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Pet Insurance - The Pros and Cons

The deep emotional bond we share with our dogs and cats is one of life’s most simple pleasures. In return for unconditional love, many pet owners do everything they can to ensure their dogs and cats have long, productive, and healthy lives.

Just as health care technology has dramitically advanced, so has veterninary science. Illnesses previously untreatable even 10 years ago are now routinely resolved, thereby helping out pets live longer lives.

Costs of Veterinary Care Continue to Rise

Much like the human health care sector, medical care breakthroughs result in higher costs for vets and pet owners alike. Conservatively, veterinary costs have risen over 60% in the past five years, per the American Kennel Club. Conditions that normally went undiagnosed and untreated are now becoming routine.

Pet owners are grateful for these veterinary advances, yet the rising cost to care for our pets is an important factor to many.

Many times, unexpected veterinary expenses wreak havoc with the family budget. Our neighbor’s German Shephard, a wonderful dog named Duke, began to suffer from hip dysplacia. Our neighbors got Duke treated and he’s now happy and healthy again. The cost of Duke’s treatment was $2100 - no drop in the bucket.

What is Pet Insurance, and Does it Make Sense For You?

Pet insurance is relatively new in the United States, but very common in Europe. Basically, pet insurance reduces the risk of caring for your dog or cat. Perhaps the most important factor with pet insurance is that it eliminates the difficult decision of choosing between your finances or letting your pet go untreated.

There are several different pet insurance companies. Some policies pay for all types of veterinary care. Others pay only for accidents and illnesses. Some will cover your pet regardless of age, while certain plans have numerous deductibles and restrictions.

The decision to consider pet insurance depends upon your viewpoint as a pet owner. Sadly, many pet owners consider their pets disposable and won’t get their pet medical treatment if it becomes too ill. Conversely, you’re a good candidate for pet insurance if you’re willing to devote a specified amount of time and money to treat and heal your pet.

Typical Plans and Costs

Pet insurance plans cost basically the same for cats and dogs. Most start at $10 per month, with a nominal deductible, usually $50. Senior pets, if insurable, cost somewhat more, typically $25-$35 per month. At this time, we only know of one company that accepts senior pets, normally defined as age 8 and above.

All pet insurance plans offer coverage for accidents and illness, while some offer coverage for routine expenses like annual check ups and flea preventative. Sometimes, pet insurance companies that offer routine care coverage are set up with contracted veterinarians, similar to a PPO or HMO health care arrangement. For policies that cover unplanned illnesses and injuries, you can use the veterinarian of your choice, and these plans may also offer some discount element for routine veterinary services.

How It Works In Real Life

Another of our neighbors is a pet owner to both a dog and cat. His cat, a 6 year old tabby named Whiskers, incurred a respiratory infection late last year, with veterinary bills totalling almost $1600. Earlier in the year, his 12 year old border collie mix, Diamond, was found to have a small malignant tumor during a routine physical. Fortunately, Diamond was able to be treated and recovered well, but the veterinary bills were large - $1500+.

The veterinarian who treated both Diamond and Whiskers submitted each bill directly to the pet insurance company. Although they were obviously seperate instancest, the total vet bills amounted to roughly $3100. The pet insurance plan covered $2850, the difference being a $50 deductible for Whiskers (adult cat) and a $200 deductible for Diamond (senior dog). Total out-of-pocket costs to treat both pets was a very manageable $250.

Make Sure Pet Insurance Fits Your Pet’s Needs - And Yours

There are a handful of pet insurers available to you. Do your homework and make sure the policy is right for you and your pet. For example, if you’re comfortable budgeting for routine annual expenses like check ups, shots, and flea preventative, there’s no need to pay a pet insurance company to cover routine expenses. Rather, look for a company that protects you from large, unplanned expenses.

If you determine pet insurance is right for you and your pet, here are some important factors to consider when choosing the right policy for you and your pet:

Look for guaranteed acceptance, whether your pet is a kitten or a puppy or a senior pet. Also, if you’re comfortable with your vet, make sure the pet insurance policy gives you the freedom to go to any vet. Further, make sure your policy premium doesn’t increase as your pet ages. Last but not least, look for unlimited accident coverage. Accidents can happen at any time, particularly to pets.

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Pet Insurance - The Pros and Cons posted by Jim Hofman in Dogs
on October 8, 2008 at 4:29 am

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Golden Retriever History

The Golden Retriever, one of the most popular intelligent dogs around the world, is known for its service in a wide variety of areas including field trials, obedience, hunting and offering companionship and guidance to blind people. During early days of the 1800’s, hunting was considered both a practical measure for obtaining food as well as an interesting domain of sports in England and Scotland. The Golden Retriever was developed from the need to have a medium-sized dog that has the flexibility to move through wild fowling, both upland gaming zone and waterfowl.

In the history of the Golden Retriever, Lord Tweedmouth at Guisachan Estate, Scotland listed the first official record of breeding. However, it became known to the public only during 1952 when the great nephew of Lord Tweedmouth published few historical documentation concerning the estate and Lord Tweedmouth. In mid 19th century, the golden puppy, named Nous put his footsteps for the first time in the estate with his master, Lord Tweedmouth. In the estate, Lord Tweedmouth bred golden puppies with the most desired characteristics and mannerisms.

Tweed Water Spaniels were exclusively used for the purpose of hunting in the early years. It was mainly because these dogs have a true sense of intelligence, bravery and liveliness. The early breeding of the Golden Retriever was largely dependent on the contribution of Tweed Water Spaniels. Breeding between Nous and Belle, a female Tweed Water Spaniel, was held in the estate and they produced four golden puppies. However, the breeding of modern the Golden Retriever is highly influenced by Irish setter, Bloodhound and Tweed Water Spaniel.

The popularity of the Golden Retriever increased significantly during the last decades of 19th century. The Golden Retriever officially appeared to the public for the first time in 1908 at Crystal Palace, England. In the year 1913, the Golden Retriever Club in England was established and with this establishment a separate recognition for this breed was marked. It was 1920 when the Golden Retriever reached to North America and loved by many people.

In 1925, the Golden Retriever achieved the recognition from American Kennel Club (AKC). The popularity of the Golden Retriever increased sharply during the years of the 1930’s and 1940’s. With its true obedience, this breed obtained the award of Obedience Champ Title from American Kennel Club (AKC) in the year 1977.

In early days, the capability of the Golden Retriever dogs was limited to their hunting instinct, but later on down the line they show their utmost talent in the domain of show ring as well.

One interesting fact is that the dark shade used to be the predominant public preference that went over the light shade coat in earlier times, which is quite uncommon in today’s scenario.

Throughout the years, the popularity of this breed has increased and the Golden Retriever has been known as one of the most adorable and intelligent dogs among all other breeds around the world.

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Golden Retriever History posted by Carol Matthews in Dogs
on October 5, 2008 at 11:28 am

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Golden Retriever: A Nineteenth Century Dog

The Golden Retriever, a truly intelligent dog among all other breeds, is popular for its all-embracing services in the domains of field trials, obedience, hunting and providing true guidance and services to blind people. In the beginning of the 1800’s, people from old England and Scotland considered hunting as their game of interest at one hand, and a mode for collecting food on the other. The talent of the Golden Retriever was first noticed in the domain of hunting, since these dogs are of medium size and have the flexibility to scroll through fowling lands, including upland gaming zone and waterfowl.

In the history of the Golden Retriever, Lord Tweedmouth at Guisachan Estate, Scotland listed the first official record of breeding. However, it became known to the public only during 1952 when the great nephew of Lord Tweedmouth published few historical documentation concerning the estate and Lord Tweedmouth. In mid 19th century, the golden puppy, named Nous put his footsteps for the first time in the estate with his master, Lord Tweedmouth. In the estate, Lord Tweedmouth bred golden puppies with the most desired characteristics and mannerisms.

During the early days, Tweed Water Spaniels were predominantly used as hunting dogs, since they were marked for their true intelligence, courage and vitality, the factors most essential for hunting. Tweed Water Spaniel dogs were of great importance for the development of the ancestors of the modern Golden Retriever. Lord Tweedmouth encouraged breeding between his yellow puppy Nous and Belle, a female Tweed Water Spaniel and this couple gave birth to fours golden puppies. However in later days, Irish setter and Bloodhound in addition to Tweed Water Spaniel were used for the breeding of modern the Golden Retriever.

The popularity of the Golden Retriever increased significantly during the last decades of 19th century. The Golden Retriever officially appeared to the public for the first time in 1908 at Crystal Palace, England. In the year 1913, the Golden Retriever Club in England was established and with this establishment a separate recognition for this breed was marked. It was 1920 when the Golden Retriever reached to North America and loved by many people.

In the year 1925, American Kennel Club (AKC) gave the breed recognition to the Golden Retriever. The time between the 1930’s and 1940’s is identified as the most flourishing years of the popularity of the Golden Retriever. This dog is so obedient that it won the Obedience Champ Title from the AKC in 1977, where it competed with other breeds as well.

In early days, the capability of the Golden Retriever dogs was limited to their hunting instinct, but later on down the line they show their utmost talent in the domain of show ring as well.

In the initial days, the dark shade of the coats of the Golden Retriever was predominantly preferred by people, however, the preference has changed dramatically in due course of time.

Throughout the years, the popularity of this breed has increased and the Golden Retriever has been known as one of the most adorable and intelligent dogs among all other breeds around the world.

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Golden Retriever: A Nineteenth Century Dog posted by Carol Matthews in Dogs
on October 4, 2008 at 1:05 am

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Dog’s Diet: The Benefits of Fiber and Its Oral Health

What exactly is fiber? It is a part of carbohydrates. Fiber is not highly digestible by the body. Your dog’s diet can benefit from fiber in appropriate amounts. Just like humans, too much fiber in a diet can have negative effects on the digestive system. It is always important to monitor your dog’s diet to maintain a healthy level of fiber to suit your pet’s needs. Talk to your veterinarian about the benefits of fiber in your dog’s diet.

The pets who achieve the desired weight goal may need a little extra fiber in the dog’s diet to maintain the desired weight. Combining fiber with strict portion control, you will be able to create a dog diet that is healthy and satisfying for your pet.

Fiber does have benefits in your dog’s diet when used in moderation. Talk to your vet about the best amount of fiber for your pet.

Oral health

Your dog is your very best friend. Every single time you walk through the door your dog is so happy to see you that he wags his tail and practically smiles at you. How can you show your pet how much they mean to you? Well, one way is to take care of that smile for your pet. Did you know that your dog’s diet can influence their oral health?

The treats you give your pet are part of your dog’s diet just like snacks are part of a person’s diet. As humans, we tend to want to overlook our snacking habits, so it can be easy to overlook the treats you give your dog. This is not a good idea. Carefully consider any and all items your dog will consume.

Your dog’s diet must be healthy to ensure excellent oral health. Dry dog food is best whenever possible. Don’t forget to select treats for your pet that will enhance your dog’s diet. Consciously monitoring your dog’s diet will positively influence your best friend’s oral health.

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Dog’s Diet: The Benefits of Fiber and Its Oral Health posted by Letho Maseko in Dogs
on September 29, 2008 at 8:55 am

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Exercise Pens For For Your Pet

Pet exercise is very important. Your dog needs a space in which to romp. With exercise pens, your dog has the opportunity to romp around without having the chance to escape and run amuck in the neighbor’s flowerbed.

A Definition of Exercise Pens

Exercise pens, also known as dog pens, are fences that allow your dog a safe place for your dog to exercise and play. Portable exercise pens are available. These consist of portable fencing made of heavy gauge wire formed into eight hinged panels. The hinges make the exercise pen easy to put away or transport.

Dog pens come in sizes ranging from 24 to 48 inches in height, and are typically 16 feet in length. Exercise pens are also available with soft sides constructed of canvas and mesh. These weigh less and are more portable, but if your dog is rambunctious or tends to chew they are far mare easily destroyed than the metal dog pens.

Exercise pens can be used indoors or outdoors. Dogs are territorial, and so will be quite comfortable with the notion that the pen is their area. The hinges allow you to configure exercise pens into just about any size and shape you choose. You can also use it as a gate or barrier if you want to keep your dog in a particular part of a fenced-in yard, or keep the dog in the house or garage.

An Excellent Training Tool

Exercise pens give you a means for managing the dog’s environment to your advantage. They create a comfortable area for your dog to play when you can’t supervise their every little movement.

Travel and Portability

Dogs are delightful travel companions but you must be properly equipped. The dog pen you bring will come in handy, giving the dog a place to relax and thereby giving you a chance to relax, too.

Dogs are easily unsettled by unfamiliar surroundings. This can cause the dog to behave inappropriately. For example, the dog may be tempted to urinate on furniture or decorative items, or chew on furniture and fixtures-particularly awkward if you’re staying at someone else’s house. Spacious Exercise pens with a familiar soft blanket and chewable toys can be a welcome place to rest for your dog. Knowing your dog is relaxing will ease your mind as well.

Exercise Pens and Potty Training

Exercise pens can be tremendously useful in housebreaking your dog. It will allow you to use a box or piddle pad, or keep your dog in a limited space until you can take him or her outside. If the dog perceives the space as his own, he may be less inclined to soil it. You will, however, need to remember to take your dog outside frequently to do his business.

Exercise Pens Serve Other Purposes as Well

Exercise pens are used at dog shows to keep the participants safe, happy and separate from each other until it is their turn to tour the ring. They are also used to keep your dog confined to a limited area of your house or yard after your dog has returned home from surgery. A dog that has been recently operated on should not be allowed to roam free, but rather must remain where you can closely observe him.

Things to Bear In Mind

In spite of the name you’ll want to take your dog out of the pen and let him get some real exercise. Your dog’s pen is useful as a place to keep your dog for limited times. They are not intended to be a place where the dog can stay indefinitely.

You can acclimate your dog to the pen the same way you would to a crate: feed him in the pen, do not leave him alone in the pen until he’s used to it. Don’t leave his collar on when he’s in the pen, for his own safety.

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Exercise Pens For For Your Pet posted by Johnathan Livingston in Dogs
on September 26, 2008 at 2:18 am

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What Can You Do for a Dog With Arthritis?

Arthritis in dogs can be due to sever different factors, particularly common are injuries, congenital defects and simply getting older, just as in humans. In dogs, even a minor injury can lead to arthritis later in life. The conditions to which some breeds of dogs are predisposed, such as hip dysplasia can also mean a predisposition to developing arthritis as the dog ages. Even dogs who have never suffered an injury in their lives may well develop arthritis as they age.

There are different types of dog arthritis. As is the case in humans with arthritis, the problem is an inflammation in one or more joints. This can be caused by an inflammation either in the cartilage in the joint or a problem with the joint’s synovial fluid. In dogs, the most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, infective arthritis, immune mediated arthritis and idiopathic arthritis.

The stiffness of the limbs will be more pronounced in the mornings or after long naps, but by working with the dog and encouraging exercise the stiff appearance will disappear through the day. There will also be pain in the joints felt when you touch their limbs or the area suffering. The last sign can be seen in a swelling of the limb around the joint. While it may not be noticeable when you feel the area, you should be able to notice a difference between joints.

An arthritic dog will usually experience pain when their legs are touched near the inflamed joint. The will usually be swelling in this area, but it may not be visible to an unaided eye.

There is arthritis medicine for dogs that will help treat the inflammation. However, many dog owners find that natural treatments for arthritis in dogs are more helpful. Glucosamine for dogs and MSM for dogs are two of the more natural methods for treatment as herbal remedies. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring ingredient that is found in most foods. It has anti inflammatory components that are best for osteoarthritis.

Depending on the cause of the arthritis in dogs you may need to have medication for your pet. Some types of arthritis can be taken care of with a healthy diet and exercise. Obesity in dogs is one cause of arthritis. By helping the dog to maintain a natural weight for their size and eating a healthy diet you can eliminate the pain of arthritis. The joints may still experience some lasting effects; however this is minimal damage that can be treated with more glucosamine in the diet as well as other herbs.

Many times, just a change in diet can be enough to treat the symptoms of arthritis in dogs. Especially in tandem with exercise, diet can relieve arthritis in many dogs. Just as in humans, obesity can lead to arthritis. If the animal is kept at a healthy weight, then much of the pain of arthritis will simply disappear.

For some dogs, arthritis remedies must be used in conjunction with a change in the animal’s diet to best treat the symptoms of dog arthritis.

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What Can You Do for a Dog With Arthritis? posted by Geraldine Dimarco in Dogs
on September 21, 2008 at 10:01 am

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Will A Senior Dog Diet Make Your Dog Healthier?

You hate to acknowledge it, but your furry pal is getting a older. You will want to assure that your pet is happy and healthy for many more years to come. You will have heard and seen all of the hype about the new dog diets for aging pets. But is there really any difference between dog food for full grown dogs and kibble suggested specifically for seniors?

The best resource for information about dog diets is your pets veterinarian. Only you and your vet know the specific needs of your pet the best. Discuss with your vet your concerns and questions. He or she will be able to advise you on what changes, if any, need to be made to your dogs diet.

If your senior dog does not have any trouble with there health and has a healthy weight, there will be not a need to change your dogs diet from adult to senior dog food. But, if weight is the an issue, consider giving smaller portions of dog food to your pet. This may be the only change you need to make to your dogs diet requires.

A senior dog is classed as a dog in the last third of their life. Larger dogs, such as Great Danes, live to be about 9 years old. When they reach the age of 9 years old, you may want to think about a senior dogs diet. On the other hand, a Poodle will not reach senior status until about age of ten, this is due to the longer life expectancy. The decision to alter your dogs diet should be based on there health condition, rather than there actual age in years. Your vet will help you to decide when the right time is to change your dogs diet.

Dog food especially prepared for senior dogs typically has less calories. This helps to combat any weight issues. The senior dog food also contains more fiber for the different needs in your dogs diet. As dogs age, they tend to suffer from constipation, this extra fiber will help remedy this problem.

Renal failure can be a health problem for senior dogs. How can your dogs diet help with this problem? Cutting down the amount of protein in your dogs diet will decrease the work load of the kidneys. For the most part, this is the reason, senior dog food often has lower protein content than regular adult formulas.

Whenever possible, give your dog dry dog food to eat, this is will help with dental health. The dry kibble is a big help in reducing plaque and tartar buildup. If you have trouble getting your older dog to eat dry food, you may need to moisten it with water, or you could purchase some of the moist canned varieties that are available.

When your vet recommends supplements may be a help as part of your senior dogs diet. It Is because, some pets are unable to eat properly due to dental problems. many other older pets are not able to gain all of the nutrients from their food, this again is for various health reasons. Supplements such as, vitamins given everyday and glucosamine can be a great help to maintain a healthy diet for your dog.

Glucosamine helps joint health. For senior dogs, glucosamine can help to fight arthritis and hip displasia.

Vitamins C, A, and E may prevent the natural aging process and encourage better health for senior dogs. Talk to your vet about adding such supplements to your dogs diet.

We all want what is best for our pet. Your senior dog should have a diet that meets their nutritional needs. You and your vet should work together to determine what is the best diet for your senior dog. Your dogs diet will directly affect their health. Take care of your pet by supervising your dogs diet closely with the help of your veterinarian.

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Will A Senior Dog Diet Make Your Dog Healthier? posted by G D WIlliams in Dogs
on at 5:36 am

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Crucial Dog Health Diagnosis

Your dog is more than your pet. He is your best friend, companion, and protector. When he is not feeling well, the last thing you want to do is worry that there is something seriously wrong. Therefore, off you go to the veterinarian for a dog health diagnosis.

A trip to the vet’s office should be something that is done routinely. The veterinarian will give you things to look out for and to check when you think your dog is sick. With trips the vet’s office, your dog should have a few things done to him that are sure to keep him on the path to living out a healthy life.

Most importantly, your dog should be vaccinated. Many of the most popular killers of dogs are diseases that can be protected against by a vaccination. Your dog should get his distemper as well as his rabies shots along with treatments for fleas and ticks. If your dog is older, he can develop a type of Alzheimer’s and even asthma. Instead of guessing what is wrong, your veterinarian will be able to help you and treat your dog. It is important that you schedule regular check-ups for your companion.

Sometimes, the dog can even get the same illnesses that we get. For example, dogs can suffer from the common cold as well as a full-on fever, and sadly, even cancer. The most important thing is to make sure that your dog is continuing to be healthy. The best way to do this is to have regular check-ups with the vet.

When you keep your pet in the best health possible, you will find that he/she will be much happier, and so will you. Having a dog that mopes around or acts sick is very worrisome for pet owners. Dogs generally act just as a sick child would who is too young to be able to express what is wrong. When your dog isn’t feeling the best, he/she can’t tell you that it’s a stomach ache or a headache.

He is relying on you to make sure he is healthy the same as he depends on you for being fed, walked, bathed, and loved. There are many things you can do to keep your friend feeling great and preventing serious illness. Your vet may recommend natural remedies to keep your dog in top health.

Making sure his diet is one that is recommended for his age and his particular needs can make the difference between having an energetic, healthy pet and one that does not feel like playing or leaving his bed. You should avoid commercial brands of dog food that have high concentrates of sugar and preservatives. Exercise cannot be stressed enough, and look at it this way. It is as healthy for you as it is for your dog.

When you take your dog to the vet, a dog health diagnosis is the best way to be sure that there aren’t any serious problems. Even little problems can become serious. After all is said and done, your dog will be able to be happy and live out a long life as your faithful companion and protector.

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Crucial Dog Health Diagnosis posted by Jennifer Poultson in Dogs
on September 20, 2008 at 5:14 am

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10 things found in your home that can kill your dog
by Paul Eastow

Dogs are very curious animals and as omnivores and natural scavengers, can get into and eat just about anything. However, there are many toxic substances found in your home that could potentially kill your dog. The following is a list of ten common household substances that you should make sure to keep out of your dog’s reach.

1) Antifreeze: Many people do not realize it, but common antifreeze kills many pets each year. It smells and tastes very sweet to your dog and is very appealing to him. Ethylene glycol is toxic however, and each winter, many animals are killed by it. Symptoms of toxicity include seizures, vomiting, stumbling and lethargy leading to kidney failure. Make sure to keep your antifreeze out of your dog’s reach. If you suspect that your dog has ingested antifreeze, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately.

2) Chocolate: Chocolate contains a substance called the obromine which is toxic to dogs. Baking chocolate and dark chocolate is especially dangerous. While it usually takes a somewhat large amount of chocolate to kill a dog, poisoning and death does occur with smaller amounts ingested. Signs of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, increased urination, and increased activity. This can progress to seizures and unusual heart rhythms. Call your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate.

3) Bleach: As you might imagine, household bleach is toxic to dogs. Keep all products containing bleach out of your dog’s reach. Symptoms of bleach poisoning include drooling, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Do NOT induce vomiting if you suspect your dog has ingested bleach and contact your veterinarian immediately.

4) Tylenol: As little as two regular strength Tylenol tablets can kill a small dog. Dogs lack the proper liver enzymes to break down acetaminophen. Signs of toxicity include drooling, lethargy, and abdominal pain. If you suspect your dog has ingested Tylenol, call your veterinarian immediately.

5) Watch Batteries: If your dog ingests a watch battery, it can cause a potentially fatal ulceration in the stomach within 12 hours. All other alkaline batteries are toxic to dogs as well. Symptoms of toxicity include drooling, lack of appetite, vomiting, and lethargy. If you suspect your dog has ingested a watch battery, contact your vet immediately.

6) Moth Balls: Moth balls are very dangerous to dogs. They contain an insecticide that causes central nervous system excitement and seizures. When metabolized, ingestion of moth balls can lead to liver failure. Symptoms of poisoning by moth balls include vomiting and seizures. If your dog has consumed moth balls, do NOT induce vomiting. Seek veterinary care immediately.

7) Fabric Softeners and other detergents: All sorts of household detergents are toxic to dogs at one level or another, but fabric softeners fall into the highly toxic category. Signs of toxicity include vomiting, lethargy, burns to the mouth, drooling, muscle weakness, and even coma. Do NOT induce vomiting if your dog has ingested any detergent. Contact your veterinarian immediately.

8) Mouthwash: Mouthwash can contain boric acid which is highly toxic to dogs. Symptoms of poisoning by mouthwash include vomiting, drooling, seizures, and coma. You should take your dog to the veterinarian immediately if you suspect poisoning by mouthwash or other household item containing boric acid like contact lens solution or denture cleaner.

9) Peach Pits: With most fruits, the pits and the seeds are toxic to dogs. Signs of poisoning include drooling, vomiting, and lethargy. If you suspect your dog has eaten a peach pit or the pit or seeds of any fruit, take him to the veterinarian immediately.

10) Household Plants: Many common and popular household plants are highly toxic to dogs. A partial list of toxic plants includes poinsettias, lilies, ferns, devil’s ivy, aloe, and ivy. Symptoms of poisoning due to ingestion of toxic plants include vomiting and central nervous system excitement. Many of these plants are fatal if ingested. Please contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has eaten a toxic houseplant.

With diligence on our part, we can help prevent our dogs from getting into substances that are toxic to them. Many veterinary school websites offer lists of things that are toxic to dogs and what you should do if your dog ingests such things. As always, if you think your dog may have eaten something dangerous, contact your veterinarian immediately or take your dog to the closest emergency clinic.

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10 things found in your home that can kill your dog posted by Paul Eastow in Dogs
on September 18, 2008 at 3:20 am

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Preventing Dental Disease is Critical for the Health of Your Dog
by Tony Buel

Preventing dental disease in your dog is important. More emphasis should really be paid by the dog lovers or dog owners before things get out of hand. Dental disease is given priority in the health schedule of the dog nowadays because of the association of the dental diseases with some systemic diseases in the dogs.

Antibiotics need to be given in the early stages of teeth infection. If not, this may cause specific infections and the organisms may spread to the other nearby regions like the oral mucous membrane and pharyngeal region etc.

More acidic or alkaline food materials need not be given to the dogs to avoid possible tooth damage and decay. Antibiotics need to be given in the initial stage of teeth infection itself and if not, this may cause specific infections and the organisms may spread to the other nearby regions like the oral mucous membrane and pharyngeal region etc.

Also if your dog is not given some bony material to bite on at a young age, the dog may develop some dental diseases later. The teething action often causes the animal to go for biting in an indiscriminate manner. The animal has to be given some biting materials to avoid the occurrence of dental diseases.

If there is any evidence of bleeding around the mouth and oral regions the dog needs to be examined thoroughly for any dental abnormality. Many times the puppies or sometimes even the adult dogs may have teeth injuries. This should be attended to immediately as a preventive step. If not, the animal may end up in secondary bacterial infections.

Hunting dogs need additional care associated with the dental structures and such care is necessary to avoid the future dental problems in such dogs. Brushes are available to provide better dental care to dogs. However, one has to allow for more time and should have patience to use such brushes.

Centers for disease control and prevention are trying to put up guidelines to prevent the dental diseases in dogs. However, the oral examination needs to be carried out frequently in dogs to ensure that any potential problems pertaining to the dentine structures are caught as soon as possible,

Home dental care is to be given more emphasis these days because of the fact that dental diseases are emerging in pets. If you suspect a potential dental problem, see a veterinarian for intervention as soon as possible.

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Preventing Dental Disease is Critical for the Health of Your Dog posted by Tony Buel in Dogs
on September 16, 2008 at 3:01 am

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The Author
 
C. Anne Baker, EzineArticles.com Platinum Author
Anne has pet related articles published throughout the Internet. She is an experienced dog trainer, and provides voluntary advice on several web sites.
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