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Many people do not realize the importance of caring for their dog’s teeth. As dogs age, the need for dental care increases. The best way to ensure proper dental health for your dog is to start while they are very young. Many dogs do not like their mouths touched. It is important for you as a dog owner to desensitize them to being handled like this at a very young age.

The veterinarian is always going to need to examine your dog’s mouth and you do not want to have problems with this.

The best way for you to get your dog used to having his mouth touched is to begin touching it when you first get your pup.

Make sure to touch the lips, open the mouth, and touch the teeth in a calm and relaxing way for about five minutes each day until your pup is used to being handled in this way.

Make this a regular part of your interaction with your dog so he remains calm when you are doing any kind of preventive dental care.

Most veterinarians recommend brushing your dog’s teeth daily. Many manufacturers make special toothpaste and brushes for dogs.

You do not ever want to use human toothpaste on dogs as it may be harmful to them. To get your dog used to having his teeth brushed, you may want to start by putting a dab of dog toothpaste on a cotton ball and rubbing it over his teeth. Toothpaste for dogs is usually quite tasty to them, so he shouldn’t mind this.

You can then try a finger brush, available at your veterinarian’s office or pet supply store. Eventually, especially for larger breeds, you will want to graduate to a regular dog toothbrush. Regular brushing will help prevent the buildup of calculus and debris on your dog’s teeth.

Another way to help prevent calculus and buildup on your dog’s teeth is by using rawhide chews specially formulated for dental care.

Many companies manufacture these chews. One of the best available is by C.E.T. Most veterinarians carry C.E.T. dental health products. C.E.T. chews are formulated with an enzyme that helps keep plaque from forming and prevents the buildup of bacteria.

Also, the natural abrasion of rawhide chews helps keep teeth healthy. C.E.T. also makes a chew that contains chlorhexadine which has antimicrobial properties.

Some companies also make special dental health food, which may be recommended to you by your veterinarian to help prevent dental problems.

Even with proper preventive measures, most dogs will eventually need a dental cleaning from your veterinarian. If your veterinarian recommends a dental cleaning, it is important that you follow through.

If your dog develops dental disease, harmful bacteria can pass through into the bloodstream causing potentially serious problems such as kidney infections and infections involving the heart valves.

A dental cleaning performed by your veterinarian is much like a human dental cleaning, however your dog will need to be sedated.

The anesthesia is light and with today’s technology is extremely safe. Many veterinarians have anesthesia monitoring systems just like those used in human medicine. A thorough exam will be performed to determine if any teeth need to be pulled or repaired.

Some veterinarians will do x-rays of the teeth to find any cracks or diseased teeth. After this, a trained member of the veterinary staff will perform a dental cleaning. First, they will scale the teeth to remove the tartar above and below the gum line.

This will be done with both hand instruments and ultrasonic scaling equipment. After this, the teeth will be polished, which will make them smooth and help prevent plaque from adhering to them.

Most veterinarians will also do a fluoride treatment. This is to help strengthen the enamel and prevent plaque from forming. If any teeth are diseased or broken, your veterinarian may pull them.

Some veterinarians who specialize in dental care will perform root canals and other intensive dental work.

Most veterinarians will put your dog on a treatment of antibiotics to help prevent bacterial infection.

It is very important to take good care of your dog’s teeth to keep them healthy and to prevent infections. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice and if you have further questions, consult your veterinary staff or pet professional.

Colin Philips
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/simple-steps-to-look-after-your-dogs-teeth-110429.html

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If your pet runs into trouble and has an accident that has compromised its health, you need to stay calm and assess the situation. Panic spreads and animals sense that fearful urgency quickly, so your voice, tone and movements need to stay calm to reassure your companion. After all, a dog doesn’t understand what you’re saying, but a dog can certainly understand the sound of your voice. While you reassure your pet, find out as much as you can about its injury or poisoning. What happened and how, and if anything was consumed, how much? The more information you can gather will help you apply some first aid techniques before you can take your dog to a veterinarian.

The same rule of staying calm also applies to the dog, and you should make every effort to try and keep the dog calm while you administer first aid; your efforts will hopefully come to having the dog allow you to treat it. The presence of the dog’s owner can often be a calming influence in an emergency situation. Acting as if you’re calm and collected can also help injured dogs stay calm.

Never assume that your first aid treatment will be enough to get your dog on the road to recovery. While veterinarians can be expensive, a hidden injury or internal bleeding could be even more costly to treat if left untended – your dog could die. Also, the risk of infection for flesh wounds as time passes is very high, and your veterinarian will be able to provide you with antibiotics for your pet. Advise your clinic that you’re on your way with a quick phone call and try to get some fast advice for your pet’s situation. When you do put your dog in your vehicle, lay it on something flat and stable, so your pet doesn’t get bounced around during the car ride.

Early preparation is a godsend, and easier to achieve than you might think. A first aid kit for humans will have more than a few items vital in treating dogs, so keeping a first aid kit in your home helps you, your dog and anyone else you may know that needs emergency care. Knowing when your dog may face a threatening situation can also help. If you’re feeling that a situation might be dangerous for your dog, err on the side of caution and prepare for the worst.

When injured, some dogs become violent or aggressive, requiring that they be restrained with a muzzle to keep them from biting others or resisting treatment. Creating a makeshift muzzle is possible using two to three feet (or 60 to 90 centimeters) of strong cloth. Using the cloth, bind the dog’s jaws together and then tie it behind the dog’s ears. Don’t worry; while your dog may protest noisily by snorting and drooling, it can certainly breathe through its nose despite the wrapping. Other restraints should be used more cautiously, and in emergencies, use only restraints that are absolutely necessary.

Your goal, in an emergency situation with your dog, is to keep it comfortable, stable and alive until a professional veterinarian can apply the proper treatment. This may sound simple, but a hurt and frightened animal can turn your beloved pet into a dog that you can barely recognize, making your job more difficult. Researching possible accidents and how to apply first aid is a responsible way to care for your pet and may just one day save its life.

Jeff Clare
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Selecting your new pet dog can be quite a task, especially since there are so many types to choose from.

Some people want a dog with a disposition that will be a perfect fit for them, their family and their lifestyles. When looking for a dog, the humane society is filled with many possible choices that will yield an ideal companion. But, if you want a more reliable indicator of temperament, health and other factors, then a dog breeder can usually fulfill your needs. Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a dog breeder is to take your time. It shouldn’t be a rushed decision, and you should make sure you are dealing with a reputable and established professional.

In your search for a dog breeder, you can seek the guidance of veterinarians, other pet owners, local kennel clubs and boarding kennels. They know many breeders and can help refer you to some of the better ones. Once you have established a list of possible choices, the interview process can start. It is a good idea to contact and see as many breeders as you can. In doing so, make sure you tour their facility and talk with them in person.

When you go to the breeder’s home, there are many things to look for that will indicate their qualifications. Initially, observe the place where the dog is being raised. Take notice if the dog is kept in the home, around family, or in a caged area. A good breeder will raise the dog in a healthy, clean, roomy environment, where it can interact with people, and not in a confined space. Examine the dog’s appearance and its personality. Is the dog friendly and happy to be around new people? There may be a problem with the way it was raised if it shies away from you. Does the dog look healthy? Ask to see the litter it came from and one, or both, of its parents. A good breeder will want you to spend time with the puppy’s parents. Also, the dog should not be afraid of the breeder. It is wise to avoid a breeder who has a large number of dogs; this might indicate he is operating a puppy mill and not a dog breeding service. A good breeder will only breed one or two types of breeds. They will usually not have any ready and will, instead, have to place you on a list for the next litter.

Next is the questioning period. Ask the breeder questions, and expect him to ask as many in return. A good breeder is concerned with the welfare of the dog and will want to be sure it is getting placed in a good home. He will ask questions about your lifestyle and will want to meet the whole family. The breeder is very knowledgeable about breeds, their temperament and feeding, as well as, possible genetic problems. Take advantage of this knowledge to become more informed about your future pet.

A good breeder will also offer advice and guidance on raising your dog, and provide assistance to you even after you have taken it home. They will also offer a contract and a health guarantee, since testing on the dog will have taken place. They will present medical records from veterinarian visits. They will also supply you with references from other families who have obtained pets from their service.

Looking for a good dog breeder takes time and investigative work. By observing the breeder’s living environment, and asking questions, you will be able to pick a reputable breeder who can pair you up with a pet that will fit your lifestyle perfectly.

Matthew Hick
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-breeders-how-to-choose-the-right-one-119102.html

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Diagnosing illness in your dog is not very easy, but there are certain things that owners can look out for to make sure to take the best care of their dog that they can. Regular vet visits and good home care and training are essential components to a healthy, thriving pet. The following are some indications of illness or problems that you might want to bring up with your veterinarian, if necessary.

Strange Waste

Of course, the waste material of your dog is never going to smell like roses; some smells less than others but feces smell nonetheless. If you happen to notice that your dog’s waste is stronger than it usually is, this is an indication of some digestive problems; in the same sense, any blood in the waste may also be an indicator of a greater problem and it is something you should bring up with your vet.

Mucus, blood, foreign objects, or indication of constipation or diarrhea on an ongoing basis are also cause for concern in your pet, and may be the signal of a greater problem.

Things like parasites, allergic reactions, food poisoning, or purposeful poisoning are all signified through these ways, so they are cause for concern in your pet.

Strange Urine

You can also diagnose dog illness by examining their urine; although it seems a bit gross, you can tell a lot about the health of your dog by examining their urine. If you notice that your dog’s urine has blood in it that may be a sign that something bigger is going on in their system, that some type of infection is present. If it looks like your dog is having a hard time urinating that may be a sign of a bigger problem as well. Even if it seems like your dog is urinating too much, that may also be a sign of health problems and diabetes is one of them, as well as Cushing’s syndrome and canine hepatic diseases. Check an online resource like http://www.aboutdoghealth.org for more information about these type of diseases.

Your Dog’s Coat

While it may not seem strange to you that your dog smells badly, it is not normal for the skin of your pet to secret strange odors. This can be due to certain problems, like hormonal issues and dermatitis. These are all issues that can turn into major health problems if they are not addressed early on.

Your Dog’s Actions

If you are noticing that your dog is responding less and less to your calls, or that their balance and orientation seems to be a bit off, you should have them checked for possible problems with the inner ear. As far as your dog’s behavior goes, excessive lethargy or apathy, or other apparent disturbances in your dog’s environment can also be indicative of more problems with your dog’s health. Rabies, meningitis and other serious health problems can be indicated by strange changes in your pet’s behavior.

If any of the above seem to be things that you are noticing in your pet and they are occurring on an ongoing basis, be sure to consult your vet for good advice on the right way to handle the situation and whether or not veterinary care should be sought after.

Amanda Fain
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If you have a pet, no doubt you are concerned about its welfare. One major topic that many pet owners and pet lovers are concerned with is controlling the infestation of pests like fleas and ticks. Fleas and ticks can be a bothersome nuisance to both you and your pet dog or pet cat, and in turn this can negatively affect you and your family also.

Fleas

Fleas are an irritant because their bites form itchy and irritating sores on humans. Fleas are blood-sucking insects that bite both humans and animals and. They can jump lengths of over a foot, and have a lifespan as long as several months. If you have children, especially babies, this can be an even bigger concern as the rashes and sores developed from flea bites can potentially be harmful and affect their health adversely.

Ticks

Ticks can be harmful to humans as they can potentially transmit the very serious disease called Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that may very well prove to be fatal if not treated properly and in time.

Although you may love your pet cats and/or dogs, the welfare of yourself and your family should be of the utmost priority. How can you prevent and remedy the infestation of fleas and ticks on your most loves pets? Well, there are many medications and solutions that are created for pet dogs and cats and designed especially for this purpose.

Flea and Tick Control Medication

There are special pet medications to control the infestation of flea and ticks on your beloved pet. These remedies are often made and formulated for cats and dogs of all sizes.

One such pet medication called Frontline even makes special formulas for cats and dogs of all sizes, and they also formulate their remedies for baby cats and baby dogs. This means that puppies and kittens that are at least 8 weeks, or 2 months old, are able to be given Frontline flea and tick control.

Frontline is not the only company that makes these pet medications. There are several companies that produce these types of pet meds. Another such brand of pest control medication for your pet is K9 Advantix. This specific brand protects against fleas, ticks, and also misquitoes. However, like the name of the medication kind of tells you, these formulas are made for dogs only.

You do not have to seek the advice of a trained professional or get a prescription from a veterinarian in order to obtain most flea and tick control pet meds. However, this is recommended as veterinarians are very well-equipped to answer any questions you might have as to if this is a suitable treatment for your pet, if there are any side effects for both pet and humans.

Whatever method and route of flea and tick control you choose to go, it is always best to be safe than sorry. Although a consultation with a veterinarian is not required, it is often strongly recommended.

Jay Brandley
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All dog owners are familiar with the problems caused by pesky fleas. Fleas are very small wingless insects, brownish red in color, and have sharp mouths by which they obtain blood from their canine hosts. Flea bites usually cause your dog to scratch at affected areas and some dogs are more sensitive than others and can have allergic reactions to flea bites.

In general, fleas do not transmit diseases from dogs to humans, but the potential for this exists and they can and do bite humans as well as dogs and cats.

Fleas and flea larvae live in warm climates and will live until the ground freezes in cooler climates. They can live on in your home well past this time also.

If you suspect that your dog has fleas, you should take him to your veterinarian. Your veterinary staff member will first use a flea comb on your dog.

Flea combs are wide tooth combs and “flea dirt” or dried blood flea excrement is what they are looking for. If this is found, your veterinarian will recommend treatment.

Most veterinarians recommend preventive treatment for fleas as it is much easier to prevent them than to treat them.

For those of you that wish to treat your dog for fleas without commercial products, there are a few recommendations.

One way is to comb your dog with a flea comb regularly. You can put some petroleum jelly on the comb to help fleas stick to the comb. Other people recommend using rubbing alcohol to slow down the fleas so they are easier to catch.

Garlic and Brewers Yeast added as supplements to your dog’s food are recommended by those who prefer the natural approach to treating fleas, however, the benefits of these treatments have yet to be proven.

There are several over the counter flea treatments available at your local pet store. However, many of these contain pyrethrins, which are natural insecticides derived from the chrysanthemum plant.

In the past, this kind of treatment of fleas was the only one available to veterinarians. If you choose to use a product containing pyrethrins, you should be aware of the potential side effects.

There is a potential threat of toxicity when using a product containing pyrethrins, not just to your dog, but to other animals in the house and humans as well. Make sure you follow the label usage directions and if you have any questions about using these products, consult your veterinarian.

Today, there are much safer products available. Most of these products are only available through your veterinarian. One of the most popular treatments for fleas is Frontline Plus by Merial. It is topically applied to the skin of your dog on the back of the neck.

According to Merial, Frontline Plus kills 98-100% of adult fleas within 24 hour and will also kill eggs and larvae to prevent fleas from recurring. Frontline Plus is waterproof for up to 30 days and is safe to use on puppies as young as 8 weeks of age.

Another popular flea treatment is Sentinel by Novartis. Sentinel is a monthly pill that also prevents heartworms. Sentinel kills adult fleas, eggs, and larvae.

Novartis also makes the flea control products Program and Capstar. Program is a flavored tablet that is given monthly, and while it does not kill adult fleas, it does interrupt the flea life cycle by preventing the development of flea eggs.

Program is safe to use in dogs and puppies four weeks of age and older. Capstar is a pill that is given to kill adult fleas. It can be given as often as once per day. According to Novartis, Capstar will begin killing adult fleas within 30 minutes. One pill should kill all adult fleas.

Capstar is safe for dogs and puppies four weeks of age and older.

Remember that it is much easier to prevent fleas than to treat them once your dog has them. As with all medications, follow the advice of your veterinarian.

If you need more information about fleas and flea prevention, contact a member of your veterinary staff or pet professional.

Colin Philips
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Owning a dog can be a truly rewarding experience if you take the time to educate yourself on the proper care of dogs. There are two main areas of focus when examining dog health, disease preventative care and recognizing signs of potential problems.

Preventative medicine is paramount in effective dog care. At six weeks old puppies should begin a series of four DHLPP/CCV vaccinations three or four weeks apart. Puppies should be de-wormed often and started on heartworm preventative at four months old.

This program should be maintained indefinitely. An annual visit to a local veterinarian is necessary to maintain your dog’s health. In addition to administering vaccinations, the vet will examine the dog’s teeth and stool, and look for any obvious maladies.

What kind of dog health problems should I be on the look out for?

It is also important for new pet owners to be able to recognize any signs of potential dog health problems. Skin problems are quite common and can present themselves in a number of various ways. Skin allergies are very common in many dogs and can cause hair loss and ‘hot spots’. These ‘hot spots’ are sores on the skin surface that ooze and become easily infected.

They are also very painful and hard to deal with because of the dog’s constant licking. The skin allergies that cause ‘hot spots’ are often mistaken for flea infestation problems; an easy way to tell the difference is by watching the dog.

Chewing the top of his rump is a good indication of fleas, while scratching his head, neck and front legs indicate allergies. Signs of potential health problems also present themselves in the dogs stool. If the stool appears runny or discolored you may need to visit the vet.

Parasites or a change in diet are usually the culprit and most often easily remedied. Another less common but very serious threat to your dog’s health is Gastric Dilatation Volvulus. Large, deep crested dogs are predisposed for this condition which causes their stomachs to flip if they exert themselves after ingesting large amounts of water.

Your dog’s health is not something to be taken lightly. It is a huge responsibility you have chosen to bear, but it doesn’t mean that is has to be hard. Just make sure you take him for a check up every year and be attentive to any imminent health problems. If you follow your veterinarian’s advice your dog should have a happy, healthy, and long life.

Mike Long
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Old age health care in dogs is a relatively new concept. Improvements in canine medical care, as well as an increase in our knowledge about how to take care of our pets, has lengthened the average canine lifespan. With a dog’s average lifespan now twelve years, owners can reasonably expect their pets to be around for up to fifteen years. To ensure your dog has a long and happy life, there are a number of things you should know about caring for an older animal.

If you have a large dog, they may be considered old at around six to eight years. If your dog is a smaller breed they will not reach old age until around twelve years. Either way, there are a number of diseases that older dogs are more susceptible to. These include diabetes, cancerous tumors, kidney, heart or liver disease, cataracts and tooth and gum conditions.

You should plan frequent visits to your veterinarian once your dog reaches old age; regular blood tests can detect a lot of the above conditions in their early stages. Yearly appointments are essential, and some veterinarians may recommend a check up every six months.

In addition, you should look out for worrying symptoms of these conditions yourself. Contact your veterinarian if you notice rapid weight loss or gain, an unusual loss of appetite, excessive diarrhea or vomiting, extreme thirst and an increase in urine output, coughing and wheezing, a rapid decline in hearing or vision, or acute fatigue.

Changes in behavior can be indicators of medical problems that only you will be able to spot. If your dog suddenly dislikes being alone, becomes unusually aggressive and barks loudly for no reason, seems confused and disorientated, or begins to urinate in the house, you should also seek medical advice.

There is one disease that is common in older dogs that does not have any of the warning signs listed above. This is known as Cushing’s disease, although its correct name is Hyperadrenocorticism, and is caused by excessive production of hormones from the adrenal glands.

Signs of Cushing’s disease are similar to those of old age and are often missed. They include muscle weakness, hair loss, lumpy skin, a bloated stomach, high blood pressure, and an increase in food intake, liquid intake and urine output.

There is no cure for Cushing’s disease but several drugs such as Lysodren, Ketoconazoten and Anipryl relieve symptoms and will enable your dog to live a long and happy life. Left untreated, this condition can lead to all manner of other problems such as diabetes, heart disease and liver or kidney failure.

As well as looking out for symptoms of illness, you can improve your old dog’s quality of life by giving them the best possible diet. Switch to a food designed specifically for seniors to ensure they get all the nutrition they need. Consult your vet to see if your dog has particular dietary requirements according to their medical state. Perhaps a supplement to delay the onset of arthritis would be a good idea. Don’t over feed your pet, as obesity can be a real issue for older dogs. Make sure they get plenty of exercise but don’t overdo it. Older dogs can’t keep going for as long as they could in their younger days, but they will try!

The best thing you can do for your older dog to maintain his quality of life is to be aware of the changes he is going through. Be patient with him, he will need your emotional support as this can be a confusing time, and sticking to a daily routine can help. Make sure he is still a part of your life, even if he is not as active as he used to be. Pay attention to his diet, medical needs and cleanliness, and you will find that your relationship with your dog will be just as rewarding as when he was just a puppy.

Rebecca Prescott
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/canine-health-information-for-older-dogs-119583.html

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks Canine Health Information – For Older Dogs

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Dogs, cats and small mammals such as rabbits or guinea pigs are popular companions for many people, often sharing their home environment. Being in such close contact, it is perhaps inevitable that sometimes disease is transmitted from pets to their owners. Though the diseases discussed in this article can affect any person, immunocompromised people such as infants, the elderly or those who are HIV+ need to be extra careful. This article looks at skin diseases of dogs and cats that can present a risk to their owners.

Actually, considering the large number of people interacting closely with small animals on a daily basis, the overall risk of contracting disease from a pet with skin disease is remarkably low. In general, keeping pets clean, free from parasites and healthy, as well as good personal and household hygiene such as proper hand washing, will minimize the risk of catching a disease from your pet. However, people belonging to risk categories (the immunosuppressed) need more specific advice.

The increase in pet travel, and the occurrence of breeders sourcing stock from overseas, has made the risk of exposure to new diseases a little greater. The most common skin diseases transmissible to humans that occur in dogs and cats are sarcoptic mange (scabies), cheyletiellosis (mite infestation), fleas and dermatophytosis (ringworm). In general, young and newly acquired animals, especially those from animal shelters, are most likely to be affected by these diseases. Below we look at each of these diseases more closely.

Flea Infestation

Since the reservoir of fleas is predominantly in the environment, and jump onto the human from there, one might argue that this is not strictly transmitted from the animal. However, it is introduced into the household by the animal and therefore falls into this category.

The flea will readily feed on humans and can cause a marked hypersensitivity reaction in some individuals. In addition, fleas can transmit other diseases, such as cat scratch disease (Bartonella henselae), tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum) and plague (Yersinia pestis). Regular flea control with veterinary recommended spot on treatments will keep the environmental population of fleas low, and minimize the risk of bites.

Sarcoptic Mange

This is caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, and can affect a number of species. Different strains of the mite do tend to prefer different species, and the most common one which affects dogs and foxes only has an estimated 20 per cent chance of transmission to humans. Prolonged skin to skin contact is the main route of transmission, with the disease presenting as an itchy rash with small red spots. Usually, disease in the human will clear up of its own accord, once the dog has been treated appropriately with a medicated shampoo or spot on drug. Occasionally, humans may need their own treatment though. It is very important to treat all in contact dogs as well. Unlike fleas, these mites do not tend to survive for long in the environment so reinfection is rare once the dog has been treated.

Cheyletiellosis

This can be caught from dogs, cats and small mammals such as rabbits or guinea pigs. Mites can survive in the environment for several days. Humans are only transiently infected, and develop itchy spots. Appropriate treatment of the affected animal, and the in contact animals, resolves the problem.

Dermatophytosis (Ringworm)

This is actually a type of fungus, not a worm as the name suggests. The most common type in dogs and cats is Microsporum canis. Transmission is often by direct contact, but spores can remain infective in the environment for many months. Dogs and cats may be carriers of the disease without showing any signs of it themselves, while acting as a source of infection for their owners.

In dogs and cats, infections with ringworm usually resolve by themselves given time, unless the animal is immunocompromised (e.g. on steroids). However, treatment is recommended so that the risk of transmission to humans is lessened. Dogs and cats are usually treated with a topical solution of itraconazole, while affected humans are usually prescribed an anti fungal cream to apply to affected areas.

Otodectic Mange (Ear Mites)

These mites cause ear infections in dogs, cats and ferrets. They can, rarely, affect skin outside of the ear, and this has been reported sometimes in humans. It is however rare, and easily controlled by treating the affected animal with a certain acaricidal spot on drug (e.g. selamectin, moxidectin) or topical ear drops.

Malassezia Dermatitis

These are yeasts often found on normal skin in dogs, cats, humans and other species. Skin disease occurs as a reaction to the yeasts overgrowth and the hosts reaction to it. Transmission to humans has only ever been documented in immunocompromised people, and the risk of infection is low.

Staphylococcal Infections

Staphylococcal pyoderma (bacterial skin infection) is common in dogs, but not in cats. It often occurs secondary to another disease and usually involves the bacterium Staphylococcus intermedius. Contrast this to humans, where the main cause of bacterial skin infection is Staphylococcus aureus, and it is clear that the risk of transmission to humans is very low.

Mycobacterial Infections

Tuberculosis poses a risk to human health. The bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis can infect both cats and humans, and pass between them. The disease presents as nodules, draining tracts or non healing wounds, or as respiratory disease. Urgent medical and veterinary attention should be sought, though the incidence of pets passing it to their owners is very low.

Feline Poxvirus Infection

Cats get cowpox infections by being bitten by voles and wood mice. Hence it is only outdoor cats that are affected, namely those that hunt. Many affected cats do not show any signs of disease. Transmission to humans is rare, and can cause painful skin nodules.

What can immunocompromised people do to minimize the risk to them?

Firstly, a risk assessment should be carried out. Good communication is essential between the medical and veterinary professionals involved. The goal is to maintain disease free status in the pet, whilst practicing thorough hygiene measures by the person. Being immunocompromised does not mean you cannot have a pet, but the following points should be taken into consideration:

1. If acquiring a pet, make sure it is a healthy one, vet checked and not from a source rife with diseases.
2. Safe feeding practices
3. Avoid your pet coming into contact with contaminated material from other animals (e.g. feces)
4. Vaccination annually
5. Good worming control (every 3 months in adult dogs and cats)
6. Good flea prevention (usually monthly for spot ons)
7. Good dental care (brushing your pets teeth, dental chews to keep teeth clean)
8. Regular general health checks by your veterinarian

Matthew Homfray
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/what-you-can-catch-from-your-pet-skin-diseases-120632.html

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks What You Can Catch From Your Pet: Skin Diseases

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Vaccinations are an essential preventive care for your dog. Through vaccination, dogs can now be protected from numerous disease risks, including rabies, distemper, hepatitis and several others. Some of these diseases are zoonotic (can be passed from dogs to people) and so vaccinating your pet benefits public health too.

Recently, several studies have shown that vaccines protect dogs for a longer period than previously believed. There have also been many improvements in the quality of the vaccines produced. Pet owners are now also aware and concerned that vaccination is not as harmless a procedure as once believed.

To assist veterinarians with making vaccine recommendations for their pet owners dogs, the American Animal Hospital Association has now issued a set of canine vaccine guidelines. These guidelines were developed by a group of experts and practicing veterinarians together.

A key recommendation is that all dogs are very different and therefore vaccine decisions should be tailored to the individual dog. Factors including age, breed, health status, environment, lifestyle, and travel habits of the dog should be always be considered. Infectious disease threats differ from place to place and so you should work with your veterinarian to tailor an immunization program that best protects your dog based on his / her risk and lifestyle factors.

Am I Putting My Dogs Health at Risk When Vaccinating?

All medical procedures, no matter how routine, carry some inherent risk and so it would be wrong to say that vaccinating your pet is risk free. As with any medical procedure the benefits of performing that procedure must be balanced against the risks. Veterinarians recommend that no needless vaccination risks should be taken and that the best way to go about this is to reduce the number and frequency of administration of unnecessary vaccines.These decisions should be made after considering your dogs age, lifestyle, and potential exposure to infectious disease.

What are the risks associated with vaccination?

Vaccine reactions are infrequent in my experience. In general, most vaccine reactions are mild and the side effects (local pain, itchiness and swelling) are self-limiting. Allergic reactions are much less common, but if untreated can actually be fatal. These can occur soon after vaccination, usually within a matter of minutes to hours. If you think this type of reaction is occuring, please contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Also, in a very small number of patients, vaccines can sometimes cause the patients immune system to attack their own cells, resulting in diseases that affect the blood, skin, joints or nervous system. Such reactions are very rare but can again be life threatening.

There is also a possible complication of tumor growth developing at the vaccination site, but this occurs most frequently in cats.

Please just remember, that if you have any reason to be concerned, just call your veterinarian for advice.

There are so many vaccines available – How do I know which vaccines my pet needs?

There are two general groups of vaccines: core and noncore vaccines.

Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs and protect against diseases that are more common and are more serious. These diseases are found in all areas of North America and are more easily transmitted than noncore diseases. The AAHA guidelines define core vaccines as: distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus and rabies.

Noncore vaccines are for patients at an increased risk for infection due to exposure or lifestyle. The AAHA guidelines define non-core vaccines as: kennel cough, Lyme disease and leptospirosis vaccines.

How often should my dog be vaccinated really?

It is essential that your dog has the complete initial series of puppy core vaccines, as well as booster shots at one year of age. The young dog is at high risk of contracting infectious disease and so every step should be taken to prevent illness. Following the one-year boosters, the AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines recommend that the distemper, adenovirus and parvovirus core vaccines be administered once every three years. Your state and local municipality govern how often rabies boosters are administered and so please contact them or your local veterinarian to get more information (some areas require an annual rabies booster whereas others only require a three-year-effective rabies booster every three years ).

Noncore vaccinations should be administered whenever the risk of the disease is significant enough to override any risk of vaccination. For example, a kennel cough vaccine may need to be given every six months to a dog that is repeatedly kenneled or exposed to groups of dogs at grooming salons or dog shows.

If my pet doesnt need annual vaccines does this mean I only need to see my veterinarian every three years?

Regular health checks (once or twice a year) are a very important disease preventative for your dog. Vaccinations are just one component of a health check. Your veterinarian will thoroughly examine your pet to ensure that all is well. your veterinarian has an opportunity, therefore, to detect and prevent problems at an early stage. Just think, dogs age more quickly than humans, so an annual exam equates to a human getting a physical every 5-7 years. Plus they dont always show signs of early disease, and they cant easily communicate discomfort to us.

Can my veterinarian do tests to see if my dog needs to be vaccinated?

The answer is yes. Tests that measure protective antibody levels for diseases are called titers. Reliable titer tests for canine distemper and parvovirus now exist. Your veterinarian can provide you with more information.

Matthew Homfray
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/new-pet-dog-vaccination-guidelines-in-the-usa-79789.html

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks New Pet Dog Vaccination Guidelines in the USA

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Here are suggested veggies:

Alfalfa, radish & clover sprouts
Basil
Beet greens (tops)*
Bok choy
Broccoli (mostly leaves/stems)*
Brussels sprouts
Carrot & carrot tops*
Celery
Cilantro
Clover
Collard greens*
Dandelion greens and flowers (no pesticides)*
Endive*
Escarole
Green peppers
Kale (!)*
Mint
Mustard greens*
Parsley*
Pea pods (the flat edible kind)*
Peppermint leaves
Raddichio
Radish tops
Raspberry leaves
Romaine lettuce (no iceberg or light colored leaf)*
Spinach (!)*
Watercress*
Wheat grass

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks We are having a pet rabbit in the next few days what advice can any one give on caring for it's health?

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Most of us have pets, and they are very close to our hearts. Taking them to a professional pet grooming facility will give them a touch of class and a lot of pampering. Your pets will the get the first class service that they deserve from qualified professionals who have been trained to offer the best services possible. Proper grooming care is a necessity for your pets care. Most dogs love getting bathed and massaged. They will also enjoy a medicated flea dip and have their anal gland drained. These tasks are essential to maintaining your pets’ health. You should visit a professional pet grooming service on a regular basis, thus maintaining a regular grooming schedule. They will have their teeth brushed and will feel fresh and clean when they have finished their appointment. Most professional pet grooming services will groom all kinds of pets. Dogs seem to be the most popular, but felines seem to be a fast second. Some professional pet grooming services even offer grooming to birds, ferrets, rats, mice and more. Every pet is special.

How to Locate a Professional Pet Grooming Company in Your Area

Finding a professional pet grooming company in your area can actually be quite easy. Most of your friends have pets; they would be able to give you advice on which professional pet grooming service to choose. Another great idea for locating a professional pet groomer is the internet. Some websites will even offer a review of the different professional pet grooming services in your area. This will tell you both good and bad experiences their prior customers have dealt with. Some professional pet grooming companies offer mobile grooming services. This can be a priceless service that works especially well if you do not want your pet exposed to any other animals. A mobile pet grooming service will take care of all your pet grooming needs right out in your front yard.

Get Advice on How to Care for Your Pet

Most pet groomers offer free advice just for the asking. They may even offer you some hints and tips of pet care when your pet has completed their appointment. If you have a long haired pet, you might find out which brush would benefit your pet the most. They may also have other helpful tips, just go ahead and ask. You will not regret it.

John Mailer
http://www.articlesbase.com/advice-articles/professional-pet-grooming-provides-a-touch-of-class-for-your-favorite-pet-102740.html

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Owning a pet is a huge responsibility, you need to make sure you care for your pets health by giving them the correct food, enough water, the right housing and enough exercise.

With so many cases of pets being miss-treated and incorrectly cared for I thought id share some of my tips, ideas and finding to help you maintain your pets health to the highest standard.

The most common family pet is the dog, often considered a family member and should be cared for in the same way. Depending on the size and breed of your dog different amounts of time should be allocated each day for walks, generally the larger the breed the longer you will need to spend walking.

There is not an exact amount of time you should walk your dog, timescales should be based on the following aspects
- The shorter your dogs legs the less distance he can go
- Hot weather will make your dog more prone to overheating so in the summer months it is wise to take shorter walks and remember to take a sufficient amount of water for your dog to drink.
- Generally dogs can walk further when walking on dirt trails or softer ground, rough concrete can be hard on the pads of their feet.
- Take into account your dogs age and health, if your dog is not used to being walked remember to break him in gently starting with short walks and gradually build up to longer ones.
- If your dog has health problems such as arthritis or heart disease it is best to seek advice from your veterinarian to discuss how far your dog should be walked.

Understanding what your dog is comfortable with when waling will keep your pets health in optimum condition.

When it comes to your pets health one of the main things you are in control of is what they eat. Generally when purchasing pet food the higher the cost the better the quality.

Always do your research to make sure you are feeding your pet exactly what they need, providing them with a well balanced diet that contains the vitamins and nutrients they need will keep your pet healthy and will lead to a longer happier life.

As humans we are responsible for our pets health and how we care for and feed them, remember that younger animals such as kittens or puppies will need a balanced formula food that is different for normal dog food, if given the wrong food it can lead to growth that is to fast which can then lead to bone, joint and many other problems.

Food You Should NEVER Feed A Dog

- Believe it or not one of the worst things you can give your dog is chocolate! Even in small amounts it can be fatal for smaller dogs and can cause serious problems with your pets health. This is due to Theo bromine which can increase the heart rate and blood pressure of your dog.
- Onions, feeding a dog onions can be fatal, onions contain a substance which alters and can destroy red blood cells in dogs this can lead to haemolytic anaemia and sometimes even death

Pet owners love their pets and although you may feel like you are giving them the correct care you could be harming them without even knowing it. Every pet owner should take the time to research and understand all about their pets heath so you can enjoy a long and happy life together.

Allen Jesson
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-to-look-after-your-pets-health-132939.html

This post via: The Pet Vet Speaks How To Look After Your Pets Health

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