Rabies: Is Your Dog At Risk?

In almost every case of rabies, the infection is fatal. All mammals (including humans) are susceptible to this virus infection, which causes an acute infection of the brain. During the illness disturbances of behavior are noted, which in some species results in unprovoked aggression and the biting of other animals. This is usually the case with an affected dog. And because the rabies virus can be present in saliva, bites and licks from infected animals can spread the disease.

The good news is that the rabies vaccine is very effective in preventing the spread of rabies to pet dogs and cats. And, rabies vaccinations are required by law in most areas, which helps to protect both people and pets. These vaccinations are considered to be core vaccines for dogs and cats.

The particulars of the rabies protocols differ slightly from one state to another and even from one veterinarian to another, but typically, the first vaccine is given to puppies at 12 weeks. A rabies booster vaccine is given a year later and then it is administered either annually or every three years.

Insuring that a pet receives and keeps current with the rabies vaccine is an important component of dog ownership. It protects the family of the pet, the pet itself, as well as other animals and people. When a person is bitten by a dog one of the first things checked is the veterinarian record.

In most cases, if the dog is current with his vaccines, according to the state protocols, the danger of the individual being exposed to rabies is considered negligible. But if the dog was not vaccinated it is likely that the animal will be quarantined for a period of ten to fourteen days. In most cases, the owner of the pet will be responsible for the cost of this confinement which will take place in a secured facility.

Incubation in a person is usually three to eight weeks but it can be as long as two years. Initial symptoms may include numbness around the area of the bite, fever, headaches, and general fatigue.

If a dog is bitten by a rabid animal or is suspected of being infected with rabies the outcome will be much more positive if the dog has been vaccinated against rabies. If so, in most cases the pet will be re-vaccinated and confined for a period of time (which varies from state to state, generally from 30 – 50 days).

If the animal was not vaccinated and the exposure is confirmed the usual recommendation is euthanasia for the pet. Otherwise, the pet is quarantined for a lengthy period of time, often for as long as six months. The confinement takes place in a secure facility and the pet owner is liable for the expenses incurred. Fines are also assessed for not having the pet properly vaccinated.  If the dog shows signs of illness euthanasia is likely.

When an animal is infected with the rabies virus the infection or virus is replicated in tissues throughout the body and it eventually reaches the brain. When it does there is a personality change in the animal. The dog is likely to be aggressive and dangerous to be around. Soon afterward the animal’s throat is likely to become paralyzed, preventing him from swallowing. In this phase you are likely to see drooling or foaming at the mouth. Death usually occurs within ten days from the time the brain of the animal becomes infected.

3 Pack FortiFlora CANINE- Box of 30

• A nutritional supplement that contains a probiotic
• For the dietary management of dogs with diarrhea
• Safe, stable, and effective in restoring normal intestinal health and balance
• Help with acute enteritis
• To promote a strong immune system

Product Description
FortiFlora contains microencapsulated form of Enterococcus probiotic that is critical in managing dogs with diarrhea or unhealthy stools – restores normal intestinal health and balance – also contains protein, vitamins, minerals – simply mix with food.FortiFloraTM is recommended as a nutritional supplement to help with the following: Diarrhea associated with microflora imbalance Acute enteritis Diarrhea associated with stress, antibiotic therapy, and diet change Poo… More >>

3 Pack FortiFlora CANINE- Box of 30

FURminator Waterless deShedding Shampoo and Conditioner for Dogs and Cats, 8 Ounces

• Helps eliminate odor and reduce excess shedding without bathing
• Enriched with Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids loaded with vitamins and proteins
• Perfect on both cats and dogs
• Non-drying, hypoallergenic formulation
• Works great with FURminator deShedding Tool (sold separately)

Product Description
Furminator – Waterless deShedding Shampoo and Conditioner for Dogs and Cats…. More >>

FURminator Waterless deShedding Shampoo and Conditioner for Dogs and Cats, 8 Ounces

You’re Moving And Your Dog Is Confused!

Anyone that has ever experienced a move knows that it is a hectic time. It seems no matter how carefully you plan things you somehow manage to hit obstacles along the way. But at the same time, moving is exciting because it is a new beginning in a new place. Having that to hold on to makes the chaos and confusion worth it in the end.

Your dog may the last thing on your ‘to do’ list at this time; and that is understandable, to a degree. But there are some rather simple steps you can take to avoid your dog feeling neglected.

As you visit the new home consider taking your pet with you. Allow him to walk through the house and the yard. Talk to him soothingly, telling him that it’s going to be his new home. Although he may not understand the words exactly, he will understand your emotions behind the words. He will understand that you are saying this place is okay.

When you are packing you might want to confine your dog to a special area or room of the home. This is often done in order to keep the dog out from under the feet of movers and to relieve any worries of him running out the door unnoticed. It’s probably a good idea.

But on the other hand, that means your dog is not in the middle of things, like everyone else is. He is missing out on seeing the furniture and boxes being loaded. So to add to his confusion about why he is being confined, when he is allowed out he is surprised to find that the furniture is missing from the house.

Ideally you will have him in an area that is out of the way but is still very accessible to everyone. Perhaps a corner of a room would work. Be sure that he has food, water, toys, a bed, and even some treats, but most of all, stop by and spend a little time with him whenever you can. Try to make him feel as though he is a part of the moving experience because, after all, he is being moved too.

Keep his comfort in mind during the actual move, and attempt to minimize his stress as much as possible. When you arrive at the new home you will likely need to follow a similar procedure as you did when packing. Your goal is to keep your pet out of the way but to make him feel a part of things at the same time.

Be prepared to supply him with his favorite food, toys, and other familiar things as soon as possible.  Allow him time to explore his new home and introduce him to ‘his’ area. With a little added attention your dog will adjust to his new environment just fine.

Pet Parade Dog Repeller and Training Aid

• Protect yourself from dangerous dogs while walking, jogging, or bicycling
• Emits piercing ultrasonic tone that dogs hate
• Works with any dog
• Can also be used to train dogs
• Requires 9-volt battery (sold separately)

Product Description
Eliminates barking and annoying behavior by emitting a piercing ultrasonic tone that pets hate, but humans can barely hear. Stop dogs from jumping, barking and biting…. More >>

Pet Parade Dog Repeller and Training Aid

Angels’ Eyes Tear-Stain Remover for Dogs, 30 Grams

• Gives your pet stain-free eyes and a bright clear coat
• 100 percent free of wheat and dye
• Safe for all breeds of dog and cat
• All ingredients are products of U.S.A.
• Please read all label information on delivery

Product Description
Angels’ Eyes is the first product specifically developed for BOTH DOGS & CATS to eliminate unsightly tearstains from the inside out! Angels’ Eyes also helps to eliminate staining around the mouth and their coats due to licking.Other products are topical requiring high maintenance and yet will only remove the tear stains temporarily causing it to return worse than before. Angels’ Eyes starts working before the tear stains begin and never adds food dyes or wheat which… More >>

Angels’ Eyes Tear-Stain Remover for Dogs, 30 Grams

Socialization Of Your Puppy: How Important Is It?

If you have done any research or read any books about caring for dogs you have undoubtedly heard the term ‘socialization’ and know that it is important. Socialization refers to providing your puppy or dog opportunities to learn how to behave friendly and in an appropriate manner.

In the ideal case this socialization will begin in the earliest days of a dog’s life. That means the responsibility begins with the breeder. Puppies should be handled on a daily basis. The breeder should spend time holding them, talking to them, and playing with them each day. They should introduce the puppies to new sounds and sights, as well as allowing them to meet other people and animals.

When you acquire your new puppy or dog it is imperative that you continue the socialization of your pet. Take him with you whenever and wherever you can. Introduce him to new situations and environments regularly. If you are unsure of how he may react you will want to use caution as you allow him to meet new people and other pets. These simple activities are actually a vital part of your dog’s training.

Unfortunately not all dogs begin their life or existence in a new home in such an ideal setting. Your puppy or dog may have started out in a less than ideal situation. That means more effort will be required by you as the permanent owner.

Dogs that are not socialized can sometimes turn into a dog with emotional problems or put simply, a dog with annoying tendencies. Emotional issues can include such things as fear of other animals, people, or even locations. Some improperly socialized pets do not like to be touched by anyone but their owners and others are so fearful of new experiences that simple things like regular grooming can become a real chore.

When a dog is not socialized he may exhibit signs of aggression. In reality this aggression is brought on by a fear of the unknown. Unfortunately many of these pets are simply considered too dangerous to have around children or other pets and so they end up in a shelter. These dogs will require a lot of hands on training and patience from someone if they are ever to become an ideal pet.

Angels’ Eyes Tear-Stain Remover for Dogs, 240 Grams

• Gives your pet stain-free eyes and a bright clear coat
• 100 percent free of wheat and dye
• Safe for all breeds of dog and cat
• All ingredients are products of U.S.A.
• Please read all label information on delivery

Product Description
Angels’ Eyes is the first product specifically developed for BOTH DOGS & CATS to eliminate unsightly tearstains from the inside out! Angels’ Eyes also helps to eliminate staining around the mouth and their coats due to licking. Other products are topical requiring high maintenance and yet will only remove the tear stains temporarily causing it to return worse than before. Angels’ Eyes starts working before the tear stains begin and never adds food dyes or wheat whic… More >>

Angels’ Eyes Tear-Stain Remover for Dogs, 240 Grams

Cosequin DS Double Strength Chewable Tablets, 240 Count

• Cosequin DS double strength capsules are available in 90 and 120 count sizes.
• Cosequin regular strength capsules for small dogs and cats are available in 90 and 180 count sizes.
• Cosequin chewable tablets are available in 40, 120, and 250 count size
• Cosequin Equine Powder is available in 1400, 700 and 280 gram bottles

Product Description
Cosequin Is A Nutritional Supplement To Help Dogs Maintain Healthy Joints. As Dogs Age, It Is Common For Their Joints To Become Less Flexible Which Impacts Their Mobility And Quality Of Life. Cosequin Is An Exclusive Formula To Support And Maintain The Health Of Your Dog’s Joints. Each Chewable Tablet Contains 500 Mg Glucosamine Hcl, 400 Mg Sodium 95% Chondroitin Sulfate 5% Mixed Glycosaminoglycans, 33 Mg Ascorbate And 5 Mg Manganese…. More >>

Cosequin DS Double Strength Chewable Tablets, 240 Count

All About Anal Glands

If you own a dog you may have heard the term ‘anal glands’ and wondered what it is, and if it is a normal part of all dogs. The answer is yes; all dogs have anal glands. In most cases there are no problems associated with these structures, unless they become filled, and in which case, they become uncomfortable. In fact, infections and other problems can result from this situation.

Anal glands are small sac like structures that are located near the anus. There is one gland on each side of the anal region. The glands have openings that are located just inside the anus. Anal glands hold a liquid substance until the animal defecates, and at that time the liquid is normally secreted, or expressed from the glands, along with the feces.

Fear, nervousness, or even excitement can also result in the expression of this foul smelling, dark colored liquid. As a result it may be seen under the animal’s tail, or near the rectum, or even on the floor near the pet.

Over-filling and/or inadequate emptying of the anal glands is not uncommon in dogs. When the glands are full the pet will begin to feel a discomfort in the anal region and strive to relieve that distress. Dogs are sometimes seen scooting their behinds across the floor in an effort to relieve the symptoms. Other times they will bite or lick at the area surrounding the anus and under the tail. Additionally, some dogs will keep their tail tucked down and under, or between their legs when they feel discomfort related to their anal glands.

Fortunately, the liquid can be manually expressed from the anal glands. One method is external manual expression. This involves squeezing the area on either side of the anus to ‘milk’ or force the fluid out of the anal glands. The other method is internal manual expression which involves inserting a finger inside the rectum of the dog and using another finger on the outside, with the anal glands between the fingers. Execution of either method should result in visible excretion of the fluid exiting the anal glands openings. Groomers and veterinarians are experienced in this procedure.

Allowing the fluid to continue to build without emptying the sacs can eventually result in the fluid changing consistency, from a fluid liquid to a much thicker substance that is even more difficult to express. At this point it is best to seek professional assistance from a veterinarian. If left unattended the anal glands can become infected and other problems can develop.

Depending on the severity of the resulting problems the dog may need to have flushing treatments of the anal glands and treatments with antibiotics, which may involve sedation, as well as pain medication. If the anal glands become repeatedly filled and problems continue it is possible that surgical removal will be suggested. The removal can sometimes result in (temporary or permanent) fecal incontinence.

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