Signs Of A Healthy Dog 

Skin - Optimum dog health care will promote skin that is flexible and smooth, without scabs, growths, white flakes, or red areas. It ranges in color from pale pink to brown or black depending on the breed. Spotted skin is normal, whether the dog has a spotted or solid coat.

Eyes - Optimum dog health promotes eyes that are bright and shiny. Mucus and watery tears are normal but should be minimal and clear. The pink lining of the eyelids should not be inflamed, swollen, or have a yellow discharge. Sometimes you can see your dog's third eyelid, a light membrane, at the inside corner of an eye. It may slowly come up to cover his eye as he goes to sleep. The whites of your dog's eyes should not be yellowish. Eyelashes should not rub the eyeball.

Ears - Optimum dog health care promotes ears that are light pink and clean. There should be some yellow or brownish wax, but a large amount of wax or crust is abnormal. There should be no redness or swelling inside the ear, and your dog shouldn't scratch his ears or shake his head frequently. Dogs with long, hairy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels, need extra attention to keep the ears dry and clean inside and out.

Nose - Optimum dog health promotes a nose that is usually cool and moist. It can be black, pink, or self-colored (the same color as the coat), depending on the breed. Nasal discharge should be clear, never yellowish, thick, bubbly, or foul smelling. A cool, wet nose does not necessarily mean the dog is healthy, and a dry, warm nose doesn't necessarily mean he's sick. Taking you dog's temperature is a better indication of illness.

All About Pet Health Care and Vaccinations 

gleaned from a conventional DVM PHD veterinarian:

For the last forty years it has been standard conventional veterinary practice in the United States to vaccinate dogs yearly for canine distemper virus (CDV), canine leptospirosis (CL), canine adenovirus-1 & hepatitis (CAV-1), canine parainfluenza virus (CPIV), canine parvovirus (CPV), canine Coronavirus (CV) as well as canine bordatella or kennel cough and Lyme disease.

There may be dog health problems associated with too frequent vaccinations. For one, the immune system of your pet is stressed by these vaccinations.

Occasionally dogs develop health problems such as allergic reactions, facial edema, enteritis, lethargy, fevers, pruritis, nausea, and coughing

Veterinarians also suspect that vaccinations can trigger certain autoimmune diseases such as Adison's disease in dogs. Occasionally these reactions are life threatening.

By law, for dog health care, most states require a yearly rabies vaccination even though studies have shown that many of the rabies vaccines used give the dog three years of protection.

In the January 2004 issue of a U.S. veterinary journal, an article that was published by the Pfizer Drug Company, determined that their dog vaccines were active (protective) up to and beyond four years after administration for all five of these diseases (1). Other studies have documented immunity lasting up to seven years (2)(3). No two vaccine manufactures produce identical products so you should not assume that the brand your veterinarian uses induces this long immunity for your dog's health, but it is suspected that they all protect well over a year.

Least protective appear to be the vaccinations against CPIV, Bordatella, Lime Disease and the various types of Leptospirosis. For optimum dog health care from these diseases, an annual vaccination is probably a good idea. Another good protocol for your dog's health would be to give your dog a booster vaccination against Bordatella (kennel cough) about two weeks before it is kenneled.

The scientific way to determine if your dog needs a booster vaccination is to run serum titer tests. Protective titres for CDV are 1:32 or greater. For CAV-1, CAV-2 and CPIV titer of 1:16 or greater are protective, and for CPV titer of 1:80 or greater are protective; and mean your dog does not need a booster vaccination. Many veterinary laboratories already offer this service.

Dog Health Care and Dog First Aid 

courtesy of akc.org

Even the best-cared-for dog may become sick or get injured at some point in his life. The AKC Pet Healthcare Plan can help you to help your dog when it's most needed. If your dog falls victim to illness or accident, you will need to do what you can to get him out of immediate danger, administer first aid, and keep him comfortable until you can get him to a veterinarian.

You should also be prepared to care for you dog in the event of weather disasters or other emergencies.

Restrain or muzzle the dog to keep him from panicking and struggling against you. You can make a muzzle out of panty hose, a cotton bandage, a necktie, or any sturdy piece of fabric about two feet long. Tie a loose knot in the middle, leaving a large loop. Slip the loop over the dog's nose and tighten gently but firmly about halfway up the nose. Bring the ends down and knot under the dog's chin, then bring the ends behind the back and tie again.

Transport an injured dog carefully to avoid causing further injury. Place the dog on a piece of plywood or other hard surface to move him. Small dogs should be placed in a box. Towels or blankets can also be used as stretchers.

Artificial respiration to apply this first aid, the dog's mouth should be checked and cleared of any obstructions, including mucus or blood. Hold the mouth closed, inhale, completely cover the dog's nose with your mouth, and gently breathe out. Do not blow hard. Repeat every five to six seconds.

Heart massage (CPR) dog first aid. Lay the dog on his side, place hands over the heart area, and press firmly about 70 times per minute. For small dogs, place one hand on each side of the chest near the elbow. Press gently to avoid breaking the dog's ribs.

External Bleeding dog first aid should be staunched by applying gentle pressure from a cloth, bandages, or your own hand if necessary.

Internal bleeding, from a fall or from being hit by a car or other heavy object, can be more dangerous than bleeding externally. The dog may show these signs: painful or swollen abdomen, pale gums, blood in vomit, urine, stools, saliva, or nose discharge.

Internal hemorrhage is extremely serious and should be tended to by a veterinarian without delay.

Dog CPR Video 

Dog Health Care and Dog First Aid part 2 

Dog Health Care and Dog First Aid part 3 

Bee Stings and Wasp Stings can be painful and frightening for a dog. Follow these dog first aid procedures if your dog is stung by a bee or wasp:

Carefully remove the stinger with tweezers, if possible. (Only bees leave stingers.) If you haven't put together a first aid kit for your dog, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply to the area. Apply an ice pack for swelling and pain. Comfort the dog until the pain has diminished.

Usually a single bee sting or wasp sting does not present a serious problem. If the bee sting is on the nose, mouth or around the head, watch your dog carefully to make sure that any swelling does not interfere with breathing or swallowing. If the swelling increases dramatically just a few minutes after the sting, see a veterinarian immediately.

Multiple Wasp and Bee Stings can cause more damage, and may be life-threatening. If you see your dog disturb a hive or swarm of wasps or bees, call the dog to you and run, or, if necessary, pick up your dog and carry it away. Try to put distance between your dog and the swarm as quickly as possible. Once you and the dog are safe, get medical attention as soon as possible.

If possible, give antihistamines to your dog right away (Your veterinarian can give you a supply for your dog's first aid kit, and advise you on dosage and administration). Then take your dog to the closest veterinarian. Treatment for massive stings usually involves intravenous catheterization, the administration of fluids, giving of corticosteroids and monitoring of vital signs. The goal of treatment is to prevent shock and circulatory collapse and to minimize damage to organ systems.

The Best Dog First Aid Kit 

This essential Dog First Aid Kit, 'Bow Ow', was created at the request of Veterinarians across the country.

Intended for dog lovers who want the necessary stabilization dog first aid tools to handle emergency situations.

The rugged, durable dog first aid kit is perfect for the home, field, and automobile. Be prepared, your dog is counting on you!




Dog First Aid Kit
The Dog First Aid Kit Includes:
- 1.800.HELP.4.PET Pamphlet (24 Hr. Lost Pet Service)
- First Aid Book for Dogs
- Cold Pack
- Vinyl Gloves
- Splint Material
- 2" x 2" Gauze
- 4" x 4" Gauze
- Stretch Gauze Roll
- Triple Antibiotic Ointment
- Hydrocortisone Cream
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Antiseptic Wipes
- Cotton Balls
- Styptic Pencil
- 2" Elastic Bandage
- ½" Adhesive Tape
- 3" Cotton Swabs
- Sticker for Emergency Numbers
- Pet Alert Door Card

Deb's Dog First Aid Suggestion To Put In Your Kit 

Because of the risk of infection, dog wounds are often treated with antibiotics - taken internally or applied as a cream to the skin. They may also be treated with topical corticosteroid creams.

While these can be effective in the short term, many holistic vets believe that they may also compromise your dog's health by affecting their immune systems.

Topical antibiotic, corticosteroid and antiseptic creams are also often licked off by dogs and can contain substances that may be very harmful for them to ingest.

If you'd like more specific information of the above medicines, please view my Dog Medicines and Their Side Effects page.

Certain herbs and homeopathic ingredients are excellent for soothing pain and reducing swelling of wounds, bites, bee stings, wasp stings, and other minor injuries and skin allergies.

Gentle promotion of natural healing, as well as prevention of infection without antibiotics has been practiced by herbalists for thousands of years and can be of great benefit to your dog.

Wound Dr. contains a blend of natural, healing and cleansing ingredients in an herbal cream and will promote healing and prevent infection, as well as soothe the affected area and reduce swelling, pain or itching. Soothing effects will be immediate. With regular use over several days, condition of the skin will improve and healing of the wound will take place.

Customer Testimonials
"My little Jack Russell, Smokey, is always getting cut and scraped running through bushes etc. in our yard. He has a very energetic and adventurous personality which I love but he certainly pays the price with all his injuries. Your
PetAlive Wound Dr. has become a standard in our medicine cabinet as it always helps Smokey's cuts and injuries to heal faster and seems to help with the pain and swelling too. Thought I'd let you know how much we love your product. " - J Genevieve

"I purchased this product for my daughter's boxer because he had an open sore on the top of his ear that would not heal and within a few days Wound Dr. did the trick. I am amazed it worked so quickly after having the sore for several weeks. Thank You for a great product." - Mary, MA

Deb's Other First Aid Suggestion To Put In Your Kit 

As any vet will tell you, one of the most important and first steps in addressing a wound, injury or skin condition is to keep it clean and the sooner that this is done following injury or trauma, the more beneficial for your dog's health it will be.

Broken or irritated skin is vulnerable to infection and contamination.

By following a thorough cleansing routine before applying topical treatment like creams, you are also helping your dog to heal more quickly and preventing the need for more intensive medical care.

PetAlive's Clenzor cleanses, disinfects and begins the healing process, while also providing soothing and analgesic relief for dogs with a range of skin conditions like wounds, cuts, bites, abrasions and scrapes, ringworm, fleabite dermatitis, poison ivy rash, paw injuries, etc.

Customer Testimonial
"Your Clenzor cleansing remedy for pets is great- cleans out grit and dirt from every little cut and scrape with ease and without the horrible burning I know many commercial disinfectant and cleaning products cause my dog. A useful and wonderful natural product - I am ordering more today!" - Natasha L.

Deb's Dog Health Care Guide 

When you bring home a dog it means you are adding a member to the family. Just like other members of the family, dogs too require health care.

The important thing to remember is that you have your friends, family, and recreation, but your dog has only you. Dogs too get sick and have digestive problems, or develop asthma. They also are the source of certain allergies in humans too.

Many of us do not realize that like any other family member, dogs have health problems, and can get heart attacks, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and other ailments that we generally associate with humans. This requires dog owners to be aware of all dog health care issues and dog health problems.

We handle minor ailments in humans easily with information passed down from generations. Small things like a flatulence problem need treatments that you have to be conversant with. Sometimes it is simply a matter of sugar content in food, or how many times a week you give your pet a bath that is the cause behind your pet behaving abnormally or developing symptoms of an ailment.

Physical changes in your dog are also important and a monthly hands-on examination will go a long way in understanding whether they are developing a health problem. Some dog health problem signs include exposed skin, thin or dry coat, or unhealthy skin, ribs showing, lethargy, limp, or simply the absence of a "spring" in their step.

As with human medication, there are lots of medicine alternatives and natural medicine products available for dog health care. Society is returning to a more natural, traditional way of living. By being aware of all the FDA food recalls, and thoroughly researching a prescribed drugs' side effects, people are realizing that modern medicine does NOT always hold all the answers to their health problems, and they also want the same quality for their dog's alternative pet medicines.

The big pharmaceutical companies, whom are often referred to as 'Big Pharma', make billions of dollars from synthetic medicines, so they haven't rushed out to disprove any misconceptions of natural health with herbal treatments, cures, or remedies.

While the fact is that the therapheutic effects of MANY herbal treatments, natural health cures, remedies, and medicine alternatives have now been scientifically validated.

There are dog herbal and natural treatments that have no harmful and dangerous side effects, and a thorough research on the subject will ensure a trouble free life for you and your dog.

Don't believe me? Check out my page on Dog Medicines and Their Side Effects.

I currently am the 'mother' of 3 dogs and 1 kitten, and have made a few pages here at Squidoo for some of the specific dog health problems that our pets suffer from. I promote healthy medicine alternatives with no side effects for people and pets, as you'll see below, by the links I've provided.

If you don't see a link above for the specific dog health problem your dog suffers from, don't worry, not a problem! Just click any of the links on this page that point to 'nativeremedies' when you hold your mouse over them, and you will go to my partnering resource, which has MANY natural treatments for dog health problems.

My Recommendations Have A Guarantee! 

Dog Vitamin and Minerals For Dog Health 

There are ten essential amino acids that dogs cannot manufacture on their own.

Studies have shown that dogs can tell when their
food lacks a single amino acid and will avoid such a meal.

One amino acid, Taurine, is sometimes deficient in dry dog chows. Although dogs can synthesize Taurine from cysteine or methionine, diets composed chiefly of lamb and rice seem to prevent this process. The lack of Taurine could cause a dog health problem by being susceptible to a form of heart enlargement called dilated cardiomyopathy or DCM.

Although high fiber diets are not natural for dogs, some dietary fiber is important for gastrointestinal motility. Diets rich in dietary fiber can also aid in weight loss, but too much fiber can prevent the absorption of vitamins and minerals and lead to diarrhea.

Normal adult dogs should get about 10% of their total calories from protein for optimum dog health.

Older dogs appear to require as much as 50% more protein to maintain their protein reserves for optimum dog health.

There are twelve minerals that are essential for dog health care.

Minerals:
Minerals are needed for the proper chemical balance of dog health for a dog's body fluids, the formation of blood and bone, the maintenance of healthy nerve function, and the regulation of muscle tone.

One of these, Calcium, is essential for the formation of bone and teeth and as a signal chemical between nerve cells.

Puppies that do not receive sufficient Calcium have health problems like pinkish, translucent teeth, a bow-legged stance, and knobby painful joints. Partial bone fractures in these puppies are common. Most of these puppies were the offspring of nutritionally deprived mothers with health problems. Others received a diet that was primarily meat and bread.

Meat is low in Calcium and high in Phosphorus. High Phosphorus interferes with the absorption of the Calcium that meat contains.

Older dogs on low calcium-high phosphorus diets also suffer from health problems with their teeth and bones.

Magnesium is important for muscle and nerve cell activity as well as a portion of the mineral structure of bone and teeth. Dogs deficient in Magnesium have reduced weight gain, as well as mobility health problems later in life.

As with vitamins, minerals should be taken in balanced amounts for dog health, otherwise they may not be effective and can be potentially harmful. For example, too much zinc depletes copper, or excessive amounts of calcium affects magnesium absorption.

Deb's Dog Vitamin Recommendation 

As I've stated on some of my other pages, I will not purchase a Vitamin online without seeing all the ingredients!

Only Natural Pet Super Daily Canine Vitamins 270 Tabs


Multi-vitamin for dogs formulated with a balance of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids, digestive enzymes, and antioxidants.

Only Natural Pet Super Daily incorporates important factors essential for the health of growing and adult dogs, but which are not always found in dog food or ordinary supplements. It provides over 55 synergistic factors to help build health, including:

* Water and fat-soluble vitamins, including Vitamins A,C,D,E,K, and a complete and balanced Stress B Complex including all 11 B Vitamins in their proper ratios.
* Enteric-coated digestive enzymes to improve absorption and utilization of factors from the dogs diet.
* Linoleic Acid (Omega 6 Fatty Acid) to promote healthy skin and coat.
* 11 vital minerals to support proper composition of body fluids, formation of red blood cells and bone, and maintenance of healthy nerve function.
* Antioxidants (A,C,E and Selenium) to support the immune system.

Guaranteed Analysis Represent Minimum Levels Per Tablet:
DL-Methionine 7.5mg, Linoleic acid 3.75mg, Calcium 75mg, Magnesium 37.5mg, Phosphorous 37.5mg, Iron 4.5 mg, Zinc 1.5mg, Potassium 0.375mg, Iodine 0.0060mg, Selenium 0.00525mg, Copper 0.0045mg, Vitamin A 900 IU, Vitamin D3 75IU, Vitamin E 7.5IU, Niacinamide 7.5mg, Thiamin (Vitamin B1)7.5mg, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)3.75 mg, Pyridoxine HCl (Vitamin B6) 3.75mg, Folic Acid 0.003 mg, Biotin 0.003mg, Vitamin B12 0.003mg, d-Pantothenic acid 7.5mg, Cobalt 0.0060mg, Menadione (Vitamin K) 0.003mg, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 18.75mg, Inositol 3.75 mg, Lecithin 7.5mg

Deb's Dog Vitamin Recommendation For Senior Dogs 

Only Natural Pet Super Daily Canine Senior


The Senior Formula contains double the amount of enteric coated digestive enzymes and added Phosphatidylserine, Alpha Lipoic Acid, L-Glutamine, CoQ10, Grape Seed Extract, Milk Thistle Extract, Saw Palmetto Extract, Manganese, EPA, DHA, DMG, Taurine, and Bilberry Extract to provide additional healing and supporting nutrients.

Active Ingredients per Tablet:
L-Taurine 200mg, Calcium 100mg, L-Glutamine 50mg, Magnesium 50mg, Phosphorous 37.5mg, N-Dimethylglycine HCl 35mg, Vitamin C 25mg, Choline 15mg, Lecithin 15mg, Vitamin E 12.5IU, Milk Thistle Extract 10mg, Saw Palmetto Extract 10mg, Phosphatidylserine 8mg, Betaine HCl 7.5mg, Vitamin B1 7.5mg, Niacinamide 7.5mg, D-Pantothenic Acid 7.5mg, Inositol 7.5mg, L-Methionine 7.5mg, Lipase (Enteric coated) 7.5mg, Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) 7mg, Alpha Lipoic Acid 5mg, Coenzyme Q10 5mg, Proanthocyanidins (from Grape Seed Extract) 4.75mg, Bromelain (Enteric coated) 4.5mg, Pepsin (Enteric coated) 4.5 mg, Protease (Enteric coated) 4.5mg, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 4.5mg, Iron as Amino Acid Chelate) 4.5mg, Linoleic acid 3.75mg, Vitamin B2 3.75mg, Vitamin B6 3.75mg, Para-aminobenzoic Acid (PABA)3.75mg, Vitamin A (Fish Liver Oil) 900IU, Zinc 1.5 mg, Manganese 1mg, Vitamin D3 (Fish Oil) 75IU, Potassium 0.375mg, Iodine (from Kelp) 0.06mg, Cobalt (as Cobalt Carbonate) 0.06mg, Chromium (as Chromium Picolinate) 0.00525mg, Selenium 0.00525mg, Copper 0.0045mg, Folic Acid 0.003mg, Biotin 0.003mg, Vitamin B12 0.003mg, Menodione (Vitamin K1) 0.003 mg.

Dog Health Problems Can Be Solved With Natural Alternative Pet Medicines! 

Dog Seizures

Dog seizures have a number of causes and not all of them are true Canine Epilepsy. Below you'll find the most common dog medicines prescribed for dog seizures listed with their side effects, plus a much better alternative pet medicine with no side ef...

Dog Allergy

Dog Allergies, find the many different types of dog allergies - the signs of a dog allergy - and what you can do about them here! Find all the medicines listed here for dog allergies (like Benadryl) and their harmful side effects, and discover a natu...

Dog Diarrhea and Dog Constipation

Dog diarrhea is not a disease; rather, it is a symptom of many different diseases. How serious is dog diarrhea? Dog diarrhea is a very serious symptom if it is accompanied with vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, high fever, lethargy, and a b...

Dog Medicine Side Effects

Find the most prescribed dog medicines and their side effects - which are often harmful and fatal - on the detailed listing below! Information for dog medicine Nsaids (like aspirin and advil) side effects, Predisone for dogs side effects, Dexamethaso...

Dog Worms

Dog worms: you'll find information about the most commonly used medicines here for dog worms such as Heartworms, Tapeworms, Roundworms, Hookworms, and Whipworms; and all their harmful side effects. What? You didn't know that the wonderful, most popul...

Dog Arthritis

The most common of dog arthritis treatments are what is called Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), like Aleve and Aspirin. The most prescribed dog medicine for dog arthritis is Rimadyl. You will see below the harmful and dangerous side eff...

Ear Mites

Dog Ear Mites - Cat Ear Mites - Get Rid Of Them Here! Ear Mites information and Ear mites facts; plus how to kill Ear Mites; because my owner says the only information on the internet, (which isn't much), is from people that just want you to buy their...

Flea Control

My name is Mocha Mo, and I gotta tell you that I really had a flea problem at one time in my life. I had so many flea bites I didn't know where to scratch first! My owner checked into the available pet flea medicines, and wasn't happy with them, beca...

Dog Ringworm

Dog Ringworm? Yes, Dogs Can Get Ringworm too! Dog ringworms can infect other dogs, cats, and people. People can give ringworms to dogs. Cats can give ringworms to dogs. Below you'll discover the commonly prescribed dog medicines for ringworm, and the...

Aggressive Dogs

Aggressive Dogs - find the reasons and causes of aggressive behaviour in dogs, plus the most common dog medicines used for an aggressive dog and their harmful side effects. Pet medicine alternatives - natural medicines - for prevention and management...

More Great Dog Resources For You 

Greenies

Greenies has become America's #1 dental chew and dog treat with more than 850 million sold globally. Greenies has a longstanding commitment to improving the lives of pets and their owners. The Greenies company is committed to the cause of dental care...

Dog Collars

Leather dog collars, Designer dog collars, Fancy dog collars, Personalized dog collars, and Rhinestone dog collars, they're all here! My owner Deb the flowergardener has put together this page so that you can shop for dog collars in an easy way. My n...

Dog Kong Toys

Dog Kong Toys are widely used for therapy and prevention of boredom, separation anxiety and other behavioral issues. The regular use of dog Kong toys can also improve oral health. The Kong's unpredictable bounce lures most dogs into a game of chase,...

Dog Beds

Large dog beds, Small dog beds, Orthopedic dog beds, Heated dog beds, and even Designer dog beds, they're all here! My owner Deb the flowergardener wants to help you shop for the best dog bed for your dog. She has put together a great and easy way fo...

Bully Sticks

Give Your Dog A Healthy Bully Stick For A Treat! Natural proteins found in meat are important to a dog's health and well-being. Natural Dog Treat Bully Sticks are from beef muscles and tendons, they become chewy when wet, and provide a natural way to...

Great Dog Health Care Books! 

Natural Medicine Alternatives For People 

Flowergardener's Herbal Medicine and Herbal Remedies Headquarters

Herbal medicine and herbal remedies for people and pets! The very best quality products for your health from the Flowergardener.

Natural Medicine

The world's greatest natural medicines were used ages before there was ever such thing as a patented drug - or an FDA. We've only been using patented synthetic medications and drugs to treat illness and disease since the time period of the Civil War....

Natural Medicine Articles 

Quality Natural Medicine RSS Feed 

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ThomasC Another quality lens! I don't know how you find the time to make such quality information lenses about Dogs and pets health! Great Job! Posted June 29, 2008

Ramarojah Very nice lens, factual. I LOVE dogs. Now cats, thats another thing! Posted June 27, 2008

Starving_Artist you have so many lenses about healthy care of dogs....thank you so much 5 *'s Posted June 06, 2008

SylviaD Good point about dark spots on a dog's skin. I discovered that certain breeds have them on their tongues as well. When I first saw it on my lab/chow mix, I thought it was a bruise. :-) Great lens! Lots of terrific info. Thanks for all your great work. Posted June 02, 2008

amandaquerque Another wonderful and valuable addition to the BIG LENSES Group! Posted May 14, 2008

 

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