Afleveringen

  • Ellie Laks, Author, discusses her new book, Cow Hug Therapy

    Ellie Laks, Author, discusses her new book, Cow Hug Therapy

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    Cow Hug Therapy

    How The Animals at the Gentle Barn Taught Me about Life, Death, and Everything In Between.

    Autographed copy of the inspirational story of the compassionate and wise animals of the Gentle Barn and how they became a therapeutic salve for countless guests — and mentors for all of us in how to live and die

    In Cow Hug Therapy, Ellie Laks, founder of the Gentle Barn Foundation, shares the extraordinary journey that started with her first teacher, Buddha — not the religious figure, but a rescued miniature Hereford cow. One evening Buddha wrapped her neck around an exhausted and upset Laks and transferred a singular form of healing and comfort with an incredible impact. Understanding that this was something to be shared with others, Laks developed Cow Hug Therapy, a groundbreaking approach to emotional healing that has proved effective for trauma, illness, disabilities, addiction, grief, and stress.

    Cow Hug Therapy is a colorful and compelling narrative of the healing mavens of the barnyard through the years and their individual stories of being rescued from trauma and treated with love and respect. These animals have transformed lives and ignited breakthroughs, newfound purpose, and freedom, including for a young mother who lost her baby, a suicidal teenager, a wounded serviceman, an open-heart surgery patient, and many more.

    Media outlets including ABC’s Good Morning America, NBC’s TODAY show, and The Atlantic magazine have featured numerous stories of the hopeless beginning to thrive at the Gentle Barn. A testament to empathy and the mission to heal animals, people, and the planet, Cow Hug Therapy captures a remarkable journey of transformation and serves as a beacon of hope for all seeking healing and connection.

    https://store.gentlebarn.org/products/autographed-copy-of-cow-hug-therapy-how-the-animals-at-the-gentle-barn-taught-me-about-life-death-and-everything-in-between

    Make sure you buy this amazing book!

  • Learn about Shepherd's Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue's G.O.A.T Progam. Go Out and Thrive!

    Learn about Shepherd's Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue's G.O.A.T Progam. Go Out and Thrive!

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    “Putting animals and people together in a way that is healing for both” is the core mission of Shepherd’s Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue. Through the Animal Assisted Therapy Program, we believe we can create an impact that echoes in the lives of our clients far beyond the boundaries of the rescue.

    Please visit https://www.shepherdsrestrescue.com

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  • Cancer in Dogs. Why?

    Cancer in Dogs. Why?

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk
    Cancer in dogs, the warning signs

    Cancer is a heart-breaking condition that affects too many people around the world. Unfortunately, it also impacts our beloved canine companions.

    As a dog owner, it’s very important to be aware of some of the signs of cancer in dogs – just as it’s essential to take heart from the fact that treatments for this disease are improving all the time.

    Let’s take a closer look


    Cancer in dogs

    Unfortunately, cancer is one of the most common illnesses in dogs. 50% of all dogs over the age of 10 are expected to be diagnosed with some form of cancer. This means that recognizing the warning signs is even more important when you have an aging hound on your hands.

    By being vigilant, and providing age-appropriate exercise, a nutritious diet, and mental stimulation, you’re giving your dog the best shot at a long, active, and healthy life.

    The most common types of dog cancer

    Dogs and humans can actually develop the same forms of cancer. This list isn’t exhaustive, but it should give you a rough idea of the types of cancer that often affect our canine companions:

    Skin cancer Blood cancer Bone cancer Cancers of the immune system – such as lymphoma Abdominal cancers Cancer of the uterus Mammary (breast) cancer – mainly found in female dogs Testicular cancer Anal cancer The causes of canine cancer

    The causes of cancer are complex, and that applies to both humans and dogs. For this reason, there isn’t one definite cause. Cancer can be triggered by genetics, age, nutrition, and environmental factors.

    Fortunately, animal experts agree that canine cancer isn’t caused by things like bumps and scrapes.

    Here’s a look at some of the common causes of canine cancer:

    1. Genetics

    As with humans, genes that cause cancer can be inherited. This means if your dog’s parents developed cancer, your dog is at higher risk. Certain dog breeds are also more generically prone to certain illnesses, including cancer. Golden Retrievers, Boxers, and Rottweilers are considered at higher risk of developing cancer (and specific types of cancer) than other breeds,

    2. Carcinogens

    Carcinogens are harmful substances or features of the environment that can cause cancer. They include second-hand smoke, insecticides used in agriculture, certain viruses, air pollution, and UV rays from the sun.

    Researchers have found that sun exposure is a significant factor in developing squamous cell carcinoma, a cancerous tumor that can be seen in almost every single domesticated pet breed. Animals with white fur or markings are more likely to develop this form of cancer.

    3. Age

    Sadly, cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs over the age of 10, with 50% of older dogs developing the disease and approximately one in four dogs passing from it. However, the reasons for this are largely speculated.

    4. The environment

    In humans, most cancers are related to environmental factors. This can include their diet, their exposure to UV light and various chemicals, and more. The same is likely true for canine cancer, too.

    Reducing your dog’s exposure to environmental hazards – like smoke – is important in reducing their risk of developing cancer.

    What could help prevent your dog from getting cancer?

    One thing you could consider is spaying and neutering. Spaying or neutering your dog could prevent ovarian and testicular cancers from developing. Studies have also shown that spaying a female dog before her first or second heat may also help to reduce the risk of breast cancer developing. You should talk to your veterinarian about the best time for your dog to be spayed or neutered, according to their breed.

    Keeping your dog’s mouth clean and healthy may also reduce the risk of oral cancer.

    As well as trying to reduce your dog’s risk of cancer, you should educate yourself on the warning signs, so your veterinarian can catch and treat it early.

    What are the warning signs of cancer in dogs?

    Unfortunately, our four-pawed friends can’t tell us when something’s wrong. We need to be on the lookout for the warning signs of cancer and other diseases. The earlier it can be caught and treated, the better the outcomes tend to be.

    If you notice one or more of these potential warning signs, reach out to your veterinarian:

    1. Tumors, lumps, or unusual growths

    Tumors are some of the most obvious signs of cancer, but not all tumors are cancerous. There are actually two types:

    Malignant tumors. This type is cancerous. They grow very quickly and spread around the bodily easily. Benign tumors. This type is not cancerous. They typically grow very slowly and don’t tend to spread around the body. Usually, benign tumors are harmless. Problems only occur if the tumor gets in the way of other body parts or organs.

    You should also be on the lookout for swollen lymph nodes. Fortunately, they don’t cause pain, but they can be a sign of lymphoma – which is a form of cancer commonly found in breeds like Golden Retrievers.

    Any unusual lumps or bumps on your dog should be examined by your vet – especially if their size, shape, or appearance changes.

    2. Wounds that won’t heal

    Just like with humans, any small wounds and lesions your dog gets should heal over time. If a wound doesn’t seem to be healing – e.g., if you don’t see signs of it scabbing over, or hair re-growing – you should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. This can be a sign of cancer.

    3. Abnormal bleeding

    Bleeding is a red flag in general. But it’s especially concerning if you notice bloody eye discharge or bleeding from the nose – as this is a common sign of eye and skin cancers.

    Unusual bleeding from your dog’s mouth is often the first sign of an oral tumor. It’s important to be extra vigilant for these, since they often go undetected.

    Many owners believe bad breath and discharge from their dogs’ mouths are a normal part of aging. But they’re actually signs of a health problem, and you should always get your dog checked out by a veterinarian if you notice these signs.

    4. Lameness

    If your dog starts limping, slowing down, or putting more weight on a certain limb, this could be an early sign of bone cancer – although it could also just be a sign of joint stiffness.

    To be on the safe side, arrange for a checkup with your veterinarian if you notice any issues with your dog’s movement.

    5. Sudden weight loss or gain

    Weight loss is frequently seen in dogs with cancer. Similarly, sudden weight gain in dogs can also be a sign of canine cancer. If you see any sudden changes in your dog’s weight you should contact your veterinarian right away.

    6. Lethargy and lack of enthusiasm to exercise

    As dogs get older, they naturally slow down and lose energy. It’s an unfortunate fact, but there are things you can do to help them keep their energy levels and mobility up.

    Extreme lethargy, or a sudden, unexplained lack of energy, however, can be a sign of various conditions, including cancer.

    If your dog suddenly loses interest in going for walks, stops greeting you at the door, or doesn’t want to play with their favorite toy, these are all red flags to investigate. Other warning signs include your dog sleeping too much or taking longer to respond to noises or commands.

    7. Unusual bowel movements

    If you’ve had your dog for years, you probably know what’s normal and what’s not when it comes to their toilet habits. Unusual stool can be the first sign of many different illnesses. Take a look at this guide to find out what your dog’s poo tells you.

    In particular, you should be on the lookout for bloody or black, tarry stools, or diarrhea – these are often a sign of ulcers, but can sometimes indicate mast cell tumors.

    What to do if your pet is showing warning signs

    If you spot any signs that your dog might have cancer, it’s extremely important to contact your veterinarian straight away. They’ll be able to run a number of tests including X-rays, ultrasounds, and blood tests, to figure out what’s wrong.

    Early detection greatly helps your dog’s chances of beating cancer. It can also make a major difference in treating various other issues that your dog may be dealing with.

    The good news?

    There’s no two ways about it, a cancer diagnosis is heartbreaking. But it doesn’t mean you should have to live in fear. Every single year, dogs are living longer and longer – which just goes to show how far pet care and veterinary medicine have advanced.

    In fact, nowadays there are more options than ever. Treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are readily available. And, as we mentioned before, early detection greatly improves your dog’s chances of living a long, happy, healthy, and active life.

    Think your dog is showing any of these common signs of cancer? It’s best to get in touch with your vet. And, if you’re not doing so already, annual visits to the vet are essential.

  • Learn about Shepherd's Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue with Jen, Owner

    Learn about Shepherd's Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue with Jen, Owner

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk
    Our Mission

    Shepherd’s Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue exists to rescue, rehabilitate, and provide sanctuary for goats and sheep in need, to educate the public about goats and sheep as therapy animals, to provide qualified animal assisted therapy, and to train others to provide qualified animal assisted therapy with sheep and goats adopted through our program.

    Our Promise

    Shepherd’s Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue is committed to equal employment and volunteer opportunity without regard to age, ancestry, disability, national or ethnic origin, race, religious belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or veteran status.

    This policy applies to all areas of employment and volunteer participation, including recruitment, hiring, training and development, promotion, transfer, termination, layoff, compensation, benefits, social and recreational programs, all other conditions and privileges of employment in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws.

    Goat Yoga

    We hold classes Spring through Fall at our picturesque 100-year-old farm located in Pickrell, Nebraska, just a 30 minute drive south of Lincoln.

    Shepherd's Rest Goat & Sheep Rescue

    426 West Cedar Road
    Pickrell, NE, 68422

    402.580.5299
    [email protected]

  • Cat, Owner of Cat's Canines, discusses tips on finding the perfect pet sitter

    Cat, Owner of Cat's Canines, discusses tips on finding the perfect pet sitter

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    Leaving your beloved companion home while you’re at work or travelling is hard enough; finding a trustworthy pet sitter shouldn’t be. Faced with hectic schedules and long commutes—or even a pet who’s dealing with separation anxiety—more people are hiring professional sitters to ensure their animals’ health and happiness. But there’s a lot to consider when choosing a sitter.

    Not only are they caring for valued family members, they’re coming into your home. They should be trustworthy, professional, knowledgeable and able to handle emergencies. And your pet should feel comfortable around them.

    Here are some tips to help find that perfect sitter!

    Start online

    The internet (including neighborhood and community websites) is a great place to start. Professional pet-sitting associations such as the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International list members on their websites. Reading online reviews and even checking out candidates’ Facebook pages can help narrow down your search.

    Seek firsthand recommendations

    Check the bulletin boards at local stores or your veterinarian’s office for ads, then reach out to potential sitters for their references. You can also ask friends, relatives and neighbors for referrals. Or connect with your veterinarian and local humane societies, which may have employees who are part-time pet sitters. Just keep in mind that people with full-time jobs may not have the availability you need.

    Prepare for the interview

    Take some time to think through what you want to ask candidates before interviewing them via phone or video chat. Don’t be afraid to have a long conversation; you can get a good sense of someone’s personality and character that way. Here are some topics to consider:

    THE BASICS

    Find out how long they’ve been in business, what their level of experience is with your pets’ species and what their backup plan is if something prevents them from coming to your house.

    FEES

    There’s no point in moving forward if you can’t afford their services. At the same time, don’t just go with the cheapest rate; you want a qualified professional.

    SERVICES

    Ask what specific services they offer—are they comfortable administering medications? Do they have special training or certifications? Are they bonded and insured (which could protect you in certain situations, such as if your dog bites another person while on a walk with the sitter)?

    It can also be helpful to pose one or two emergency scenarios to see how candidates respond: What would they do if the air conditioning breaks on a hot day or your pet starts vomiting?

    Get ready for the meet-and-greet

    Before you book a pet-sitting date, you and your pets should meet the candidate. This will allow you to get to know the person better, flesh out special instructions and observe how they interact with your animal. You may even want to ask a candidate to do a trial walk to see how they handle your dog.

    Don’t forget to ask for credentials such as references and copies of their bonding and license. You might also want to get a criminal background check.

    Accept that it might not work out

    The best screening in the world may not prevent you from hiring the wrong person. But you can take some simple steps to help determine whether the person is doing their job.

    For example:

    Ask your sitter to leave notes about each visit or share photos with you via text or email. If you have a doorbell camera, check whether your sitter comes at the agreed-upon times. Get a GPS for your dog’s collar to ensure they’re being walked every day. Still not sure whether your sitter is up to snuff?

    Here are some potential red flags to look for:

    Pee puddles, feces or vomit in the house. Untouched treats or toys you’ve left for the sitter to give to your pet during a visit. Failure to provide detailed reports of your pet’s behavior.

    While it’s good to be cautious when starting with someone new, keep in mind that most people who choose pet-sitting as a career are animal lovers. Over time, a sitter can become a trusted friend to you and your pet!

    For more information please contact Cat's Canines at [email protected] / 402-326-4595.

  • Brave Animal Rescue is saving one dog and cat at a time

    Brave Animal Rescue is saving one dog and cat at a time

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    Founded in 2020 by a group of animal advocates in Lincoln, Nebraska, Brave Animal Rescue is a nonprofit 501(C)(3) volunteer-based animal welfare organization dedicated to rescuing homeless kittens, cats, dogs, and puppies. By working with a network of volunteer advocates, foster caregivers, local veterinarians, and shelters, Brave Animal Rescue is able to help hundreds of animals every year by pulling animals from high-kill shelters, by working hands-on rescuing orphaned kittens, by aiding in local Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) efforts, and by helping those who are no longer able to care for their pets. We provide these animals with care and temporary homes until we are able to place them in permanent homes. Brave also aims to serve as a resource to our community by providing information about pet ownership, spaying and neutering, veterinary care, and TNR.

    The founders of Brave Animal Rescue are life-long animal advocates who have several years of experience working with other nonprofit animal groups throughout the Midwest. Through these experiences on the forefront of rescue, the founders quickly began to recognize a need in the community for a neonatal-focused rescue. The vast majority of animals that are surrendered to animal shelters are under the age of 18 months old. According to The Humane Society of the United States, 80% of kittens are born outside. Without intervention, these kittens go on to procreate, get killed (by disease, vehicles, predators, etc.), or end up in shelters. Unfortunately, kittens and puppies under 8 weeks old are the population most at-risk for being euthanized in shelters due to a lack of resources and foster homes. With a passion for newborn kittens and puppies, and drive to help the community, the founders of Brave Animal Rescue aim to end the cycle of unwanted companion animals through education, rescue, and spaying and neutering.

    CONTACT

    Brave Animal Rescue

    PO Box 21864

    Lincoln, NE 68542

    EMAIL

    [email protected]

  • Cindy Myers, Animal Intuitive, discusses May and June webinars tapping into your dogs energy

    Cindy Myers, Animal Intuitive, discusses May and June webinars tapping into your dogs energy

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk
    WORK WITH ME

    Cindy Myers Ambassador to Animals, Humans and Spirit

    Welcome to YourEnergyHealer.com, your sanctuary for spiritual growth and healing. I’m Cindy Myers, a dedicated energy healer, intuitive guide, and passionate advocate for holistic wellness for you and your pets. Through my journey, I’ve been blessed to discover my calling in life—to assist others in navigating their own paths to healing and self-discovery.

    At the heart of my practice, I am an experienced energy healer specializing in the ability to work with both humans and animals. I’m certified in the Emotion Code and Reiki, I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling with an emphasis in Depth Psychology from the prestigious Pacifica Graduate Institute. It was during this time of advanced study that I developed one of my passions of interpreting dreams and obtained invaluable mentoring and skills coaching individuals. I have a long history of people naturally drawn to me sharing their fears and life challenges. Many are amazed that I transformed from an engineer working for the Navy before transitioning to a life on an alpaca farm and working as an intuitive energy healer and animal communicator. But it was because of those huge life transitions throughout my life that provide the real life experience to guide you in your own personal growth. My intuitive abilities enable me to connect deeply with individuals, see beyond their fears and provide supportive guidance as they explore their inner worlds and unlock their full potential. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a profound belief in the interconnectedness of all beings.

    My mission at YourEnergyHealer.com is to offer a comprehensive range of personalized healing services designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit of not only individuals but also their beloved pets and animals. Recognizing the deep bond between humans and animals, I am committed to extending healing and balance to your furry and feathered companions. Whether you’re seeking relief from physical ailments, emotional distress, or spiritual blockages for yourself or your animal friends, my goal is to facilitate a transformative experience that leads to profound and lasting change for all beings involved. By incorporating pets and animals into our healing journey, we honor the interconnectedness of all life and work towards holistic wellness for our entire family.

    It wasn’t until into my adulthood that I discovered I was an empath also known as a highly sensitive person or sensate intuitive. I struggled through my teens and young adulthood with terrible anxiety and depression. It was hard to get through day-to-day activities, especially through high school. I often think of those years as my “dark years.” I was in deep pain that I didn’t understand and didn’t have the language to describe. It wasn’t until fairly recently that I realized that not only was I suffering with my own anxiety and depression, but as an empath, I was picking up and absorbing all that teenaged angst of my classmates. I dreaded facing school each day. I somewhat grew out of this intense anxiety as I entered the workforce, I still battled anxiety. I knew something wasn’t right but I had no idea where to begin figuring it out. Finally, I found my own mentor and guide. I learned to meditate and spirit guides began appearing. I began to understand my intuition and what it meant to be an empath. Instead of fearing it, I thought it would be incredible if I could use this “gift” to benefit others. Working with clients as part of my Master’s Degree Curriculum honed my listening skills. It was discovering alpacas that trained me to become an animal communicator. I’ve since incorporated using alpacas to teach animal communication classes.

    Because of those hard emotional times, it has become another mission of my life and practice to help others dealing with anxiety and depression. I found so many are also empathic intuitive individuals that don’t realize how empathic they are. After a few simple questions, I help you to discover if you are an empath and what that means to you. And then the next level of work begins in providing you tools in handling that fact. It is actually possible and very doable to turn the challenges of being an empath into a superpower. But it is very important to learn how to protect yourself and how to be an empath.

    I encourage you to go explore my services and events on this site. I tailor our sessions to your needs. I’m guided in those sessions not only by my spirit guides but I’m listening with my third ear to your higher self in knowing how best to support you. When you choose a service, you will receive a link to my online calendar. Select a time and provide me a good phone number to reach you and I’ll call you at the appointed time. I do almost all my sessions over the phone for you or your pets. If you reside outside the United States, please let me know and we can use other methods to connect. I have clients all over the country and world.

    Explore my events page too and you will find regularly scheduled Group Online Healing Circles where I provide you a guided meditation that promotes physical and emotional healing. You will also grow your authentic self during these impactful sessions. I also teach various course from dream workshops where you learn how to interpret your dreams, learn how to connect with your spirit guides, learn how to communicate with animals and much more.

    I also write blogs regularly and you can read what my thoughts are on all these vast subjects of intuitive listening.

    I’m so appreciative that I have combined all my passions in this business. I’ve taken my joy in writing and art to create several books which you can check out on my books page. I don’t think I’ve had more fun than when I wrote and illustrated the toddler books. In all my books, I fold in important life lessons. In my memoir, I wrote about how I came to living on my alpaca farm in Oregon and how animals provided me many life lessons that make me a better “two-legged” (that’s how they see us humans). My second book, 5 Steps to Animal Communication, provides you simple techniques to practice to develop your own intuitive skills with your pet(s). I incorporated lessons I learned working with children when I was studying to be a therapist to create my children’s books. You can explore all my books on this website.

    SERVICES OFFERED

    – Energy Healing Sessions: Harness the power of universal energy to promote healing and balance. I like to say I’m a one-stop-shop providing wellbeing services for you and your pets. I invite you to explore both my animal and human services pages. If you have questions, I welcome your questions. Just reach out using my contact form and I’ll get back to you quickly.

    – Healing Circles/Meditation and Mindfulness Training: Learn techniques to calm your mind, reduce stress, and enhance spiritual awareness.

    – Your Energy Healer Courses: Join our community for events focused on spiritual development and holistic wellness.

    I always ask you when we begin our sessions with, “How can I help you today?”

    What you receive is:

    Personalized Care: Every session is tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. Experienced Practitioner: Benefit from years of experience and ongoing learning in the field of energy healing. Supportive Community: Join a community of like-minded individuals on their journey to wellness. Holistic Approach: Embrace a comprehensive path to healing that addresses your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. JOIN OUR JOURNEY

    If you’re ready to embark on a transformative journey towards holistic health and spiritual awakening, I invite you to explore the services and resources available at YourEnergyHealer.com. Together, we can unlock your healing potential and pave the way to a more balanced, joyful, and fulfilling life.

    Thank you for choosing YourEnergyHealer.com as your guide on this incredible journey. I look forward to supporting you in your healing and spiritual growth.

    Warmest regards,

    Cindy Myers

  • What to do if your dog lunges at other dogs on a walk with dog trainer, Maddie Angevine

    What to do if your dog lunges at other dogs on a walk with dog trainer, Maddie Angevine

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk
    How to Manage a Dog Lunging on Leash By Stephanie Gibeault, MSc, CPDT Updated: Sep 22, 2021 | 5 Minutes How to Manage a Dog Lunging on Leash – American Kennel Club

    Do you dread taking your dog for a walk because they lunge at other dogs, other people, or objects like cars or skateboards? Maybe they bark or growl too. Walking an out-of-control dog is both physically and emotionally exhausting. It’s tempting to avoid walks altogether, but then your dog isn’t getting the mental stimulation and physical exercise they need. So, what do you do? Read on for tips to manage and improve your dog’s lunging behavior.

    Understand Why Dogs Lunge

    Dog experts often label dogs who lunge and bark during walks as “leash reactive.” A reactive dog is one who becomes overly aroused by normal situations, and a leash reactive dog is one who behaves that way on leash. But what causes this behavior? There are three possible motivations for lunging. The least likely is aggression. Although rare, some dogs truly want to do harm. Fear is a far more common motivator. Using the “I’ll get it before it gets me” strategy, dogs lunge to try to make the feared person, dog, or other object go away. Finally, your dog might be excited to approach the person, dog, or object, but because the leash is preventing that, they become frustrated and lose emotional control.

    You need to take all these motivations seriously, but it’s important to understand which one is driving your dog. For example, if your dog is frustrated, lessons in emotional self-control come in handy. If your dog is fearful, building self-confidence is key. However, regardless of the reason for the lunging, some of the basic management tools and treatments are the same.

    Manage Your Dog’s Behavior

    It’s important to prevent your dog from lunging because every time they do, they’re practicing the behavior and developing a self-reinforcing habit. And the firmer the habit, the harder it will be to change. But how do you prevent lunging? First, never punish your dog for this behavior. You will only exacerbate the problem. Your dog will associate the punishment with the other person, dog, or object which will strengthen their fear or jack up their frustration.

    Second, use the correct equipment for walking. A buckle collar can put a lot of pressure on your dog’s throat when they lunge. A front-clip harness is a better choice. It will put the pressure on your dog’s chest and help turn them back toward you when they spring forward. A head halter (also called a head harness) is another option for a leash-reactive dog. It loops around your dog’s nose and allows you to control their head like the reins of a horse. However, many dogs need help adjusting to a halter and they can damage their necks if they hit the end of the leash with too much force. To prevent that, you can clip one leash to their buckle collar and another to their halter, so the collar leash takes the force during lunges and the halter leash gently turns your dog’s head.

    Finally, be proactive. Plan your walks for times when your dog is unlikely to encounter any triggers (the people, dogs, or objects that cause the lunging to occur). That might be late at night or with the sunrise. Also choose the quietest route. And always be on the lookout for triggers so you can keep your dog far enough away that they don’t react. That might mean taking evasive action like crossing the street or making a 180-degree turn. If you can distract your dog before they notice the trigger, even better. Constantly monitor the environment and your dog’s body language so you can predict lunging before it occurs and act accordingly.

    Change Your Dog’s Emotional Response

    Management will prevent your dog from practicing lunging, but it won’t improve their behavior or ease their emotional state. For that, try desensitization and counterconditioning. This technique will change your dog’s emotional response from negative to positive (in the case of fear-based or aggressive reactivity) or from out-of-control excitement to calm (in the case of frustration).

    The trick is to get your dog in the presence of their trigger but far enough away they don’t react. This is known as below-threshold intensity. That could be 10 feet, or it could be 40. And different triggers might have different distances. Once you have your dog below threshold, pair the trigger with high-value rewards they would do anything for, like strips of meat, cubes of cheese, or a chance to play with their favorite toy. You want your dog to build a positive association between the wonderful goodies and the trigger.

    Start the process with your dog on leash. Wait for them to notice a trigger then immediately present a reward. When they glance at the trigger again, offer another reward. Continue as long as the trigger is present. With enough repetition, your dog will eventually glance at the trigger then turn right back in your direction, as if to say, “I saw it, now where’s my treat?” This tells you that your dog has realized the trigger makes the reward happen, so the positive association is being formed.

    Now you can move a tiny bit closer to the trigger and repeat the process. The goal is to slowly reduce the distance between your dog and the trigger until they are within a few feet or less, all while keeping your dog under threshold. Then duplicate the entire procedure again with a new dog or person. Continue to repeat with as many examples of the trigger as necessary to convince your dog that their trigger makes great things happen. As a result, when they see any trigger, they will look to you for a reward instead of lunging.

    Try your best to control the environment during this process. You don’t want a dog or stranger sneaking up and putting your dog over threshold. Instead, enlist the assistance of friends so you can coordinate a training plan using them or their dogs as the trigger. You can also try positioning your dog at a set distance from a pathway or street so you can predict passersby but control how far your dog is from them.

    Teach Your Dog an Incompatible Alternative Behavior

    You can also teach your dog to perform a behavior that is incompatible with lunging. For example, they can’t lunge towards another dog and turn to look at you at the same time. If you heavily reward this alternative behavior, your dog will eventually choose to do it in place of lunging even when their trigger is close by. Some great choices include “Watch me” (where your dog looks at your face), “Touch” (where your dog targets something with their nose), or “Find it” (where you drop treats at your feet for your dog to find). These are easy to teach and easy for your dog to do even when they are emotionally aroused. And more importantly, they redirect your dog’s gaze from the trigger to you.

    Whichever behavior you choose, make sure your dog loves to do it. Start training in a quiet environment without distractions and pile on the treats. This will show your dog how easy it is to get rewarded for the new task. Next, build distractions into your training. Then add the trigger at a below-threshold distance. When your dog looks at the trigger, ask for the replacement behavior. Shower them with treats when they obey. Finally, ask for the new behavior while slowly moving closer and closer to the trigger. If your dog reverts to lunging, you’ve moved too far, too fast. Eventually, rather than lunging, your dog will see the trigger as a cue to do the new behavior and earn a reward.

    Know When to Get Help

    For some dogs, you might be able to work through these techniques on your own and achieve great success in a matter of weeks. For other dogs, it’s advisable to get help from an animal behaviorist or a professional dog trainer with leash reactivity experience. Your dog might also benefit from a consult with a veterinary behaviorist. If your dog is too worked up to learn, medication can control their arousal levels during training allowing them to make more progress.

    Lunging on leash can usually be modified into more polite and acceptable behavior. At the very least, you can minimize your dog’s outbursts with good management. It takes patience and dedication to your dog and the training protocols, but walks can eventually be stress-free for both you and your dog.

  • Learn all about Mission K9 Rescue helping military dogs with PTSD become ready for adoption

    Learn all about Mission K9 Rescue helping military dogs with PTSD become ready for adoption

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    Mission K9 Rescue primarily has Contract Working Dogs (CWDs) available for placement. These incredible canines perform the same vital tasks as Military Working Dogs (MWDs) but are not owned by the Government.

    We also occasionally place MWDs and retired police dogs for adoption, but it’s unpredictable when they may become available. We rescue these dedicated canines as we become aware of them and work diligently to find suitable placements afterward.

    We’ve opted not to post photos of available dogs to avoid mismatches and save everyone valuable time. Instead, we review your application thoroughly and send you pictures of dogs that suit your situation, if any. This process helps us ensure our dogs find their forever homes with the right families and that the adoption process runs smoothly.

    Learn About Our Mission
  • How do you find a dog trainer in your area with Maddie Angevine, trainer, with Gentle Touch

    How do you find a dog trainer in your area with Maddie Angevine, trainer, with Gentle Touch

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    Whether you're potty training a new pup or struggling with positive reinforcement, you might want to consult a qualified dog trainer and/or enroll your pooch in a class.

    “A lot of people say ‘I know how to teach a dog to sit. Why would I go to a class?’ And it's so much more than that,” says Lindsay Hamrick, director of shelter outreach and engagement at the Humane Society of the United States and a certified professional dog trainer herself. She advises dog owners to “reach out for help anytime they don't know what to do.”

    Animal behavior websites can vary greatly in quality, Hamrick adds, but dog trainers can too—so here are some tips to get you started!

    Starting the search

    Start your search for a dog trainer at the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, which makes locating a qualified dog trainer near you as simple as plugging in your zip code. You might also try searching "canine behaviorist" and "dog behavior consultant."

    Making a match

    Contact potential dog trainers to see if they’d be a good fit. Trainers’ websites typically describe their expertise, allow you to submit a form explaining the concerns you have about your dog’s behaviors and give you an idea of the cost. It’s also important to determine if they have the bandwidth to work with you.

    Good dog trainers “know what they can and can't handle,” Hamrick says. Some don't work with aggression cases, for example, and focus solely on obedience training or non-aggression behavioral challenges.

    Setting realistic expectations

    Remember that dog trainers aren’t miracle workers, and behavior change takes time. “If you are talking to a trainer and they think they can fix your issue in a 30-minute television show 
 you should find somebody else,” Hamrick says.

    However, while a single session may not solve the challenges completely, we know that access to behavioral support can be pricey unless you have a low-cost option in your community. One consultation can still be helpful in identifying the root causes of your dog’s behavior and some initial ways to help them choose new behaviors.

    And just like when you were in school, homework matters.

    “If you only practice during those training sessions, it's not going to stick,” says Jessica Simpson, a senior companion animals public policy specialist for the HSUS. A consistent approach is necessary to help dogs generalize the new behavior from the classroom to the home.

    Virtual training

    Online dog training options have exploded in COVID’s wake. It's possible for dog trainers to size up a dog’s issues through virtual chats with the owner and videos of the dog’s behavior. After an initial video consultation, trainers can give the owners homework and then watch videos tracking the dog’s progress. GoodPup is a great online program for those looking for this approach.

    Red flags

    Ideally, you’ll find an affordable, certified dog trainer who’s knowledgeable about your dog’s issues, practices humane techniques and is available either in person or online. But if the training sparks concern, you can simply leave.

    “If you don't feel good, then remove your dog,” Hamrick says. “If you go to a local obedience class, and the trainer is yanking on leashes or making your dog scared, if your dog is not excited to go to class, then you absolutely have the right to cancel and remove them. You will do more damage by trying to be nice and stay.” BY JAMES HETTINGER

  • Tips for cold weather when you have dogs

    Tips for cold weather when you have dogs

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    Exposure to winter’s dry, cold air and chilly rain, sleet and snow can cause chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin, but these aren’t the only discomforts pets can suffer. Winter walks can become downright dangerous if chemicals from ice-melting agents are licked off of bare paws. To help prevent cold weather dangers from affecting your pet’s health, check out our top 10 cold weather safety tips from our experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC).

    Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet, so keep your animals inside. If left outdoors, pets can freeze, become disoriented, lost, stolen, injured or killed. In addition, don’t leave pets alone in a car during cold weather, as cars can act as refrigerators that hold in the cold and cause animals to freeze to death. Keep your home humidified and be sure to towel dry your pet as soon as they come inside. Repeatedly going into the cold and then comin back into a warm home can cause itchy, flaking skin. Pay close attention to their feet and in-between their toes and remove any snow balls from between their foot pads to prevent and treat skin irritation in the winter. Massage petroleum jelly or other vet-approved paw protectants into paw pads before going outside to protect from salt and chemical agents. Booties can provide even more coverage and can also prevent sand and salt from getting lodged between bare toes and causing irritation. Use pet-friendly ice melts whenever possible. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter. A longer coat will provide more warmth. If your dog is long-haired, simply trim them to minimize the clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry their skin, and don’t neglect the hair between their toes. If your dog is short-haired, consider getting them a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly. After each walk, make sure to wash and dry your pet's feet and stomach to remove ice, salt and chemicals. Don't forget to check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes. You may also want to bring a towel on long walks to clean off stinging, irritated paws. Bathe your pets as little as possible during cold spells. Washing too often can remove essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin. If your pooch must be bathed, ask your vet to recommend a moisturizing shampoo and/or rinse. Thoroughly clean up any anitfreeze spills. Like coolant, antifreeze is a lethal for dogs and cats. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Additionally, cold weather chemicals like ice melts can be dangerous when ingested, so always be mindful and keep chemicals up and out of paws' reach. Feed your pet a little extra in the winter months. Pets burn extra energy by trying to stay warm in wintertime. Feeding them a little bit more can provide much-needed calories, and making sure they have plenty of water to drink will help keep them well-hydrated and their skin less dry. Make sure your companion animal has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect. Never let your dog off leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm. Dogs can lose their scent in the snow and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure your dog always wears an ID tag.

    Be sure to keep these tips top of mind this winter so that you and your furry friends can stay warm, cozy and safe.

  • Learn about supplements, plasma supplements and Winpro Pet products

    Learn about supplements, plasma supplements and Winpro Pet products

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    At WINPRO, we're dedicated to helping dogs live their best lives. Our range of plasma-powered health products are backed by scientific evidence and a money-back guarantee. Our vision is to support the health and well-being of dogs through the use of innovative and effective products.

    Visit Winpropet.com

    Tim's contact: [email protected] Tim's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-mitchum-a7671117/
    Main Website: https://winpropet.com/ Links To More Science Info: https://winpropet.com/pages/our-production-process https://winpropet.com/pages/scientific-proof https://winpropet.com/pages/our-story https://winpropet.com/pages/letter-from-founder WeeklyWag Newsletter: https://winpropet.com/pages/weekly-wag Social Links: https://www.facebook.com/winpropet
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  • Learn more about the mysterious cough that swept the canine community

    Learn more about the mysterious cough that swept the canine community

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    A mystery dog illness that spread across the U.S. last year and can lead to serious or fatal respiratory problems is still under investigation, but cases are starting to slow, experts say.

    The illness, which started to spread more widely in the summer and fall of 2023, causes coughing, sneezing and fatigue, among other symptoms, and can progress quickly to pneumonia. The dogs suspected to have it test negative for all of the typical causes of respiratory symptoms and often don't respond to treatment.

    In a statement to TODAY.com, the American Veterinary Medical Association says that based on "conversations with various sources ... the number of cases are declining," adding that an "ebb and flow" of respiratory illness in dogs over the course of the year is common, similar to cold and flu season in humans.

    The statement also explains that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has so far not seen that the rise in respiratory illness in dogs is linked to a new virus or bacteria.

    A statement from the Animal and Plant Inspection Service, part of the USDA, confirms to TODAY.com that the state-led testing that the agency is helping coordinate "has not indicated the presence of a novel pathogen or single infectious cause among these cases."

    Numerous veterinary diagnostic labs across the country are investigating the outbreak, from Oregon to Kansas to New Hampshire.

    The APHIS spokesperson adds that the illness is not regulated by APHIS and therefore the branch doesn't have data on case numbers.

    The Oregon Veterinary Medical Association also shared in an Feb. 14, 2024, update that "cases seem to be waning, if not back to normal," citing veterinarian Dr. Scott Weese's Worms and Germs blog.

    At last count, at least 19 states had reported cases of the illness, according to various expert groups. The AVMA explained in an earlier statement that the mystery dog illness is difficult to track because there's no national surveillance system.

    In November 2023, veterinarians in critical care settings told TODAY.com that they'd seen dozens of cases since the fall.

    Late last year, multiple groups — including the Colorado and Oregon departments of agriculture, the AVMA, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health — issued warnings about the mystery illness in dogs.

    “We don’t know what is causing this situation, where dogs are presenting at veterinarians with what private veterinarians would call kennel cough,” Rhode Island's state veterinarian Dr. Scott Marshall told NBC affiliate WJAR. “What’s different about this situation is that dogs are presenting with little bit more severe signs, not responding to usual treatments, and unfortunately had a small number, still a number, of dogs that have succumbed to them.”

    “It seems to happen very, very quickly — to go from this cough that’s just won’t go away ... and then all of a sudden they develop this pneumonia,” Dr. Lindsey Ganzer, veterinarian and CEO at North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, told TODAY.com. She said she treated over a dozen dogs with what she believes is the condition between October and November 2023.

    If your dog develops a cough, do not panic, the AVMA advises. But stay vigilant about its progression and your pet's overall health, and contact your vet right away if anything seems off.

    What is the mystery dog illness?

    Dogs with this mystery illness usually have coughing, sneezing, eye or nose discharge, are abnormally tired, and do not test positive for any common causes of canine respiratory illness, the Oregon Department of Agriculture noted in a Nov. 9 press release.

    Typically, dogs with respiratory illnesses have a cough for seven to 10 days, but some vets saw an uptick in dogs with coughs lasting weeks to months that don't respond to treatment, the Colorado Department of Agriculture said in a Nov. 22 statement.

    One of the distinguishing characteristics of this mystery illness outbreak was the high number of dogs who developed pneumonia. One Colorado vet, Dr. Michael Lappin, director of the Center for Companion Animal Studies at the Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine, told NBC News the number of canine pneumonia cases in the state rose by 50% between September and November 2023 compared to 2022.

    Marshall estimated that Rhode Island saw at least 35 cases of the mystery respiratory illness, but it's hard to know exactly how many because not all cases are reported.

    Dogs are most likely to contract it by being in close contact with numerous other dogs — so places like doggy day care, dog parks, groomers or boarding kennels, Ganzer said. The illness seems to affect dogs regardless of age, size or breed, though dogs with snort snouts, like bulldogs and pugs, may be at higher risk.

    Between mid-August and mid-November, the Oregon Department of Agriculture received reports of over 200 cases of the illness from veterinarians in the state but has had no additional cases to report since.

    A Dec. 1 statement from the Washington Department of Agriculture said the state has received 16 reports of unusual canine respiratory disease. Two cases were confirmed as such.

    The Colorado Department of Agriculture also shared in November that veterinarians in the state were seeing "double the number of cases than what is typically seen during a canine infectious respiratory disease outbreak."

    The Wisconsin State Journal reported that between late October and December, clinics around the state saw six to 12 cases each, according to Dr. Keith Poulsen, director of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at University of Wisconin-Madison.

    Dr. Amanda Cavanagh, head of urgent care services at Colorado State University James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital, in Fort Collins, Colorado, told TODAY.com that this past summer she started seeing cases of dogs with coughs lasting several weeks or longer, and the trend continued into the fall. She estimated her caseload of coughing dogs doubled from October to November.

    While dogs with a contagious cough are common in veterinary settings, Cavanagh noted that she normally sees cases decrease in the fall as temperatures drop and fewer dogs are gathering at parks. "But this year, the spike has stayed high," she explains.

    In its original press release, the Oregon Department of Agriculture noted that the illness can progress in three ways:

    Mild to moderate cough for six to eight weeks or longer that either doesn't respond to antibiotics or only responds a little Chronic pneumonia that doesn't respond to antibiotics Severe pneumonia that "often leads to poor outcomes in as little as 24 to 36 hours"

    Cavanagh witnessed all three scenarios play out at her hospital. Last fall, she said she saw more dogs than usual with a long-lasting upper respiratory infection who then developed pneumonia from a secondary bacterial infection.

    Of the dogs she treated, she said most who developed pneumonia responded to antibiotics, and many with the long-lasting cough recovered with time and never got pneumonia. But of those who developed the severe pneumonia, some died or had to be euthanized.

    "That really bad pneumonia, historically, is very, very rare. Maybe I would see one case a year," but last fall alone, Cavanagh saw a "handful," she said.

    How many dogs have died from the mystery illness?

    Because most states are not tracking case numbers, it's not known exactly how many dogs have died from the illness.

    The Oregon Department of Agriculture tells TODAY.com that it does not know how many dogs have died from the illness in the state.

    However, it is confirmed that some dogs in the U.S. have died from the mystery illness.

    The Colorado Department of Agriculture said in a statement that "in rare cases, the canine patients progress quickly from pneumonia to death." Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biological Sciences also said the illness has resulted in "some fatalities."

    Ganzer and Cavanagh both have had several canine patients die from what they believe to be the condition. Rhode Island Veterinary Medical Association President Shelly Pancoast told WJAR that she's seen five to 10 dogs die from the mystery illness.

    “We still don’t have a great handle on how exactly we should be treating these dogs,” Pancoast said. “A vast majority of them are making full recovery, it’s just unlike anything we’ve seen in previous years with kennel cough."

    What states have the mystery dog illness?

    According to various expert groups, cases that match the description of the mystery dog illness have been reported, officially or anecdotally, in:

    Colorado California Florida Georgia Idaho Illinois Indiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts New Hampshire Nevada Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island Tennessee Vermont Washington Wisconsin

    This above list of states comes from the AVMA, the Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association, the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine and the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at University of Wisconsin-Madison.

    Mystery dog illness 2023 symptoms

    Symptoms of the mystery dog illness include:

    Coughing that doesn't get better on its own after a week or so Sneezing Nasal or eye discharge Red eyes Lethargy Trouble breathing, especially from the stomach Blue or purple gums (due to not getting enough oxygen)

    Related: What does coughing in a dog sound like? Vet explains in viral video

    Signs of coughing in dogs

    For many dog owners, the signs of coughing can be difficult to recognize, Dr. Michele Forbes, Dr. Michele Forbes, owner of Compassionate Care Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan, says.

    "Rarely do (dog owners) identify a cough until it becomes an overt problem and it’s clearly coming from the chest,” Forbes explained in a now-viral TikTok.

    As a result of owners not noticing coughing or confusing it for something else, like throat-clearing or gagging, some dogs are arriving at vet facilities in more advanced stages of the condition, which can make it more difficult to treat, Forbes told TODAY.com.

    Some tips to help identify signs of coughing in dogs:

    The sound dogs make when they're choking can be confused for coughing. Some dogs sound like they're honking, kind of like a goose. Coughing can also sound like the dog is gagging or clearing its throat. The chest may heave or the abdomen may move while the dog is coughing. For some dogs, it looks like they're trying to cough up a hair ball and they may produce some liquid. A wet cough may produce a gargling sound. If a dog is coughing a lot, they may end up vomiting, which dog owners often confuse for a gastrointestinal issue. Reverse-sneezing can be confused for coughing but it's not usually a reason to call the vet unless it's paired with actual coughing, nasal discharge or any other concerning symptoms. When to see the vet for the mystery dog illness

    Other signs that your dog should see the vet, per the AVMA, include:

    Lingering cough Weakness Loss of appetite Difficulty breathing Worsening of illness Cough that is sufficiently severe that it causes the dog to vomit or makes it hard for the animal to breathe Tips to prevent mystery dog illness from vets

    Dogs are most likely to contract the illness when in close contact with other dogs, so previous guidance was to keep dogs away from other dogs. But case rates have essentially returned to normal, Weese noted in his blog.

    To keep your dog safe and healthy overall, the AVMA recommends keeping up to date with vaccinations. "While the existing vaccines may not specifically target this unknown infection, maintaining overall health through routine vaccinations can help support a dog’s immune system in combating various infections," it said.

    The AVMA stressed the following vaccines: Bordetella, Adenovirus type 2, and parainfluenza combined with the injectable influenza H3N2 vaccine.

    Be sure to give your dog two weeks after vaccination before interacting with other dogs so they can build up immunity.

    If your dog is sick, consult a vet as soon as possible, as early testing can help with treatment, and keep the dog away from other dogs to avoid spreading the illness, experts advise.

    While it's unlikely a humans can get sick with the respiratory illness, because the cause is still unknown, the AVMA suggests thoroughly washing hands after handling any dogs.

    Caroline Kee contributed reporting.

  • What is a liver shunt with Dr. Laura Brown

    What is a liver shunt with Dr. Laura Brown

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    Liver shunts (technically called portosystemic shunts) are not that common in dogs, but if you are an aficionado of certain breeds or if your dog develops liver disease, you may find yourself in desperate need of information. Read on to learn all about liver shunts in dogs.

    What Is a Liver Shunt?

    First, we need to review some canine anatomy and physiology. A network of veins (called the portal system) drains blood away from the digestive tract. This blood carries nutrients, hormones, and waste material and is supposed to enter the liver before it travels to the rest of the body. The liver takes what it needs to function properly and also detoxifies the blood before sending it onward.

    A shunt is defined as a passage “that allows the flow of materials between two structures that are not usually connected.” A portosystemic shunt is, specifically, an abnormal blood vessel (or vessels) that connects the “portal” system draining the digestive tract to the “systemic” circulatory system feeding the rest of the body, thereby bypassing the liver.

    Causes of Liver Shunts in Dogs

    Liver shunts can be divided into two categories: those that are present at birth (congenital shunts) and those that develop later in life (acquired shunts).

    Congenital shunts are most common, being responsible for approximately 80 percent of cases. Dogs are usually quite young (less than 3 years old) when they start experiencing symptoms. A genetic cause is known for some breeds and suspected in others. Breeds at higher than average risk for congenital liver shunts include the Yorkshire Terrier, Dachshund, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzer, Lhasa Apso, Bichon Frise, Shih Tzu, Havanese, Toy and Miniature Poodle, Pekingese, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Shepherd, Irish Wolfhound, Old English Sheepdog, Samoyed, Irish Setter, Labrador Retriever, Doberman Pinscher, Golden Retriever, and German Shepherd.

    Acquired shunts typically develop when blood pressure within the veins connecting the digestive tract to the liver becomes elevated—most often because of diseases that cause liver scarring (cirrhosis). Dogs with acquired liver shunts tend to experience symptoms when they are older in comparison to those diagnosed with congenital shunts.

    Symptoms of Liver Shunts in Dogs

    Dogs with liver shunts generally have some combination of the following symptoms:

    Poor growth (congenital shunts) Poor appetite and/or eating unusual things Weight loss Increased thirst and urination Difficulty urinating or blood in the urine due to the formation of bladder stones Vomiting, which may contain blood Diarrhea, which may contain blood Behavioral changes like mental dullness, staring vacantly, poor vision, unsteadiness, circling, and head pressing Diagnosing Liver Shunts in Dogs

    These symptoms are obviously not unique to liver shunts. A veterinarian will start the diagnostic process by taking a complete health history, performing a physical examination, and running some basic tests such as blood work and a urinalysis. If he or she thinks that a liver shunt is likely, additional testing will be necessary to reach a definitive diagnosis. Possibilities include bile acid tests, blood ammonia levels, abdominal X-rays, abdominal ultrasound, and advanced imaging studies. Your veterinarian can discuss the pros and cons of each test with you based on the specifics of your dog’s case.

    Treatment for Liver Shunts in Dogs

    The type of liver shunt that a dog has and their age and overall condition determines what type of treatment is best. Most small breed dogs who have congenital shunts have just one abnormal blood vessel that is located outside of the liver. These are the most amenable to surgical correction. A single shunt that is located within the liver itself is more common in large breed dogs. These are still usually best treated with surgery, but the procedure is a little more difficult. Dogs with acquired shunts tend to have multiple, abnormal vessels and may be poorer candidates for surgery due to their underlying illness.

    Surgery for liver shunts centers on blocking the flow of blood through the abnormal vessels so that more of it travels through the liver. This can involve the application of devices specifically designed to do this (e.g., ameroid constrictors or cellophane bands) or tying off the vessels with suture material. Oftentimes, the abnormal vessels cannot be completely blocked off all at once without the dog developing serious side effects like intestinal damage. Ameroid constrictors and cellophane bands are designed to get around this problem since they cause the vessel to narrow over time, which gives the body a chance to adjust.

    Medical management for liver shunts can be used to improve a dog’s condition prior to surgery, when surgery is not in a dog’s best interests, or when surgery is unable to entirely correct the problem. Veterinarians typically prescribe a diet that has just enough protein for the dog but no “extra,” which reduces the byproducts of protein digestion (e.g., ammonia) that can make a dog’s symptoms worse. Research indicates that soy protein may be a better option in comparison to meat-based sources of protein. Feeding several smaller meals throughout the day is also beneficial.

    Medications also play an important role in the medical management of liver shunts. Antibiotics are prescribed to reduce the number of bacteria in the gut, and enemas can be given to physically remove feces and bacteria from the colon. Oral lactulose, a type of indigestible sugar, is used to encourage rapid transit of stool through the intestinal tract and to lower the pH within the gut, which reduces the absorption of ammonia.

    Prognosis for Liver Shunts in Dogs

    Approximately one-third of dogs with liver shunts can be successfully managed with dietary changes and medications, according to Dr. Karen Tobias, professor of small animal soft tissue surgery and a board-certified surgeon at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine.

    Dogs who have liver shunts that are located outside of the liver and that are surgically corrected using ameroid constrictors or cellophane bands have the best prognosis, with around 85 percent being clinically normal several months after surgery, according to Tobias. In comparison, dogs with shunts that are located within the liver have a greater risk of complications although many still do very well after surgery.

  • WINPRO Pet discusses natural supplements using plasma to fight canine imflammation. Coupon code in show notes!

    WINPRO Pet discusses natural supplements using plasma to fight canine imflammation. Coupon code in show notes!

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk
    The WINPRO Story

    The WINPRO story goes back to the 1980’s at Iowa State University where there were trials done to try and save the lives of weaning baby piglets. During this stressful time young piglets are taken away from mom. Many died from the stress. So researchers at Iowa State started putting spray-dried blood plasma into the pigs’ starter diet. It had a profound and positive effect. So instead of losing lots of pigs, farmers lost hardly any. And a revolution was born.

    A Plasma Protein Revolution

    Over the years, blood proteins found in plasma have been used to improve the lives of many animals including dairy calves, lambs, kids, goats, juvenile fish, and horses. In late 2016...

    WINPRO Was Formed To Explore Using Blood Proteins In Dogs

    And the results were nothing short of astonishing.

    Today, WINPRO is the only company to offer a line of plasma-powered health products formulated especially for dogs. Dogs could be the perfect species for blood proteins as they are highly active, athletic and get into lots of stuff, both good and bad. Dogs have to deal with a lot of stressors, both inside their bodies and in the environment around them. Where you have stress, you will find inflammation.

    Blood Proteins Are The Enemy Of Inflammation

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    It’s All About Returning The Dog To Normal

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    Learn even more: Scientific Proof Our Formula & Our Production Process Tim's contact: [email protected] Tim's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-mitchum-a7671117/
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  • Northern California Pug Rescue is having a fundraiser for Coco who has a liver shunt

    Northern California Pug Rescue is having a fundraiser for Coco who has a liver shunt

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    Pug Rescue of Northern California feels every pug is special and important, so we do everything we can to give these special souls the care and love they need. We take in over a hundred pugs annually. All of these pugs see vets, some for simple check ups, some for expensive procedures. Thanks to donations, we are able to continue to care for these pugs and find forever homes for them.

    https://pugpros.org/donate/

  • Learn about Pug Partners of Nebraska and their event on 2/17/24 called Curly Tails & Cocktails

    Learn about Pug Partners of Nebraska and their event on 2/17/24 called Curly Tails & Cocktails

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk
    What is Pug Partners of Nebraska?

    Pug Partners of Nebraska is a 501c3, non-profit organization comprised of dedicated volunteers who are committed to rescuing and re-homing pugs in need. We believe that all pugs deserve a chance to be loved and to love a human companion.

    The majority of our rescue pugs come from what is called a puppy mill (a mass breeding facility), and we are very dedicated to these special dogs and providing them with the life they deserve. Our main purpose is to provide all of our rescue pugs with a loving foster home, quality dog food, medical care, and any other need that they may have while in our care. Our ultimate goal is to place each pug into a forever family that will continue to show the pug love, attention, and provide the care that they each deserve.

    We strive to educate our adopters and the public about our wonderful pug breed. Although pugs are quite different from most breeds, we want to show people how amazing these small dogs can be, and how they are great companions.

    Vision Statement

    Pug Partners of Nebraska provides a service to the community for pugs in need, by rescuing purebred pugs that are in shelters, puppy mills, whose owners can no longer care for them, and for those who have become lost/abandoned and to place them in a loving and safe permanent home where they will be loved and cared for as companion pets.

    Goals of Pug Partners of Nebraska

    To accomplish our mission, Pug Partners of Nebraska strives to:

    Rescue adoptable pugs from a variety of situations and place them into loving foster homes until their permanent home can be found Treat all pugs like our own, by giving them behavioral and medical attention that they need Act as advocates by protecting and advancing the pug breed by encouraging responsible pug ownership and by rescuing pugs from unsafe or abusive situations Carefully screen all volunteers to ensure that the most knowledgeable pug experts in the community are on board with pug Partners’ mission Help reduce the pet over-population crisis by ensuring that all pugs adopted through our rescue are spayed or neutered Have useful information available to those interested in adding a pug to their family Provide the community with superior knowledge of the pug breed cooperate and network with other animal rescue organizations in the community and world-wide Incorporate programs to help the rescue succeed and involved more volunteers Pug Partners History

    One random July evening in 2008, Jessica Kamish was surfing the web looking for a sister for her current 3 year old pug Rocky. She came across the website for Midwest Pug Rescue where a banner read, “Foster homes needed in Omaha, NE.” As Jessica was the president of the Omaha Pug Club, with membership of more than 150 pug lovers, she was sure that she could find a couple of fellow pug lovers who would open their homes and hearts to a pug in need and foster for the rescue.

    An email was sent out to the address listed on the website, and an email was quickly received back that there was a 6 year old female who was found in O’Neil, Nebraska who needed a foster home. At this point Jessica sent an email to the pug club asking for foster homes. One couple replied immediately, Megan and Josiah (Si) Hollibaugh. They had just adopted two pugs from another rescue and wanted to help out a pug in need.

    With much contemplation, Jessica and her fiancĂ© Matt decided to go ahead and take on this 6 year old puppy mill pug and give fostering a try. They named their foster pug Lily. Lily changed Matt and Jessica’s life. As a puppy mill survivor she had never experienced life outside of a kennel. There were so many firsts, and they found glory in the small things. The experience touched them both and they wanted to become more involved. Shortly after deciding this, Lily became part of their family.

    Jessica soon began getting emails about all the pugs needing rescued in Nebraska and Iowa. At this time, the only pug rescue in the area was Midwest Pug Rescue in Kansas City, MO, and it was obvious that the rescue need was great in the Nebraska and Iowa area as well. Jessica continued to seek out additional foster homes to help with the influx of pugs that needed rescued in the area. Megan and Si were the first foster home to take in a foster pug after Jessica. Their first foster was Yoda, a three year old mostly blind male who was surrendered to the Council Bluffs Animal Shelter. They too were touched by their fostering experience and wanted to find a way to help the pugs in need even more.

    After finding it hard to stay in contact with the pug rescue in Kansas City, Jessica, Matt, Megan and Si decided that it would be best to start up their own rescue and run it the way that would work best for them. Pug Partners of Nebraska was created in December 2008, and the EIN number request was filed with the IRS. In January 2009, a generous Omaha lawyer agreed to help the group file their 501(c)(3) paperwork.

    On January 30, 2009 the state certified Pug Partners of Nebraska’s Articles of Incorporation.

    Since then, Pug Partners of Nebraska has rescued over 900 pugs. We have over 20 foster homes, many volunteers, and have countless happy-ever-after stories about the pugs PPN has rescued. As the rescue has increased in size, Pug Partners added new positions to better help them rescue more pugs in need. In July 2009, positions were added to include a foster qualifier, foster coordinator, adoption qualifier, and adoption coordinator. In January 2010, these roles were further condensed to include a foster director and an adoption director. In March 2010, the positions began evolving once again and will continue to evolve as the rescue continues to grow.

    Join us for a dinner benefitting Pug Partners of Nebraska!

    This special event directly supports our rescue efforts. There will be a live auctioneer, a silent auction, raffles, a photo booth, and a presentation of Pug Partners’ mission and achievements for the year.

    Location: Arbor Hall, 14040 Arbor St, Omaha, NE 68144

    Suggested attire: Cocktail attire

    6:00 Social hour begins

    6:30 Announcements

    7:00 Dinner buffet

    7:30-7:40 Silent Auction Tables Close

    8:00 Live Auction by Larsen & Larsen Auction Company

    8:30 Raffle Drawing (must be present to win)

    Purchase Tickets

    This event is only for adults over 21 years old.

    Interested in Sponsoring?
    Sponsor Curly Tails & Cocktails

    https://www.pugpartners.com/

  • Signs your pet is visiting you from Heaven and webinars starting next week with Cindy Myers, Energy Healer and Intuitive

    Signs your pet is visiting you from Heaven and webinars starting next week with Cindy Myers, Energy Healer and Intuitive

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk
    Signs From The Afterlife

    When our pets leave their physical body, it can feel overwhelming and challenging. But it is important to remember that it is not the end! Our animals are always around and ready to interact with us. We just need to understand how they communicate, recognise the signs and acknowledge their presence.

    The summarised list of signs from the afterlife include:

    Hearing familiar sounds: footsteps, barking, howling scratching Smelling familiar scents which remind you of your pet Seeing their presence out of the corner of your eye Noticing orbs or small flashes of light Receiving an sudden influx of shared memories out of nowhere Experiencing unexplained electrical malfunction or disturbances Feeling your animals snuggle up next to you Sensing your animals looking at you Special encounters with winged animals, bird and insects Noticing your other animals stare at an empty space A Sudden feeling of warmth, love and comfort Sudden changes in room temperature Seeing your pets doppelganger Finding feathers, fur or whiskers around the house or on clothing Using words or numbers to communicate Moving toys or objects around the house Finding your animals favourite food around the house Being drawn to a particular objects Finding misplaced or objects in unexpected places Knocking objects over around the house Finding unexplainable scratches or markings Having vivid dreams about your pet Receiving visions from your pet A new animal comes knocking at your door Hearing songs that remind you of your deceased pet

    And if you haven’t yet received any signs, don’t worry, it may take some time. And if you really can’t wait, consider an Animal Mediumship Consultation to reconnect with them. It is a great way to establish contact, overcome grief and exchange loving messages.

    To sign up for a webinar please find more information:

    Here is the link to Jen Weigel's site that is hosting the animal communication class. https://weigel-productions.ticketleap.com/animal-communication-with-cindy-myers-on-zoom/

    https://yourenergyhealer.com/

  • Learn all about Pug Rescue of Northern California

    Learn all about Pug Rescue of Northern California

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk
    THE PRNC STORY

    Pug Rescue of Northern California (formerly Pug Rescue of Sacramento) is a non-profit organization that takes in Pugs and Pug mixes from across Northern California that have been abandoned at pounds or shelters, found as strays or turned in by their owners. We then spay or neuter the pugs, make sure they are current on their shots, perform a heartworm test and start medication, insert a microchip, complete a health check and provide for other medical assessment and treatment as needed. The pugs are fostered in the private homes of our volunteers and then placed in loving, pre-screened adoptive homes.

    We recently changed our name to Pug Rescue of Northern California (PRNC). We were formerly known as Pug Rescue of Sacramento (PROS). We have worked throughout all of Northern California for many years and feel this name represents our efforts more fully. Please read below our story of how we became Pug Rescue of Sacramento and grew into Pug Rescue of Northern California.

    Before PROS was formed the need for pug rescue had become evident. A breeder in the Sacramento area named Marianne Herzberg-Stanley stepped into the void without having outside financial backing. She had done informal pug rescue for years, but saw the need in the early 1990's and took the lead.

    In May of 1996, we were incorporated as a California Public Benefit Corporation. By this time Marianne had yielded her involvement to others that have kept her efforts going. She left PROS in good hands with many volunteers and dedicated Board members.

    The year 2001 brought a major change in our pug rescue organization. Pug Rescue by the Bay joined forces with the Sacramento group and became affiliated with us starting in April. Prior to this change, we had been taking in and adopting out a substantial amount of Pugs in the Bay Area. The volunteers and coordinators in the Bay Area have proven to be a great asset to PROS' rescue efforts. Effective on May 14, 2003 PROS became a federal nonprofit organization and this has benefited our many donators and members who support our rescue efforts.

    By the end of 2010, PROS rescued 106 pugs. Total pugs helped in 2009 was 105 and in 2008, the number of pugs saved was 125. Contrary to our name, PROS will rescue from the Bay to the Borders because the need is evident. Most of our adoptions are more than 50 miles out of Sacramento or in the Bay Area.

    Recently, several other rescues have come into existence that will take the strain off our efforts. We applaud their efforts and wish them much success, but as they come into growth we expect to remain the most dedicated Pug rescue group in Northern California. We have many contacts and volunteers in various geographical areas. Our ultimate goal is to make sure all Pugs and Pug mixes that need to be rescued get rescued.

    We hold various events in the Bay Area such as Pug Sundays and the Adoption Fair. We are always looking for additional volunteers as well as foster homes for the Pugs waiting to find their forever home.

    We accept donations of new goods and services for our yearly auctions and raffles, as well as cash donations. We accept Pay Pal donations and can also donations through United Way. We are a state and federal non-profit corporation so your donation may be tax deductible. These funds go to providing food, medical treatment and care for the growing number of rescues that are finding their way to our door.

    All Pugs that are adopted out are done so under a contract that provides that the Pug will be returned to us if the owner can no longer keep the Pug for any reason. It is the goal of PRNC to never turn away a Pug in need. PRNC does not euthanize any animal because of lack of space or inability to find a home, and in fact will only do so in cases of extreme medical crisis.

    Visit https://pugpros.org

  • Dog food tips to help you when you walk into a pet store and are overwhlemed

    Dog food tips to help you when you walk into a pet store and are overwhlemed

    · Bark n Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk

    In an ideal world, all dog food would be created equal. Instead, dog owners are presented with an overwhelming array of options, all claiming to be the best dog food on the market. Wading through these choices to find a dog food brand that is healthy, affordable, and appealing to your pet is often frustrating. We’ve compiled expert advice to help you narrow down your options.

    What Makes a Dog Food “Good”?

    Most people feed their dogs dry kibble or canned wet food. These processed foods might not be appealing to us, but they contain all of the nutrients dogs need to stay healthy. Quality commercial dog foods are highly regulated and have undergone rigorous testing by veterinary specialists. So what exactly is in these dog foods?

    Dogs, unlike cats, are not strict carnivores. While meat makes up the majority of their diet, domestic dogs can also derive nutrients from grains, fruits, and vegetables. These non-meat foods are not simply fillers, but can be a valuable source of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. A good dog food will contain meat, vegetables, grains, and fruits. The best dog foods contain high-quality versions of these ingredients that are appropriate for your dog’s digestive system.

    Dog Food Nutrition

    The best dog food for your canine companion should meet his nutritional needs. While most commercial dog food brands are specially formulated with at least the minimum nutritional requirements for dogs, it is important to remember that not every dog has exactly the same nutritional needs.

    Dogs require a wide range of nutrients in different quantities over the course of their lives. The nutritional needs of a puppy are different from an adult dog, which is why it is a good idea to feed a puppy formula or an “all life stages” food to your young dog. If you are unsure about the differences in nutritional requirements between puppies and adults, the Merck Veterinary Manual lists the recommended nutrients for dogs, along with the recommended amount by weight and age. Large breed dogs and puppies have different nutritional requirements than small breed dogs and puppies.

    ©Justyna - stock.adobe.com Dog Food Myths and Misinformation

    There are plenty of dog food myths and misinformation about dog nutrition on the Internet. You can sort through it by following one simple rule: check your sources. Many well-meaning individuals make claims about dog nutrition without backing them up with scientific evidence. As you do research, always check to see if the information is supported by a credible source, like a veterinarian, canine nutritionist, or scientific study. It never hurts to be skeptical, either. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

    Many people have questions about grain-inclusive or grain-free dog food, pea-free dog food, or dog foods containing animal byproducts. If your dog has been diagnosed with a food allergy caused by grains, you may choose a grain-free diet under the guidance of your veterinarian. For most dogs, grains are actually a source of wholesome nutrients. Quality animal byproducts are also nutritious. These include organ meats and entrails, which often contain more nutrients than the muscle meat consumed by humans. Regulated byproducts do not include hooves, hair, floor sweepings, intestinal contents, or manure. As with any pet-related inquiry, feel free to discuss your concerns about your dog’s food with your veterinarian.

    How to Read a Dog Food Label

    One way to decipher a good dog food from a bad dog food is to read the label. This is easier said than done, as labels can be hard to read, both due to the small print and just plain awkwardness of handling big bags of dog food in the store! But labels can also be misleading, as the Merck Veterinary Manual explains. Dog food labels are required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to tell you eight key pieces of information, and individual states may also have their own labeling requirements:

    Product name Net weight of the product Name and address of the manufacturer Guaranteed analysis List of ingredients Intended animal species (i.e. dog or cat) Statement of nutritional adequacy Feeding guidelines Product Name

    The product name alone tells you a lot about what’s inside the can or bag. The term “beef” means that beef must make up at least 70 percent of the entire product. The terms “beef dinner,” “beef entrĂ©e,” or “beef platter,” on the other hand, only require that beef makes up at least 10 percent of the entire product. “With beef” only requires that 3 percent of the total product be beef, and “beef flavor” simply implies that there is enough beef in the product to flavor it (less than 3 percent). The same holds true for other named ingredients like “chicken.”

    Ingredients

    The ingredient list on a dog food label will not tell you the quality of the ingredients or where they came from, and some manufacturers split up the ingredients to make the distribution more equal. For instance, different types of corn, such as flaked corn, ground corn, or kibbled corn, can be listed separately. This bumps corn down on the list of ingredients, even though the actual content of corn in the food is high. Meat is another tricky ingredient. Whole meats contain a large percentage of water weight, which means that the overall percentage of meat after processing is lower than it appears. Meat meal, on the other hand, sounds less appealing to people, but actually contains more meat than “whole meats,” as there is no water weight to throw off the calculation.

    While the ingredient list might not tell you the quality of the ingredients, it does tell you what is in the food. This is especially important for dogs with special dietary needs or allergies and is also useful for owners who wish to feed their dogs specific sources of fiber, protein, and carbohydrates.

    “Complete and Balanced” Dog Foods

    One of the first things you should look for on a dog food label is the statement “(Name of product) is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.” This isn’t just an advertising slogan. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has strict requirements to make sure that a product is in fact complete and balanced for dogs (or cats). Complete and balanced diets must contain the minimum amount of all of the nutrients necessary for dogs, which is also indicated in the “guaranteed analysis.” This analysis gives the minimum amount of crude protein and fat, along with the maximum amounts of water and crude fiber. The analysis does not, however, give the exact amount of these components, which means there is room for considerable variation. The manufacturer’s average nutrient profile is often a better tool for evaluating a product.

    You can always contact the dog food company directly to get more information about its product. A reputable company that has your dog’s interests at heart should be happy to answer your questions and in many cases will give you more information than what is available on the website or product label. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association has a helpful sheet with questions you can ask a company representative.

    Best Dog Food for Small and Large Breeds

    Small breed dogs and large breed dogs have different nutritional needs. Large breed dogs are more prone to musculoskeletal problems than smaller breeds, and so they often require large-breed dog food with different balances of certain nutrients to promote musculoskeletal health, especially as puppies. Small breed dogs, on the other hand, can choke on large-sized kibble and have their own nutritional requirements that can be accommodated with a small-breed dog food. Research your dog’s breed to find out if there are any additional nutritional requirements you should be aware of.

    ©duncanandison - stock.adobe.com Best Dog Food for Puppies

    The nutritional needs of dogs vary throughout their life. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and senior dogs have their own nutritional considerations. Most dog food companies carry specially formulated puppy foods for each stage of a dog’s life, making it easier to narrow down your choices. If you are concerned about which is the best dog food for your dog’s life stage, consult your veterinarian to see what stage food is appropriate for your dog.

    Your puppy requires a different nutrient balance than an adult dog. This is especially true for large breeds. Feeding a large breed puppy food can help, as their growth needs to be monitored carefully to prevent bone and joint problems. Other puppies do well on both “puppy food” and food labeled “for all life stages.” The best food for your puppy depends on your puppy’s size and breed. Always consult your veterinarian for recommendations on puppy feeding, and advice on how to switch puppies to adult dog food.

    Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs

    Senior dogs, usually considered 7+, vary in their individual nutritional needs. Younger senior dogs may struggle with being overweight and older senior dogs may struggle with being underweight, which is why there is such a variety.

    Choosing the best senior dog food may come down to what your dog finds palatable. Many older dogs prefer wet food while others may need their food warmed up to enhance the aromas. Ultimately, your vet can help choose the best dog food for an older pet.

    Best Food for Dogs With Special Dietary Needs

    Allergies, sensitive stomachs, and dietary restrictions affect dogs, as well as people. Feeding dogs with special dietary needs can be tricky. Your best course of action is to consult your veterinarian for advice about the dog food that best helps with their condition.

    Best Dry Dog Food

    The most widely available and affordable dog food is dry dog food. Dry dog food does not require refrigeration, which is its main advantage over wet dog food, as it contains approximately 90 percent dry matter and 10 percent water. This makes it easy to store. Dry dog food is made by combining and cooking ingredients like meat and grains. This process converts the starches in the food into an easily digested form, while also destroying toxins and flash sterilizing the ingredients. There are many different varieties of dry dog food on the shelves. The best dry food for your dog depends on your dog’s dietary needs. In general, a higher quality dry dog food that contains the appropriate ingredients for your dog’s life stage and breed is the best choice, but talk to your vet or veterinary nutritionist about the healthiest choice for your pet.

    Best Wet Dog Food

    Wet dog food, or canned dog food, is a perfectly viable alternative to dry dog food. While generally slightly more expensive, wet dog food is more palatable than dry food and can help stimulate the appetite of picky eaters. Wet dog food contains many of the same ingredients as dry dog food, but not in the same quantities. Wet food contains higher amounts of fresh meat, poultry, fish, and animal byproducts, along with more textured proteins derived from grains. Canned dog food has a long shelf life, however it must be refrigerated once opened. The best wet food for your dog, just as with dry dog food, depends on your dog’s life stage, breed, and any special dietary needs or allergies. Talk to your vet about the wet dog food that he recommends for your pet.

    How Much Should I Feed My Dog?

    Dog obesity is a growing concern in the veterinary community and has been linked to many health problems in dogs. Luckily for our pets, we are usually more disciplined about controlling their diets than we are about controlling our own. Knowing how much to feed your dog and what healthy dog weight looks like can be tricky. Many owners accidentally overfeed their pets, which is why it is important to take your dog in for regular checkups and to talk with your vet about appropriate portions. The guidelines on the back of the bag are just that – guidelines. Some dogs may require more than the recommended amount, whereas others require much less. Activity level, time of year, nursing, illness, and more factors can all impact how much a dog needs to eat. Dog people will often advise that you should “feed the dog that’s in front of you” instead of strictly adhering to dog food serving size guidelines that may or may not be exactly what your dog needs.

    Choosing the Best Dog Food

    The best dog food for your dog is ultimately up to you to decide. As an owner, you are the one who sees your dog on a regular basis. If your dog produces firm, healthy stool, is active and fit, and has a healthy appetite, then your dog food is probably working just fine.

    Your veterinarian is a valuable resource to you during this process. They know more about pet nutrition than the average owner, and they also have access to research and resources that owners do not have. Your vet can help you narrow down your options and should be more than happy to help you find the answers to your questions about your dog’s food.

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