As you may know, I stopped vaccinating my dogs when they were 8 years old.  So they have not been vaccinated now for the past 6 years.  I only wish I had known earlier how unnecessary, and yes, harmful, regular annual vaccinations are.  Had I known the facts, I would have stopped years before.

Some vets, such as the eminent Dr Jean Dodds, who I have been fortunate to hear speak in person, actively spread the word that annual vaccinations are not required.  But the vast majority of vets continue to advise pet owners that ongoing vaccinations are essential, even though the evidence is clearly to the contrary.

Dr Andrew Jones is another kindred spirit where vaccinations are concerned.  As you would expect from any responsible vet, he does not say you should do away with vaccinations altogether, but he gives the following recommendations for vaccinating your dog:

Puppy Vaccination Regimen:

8 weeks:

Parvovirus (MLV – Modified Live Vaccines) and Distemper (MLV)

12 weeks:

Parvovirus (MLV) and Distemper (MLV)

Only give Bordatella vaccines if going to a kennel or puppy class

6 months:

Give Rabies vaccine (killed)

Adult Dogs:

1 year:

Parvovirus (MLV) and Distemper (MLV)

1 1/2 years:

Rabies vaccine (killed)

No further vaccines for 3 years.

4 years:

Parvovirus (MLV) and Distemper (MLV)

4 1/2 years:

Rabies vaccine (killed)

After this, in Dr Jones' opinion, no further vaccinations are required.  Ever.

Of course, State or local laws may require you to vaccinate against Rabies, in which case you have a legal obligation to do so, even though medically there is no requirement for this.

For more on vaccinations, as well as information on pet food, keeping your dog's immune system healthy, conventional medications for pets, pet supplements, and much more, go grab your FREE  Top 10 Veterinary Secrets 49 page report now (before Dr Jones comes to his senses and starts charging for it) – Click Here!

Actually, I would call it the Top 10 Veterinary Secrets ebook – it's too long to be called a report.

You can actually use the information contained in this very comprehensive free report right now to heal your dog (or cat) at home, keep your pet healthy and help your pet live a longer life.  Click here for your FREE  Top 10 Veterinary Secrets ebook. 

Related posts:

1. Annual Vaccinations – Are They Necessary?
2. Dog Vaccines
3. Pet Vaccinations

On the question of NSAIDS for dogs, you may have read my articles on Rimadyl for Dogs – and specifically the dangers associated with giving these drugs.

Following is an article by Ashley Mitek from VetMed.  And please note that this is a conventional veterinary view, so any holistic vet would be a lot more circumspect and cautious about these drugs. …

Here is the article:

" Pets More Susceptible to Side Effects of NSAIDs

It is now widely accepted in human medicine that one of the largest causes of liver failure (and also liver transplant surgery) in the United States is due to the overuse of a particular type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) named acetaminophen. This stunning research finding was first published in the December 2005 issue of the journal Hepatology. Nearly every person in the country has used one type of NSAID or another, whether that be ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin. When taken correctly, these drugs have very few side effects.

However, "the use of NSAIDS is one of the most controversial topics in veterinary medicine," says Dr. Stuart Clark-Price, a veterinary anesthesiologist and internal medicine specialist at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Urbana. As many pill-popping humans can attest, these drugs have great anti-inflammatory, anti-fever, and pain relief properties because they inhibit certain enzymes in the body. If these drugs have such great properties, then why is their use so controversial in animals, one may ask?

"Cats and dogs are much more susceptible than people to the adverse effect of NSAIDs," explains Dr. Clark-Price. In short, dogs and cats are not simply smaller versions of people. They lack certain enzymes that we have, and also may process these drugs differently. In short, the use of NSAIDS in dogs and cats comes with a smaller safety margin. Because of this, it is critical that veterinary patients be accurately dosed and routinely monitored for side effects.

Despite of the increased risk, NSAIDS are frequently used in veterinary patients with minimal adverse effects. For example, in a routine spay or castration in a healthy dog or cat over the age of the age of 6 weeks, NSAIDS are a good choice for pain relief.  Because there will be mild to moderate inflammation in these instances, which is exactly what these drugs work to prevent, "NSAIDS are probably better for consistent pain control in cases of inflammation than even opioids," notes Dr. Clark-Price.

Another reason dogs are prescribed NSAIDs is due to chronic arthritis. For example, an older Labrador that has a hard time getting up in the morning due to joint pain may be given a certain NSAID daily. But careful monitoring is critical in these patients.  The most common complication is gastro-intestinal tract ulceration.  This can be a minor problem, but it can also progress to life threatening perforations.

Other problems that can develop are kidney and liver dysfunction, or blood abnormalities such as the decreased ability to clot. Because liver and kidney disease are potential side effects of NSAIDs, it is important that a dog starting on a course of these drugs have its blood tested frequently to determine if kidney and liver function are starting to decrease. If so, it is imperative that NSAID use be terminated.

Symptoms owners should watch for while their pet is on NSAIDS include:

• Decreased appetite
• Lethargy or other changes in behavior
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Yellowing of the skin, whites of the eye, or gums
• Skin redness or scabs

For more information on the risks of NSAID use in pets please talk to your local veterinarian or visit the American Veterinary Medical Association's Web site on the topic at http://www.avma.org/products/gov_materials/nsaid.asp .

Please do not give any NSAIDs to your pet without first contacting your veterinarian. For example, one acetaminophen (Tylenol) pill may kill a cat.

An archive of Pet Columns from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine is available online at www.vetmed.illinois.edu/petcolumns/ .

Veterinary Extension/Office of Public Engagement

University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine

217/333-2907

Source: Stuart Clark-Price, DVM, MS, DACVIM, DACVA "

And again, if you are interested in learning more about the dangers of NSAIDs in pets, and some natural alternatives – particularly if the issue is an arthritic or related condition, go to – Natural Arthritis Treatment for Dogs.

There are alternatives to using NSAIDs.  Be guided by your vet, but always make your own decisions for your dog once you have all the facts.

Related posts:

1. Natural Arthritis Care for Your Dog
2. Treatment for Dog Joint Pain
3. Regular Dental Examinations Provide Early Detection of Oral Tumors in Pets

Can a dog die from eating chocolate? It’s a good thing this does not apply to human beings but yes, the heavenly substance is unfortunately harmful to canines—potentially leading to their untimely demise.

It is important to know this because sometimes we unwittingly feed our pets scraps from our table without realizing that there are chemicals in them that prove to be hazardous to our pets. One of them is chocolate. The main culprit on this is a substance called theobromine and it is found inside every cocoa bean—the amount of which varies per type of chocolate.

So we know that the theobromine causes the damage in a canine’s system—but what happens if a dog eats chocolate? Upon the first few hours of ingestion, the dog will begin to show harmful symptoms such as vomiting, hyperactivity and/or diarrhea. When this happens, rush him to the vet immediately. If left untreated, you will notice the animal will exhibit more alarming signs like restlessness, muscle twitching, increased urination, an accelerated heart rate and excessive panting after several more hours. This means that there are higher levels of toxin present as it is absorbed in the canine’s bloodstream.

Of course, how chocolate will affect dogs will vary on several factors like the weight, age and the general health of the particular animal, as well as the type of chocolate. A small block of white chocolate will not cause critical problems to a 60 lb dog as it will to a pup. The darker the chocolate, the less chocolate that is required to cause serious problems if your dog ingests it.

To be safe, I strongly advise the reader to avoid feeding any amount of chocolate to their pets.

It is proven that the dog will crave for more of chocolate when they get the opportunity to taste it. It is best to prevent this by supplying him with healthier dessert fare like fruits and alternative treats.

We know what happens if a dog eats chocolates; so what can we do when they have already ingested it to prevent the danger to escalate?

The first thing you should do is induce vomiting immediately. It takes an average of 24 hours before the danger of theobromine reaches its peak—which is evidenced with epileptic like seizures, hyperthermia and coma leading to death. If your dog has diarrhea, supply him with large volumes of water to consume.

If you have an animal first aid kit, that will be helpful in treating the dog until you reach the veterinarian to get proper medication. The vet will most likely also administer activated charcoal to your dog. What the activated charcoal does is draw the chocolate to it so that it may be eliminated without much danger.

In the recovery phase, your pet should be given plenty of fluids, oxygen and his progress should be monitored regularly.

Can a dog die from eating chocolate? Yes – but fortunately we can make the necessary provisions to keep them away from this danger.

Now that you know better, do the best that you can and enjoy the company of a healthy and happy dog without the worries.

by Madeline Keite

No related posts.

In fact, the most common cause of dog joint pain is osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease of the joints. Symptoms are most often a gradual onset of lameness of your dog's limbs. Limpness and weakness are types of lameness you might notice. Your dog may also be less excited about going for walks, and may play less, and even display some difficulty with going up and down steps, not to mention climbing up on furniture if you allow your dog on the furniture.

Stiffness will be evident particularly after your dog has been lying down for a long period – in the mornings and after long naps during the day, or after dinner when your dog may nap for a couple of hours before bed. Your dog may recoil from you, or even whimper when you touch his limbs or particular parts of his limbs. Unless your dog has just suffered an injury, this is a sure sign of dog joint pain.

So what is available in terms of treatment for dog joint pain?

There is dog pain medicine that will help treat the inflammation. However, there is no need to give your dog aspirin for pain  (and you definitely should never give any human medicine such as aspirin or ibuprofen, without veterinary advice – which is unlikely to be forthcoming).

And 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.

A lot of people have heard of glucosamine, and many have also heard of MSM as components of a treatment for dog joint pain caused by arthritis. But there is also another ingredient that is much less well known (although it has been gaining considerable publicity lately), and that's Cetyl Myristoleate (or CM8) for short).

FlexPet has all three components, and more. It has received some great reviews, as well as testimonials from pet owners whose pets have experienced quite astounding results even when their pet has become significantly disabled with joint pain.

Try it by clicking on the below pictures! There's lots of information at the site about this exciting new product.

Related posts:

1. Arthritis in Dogs
2. Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs
3. Organic Dog Arthritis Supplements

The gastric dilatation is one part of the condition and the volvulus ortorsion is the second part. In bloat (dilatation), due to a number of different and sometimes unknown reasons, the stomach fills up with air and puts pressure on the other organs and diaphragm. The pressure on the diaphragm makes it difficult for the dog to breathe. The air-filled stomach also compresses large veins in the abdomen, thus preventing blood from returning to the heart. Filled with air, the stomach can easily rotate on itself, thus pinching off its blood supply. Once this rotation (volvulus) occurs and the blood supply is cut off, the stomach begins to die and the entire blood supply is disrupted and the animal's condition begins to deteriorate very rapidly.

Not all dogs that have a gas buildup and resultant dilatation develop the more serious and life threatening volvulus. However, almost all dogs that have a volvulus develop it as a result of a dilatation.

Bloat is a very serious and life threatening condition. Understanding the signs, prevention, and need for prompt treatment will help reduce the risk of mortality if your dog develops this problem.

What dogs are more susceptible?

Breed

There is a definite link between the likelihood of occurrence of GDV and the breed and build of the dog. GDV is much more likely to occur in large breeds with deep, narrow chests. The problem can occur in small dogs, but only rarely. The University of Purdue conducted a study of hundreds of dogs that had developed GDV, and they calculated a ratio of likelihood of a particular breed developing the problem as compared to a mixed breed dog. For example, using the GDV risk ratio, a Great Dane is 41.4 times more likely to develop GDV than a mixed breed dog.

Genetics

In addition to breed predilection, there appears to be a genetic link to this disease. The incidence is closely correlated to the depth and width of the dog's chest. Several different genes from the parents determine these traits. If both parents have particularly deep and narrow chests, then it is highly likely that their offspring will have deep and narrow chests and the resulting problems that may go with it. This is why in particular breeds we see a higher incidence in certain lines, most likely because of that line's particular chest conformation.

Age

Dogs over 7 years of age are more than twice as likely to develop gastric dilatation and volvulus as those who are 2-4 years of age.

Gender

Male dogs are twice as likely to develop gastric dilatation and volvulus as females. Neutering does not appear to have an effect on the risk of bloat.

Eating habits

Dogs fed once a day are twice as likely to develop GDV as those fed twice a day. It appears that dogs who eat rapidly or exercise soon after a meal may also be at increased risk.

Temperament

Dogs that tend to be more nervous, anxious, or fearful appear to be at an increased risk of developing bloat.

What causes gastric dilatation and volvulus?

There is not one particular activity that leads to the development of GDV. It appears that it occurs as a combination of events. Studies of the stomach gas that occurs in dilatation have shown that it is similar to the composition of normal room air suggesting that the dilatation occurs as a result of swallowing air. All dogs, and people for that matter, swallow air, but normally we eructate (burp) and release this air and it is not a problem. For some reason that scientists have not yet determined, these dogs that develop bloat do not release this swallowed gas. There are currently several studies looking into what happens physiologically in these dogs that develop GDV.

What are the signs?

The most obvious signs are abdominal distention (swollen belly) and nonproductive vomiting (animal appears to be vomiting, but nothing comes up) and retching. Other signs include restlessness, abdominal pain, and rapid shallow breathing. Profuse salivation may indicate severe pain. If the dog's condition continues to deteriorate, especially if volvulus has occurred, the dog may go into shock and become pale, have a weak pulse, a rapid heart rate, and eventually collapse. A dog with gastric dilatation without volvulus can show all of these signs, but the more severe signs are likely to occur in dogs with both dilatation and volvulus.

How is gastric dilatation and volvulus treated?

Despite adopting all of the recommendations listed below, a dog may still develop GDV. Because of the genetic link involved with this disease, prospective pet owners should question if there is a history of GDV in the lineage of any puppy that is from a breed listed as high risk. In addition, the following recommendations should be followed:

• Owners of susceptible breeds should be aware of the early signs of bloat and contact their veteriarian as soon as possible if GDV is suspected.
• Owners of susceptible breeds should develop a good working relationship with a local veterinarian in case emergency care is needed.
• Large dogs should be fed two or three times daily, rather than once a day.
• Water should be available at all times, but should be limited immediately after feeding.
• Vigorous exercise, excitement, and stress should be avoided one hour before and two hours after meals.
• Diet changes should be made gradually over a period of three to five days.
• Susceptible dogs should be fed individually and, if possible in a quiet location.
• Some studies suggest that dogs who are susceptible to bloat should not be fed with elevated feeders; other studies have not found this to be true. It is recommended, however, that dogs at increased risk be fed at floor level.
• Some studies have associated food particle size, fat content, moistening of foods containing citric acid, and other factors with bloat. At this time, no cause-and-result relationships between these factors and bloat have been verified.
• Dogs that have survived bloat are at an increased risk for future episodes; therefore prophylaxis in the form of preventive surgery or medical management should be discussed with the veterinarian.

Summary

Bloat is a life threatening condition that most commonly affects large-breed, deep-chested dogs over two years of age. Owners of susceptible breeds should be knowledgeable about the signs of the disease, since early and prompt treatment can greatly improve the outcome. By following the preventive measures recommended, pet owners can further reduce the likelihood of their pet developing this devastating condition.

Save on Dog Supplies at Drs. Foster & Smith

Holly Nash, DVM, MS
Veterinary Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.
Dr. Holly Nash received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota, and a Master's Degree in epidemiology (the study of the transmission, distribution, and control of disease) from the University of Wisconsin. She has worked in a primarily dairy practice, as a veterinary epidemiologist, and most recently as a companion animal veterinarian.

Dr. Nash has always been interested in the human-animal bond and the education of animal owners, and finds being Editor of PetEducation.com a perfect match. She enjoys, and has had experience, working with many different species of animals, and is a member of the American and Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Associations, the Society of Aquatic Veterinary Medicine, the Association of Reptilian & Amphibian Veterinarians, and the Association of Avian Veterinarians.

Dr. Nash enjoys living in the rural Northwoods with her husband Bob, and their dog named Kip, and cat, Eddie.

Bill Me Later at Drs. Foster and Smith! No payments for 90 days on orders over $150!  <= Click for info.

Save on Dog Supplies at Drs. Foster & Smith <= Click to save! on dog supplies of all types.  You'll be surprised by what you can save.

Related posts:

1. GDV – Some Frightening Facts
2. Adolescent Dogs and Acne
3. Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

Arthro-IonX™ is one of these products. It assists in dog joint pain, including hip dysplasia, canine arthritis and other types of dog joint pain.

It comes in a tasteless liquid bio-available state, so it bypasses your dog's digestive system and enters his bloodstream within minutes. This allows your dog's body to most effectively absorb the fortified nutrients, which assures he receives the best health possible from Arthro-IonX™. This means nothing goes to waste. Your dog will get the most out of Arthro-IonX™, and you'll get the most benefit for your money.

Most importantly, this means you won't need to spend time attempting to make your dog swallow a pill he doesn't want. If your dog is anything like my Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Jet, this will be good new to you. (Jet is a nightmare at taking pills!) Simply put the Arthro-IonX™ in your dog's water, food, or even directly into his mouth and your dog will never know it's there, because as I mentioned, it's completely tasteless. Your dog will start to feel more energetic quite quickly – usually within one to two weeks or even less.

It's frustrating to pay good money for a product, only to remain unsatisfied. Well, the makers of Arthro-IonX™ offer a guarantee that Arthro-IonX™ will work on the cellular level to help your dog in his recovery.

So what exactly does this product do?

Well, Arthro-IonX™:

1. Supports increased cellular permeability.

This allows the nutrients your dog needs to be easily absorbed and used by his cells. What does this mean for your dog? Better nutrition and better overall health. For you, this means a better value for the money you spend on your dog's food, as each nutrient will be more effectively absorbed and used in your dog's body.

2. Promotes the formation of RNA and DNA.

This helps your dog's cells regenerate more effectively, contributing to their genetic stability and health. Cell regeneration is essential for your dog's healing process.

With Arthro-IonX™, your dog will feel healthy enough to face those insurmountable odds.

3. Increases enzymatic activity.

By stimulating the natural enzymes in your dog's body, cellular health can be vastly enhanced.

4. Detoxifies cells.

Your dog's everyday exposure to toxins can cause a buildup of heavy metals, chemicals, poisons, and other substances in your dog's cells. Our base formula, which is present in all our products, absorbs and neutralizes these toxins.
Provides the strongest organic electrolyte available.

The oligotherapeutic complex in Arthro-IonX™ provides your dog with a highly effective natural electrolyte that supports cellular resistance to injury, illness, exertion, and malnourishment. This supports your dog's recovery, healing, and health, restoring your pet's balance.

Oligotherapy revolves around the idea that your mental, physical, and emotional health are intertwined. oligotherapeutic products undergo several procedures to become imprinted with vibrational energy which has been shown to support overall healthy living. It's a relatively new science that is speedily gaining popularity, so don't dismiss it as hocus pocus, because it really does work.

5. Promotes increased oxygen.

Arthro-IonX™ provides vital oxygen to your dog's cells and promotes increased oxygen consumption of tissues. Natural polyphenols are present to act as catalysts for respiration. This will promote your dog's overall health and well-being.

So what are you waiting for? If your dog has joint or muscle pain, hip dysplasia, reduced mobility, reduced flexibility or even reduced energy, Arthro-IonX™ may help.

Order yours here: Arthro-Ionx™ Healthy Joint Support for Dogs – Click Here!

Some vets advocate aspirin for dog arthritis and other joint-related conditions – specifically a canine formulated type of pain relief and NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) usually called Rimadyl or Carprofen.  Don't ever use aspirin for dog arthritis in any form.  Rimadyl has caused dog deaths and numerous serious complications.  Of course, you must always discuss all your concerns with your vet, but if it's possible to treat your dog by natural means that work, isn't that preferable to giving him drugs?

So if you're wanting to try the natural alternative, Arthro-IonX™ , click here.

Related posts:

1. Arthritis in Dogs
2. Treatment for Dog Joint Pain
3. Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

A large number of pet owners (probably a large majority, actually) have no idea about this life threatening condition.

And sadly, by the time some pet owners learn about it, it is too late, and they have lost their dog to GDV.

So what causes GDV, and what is this condition exactly?

So what are the risk factors for GDV?

What should you do if you see symptoms in your dog suggestive of GDV?

What exactly is GDV, and what causes it?

Gastric Dilitation and Volvulus basically means stomach dilation (also often called "Bloat"), and a twisting of the stomach – this twisting causes the ends of the stomach to be closed off from the openings leading in from the esophagus and out to the intestines.

Gastric Dilitation on its own is not a serious condition, but it is the Volvulus – the twisting that makes this condition life threatening.

If the stomach twists far enough, the spleen and major blood vessels in the area twist as well. It is the twisted blood vessels that cause a loss of blood flow (ischemia) to the stomach and other abdominal organs which can cause considerable tissue damage, and ultimately necrosis (tissue death).

If the blood flow is simply allowed to return, the damaged cellular material from the traumatized tissues is released into the blood and can be harmful to other organs, which can be a cause of death during or immediately following surgery.  When the blood supply in the abdomen's major arteries is cut off, blood flow to the heart and cardiac output decrease, leading to low blood pressure.  This can also be a cause of death during or after surgery.

Risk Factors:

Large chested dogs are more prone to GDV than smaller dogs.  In particular, if you have a German Shepherd or Great Dane, or any large breed of dog, you should be more concerned about the condition than if you have a small dog (although they are not immune from suffering GDV).

Feeding once per day.

Drinking a large amount of water after eating.

Exercising after eating.

Rolling on back after eating.

What should you do if you see symptoms in your dog suggestive of GDV?

If your dog has any of the following symptoms (and particularly if there are several of these symptoms in combination:

- Retching (unproductive vomiting)

- Disorientation

- Abdomen feels hard

- Abdomen looks swollen

- Excessive panting

- Unexplained lethargy

- Restlessness

- Excessive salivation

- Pale gums

call your vet immediately.  Do not delay for a moment.  Every minute can count.  Dogs who suffer this condition can die in hours, sometimes less.  And by the time you notice any symptoms, the condition can be well advanced.

If your veterinary surgery is closed, call the emergency vet, or take your dog to the emergency pet hospital in your area, but do not do nothing.

This is an emergency.  In fact, many vetinerary commentators refer to it as the mother of all emergencies.

Important Notes:

Please note that this is not to be construed as medical advice whatsoever.  It is an account of my personal experience with a dog with GDV, and a summary of the information I have subsequently learned about the condition.

While I often advocate making informed decisions after conferring with your vet, but not necessarily following every piece of advice your vet gives you unquestioningly, in this particular instance, it is life threatening for your dog to do anything but take your dog to your vet immediately.

Do NOT delay – I just can't stress that enough.  I so nearly lost my beautiful Kara, simply because I thought she was affected by the heat that day, and nothing more, when it was oh, so much more serious than that.

Related posts:

1. GDV
2. Dog Worms Symptoms
3. How To Care For Dog Emergencies – Bleeding Wounds

I have maintained for several years that the clear answer is NO. 

The problem of how to get rid of fleas is an ever present one for most pet owners, but in most cases, there are many steps you can take to prevent fleas, and even to get rid of them if they do occur, without needing to resort to these chemicals poisons.

I have just come across a great, informative article on the dangers of these chemical flea treatments – it was an article that appeared in The Whole Dog Journal back in 2002 (just before I started reading that publication, in fact).  You can read the article here – http://www.apnm.org/publications/resources/fleachemfin.pdf

It says what I have been saying all along, but backs it up with scientific evidence, laboratory studies, information on how these products work, what EXACTLY they contain, and what health problems they do actually cause.

 I couldn't possibly do justice to the information in the article here, which is why I've given you the link where you can read the entire article at your leisure. 

But suffice to say:

1.  While products such as Frontline flea and tick, and Advantage flea control may be effective in getting rid of fleas, there is a cost – a cost to your dog's health.

2.  Adverse skin reactions to the application of these topical treatments, while they can be severe, are probably the least of the concerns.

3.  It is established that these chemical flea preparations can cause such diverse side effects as chronic itching, depression, lethargy, liver toxicity, lung tumors and other cancers and autoimmune disease.

4.  Dogs who already suffer from conditions involving their liver, kidneys, thyroid, adrenal gland, spleen, lung or brain, are eminently more likely to develop serious chronic illness as a result of the use of chemical flea preparations.

5.  Although animals in good health may not show any adverse signs from the use of chemical flea treatments, the toxity will inevitably build up and over time, although you may not connect certain conditions with the use of these flea treatments, the connection can be scientifically established as being a very likely cause.

6. Contrary to what your vet may tell you, and the advertising for these products would have us believe, there is no doubt that these pesticides do enter your dog's internal organs, do move into their intestinal tracts, and are eventually eliminated in your dog's urine and feces.  All of these products have neurotoxic effects on your dog.

So there you have it.  I really encourage you to go read the article – http://www.apnm.org/publications/resources/fleachemfin.pdf. 

It's an eye opener for anyone who doubts that these chemicals are causing long term damage to our dogs.

And if you're wondering how to get rid of fleas and how to prevent them in the first place withOUT using chemicals, click here.

Related posts:

1. Dog Care – Fighting Fleas
2. Preventing Fleas and Other Nasties
3. Why Is A Natural Flea Treatment for Pets Better For Your Dog?

Puppy urinary infections can cause a lot of discomfort to the pet. Likewise, these conditions can cause headaches to the owners. Since puppies with infections go through so much pain, owners have all the right in the world to worry and fret. If you have a puppy and it is exhibiting the above-mentioned symptoms, you would likely panic and give the puppy treatment which you think is best to help alleviate his condition. However, before you give your puppy any treatment, remember that anything you give without prescription from a professional may only aggravate the condition of your puppy. Hence, instead of attempting to heal the puppy’s discomfort yourself, seek the help of the vet. Proper diagnosis will help determine the right treatment.

The vet will likely perform physical examination and urinalysis to determine the cause of the puppy’s urination problems. If bacteria are the culprit, the vet will likely prescribe antibiotics especially when the condition has reached its advanced stage, posing a great threat to the puppy. However, antibiotics can only suppress the growth and action of bacteria; they cannot kill bacteria outright. Hence, there is always a possibility of recurrence of infection.

To prevent the recurrence of puppy urinary infections, try changing your puppy’s diet. If he was into dry puppy food, give him wet puppy food instead. Especially avoid giving your puppy grain-based foods as these kinds of food are thought to cause imbalance in the pH level of the puppy’s urine, leading to the recurrence of puppy urinary infection. Moreover, make sure that your puppy is getting enough clean water inside its system. Increased water intake can help flush out the bacteria and toxins that may have infiltrated and accumulated in the puppy’s urinary system. However, do not just give it ANY kind of water. Tap water is a no-no for a puppy with urinary infection because it may contain harsh contaminants and bacteria that may only aggravate the puppy’s condition. Give it filtered water, instead.

Homeopathic remedies are also a good option. Aside from being affordable, homeopathic remedies have been proven to be effective in treating and preventing puppy urinary infections. This holistic mode of treatment and prevention is safe, too, so you do not have to worry about dangerous side effects and over doses. Uva ursi, cantharis, and berberis vulgaris are among the known homeopathic ingredients. Homeopathic remedies can be bought over-the-counter and in online stores at a conveniently fair price.

Homeopathic remedies are, however, quite different from home-made or do-it-yourself treatment. Do not attempt to concoct your own formula to treat puppy urinary infections. A slight mistake in the dose or mixture may create more damage than good. It is wiser to use a formula that has already been proven effective and safe.

Now that you have read the whole article, perhaps you now have an idea on how to treat puppy urinary infections. Take these pointers in mind and help your puppy achieve overall good health.

- Melissa Simmonds

Melissa Simmonds is a dog enthusiast, much like me! She tells me she has carried out an informal study on dogs and puppies and has browsed related topics on puppy urinary infections. If you are looking for more information on puppy urinary infection and general puppy health, visit the most comprehensive resource online – yes, it's HealthierDogs.com!

But meanwhile, head on over to that online store for homeopathic remedies, and check out the homeopathic puppy urinary infection prevention remedy – click here.

Related posts:

1. How to Tell If Your Dog is Suffering From Dog Urinary Tract Infections
2. Dog UTI – Diagnosis for Dog Urinary Problem
3. Canine Incontinence

This sounds to me like an ear infection is a possibility. Some dogs will produce excess wax and oil that might cause some odor without an infection being present. I recommend you have your veterinarian examine your pet's ear to be sure. The veterinarian will use an otoscope to look deep into the ear for signs of inflammation and infection. I tell my clients they should not clean their pet's ears before seeing their veterinarian. What actually happens is you remove much of the evidence needed for a proper diagnosis.

2. What are some signs of an ear infection?

Unlike people, pets can't tell us when they hurt; we have to rely on other signs to let us know if a problem exists. So it is up to us to be on guard and know the common warning signs of pet ear inflammation. If you see any of the following signs, your pet may have an ear infection and should be taken to your veterinarian right away:

• Shaking of the head or scratching at the ears
• Discharge from the ears, especially if it is moist
• Abundance of wax in the ears
• Odor from the ears
• Red or painful ears
• Swollen ears
• Head tilt
• Problems with balance

3. How are a pet's ears different from our own?

First is the range of hearing. Humans hear noise between 20–20,000Hz (cycles per second) while dogs hear in the range of 40-40,000Hz, nearly twice that of humans. This is the reason that dogs can easily hear the sound of a silent dog whistle, while most of us people can either barely hear it or not hear it at all. Second, pets have a much longer "L" shaped ear canal. It is this difference in anatomy that makes pets so much more prone to outer ear infections because it traps moisture and debris providing food and housing for bacteria and yeast. That's why keeping a pet's ears clean is especially important.

4. What is the best and safest way to clean my pet's ears?

Fold the earflap back far enough so that you can see the opening of the ear canal. Then fill the canal with ear cleaner. After the ear is full of cleaner, gently massage the cartilage of the ear canal, which can be easily felt running from the opening down to the eardrum. This massaging loosens debris, allowing it to be dissolved or float to the top. Next, use a cotton ball to sponge away any fluid and wax. If you have used a gentle ear cleaner like Oxyfresh Pet Ear Cleaner there is no need to worry about any fluid left in the ear. A quick shake of the head will take care of that.

5. What should I be looking for in a good pet ear cleaner?

A good ear cleaner should do two things: Efficiently clean the ear and cause no harm. Many companies will put a significant amount of alcohol in their cleaner to help dissolve these waxes and oils because it is inexpensive and it disperses oils. The downside to using alcohol is that it can damage otherwise healthy skin that lines the ear canal. Many ear cleaners will use a surfactant such as docusate sodium that helps pull water into oils and waxes or contain glycerin to soften debris. The disadvantage to these choices is that they are slow acting, need significant contact time to work and tend to leave a coating behind. Oxyfresh Ear Cleaner contains no alcohol or harsh chemicals of any sort and uses a natural base with good penetrating and mild foaming action to rapidly break up wax and cellular debris. It is effective at rapidly and comfortably removing oils, waxes and organic debris while the proprietary ingredient Oxygene® eliminates odors leaving your pet with a clean, comfortable fresh ear. It is simply the best all-around pet ear cleaner I have ever used.

Click here for more information on keeping your pet's ears clean, naturally.

- Article by Boyd Harrell, DVM

Related posts:

1. Protect Your Dog's Ear Health
2. Dog Ear Care
3. Chronic Ear Infections in Dogs