After years of resistance, I have finally succumbed to the pressure, and joined the Pilates cult. So far, I have been unable to entice my husband to join me in search longer, leaner muscles and a sense of empowerment, but the dogs are quite willing to be a part of this activity in any way possible.
I am finding that the more time I spend prostrate on the floor with the dogs taking turns hovering over my head and panting, the more I find myself contemplating the age old question:
“Why does my dog’s breath smell so bad?”
There are times when the answer to this question is obvious, such as when Tia, my Australian Shepherd cross has been dining from the smorgasbord that I call the cat’s litter box. There are plenty of times, however, when they have not been consuming cat “leftovers” that their breath can still make them the kind of date you don’t kiss goodnight.
The most common cause of dog breath is periodontal disease. Within hours of brushing our pets’ teeth, bacteria set up camp in their mouths. This bacterial layer eventually mineralizes into tartar. Untreated, this can progress into an infection of the gums, and eventually spread into the bones of the mouth. Your veterinarian can diagnose periodontal disease and may prescribe a dental cleaning under anaesthetic, tooth brushing, oral rinses, or antibiotics in some cases.
Other types of infection can also make your pet’s breath less than agreeable. Dogs with infection in their sinuses or their upper respiratory tract, whether from viruses, bacteria, foreign material (such as grass seeds), or even cancer can present with fetid breath. Dogs with lips larger than their mouth, such as Great Danes, Cocker Spaniels, or bulldogs may develop an infection of the skin in their lip folds.
There are some diseases affecting an animal’s entire body which can change your pet’s breath. Diabetes or kidney disease, for example, can manifest as changes to your pet’s breath. Some autoimmune diseases also present with similar symptoms. Your veterinarian may require blood and/or urine tests to confirm these diagnoses.Trauma in the mouth can allow the invasion of bacteria, resulting in halitosis. Common causes of oral trauma are oral fractures, accidental exposure to caustic agents, foreign material, and burns, (usually caused by chewing electric cords)
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to diagnose halitosis. Anyone with a functioning sense of smell can quickly isolate disagreeable odours wafting from their pet’s mouth. A veterinary examination is necessary to illuminate the underlying causes of bad breath. With a thorough medical history, examination, and possibly blood or urine tests, your veterinarian should be able to diagnose and make recommendations as to how you can treat your pet, and avoid further “social embarrassment”.
Article submitted by: Dr. Jocelyn Fredlund
From Hollywood to Paris, fashionable bashes aren’t just being left up to the ritzy glamour of the rich and famous. Today’s birthday patron is a little bit hairier . . . and no we aren’t talking Burt Reynolds. Many of the most pampered birthday princesses of our modern world are of the pooch variety.
While some people still find these pet parties a little ludicrous, most modern pet owners are catching on to the latest trend in the animal world. Of course, pet parties are lots of fun for pets and sometimes even more fun for us pet mommies and daddies to throw, they can become a little costly. If you are thinking of throwing a pet party for your four legged friend, read on to find out how you can make it the talk of the doggie kingdom . . . all without getting behind on payments for your own castle.
Every princess knows that the key to every good bash is an invitingly intriguing invite. To create our royal invites full of grace and charm, simply start with pieces of pink cardstock and trace on a little crown shape. Fill in your outlines with gold glitter glue. As soon as you fill your crown with gold glitz, place on a few faux gems to finish the look. These can be found inexpensively at your local craft store or super center in the beading or kids’ crafts aisle.
On the inside you’ll want to announce the gathering in regal style . . . as any proper princess would do of course. Try this little ditty or simply use it as inspiration for your own adorable wording . . .
“Come one, come all to Princess Prissy’s ball!
Princess Prissy requests the presence of Lord Fuzzy Tail at her royal birthday party to be held at her castle on Friday, September 10th.”
Complete this adorable little note with a “paw print” from yours truly and mark it “From her majesty the Queen”.
*Alternative Looks: Another great little invite for your princess’s ball? Antique simple white computer paper to create “scrolls” – to do this simply wet a tea bag with warm water, wring out and use the tea bag as a paint brush to create “stains” similar to that of aged paper. You can also use a lighter to carefully singe the edges of your scrolls. This is best done over the kitchen sink just in case of any boo-boos.
When it comes to the spread of the table, simple is perfectly sweet. Have a bevy of special treats for your pet and her special guests. Simple pup treats will do. Dress up milk bones in a perfectly pretty princess dish or stroll her favorite chewy snack across an elegant silver platter.
If you are going to serve “people food” as opposed to pet approved treats, here are a few safe table foods that are perfect for a doggie special occasion:
- Turkey slices without added greases and fats are great for furry friends
- Apples and Seedless watermelon make the perfect sweet treat for royal princesses
- Green beans and carrots are a great veggie treat
- Low fat peanut butter . . . yummy and good for a good giggle when it sticks to the roof of her mouth . . . keep the camera handy!
When it comes to decorations, keep it perfectly princess. Often times it is possible to use items straight from the kid’s birthday aisle at your local party store . . . just tweak them with careful consideration. Don’t put decorations within puppies’ reach. Balloons are ok too but only when up high where little mouths can’t chew on them. They can be hazardous if swallowed.
When it comes to throwing the perfect princess-pooch party, the most important thing is to go by your pet’s comfort level. If your pet tends to be skittish, invite only those close to her. After all, it is her special day and you want it to be lots of fun for her and you. If your pet is a popular pup, invite over as many guests as you’d like . . . and watch your little princess mingle away with her royal subjects.
Wishing your little puppy princess, a very, very happy birthday!
Ten Reasons Why Pet Mamas are Rock Royalty
10. You have an extensive entourage . . . even if it is just a few Chihuahuas and a cranky cat.
9. You can wake up with morning breath and plenty of people are anxiously waiting to kiss you.
8. You are constantly followed by the pupper-azzi.
7. From sun up to sun down you are in high demand. (Even if it is just to scratch a belly or two.)
6. Your neighbors give you the evil eye of jealousy . . . (ok. It could be because your dog just pooped in the yard but we like it better the first way.)
5. Your pets think you are a snazzy dresser . . . this is why they take your shoes off and “borrow” them for a nice chew.
4. You are always on the cutting edge – ok . . . of dog grooming, but still.
3. You have a full audience for your daily show . . . even if it is just singing in the shower.
2. Everyone wants to be seen riding in your car – preferably hanging their head out the window.
1. Those hounds can’t keep their paws off of you! (And we know it’s totally because you’re hot and not because you have a bologna sandwich in your hand.)
When it comes to allergies and asthma it’s true that it can be rather tricky having a pet as a member of the family . . . especially when that pet lives indoors. When the wheezing gets tough and the sneezers get going . . . often times, even as pet lovers, our love for our children wins over in the decision to take a pet from the home or in making drastic changes to improve the health of our child.
If you have a little wheezer or sneezer in your home, read on to find some of our favorite tips for living with asthma, allergies and pets to boot.
Whether you or your little ones have developed new allergies or have been long time suffers, a trip to the local allergist and asthma center in your area can do wonders for managing your symptoms. Going in for an allergy panel simply for a pet may sound extreme, but it’s important to remember that not only will this test be able to see what pet triggers you have, it may also be able to rule out or diagnose you with other allergies . . . it could be that your chronic sneezing is coming from another area of your home and it could have nothing to do with your pet.
This test is relatively painless . . . it simply involves a few scrapes similar to a fingernail scratch. The nurse or doctor will then rub allergy “triggers’ onto these scrapes. If you are allergic, don’t worry. You won’t have any internal reactions such as wheezing. The patch of skin tested will simply become irritated.
Once your triggers are determined, your doctor will work with you to find the perfect prevention medication and any needed rescue medications just in case. This will help you be prepared if an asthma attack occurs.
After you determine your triggers, prevention medications can be a great help in tolerating your indoor pet. In fact, many asthma suffers are actually encouraged to introduce animals into the home. They can often, in some cases, build up a resistance to triggers. However, you may find that you just aren’t one of those people who benefit from indoor pets.
If this is the case, you will have to make some tough decisions. If you have a basement, you can try moving your pet downstairs for a while just to see if your pet does indeed make matters worse. This is a great testing ground before taking the “give away” leap.
While an improvement in symptoms can be heartbreaking and rewarding at the same time, moving your pet downstairs can be a comforting factor if you do decide to give your pet to another loving family. Knowing that this is the only way can really ease guilt even if just a little.
If you come to the conclusion that giving your pet away is the only healthy solution, try giving your pet to another family member or friend who enjoys the pet’s company. This will ease the transition for your pet and also ensure that you or your child can still see the pet and be an active part of their life.
One of the most important things in keeping triggers low is cleanliness. Change potty pads several times a day and vacuum often. Have a non-allergic family member clean out your pet’s cage and don’t allow pet’s in areas where you sleep. This will help create a “safe haven” for you and your triggers, providing a place where your weary nose can take a breather.
It’s important to keep your pets tidy too. While you don’t want to bathe them to the point of unhealthy coats – it’s perfectly ok to bathe them more often than you would if you weren’t allergic. Keep them properly groomed . . . if the breed allows, keep hair trimmed and short. It will keep dander and fur deposits to a minimum.
When it comes to living with asthma, allergies and pets . . . with a little time and patience you will find that they can all live together harmoniously. For more information on asthma and allergies including coping tips and dog breeds considered “safe” for asthmatic patients, visit the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
The truth about cats and dogs . . . it’s the simple age old rivalry that has plagued the hearts of pet lover’s for centuries on in. Put one in front of the other and it’s like World War III. The simple fact that dogs and cats just can’t always seem to get it together . . . together, can really be devastating for pet owners who have a special place in their heart for both cats and dogs. This is especially true if you already have both types of pets in the home and are living in what seems to be “Ground Zero”.
When it comes to understanding the reason cats and dogs aren’t instant fast friends . . . aka totally freak out in each other’s presence . . . it all begins with each of their instinctual make-ups. Dogs were created with the instinct to prey on smaller animals. In the wild, since there are no Kibbles and Bits or Old Roy, this is what they depend on to stay fed. On the opposite spectrum, cats come equipped with the instinct to steer clear of dogs because of their predatory predisposition.
With their very different backgrounds, it’s easy to see why they aren’t anxious to curl up on the couch together! It would kind of be like a flower cozying up to hungry caterpillar!
While it takes some patience, the answer is yes. In fact, many cats and dogs that are raised together have a rather good chance of getting along well without much help. In some instances, we have even heard of puppies raised in a family with one or more cats that have started to believe that they are cats!
However, if you have an older dog or cat, introducing its arch-enemy into the family can be much more difficult. As the old saying goes “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” – while this isn’t entirely true, it is quite a task to teach older animals to get along with new pets . . . especially because it seems as though these famous foes are invading their territory.
While it does take some time and patience, it can be done . . . even with older pets. There will be ups and downs – these are to be expected. Just know that even as the peaks and valleys come, they simply mean you are headed towards the goal of ultimately climbing over the hill.
Respect the “Tail” of the House
When it comes to pets, we know that “territories” can be a line that intruding pets should never cross . . . and in this case, the new pet whether cat or dog will be the intruder for several weeks. And while it may seem unfair, we have to be willing to stroke the old pet’s “ego” for a while.
If you give all your love and attention to new pets, as we are often tempted to do with the excitement of it all, the old pet will begin to feel as though this animal is trying to take his “territory” over. This is a place you don’t want to be.
Avoid this by making the new pet a “guest” for a period of time. Put them in the bathroom for a while, introducing them to the old pet only briefly and in safe circumstances. Never scold the old pet in the beginning. Simply separate the new animal and try again later.
Play Dates in a Safety Net
Make sure your pets have plenty of time to get to know each other . . . just be sure that these visits are always supervised. There may be lots of bullying without you around to play ref. Again, for a while, don’t scold either pet for “freaking out”. When things get heated or threaten to, simply remove the pets from one another and put them in separate rooms.
It’s a good idea to have each pet’s favorite toy in the room when creating play dates. Make it a cozy space that makes for mutually fun playtime. Having familiar items in the area can help comfort each pet and make them feel secure.
Don’t Force Friendship
If you have children, you know that the worst thing you can do to siblings is to “force” them to play together. This doesn’t work for kiddies and it doesn’t work for kitties (or puppies) either. It’s better to allow them to separate for a while than to have the pet deem the other as “demon dog” for eternity.
Make Play Time Fun
The best thing you can do for both pets is to make playtime fun for them both. Take time to get involved in their playtime. When they see you enjoying yourself, they will relax and take the time to enjoy themselves too. Within the first three to four weeks, with a little patience and lots of hard work, you should begin to see the beginning of a budding friendship.
You have made the decision. It was a tough one where you balanced the benefits of feeding your dog a homemade diet to the potential deterrents such as the convenience of commercials foods. After much thought, the benefits won out - it time to switch your dog to a homemade diet.
But now what? How do you feed your dog a homemade diet? You have heard nightmare stories of people unknowingly making their dogs sick because they did not know how to provide a balanced diet for their beloved pet. You do not want to malnourish your own pet never mind overfeed or feed foods that are potentially dangerous to him, so what do you do? How do you know what your dog should be eating?
There are many levels of homemade diets for dogs, most dependent on how much time, energy, and cost you want to invest in your dog’s dinner.
Many people choose the ‘best of both worlds’ when it comes to feeding their dog a homemade diet. They replace a portion of the commercial kibble with a portion of homemade food. This is a simple way of guaranteeing your dog benefits from ‘real food’ while still maintaining the ease and convenience of commercial foods. To do this, add meat or poultry, a bit of olive oil, some brown rice or whole grain, and a few vegetables to a high-quality and well-balanced kibble. You may need to adjust the balance of kibble to whole foods to maintain your dog’s ideal weight. This is a simple way to improve your dog’s diet without taking on the full responsibility of feeding a fully balanced and nutrient rich homemade diet.
This ‘best of both worlds’ system is also an excellent way of slowly adjusting your dog’s digestive system to a homemade diet – essential if your pet has a sensitive stomach!
The next level of difficulty in how to feed your dog a homemade diet is buying ‘homemade’ dog food for your pet. This sounds backwards but there are many companies all across the country that produce a natural, often organic frozen homemade diet for dogs. This food is almost as convenient as traditional commercial foods except that it takes up freezer space – not a problem for most of us! This food comes as air tight packages of frozen food and, depending on the company, may or may not require cooking. These homemade diets come with a variety of protein sources so you can choose what your dog likes most or for dogs suffering from food allergies, you can easily avoid problem proteins. Most high-end specialty pet stores carry these foods or can recommend a local provider.
The next level in feeding your dog a homemade diet is cooking their dinners entirely yourself. The easiest way to do this is to start by researching various recipes that are easy to make and designed for your pet’s needs i.e. a weight loss homemade diet for the pudgy pet, a high fiber diet for the diabetic dog, a high energy homemade diet for the canine athlete. Speak with your veterinarian about your dog’s needs, especially in the case of a dog with a medical condition such as diabetes or a history of kidney stones. If they do not feel qualified, ask to see a holistic veterinarian for more information.
The most convenient way to feed your dog a homemade diet is to cook up a weeks worth of meals all at once and then freeze it in meal size portions. It is then easy to thaw out a meal and warm it slightly on top of the stove or microwave.
The final level of dedication to feeding your dog a homemade diet is a raw or BARF diet. This specialty diet is extremely difficult to balance for the average dog and there are always concerns about salmonella, e coli, and other parasites when the meat is not cooked. Switching to a raw diet should only be done after spending ample time researching the process so you know exactly what you are doing and then only with your veterinarian’s help. Many dogs thrive on a raw diet but others do better on a less extreme homemade diet.
How to feed your dog a homemade diet is not as difficult as deciding what level of effort you are honestly willing to give on a day in, day out basis. For people that work long hours, coming home and preparing a well-balanced homemade diet for their pet may not be reasonable. Or for people that travel a lot, homemade diets can be inconvenient if not dangerous if refrigeration of the ingredients is not possible. Look at your lifestyle and adjust how you feed your dog to a way that will work 365 days a year, not just when it is convenient.
Feeding your dog a homemade diet is a worthwhile and satisfying way to guarantee your pet receives the best nutrition they can get, as long as you do your research and ask yourself the often difficult questions regarding lifestyle and time management.
Although there are no dogs connected with any specific Western astrological sign, in Chinese astrology the sign of the Dog is highly regarded. Those born under the sign of the dog are honest, faithful and sincere, like the dog himself. He is loyal and dutiful and makes a good companion.
In the West, Canis Major and Canis Minor are the hunting dogs of Orion, one of the most recognizable of all constellations. The brightest star in the constellation of Orion is Sirius, often called “the dog star.” There are no constellations named for cats.
If you believe in astrology for yourself, why not check your dog’s daily horoscope? Many people believe that astrology is just as valid for pets as it is for people. Here are how some of the signs manifest themselves for dogs:
Aries dogs in astrology are full speed ahead! He rarely thinks before he acts. He is full of himself at all times and ready to tackle the world. The Aries dog has confidence to spare and is often very competitive. Whether he’s a small terrier or a large Mastiff, your Aries dog knows that he’s top dog! The Aries dog may be prone to head injuries because he tends to rush in without looking where he’s going.
Taurus dogs in astrology are very devoted but they can be a little stubborn. He is slower to act than the Aries dog. He tends to be a bit more cautious. The Taurus dog can also be a very sentimental and loving dog -- and he loves belly rubs and luxury. Give him a soft bed to lie on and feed him his favorite meal and he’s in heaven. Add some petting and he’s the happiest dog around.
The Gemini dog is always on the go. He has to know what’s going on. He’s in everyone’s business. Quick and smart, the Gemini dog is a multi-tasker. He starts many projects but he may give up on them to start something new. He tends to leave toys and things lying everywhere because he loses interest in them. He has to go see what else is happening! The Gemini dog is the social butterfly of the dog world.
The Cancer dog is a homebody. These tender souls love their people and love being petted. They are very devoted to their families. They can also have expanding waist lines, so you should watch their diets! The Cancer dog may also feel moody from time to time and unappreciated, so be sure to give them lots of treats and special attention to make them feel loved.
The Leo dog believes that he is the king of his domain. No matter how many other pets you may have, the Leo dog looks upon them as his subjects. He can be a benevolent ruler but he expects to be looked up to and admired. As long as he feels he’s getting his due respect he’s a happy dog. But if someone tries to push him out of his place, watch out! He can be a big cry baby. Or he can roar!
The Virgo dog is often very neat and precise. He may have special places for his toys. He may like peace and quiet in the home. If he could wear an apron and help you around the house he probably would. These dogs like order and prefer to keep things running smoothly. They do best in a home without stress and tension because it upsets them when things are in upheaval.
The Libra dog is a fun-loving dog. They are very social and like to spend time with other dogs or any other pets. They get along with everyone. They love their people and other animals and they can be very unhappy if they’re left alone. Like the Taurus dog, the Libra dog enjoys pleasant surroundings and comfort. They love sleeping in a soft place and being pampered.
The Scorpio dog can be quite easy going, at least on the surface, but, when push comes to shove, don’t push him. These dogs are quite capable of pushing back and they don’t let other dogs push them around. The Scorpio dog can be very jealous and possessive of their owner. They can be very determined to get what they want.
The Sagittarius dog can be smart, outgoing, brave and, unfortunately, prone to wandering. Like human Sagittarians, the Sagittarian dog has a touch of wanderlust and loves to travel. Make sure you have a good fence if you have a Sag dog. They can be very curious and adventurous and always want to see what’s on the other side of the fence.
The Capricorn dog may be very successful in life. Whether your Cappy dog starts out in a shelter or comes from the best breeder, he usually finds ways to improve his lot in life. He probably enjoys the trappings of success and may value his toys and other possessions. Other dogs and pets may look up to him and see him as a leader. Your Capricorn dog probably plans ahead and may bury bones or store things for the future. He can be very wise.
The Aquarius dog is a free spirit. He does things his way. Very smart, he may be attracted to gadgets and may chew them up or break them to see how they work. He may be aloof at times but he also likes big gatherings and can be a leader when he chooses. Your Aquarius dog can also be quite stubborn about some things. No one will make him do anything he doesn’t want to do.
The Pisces dog is very gentle and sweet. He can also have a great sense of humor and love of life. These dogs are generally far smarter than most people think when they first meet them because the Pisces dog is unassuming and doesn’t feel like flaunting anything. But watch out. The Pisces dog usually finds ways to get anything he wants and can even trick you into doing things because he’s so clever. He just prefers to hide his talents. They only let you think you’re the boss.
In Irish mythology the hero Cuchulain becomes the “Hound of Ulster” and the defender of the province when he slays a fierce guard dog in self-defense. He takes the dog’s place for the rest of his life.
More Dog Trivia
A cat’s recollection time is about 16 hours. This is compared to a dog’s 5 minutes. With this fact, cats are highly trainable in reasonable amounts of time.
More Cat Trivia
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