Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Meet Moose!

 
Moose was named largest dog in America when he weighed in at 286 lbs! WOW!

Thursday, February 18, 2010

WAY TO GO, SADIE....



Sadie, a Scottish terrier, is photographed by the media after winning Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Garden in New York, Tuesday.

Monday, February 15, 2010

Quote of the Day

"If you can't decide between a Shepherd, a Setter or a Poodle, get them all...adopt a mutt!" ASPCA

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Essential Vitamins and Minerals for Dogs

  • Vitamins A and E: Vitamin A can play a role in weight loss, helping your dog burn fat more efficiently. Vitamins A and E serve as important antioxidants, staving off the aging process and fighting disease. These vitamins also contribute to your dog’s eye and skin health. Liver is a good source of vitamin A, and eggs are a source of both vitamins A and E.
  • Vitamin B-12: This vitamin aids in cell growth and development.
  • Calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D: These ingredients help strengthen your dog’s bones and teeth.
  • Iron: This mineral is essential for healthy blood, helping transport oxygen throughout your pup’s body. High-quality meat and meat by-products are a source.
  • Potassium: This mineral supports heart health. Carbohydrates are good sources of potassium, say the experts.
  • Vitamin C: Dogs and humans benefit from vitamin C in the same way: It can boost the immune system, promote healing and fight illness.

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Caring for Your Dog's Teeth



According to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), 80 percent of dogs show oral disease by age 3, and it is the most common health problem treated in small animal health clinics today. The buildup of bacteria in your dog's mouth may cause more than just bad breath; according to research presented at a recent conference on Companion Animal Oral Health, bacteria are also the cause of oral disease and diseases in other organs of the body like the heart, liver and kidneys.

Just like humans, dogs teeth are prone to plaque buildup, and when allowed to combine with saliva and residual food between the tooth and gum, plaque turns to tartar. If plaque and tartar are not removed routinely by your veterinarian, they may cause periodontal disease.

The most common signs of oral disease are:


Yellow and brown tartar buildup
Bleeding
Bad breath
Red inflamed gums
Difficulty chewing
Change in eating habits
Pawing at the mouth

Your dog needs preventive dental care just like you. AVDS recommends using a three-part dental care regimen to include:

Routine physical exams by your veterinarian

Regular dental care at home: Tooth brushing is the single most important part of oral care and cannot be over-emphasized. If your pet will allow it, you should brush her teeth daily. It is best to start early since most dogs will allow brushing if you start when they are puppies. Use a special toothpaste formulated for your pet; human toothpaste may upset your dog's stomach.

Regular follow-up care: You can ask about specially formulated foods, such as pet foods that have been developed to enhance oral care by their abrasive action. Scientific studies have proven that these special diets are beneficial in maintaining oral health.

There are also numerous chew products available that may be helpful. Use common sense and caution when choosing these products; (ask your veterinarian for help). It is usually best to stay with softer products.