost Effective As Compared To Other Containment Methods

Real fencing isn’t cheap, as the pricing will depend on the material you choose to build your fence with, not to mention the regular maintenance costs you will incur at regular intervals. Even when it comes to underground fence for pets, the apparatus isn’t entirely maintenance free as the wires used are susceptible to breakage and physical damage. You might also need to pay some really heavy installation costs in order to get these other containment methods to work. Wireless pet fence totally excels the other methods in this area as all you need to do is plug in transmitters and the operation is totally ‘do it yourself’, making this a great product that is actually easy on your pocket. 

4. Better Mobility As Compared To Other Method

If your work makes you move locations or you simply want to do some renovations to your house, the wireless pet fence is the best way to keep your worries away from your pocket. As there is no physical installation of any wires underground or a proper physical fence, you simply need to carry the transmitters to a different location making it a onetime buy product. You can also take it with you in case you want to go to a holiday with your dog (happens with some). 

5. The Actual Virtual Fence

The wireless pet fence is an actual virtual fence that has no physical boundaries. It is an instant install which doesn’t need you to bury some wires underground. Thus solving your zoning law troubles and maintaining the look of the house as many times a fence degrades the look of your house and most of the times installing a fence might attract some disapproval of your neighbours. You can wave all such troubles a big goodbye with the wireless pet fence. 

6. Loophole Free System

The best part about the wireless pet fence is that you can eliminate any sort of loopholes with the use of this product, 2 or more transmitters can be added for this. The easy and instant installation is a major advantage, all you need to do is plug in a transmitter and make sure that their proximity range overlaps thus getting rid of all the loopholes that your cuddly pooch can use to access areas that you don’t want him to. This not only adds protection for your dogs from unwanted places like your garage, swimming pool and trash cans. 

It is our duty towards this wonderful and cuddly companion that we protect it and give it comfort within our abode. We should provide the canine with plenty of room for its day to day activities that will benefit it in return. There are many brands that manufacture this product like PetSafe’s - PetSafe Wireless Instant Fence, havahart’s - Havahart’s Wireless Radial Shaped Dog Fence and many more. The wireless pet fence is the perfect product that will suit both the owner’s and the pet’s need. 

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Nutrition for Small and Large Breed Dogs: What does your dog actually need? (Guest Post)

Update: We apologize for not having dropped by ever so often. Offline life has picked up and we haven't had much time to catch up with a lot of you. We promise to do so real soon.

Today's guest post is brought to us by Stefmar Shop. 

"I'm going to get a dog!", you'd say "…and then I am going to spoil it with all kinds of treats!". Well, turns out it’s not all that simple and that having a dog is quite demanding… at least when it comes to nutrition. Naturally, dogs of all breeds tend to act similarly while they are growing up but the trick is to know what differences in their nutritional needs you have to be aware of and eventually meet.

Feeding a big and a small dog is not the same thing – in portion or manner. Make no mistake, dogs are almost as demanding as newborns and you will have to be extra careful about the way you are raising your little hairy friend. We have laid out some information you may find useful.

New Puppies by Bev Sykes, CC-BY-2.0

Early years

Large breed puppies have the tendency to suffer orthopedic diseases such as hip dysplasia. In order to prevent the development of this disease or at least try to reduce the pain (if there is any) it is recommended to feed your puppies foods that contain somewhat lower levels of phosphorous and calcium and are a little less energy dense. In fact, such nutrition has been proven to reduce possibility of developing the aforementioned disease in the first place. This goes for both large and giant breeds of dogs.

If you have small breed puppies, be aware that their metabolism is quite different than that of large breed puppies. Their extremely high metabolic rates help them burn food intake in just a matter of hours. To prevent your small breed puppy from developing hypoglycemia (which would later result in seizures, muscle tremors, weakness and sometimes death) make sure it takes in sufficient numbers of calories on regular and frequent basis. It is best to feed the puppy with calorie-dense food, up to four times a day (three is the optimal number of meals).

Adulthood

In case you thought all stops in your puppy's early months and that you could finally relax and play with your little doggy, we have to disappoint you. All metabolic differences between small and large dog breeds continue into their adulthood. Despite it sounding unreasonable, small dogs need more nutrients per day to maintain their health-rate on a proper level. This basically means that your small dog needs a higher calorie-intake per pound than a large dog. In fact, a fifteen pound dog needs about 500-600 calories (kcal) per day in order to maintain a healthy weight unlike a large dog of, say 120, 130 pounds that needs around 3,000 calories a day. Believe it or not, a large breed doggy requires 22.5 calories per pound while a small dog needs 40 calories per pound. All dog food designed for small breeds is more calorie-rich than that designed for large breeds’ nutrition, then one of products may be sentinel chews, not to use in puppies under 6 weeks of age.

A word of advice: Make sure you are not one of those pet-owners who make a mistake of not switching your dog from puppy food to adult food.

By Snowwhiteywhite (Taken by camera in the car) [GFDL or CC-BY-SA-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Senior years

Our four-legged family members need our attention and good care even when they are in their senior years. If you own a small breed dog you should know they tend to live a very long time. To have your dog live even longer, give it food with high dietary levels of antioxidants. That way you will be able to prevent free radical damage. In case you have a large breed dog, be aware that statistics show that these dogs usually tend to suffer from some degree of arthritis, especially as they get older. This is why diets designed for big dogs contain ingredients such as chondoitin sulfate and glucosamine as they help prolong your pet's life!

We hope these information helped you in choosing proper type of food for your little friend. Be a pet-owner aware of your dog's needs and your hairy friend will be happy each time you come back home from work!

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How to Care for a High Energy Dog (Guest Post)

It just so happens that I've recently received this article about high energy dogs. This morning, I was outside running around, playing with 4 rambunctious teenage dogs and getting down and dirty trying to wrestle all 4 of them. Now I feel so drained that even a senior can beat me in climbing Mt. Everest. 

Somebody messed with the garden soil again!

Here's another great article from Adam Holmes. Have a great weekend!!!

High energy dogs like Border Collies, Poodles and Cocker Spaniels are some of the most loving and obedient breeds to ever walk the planet. However, without the proper amount of attention and exercise, these curious canines can get into all kinds of trouble. 

If you’re looking to welcome a highly energetic dog into your life, you should do so with some caution. As wonderful as these particular breeds may be, it requires a substantial amount of time and effort on your part to give them the care that they need. 

Do your Research

One of the best ways to prevent a dog from getting bored and wreaking havoc on your home is by doing some research prior to purchase. Like anything else, making the right decision can require some shopping around, and if you choose hastily, it can result in chewed furniture, damaged walls and frequently toppled trash cans. 

• First and foremost, read up on your dog’s particular breed. Although many dogs will tucker out and curl up by the fireplace, high energy breeds require much, much more than a walk and a game of fetch to get tired. 

• If possible, take a look at your dog’s parents. If there’s a long line of energetic working dogs in his lineage, he’s much more likely to possess the same traits. 

• Consult a veterinarian before taking the plunge into owning a dog. Veterinarians can supply you with all of the information you need and can even recommend certain breeds to you based on your lifestyle and experience with dogs. 

Be Proactive

Once you’ve completed your research, you can begin outfitting your living space for your new, furry addition to the family. During this phase, it’s important to not only be proactive, but thorough as well. Regardless of breed, adopting a dog is a big step in anyone’s life, and if you aren’t prepared, you can risk damage to not only your home, but to yourself as well.

• Install baby gates to keep your dog from getting into certain areas of the house when he’s inside, and a wireless dog fence for when he’s romping around the yard. This will prevent him from wandering into places that he doesn’t belong. 

• If your job requires you to be away from home for long hours, find a trustworthy neighbor or a dog sitter prior to bringing your dog home. 

• Formulate an exercise regimen for you and your dog and keep it as consistent as you possibly can. Although many dogs are happy with random physical activity throughout the day, some appreciate a scheduled time for them to “go to work,” even if it’s just a jog or a trip to the dog park. 

Have Fun

Owning a high energy dog is certainly a lot of work, but fortunately for you, having fun with, and frequently engaging, him can curb numerous problem behaviors. Many dog owners have found success through increased physical activity, brain teaser games around the house and even socialization with other dogs. 

• If you’re a runner, take your dog with you on your daily jaunt. More often than not, he will end up pulling you along rather than the other way around. 

• Games such as hide-and-seek are perfect for poor weather days or days where you don’t have time to take your dog out. It not only challenges your dog’s cognitive capacity, but also teaches him worthwhile skills that can be utilized on hunting trips or in other similar scenarios.

• Get your dog accustomed to the company of other dogs and people as soon as possible. This will teach him how to conduct himself in social situations and can even help you meet fellow high energy dog owners.  

Although high energy dogs can be a bit of a handful from time-to-time, they really do make some of the best companions an owner can have. If you live an active lifestyle and are able to give them the attention they need, there is surely no reason for you not to adopt an energetic dog. Be warned though, these dogs need a lot of love, and without it, can be difficult to maintain. 

Author's Bio:

I’m Adam Holmes, a writer for Havahart Wireless. I love my two energetic dogs (Argos the husky and Lilly the Labradoodle) more than life itself.

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5 Ways to Make Your Dog Comfortable After Surgery (Guest Post)

I've especially chosen to publish this guest post after remembering Chooey's broken mandible. It was difficult for me to take care of her-- knowing she was in pain. I had no idea how long it'd take for her jaw to heal so I counted the days worrying about her eating and drinking (since every time she moved her jaw, she would be in pain). 

A bark turned into a shrill. A bite becomes an excruciating action. She had to eat recovery food and baby food for more than a month. My heart goes to the families of dogs who are need of surgery. So here it goes...

It's always painful to see a beloved family dog have to go in for surgery, especially when the American Veterinary Medical Association reports that 63.2 percent of pet owners consider their pets as family members. Once your dog is out of the vet's and back home, you want to keep them comfortable and happy as the recovery process begins. The vet's office gives you instructions on what to do with the medication and wound care after surgery, and there are a few more ways you can keep your dog happy after such a stressful experience.

Photo by Flickr user HarshLight (as provided by Guest Poster)

Room Preparation

You don't want to throw your dog back into the fray of things immediately. Prepare a safe, quiet space with plenty of food and water, and warm, soft bedding for your dog to be comfortable on. The amount of time your pet needs this safe room varies, according to VCA Hospitals. It's possible your dog may need several weeks of recovery time, although basic procedures such as spaying and neutering won't take long for recoveries.

Don't Disturb Their Sleep Overly Much

The anesthesia and stress of being at the vet's office may lead to extended sleeping time for your dog. Allow them to sleep as much as they want and minimize distractions that may interrupt their slumber. The Assisi Animal Health company recommends taking your dog out every few hours, as IV fluids may cause them to pee on a much more frequent basis than normal. Combined with deep sleep, your dog may even have accidents while napping. Try to limit how active they are outside, however, as you don't want them breaking stitches or having other issues.

Keep an Eye on Temperature

It's hard for an animal to tell if they're too hot or cold post surgery, so it's up to you to keep them at a comfortable temperature. Bring in a fan to cool a room down or browse The Shade Store for thick window treatments to block out the sun if it's too hot for your pup.

Follow the Post-Surgery Care Instructions

If you need to give your dog medication after surgery, stay on top of the intervals. Don't give your pet any more than the doctor instructed, even if it seems like they're in a lot of pain. You also want to check on incision sites and confirm the wound is not opened.

Stop Your Dog from Licking

You may need to apply the dog cone of shame if your dog refuses to stop licking the incision sites. While the dog thinks he's helping the healing process, he runs the risk of pulling out stitches, introducing bacteria into the area or eating bandages off of a wound. He might look goofy for a bit, but it's the best idea in the long run.

Written By:

Walter Price. Walter is a property manager who enjoys taking his dog Peter to work with him.

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