A Small Lesson In Getting Rid Of Fleas

By J Anne Moore

Being a responsible pet owner means that you must take your pet's health and welfare seriously. One such aspect that must be taken very seriously is the inevitable experiences with dog fleas. Dog fleas can seriously affect your pet's health. Your dog's ability to get a good sleep will be hampered. In addition, the itching and biting can take a serious toll on your dog's coat and skin.

The first steps involve ridding your pet of fleas. The next steps involve ridding your pet's environment of fleas. If you do not get rid of fleas in your home, your pet will quickly get re-infested. Once you have gotten rid of fleas on your pet and cleaned your home of fleas, you should take some preventative steps. These last steps will minimize your pet's chances of getting fleas in the future.

Thankfully, ridding your pet of fleas has gotten easier. There are now readily available products that can be applied to your pet's coat. These products, including Frontline and Advantage, can rid your pet of fleas within 2-3 days. You simply apply a small amount of the solution to the back base of the animal's neck. With natural scratching and licking your animal will spread this solution around their entire body. The solutions are non-toxic and very effective.

Some people prefer to use natural means to rid their pet of fleas. These natural or homeopathic methods work well but are slightly less effective, more time consuming per individual application, can be slightly messy and may take a longer period of time to actually work. If your pet is not suffering too much then you have nothing to lose by trying one of the natural methods. Some people use olive oil to get rid of fleas while other people use baby powder/talcum powder to get rid of fleas.

As previously mentioned it is critical that you also get rid of any lingering fleas in your house. The extent of house cleaning will depend on the extent of the infestation. At the very least all areas where the animal sleeps must be vacuumed or even stem cleaned. All bedding, blankets, and linens that have come into contact with the animal must be washed.

Once your pet and home are free of fleas you can take some steps to prevent future infestations. There are a number of ways to avoid future infestations. Some people add small amounts of garlic to their pet food. Other people like to douse a bandanna in citronella oil and tie it around the animal's neck. There are also commercially available flea prevention medications that your pets can ingest once every few months. For more information on getting rid of fleas or flea prevention speak to your vet. - 31975

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Read more about finding a cure for dog fleas at my dog has fleas.

Is Acupuncture Right For Your Dog?

By Lee Reid

Acupuncture is a method renowned for its healing effects. But did you know it works equally well on animals? Canine acupuncture is a common form of therapy used by many pet owners to help their dogs.

Acupuncture has been around for over thousands of years and is known to have originated in China. This form of therapy is implemented by inserting thin needles into identified acupuncture points in the body along pathways called meridians , to provide relief for several diseases. This is based on the theory that in order to heal, the energy in the body needs to be well-balanced.

If you are thinking about canine acupuncture for your dog,you should visit a canine acupuncturist, who would commence canine acupuncture treatment after carrying out a thorough check up. It is essential that you go to a canine acupuncturist who is licensed, so as to ensure safe treatment. It is best that you first take your dog to its regular doctor who will refer you to an acupuncturist. Several websites online also have lists of veterinarian acupuncturists.

Canine acupuncture is said to be relaxing and may therefore make your dog drowsy. Canine acupuncture is said to be relatively painless. Pet owners therefore need not worry about their dogs suffering while canine acupuncture is being done.

Canine acupuncture could handle other disorders such as arthritis, various allergies and problems with regard to fertility, among others. Canine acupuncture treatment does not last very long. It lasts a minimum of 10 minutes and a maximum of 30 minutes. Based on your dogs condition and other important matters regarding your dogs health, the number of sittings will be specified. Usually it would take around 5 sessions to cure the dog of its ailments. Not only does canine acupuncture help deal with physical ailments, but is also known to help improve psychological and emotional ailments. What better way to keep your dog healthy! - 31975

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Lee is a fan of all things about pets and travel. Visit his latest site about where to find the best values for rolling duffle bag luggage online at low prices.

Canine Influenza

By Joanne Gallagher

The Flu and the Swine Flu have been the hot topic during the last few months. Dogs are not exempt from catching the flu. Canine Influenza is an A H3N8 influenza virus that has been known to exist in horses for more than 40 years. In 2004, however, cases of an unknown respiratory illness in dogs (initially greyhounds) were reported. This virus has spread to dogs and can now spread between dogs.

Because this flu virus is new to dogs, most dogs will not have a natural immunity. The signs of canine flu are similar to kennel cough, with a thick nasal discharge and mild low grade fever.

Canine influenza is spread by airborne discharge and contaminated surfaces. The virus can stay alive on surfaces for up to 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours, and on hands for 12 hours. Therefore kennels, crates, food and water bowls, collars and leashes and people moving between infected and uninfected dogs have ample time to spread the virus.

There are comparable respiratory infections that imitate the Dog Flu. Two different blood samples can verify that it is indeed canine influenza. The first is taken while the dog is ill and the second a couple of weeks later.

There currently a vaccine for this virus called H3N8. It has been established to lessen the occurrence and severity of lung lesions, as well as the extent of the cough and length of the virus. The vaccine is made from the non-active virus and is administered by injection in two doses, separated by two to four weeks. The Canine Flu vaccine can be given annually to dogs older than six weeks. Owners should seek the advice of their local veterinarian to ascertain whether the vaccine is appropriate for their dog.

Presently, there is no proof that humans can contract the canine influenza virus from dogs. There are no recognized cases of humans infected with the virus. This virus is only known to infect and spread between dogs.

Just like the Swine Flu and the Seasonal Flu, it is likely that the Dog Flu will continue to spread. Taking precautions and taking proper care of your pet, should keep your dog healthy during this flu season. There is no need for alarm and avoiding dog parks, kennels, grooming or other places you typically take your dog. Reputable Pet Professionals keep their establishments sanitized and are aware of unhealthy symptoms of their clients.

For additional data on Canine Influenza, look into these additional websites: Dr. Cynda Crawford (University of Florida) at www.canineflu.org and information from the American Veterinary Medical Association at www.avma.org. - 31975

About the Author:

We as human are always vigilant about our health and that of our family and sometimes don't realize that our pets may be living in unhealthy circumstances. As a expert in dog health and care Joanne Gallagher at Jake's Dog House suggests visiting your veterinarian when you notice any signs of canine influenza.

Parvo in Puppies

By Geraldine Dimarco

Before we look at the symptoms of parvovirus in your dog lets take a look at what it is, what it does and how it is spread. Parvovirus is a virus first identified in'78 that spread worldwide in just two years. Over the years, the virus has mutated into two distinct strains and there is evidence of a third strain in Spain, Italy and Vietnam. All cases of canine parvovirus or CPV come from the first two strains. It was originally thought that the virus would mutate into the feline panleukopenia, a feline parvovirus but this was found to be untrue. All species have their own parvovirus but it is not spread outside the species.

Parvo virus cannot be spread directly from a dog to a cat or from a bird to a cat, but it can be spread by contact. For example if you cat happens to wander through your neighbor's yard and picks up the virus on her feet, she can bring it into your home and may infect your dog that way. Unfortunately, our 8 month old puppy that we acquired from the pound recently came down with parvo virus. She had all of the classic dog parvo symptoms, yet we did not realize what was wrong. We took her to our vet and treatment was commenced immediately. After a four day stay at the veterinary hospital, Lucy was ready to come home. And although we have since found out about more natural parvo virus treatments, we were actually very pleasantly surprised by our vet bill!

The parvo virus works in one of two ways ? through the heart or the intestines. The intestinal infection is picked up by an animal through oral contact with contaminated feces. In other words, a dog has to come into contaminated feces from another dog. The intestinal dog parvo symptoms happen when the virus attacks rapidly dividing cells in the intestinal crypts, lymph nodes and bone marrow. This allows normally occurring bacteria from the intestine to enter the blood stream make the animal contagious. The virus is shed in the stool for up to three weeks making this disease very contagious to non-vaccinated pets.

The cardio form of this infection is often seen in puppies that are infected from the womb or shortly after birth. It is well worth noting that the cardiac form of CPV is not as common since the mother passes immunity on to her puppies from birth. The parvo virus then attacks the heart in the infected pup and death results shortly thereafter.

Dog parvo symptoms usually present themselves within 3 to 10 days of contact. They include the following: lethargy, vomiting, fever and diarrhea. The diarrhea can cause severe dehydration and secondary infections. The dog will not usually die from the virus but from a secondary infection.

The survival rate depends upon how swiftly parvo virus is diagnosed and treatment is begun. If the virus is not caught early on, the usual treatment is given through an IV line in which fluids are pushed to re-hydrate the puppy or dog more quickly. In addition to giving fluids, anti-nausea and antibiotic shots may be given intramuscularly. Given the proper care, the prognosis is good, but if care is withheld your dog will die prematurely. Most vets will strongly suggest that your pet be vaccinated against parvo about eight weeks after a puppy is weaned. - 31975

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To discover the facts about parvo symptoms and ideas on how to treat parvo without needles and potentially harmful chemicals, consider treating parvo symptoms naturally.

Urinary Tract Infection in Dog

By Geraldine Dimarco

Urinary tract infection (UTI) in dogs has become common. This condition arises when bacteria gains access inside your dog?s body and overcomes its immune system. As a responsible dog owner, it is our responsibility to ensure that our dog is in top shape and free from health risks such as this.

There are several ways to tell if your dog is suffering from urinary tract infection. It is important that as a dog owner, you be alert and knowledgeable enough to know the telltale signs of urinary tract infection in your dog. Some symptoms may include blood in the dog?s urine, a foul smell in the dog?s urine, a change in its urinating pattern, and an abrupt change in its behavior. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian so your dog would immediately be given proper medication.

There are two classifications of dog urinary tract infections. One is upper urinary tract infection and the other is lower urinary tract infection. These two kinds of dog urinary problems produce different signs and symptoms. Upper urinary tract infection is usually associated with weight loss, anorexia, and vomiting. On the other hand, lower urinary tract infection is associated mostly with abnormalities and incontinence or a change in the dog?s urinating pattern.

The most effective way to tell if your dog is suffering from dog urinary tract infections is to observe your dog?s urinating habits. Check if your dog has enough urine every time he pees. If you notice that your dog has to make several attempts before it can excrete urine out of its body, chances are it is suffering from dog urinary problems. A worst scenario is your dog not being able to urinate at all. In this instance, you have to take your dog to the veterinarian immediately as it may already be suffering from a serious case of bladder problem.

Another way to tell if your dog is showing signs of dog urinary problems in their early stages is to observe your dog while taking it out for a walk. Any sign of irregularity, such as cringing in pain, may be a sign that your dog has urinary problems. Foul-smelling urine, blood in the urine, tender bladder, and a reduction of the amount of the dog?s urine are signs that you should bring your dog to the veterinarian immediately. If left untreated, your dog could suffer from a more severe case of infection and eventually die.

A combination of these natural ingredients can bring effective relief to canine urinary tract infection.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, then chances are your dog has UTI. In such cases, it is best to bring your dog to the veterinarian so that it will be given proper medication. Do not try to give your dog antibiotics from your shelf, which are usually prescribed for humans as such medicines may not be advisable for dogs. It is always best to consult a veterinarian before giving your dog any medication.

Dog urinary tract infections are life-threatening for dogs. However, they are highly curable. The most important thing is that as a dog owner, you are able to suppress the growth of the infection by knowing its different signs and symptoms. - 31975

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Trying to find a solution to dog urinary tract infection or looking for information on canine incontinence, look no further.

Dog Mouth Health Problems

By Geraldine Dimarco

Ideally, dog teeth cleaning should be a routine part of your pet's regular care and their teeth should be brushed on a daily basis, or at least every other day or so. Because dog teeth are just as susceptible to disease and decay as are human teeth, it's extremely important keep tartar and plaque at bay to protect your dog's precious health.

Dental Disease and Your Dog's Health

Dogs can get many of the same tooth, gum and mouth diseases as we can - and since your dog can't tell you if they have a toothache, pet owners have to make sure to take care of their dog's teeth. Left alone, a tooth infection can lead to more serious problems with their vital organs.

You dog's diet has a real impact on their dental health. Dog food and treats which are fortified and made specifically to keep your dogs' teeth in good shape are a healthy choice for your pet. While you can have your dogs' teeth cleaned by your vet, this is very expensive and since your dog must be anesthetized for this to be done, can actually be dangerous for your pet! Professional cleaning should only be done in extreme cases.

Getting Your Pet Used to Dog Teeth Cleaning

Even if your dog is no longer a puppy you can train them to accept having their teeth brushed with some patience and perseverance. Both dogs and puppies alike can be acclimated to having the toothbrush in their mouths simply by starting out using your finger and a dab of peanut butter.

Your pet will lick your finger (and the peanut butter). You can start rubbing their teeth and gums while praising your dog. After a few days you r dog will become accustomed to this and you can start trying it with a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. Rub the teeth and gums with your finger just as you would with a toothbrush. When your dog gets used to this procedure, you can start using a real toothbrush.

Don't use toothpaste made for people - this will give your dog an upset stomach. Use dog toothpaste instead; these are designed to be appealing to dogs. Let your dog lick some off of the brush, then add more and start brushing.

Lift your dogs' gums so that you can reach their teeth, especially the canines. Hold the brush at a 45 degree angle for the best result. This lets you clean the gums and teeth at the same time. Brush using a circular motion and don't forget your dogs' back teeth, which are more susceptible to disease and decay.

Make dog teeth cleaning a happy occasion for your dog. Keep low key to prevent your dog from getting too excited to hold still. You should only need abut a minute to get your dogs' teeth clean and make sure that they stay healthy and happy. - 31975

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Canine teeth cleaning is important to your dog's health, and dog teeth cleaning can be effected in a number of ways. Keep your dog's teeth clean by brushing your dog's teeth, by a healthy diet, and by adding a dog teeth cleaning agent to your dog's drinking water. All can play a part in keeping your dog's teeth healthy.

Canine Urinary Tract Infections

By Geraldine Dimarco

Raising a dog is like raising a baby. Like our own children, they look up to us to give them food, shelter, and proper nourishment. As a responsible dog owner, it is our responsibility to give them the best care we can and to make sure they are given proper health care.

There are several ways to tell if your dog is suffering from urinary tract infection. It is important that as a dog owner, you be alert and knowledgeable enough to know the telltale signs of urinary tract infection in your dog. Some symptoms may include blood in the dog?s urine, a foul smell in the dog?s urine, a change in its urinating pattern, and an abrupt change in its behavior. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian so your dog would immediately be given proper medication.

Dog urinary tract infection is a rising health problem in today?s society. Previous studies have revealed that approximately--% of the entire dog population in the whole world is bound to contract canine urinary tract infection.

The most effective way to tell if your dog is suffering from dog urinary tract infections is to observe your dog?s urinating habits. Check if your dog has enough urine every time he pees. If you notice that your dog has to make several attempts before it can excrete urine out of its body, chances are it is suffering from dog urinary problems. A worst scenario is your dog not being able to urinate at all. In this instance, you have to take your dog to the veterinarian immediately as it may already be suffering from a serious case of bladder problem.

As in the case of humans, female dogs are more likely to develop UTI than male dogs. This is because bacteria can develop more rapidly in female dogs because they have a shorter urethra compared to their male counterparts.

A combination of these natural ingredients can bring effective relief to canine urinary tract infection.

Other than the herbal methods mentioned above, another natural remedy for urinary tract infection in dogs is to give your dog ample amount of clean water to drink everyday. Water flushes out bacteria and prevents them from staying and causing further damage to the gall bladder. Also, give your dog a regular bath. This will prevent the bacteria from spreading into the dog?s urethra and thus minimizes the spread of infection. Giving your dog dietary supplements which could boost its overall health and well-being is also a great way to help reduce the risk of spreading the infection. Dietary supplements rich in vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids could help improve your dog?s immune system. Examples of these are apple cider vinegar and citrus juices such as lime juice and orange juice. Cider vinegar and citrus juices neutralize bacteria in the urine and in the process, prevent them from causing more harm.

Dog urinary tract infections are life-threatening for dogs. However, they are highly curable. The most important thing is that as a dog owner, you are able to suppress the growth of the infection by knowing its different signs and symptoms. - 31975

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If you are looking for a solution to urinary tract infection in dogs or searching for a remedy for dog incontinence, look to the experts.

Providing Relief from Dog Allergies

By Joanne Gallagher

Many dogs can suffer from allergic reactions to various things. Breeds such as Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Schnauzers, and Terriers may be genetically pre-disposed to allergies, specifically, allergies caused by ingredients found in food.

Food allergies may manifest themselves in cats and dogs in the following ways: Their skin becomes itchy and irritated on their face, feet, ears, forelegs, armpits and amongst the area around the base of the tail. In addition, frequent inner ear infections, loss of hair, extreme scratching, hot spots, and skin infections that may respond to antibiotics but return after the antibiotics are completed. Increased incidence of bowel movements is another symptom of dogs with food allergies. Dogs normally have around 1.5 bowel movements daily, where food allergies may increase the frequency to 3 or more per day.

Ingredients in dog food such as preservatives, additives, peanut butter and tomatoes cause allergic reactions. Peanut butter is sometimes an ingredient in dog biscuits, while tomato paste is sometimes an ingredient in dry dog food. Dogs can also be allergic to protein, such as chicken, beef, or carbohydrates such as wheat and corn. Veterinarians recommend a diet of lamb and rice for dogs with allergic reactions.

You can prepare allergy free pet food for dog at home. Remember, dogs love fresh vegetables such as carrots, broccoli and cauliflower. Keep in mind that vegetables also provide additional benefits that will help your dog or cat live a longer more healthy life. Be sure to change your dog's diet gradually as to avoid stomach problems.

Some dog allergies are caused by environmental factors. Pets are frequently allergic to trees, grass, pollen and fabrics made of wool or nylon. Others environmental causes include plastic, rubber materials, mites, flea bites or insects. After their body's become exposed to these substances, they respond to these allergens by becoming itchy. If dogs scratch at the irritant too much, they may develop sores which create an ideal place for a bacterial infection. When dogs are not in direct contact with the allergen but still experience symptoms, Atopy is usually the reason. Atopy is dermatitis caused by inhalation rather than physical contact. This normally occurs as a result of inhalation of pollen, dust, mold, or any allergy substance in the air.

Inflammation of the Paws, ears, and face may be a result of dog allergies. Seek advice from your veterinarian about controlling pet allergies. To provide relief and healing to sores on a dog's body, treatments such as fatty acid supplements, hypoallergenic shampoo and hydrocortisone creams are most efficient. Antihistamines may be used to relieve the dogs itching and make your dogs suffering more bearable. There are a few side effects to make note of when using an antihistamine. Among these are sleepiness, hyperactivity, constipation, cotton mouth & a decreased desire for food. Be sure you have consulted your veterinarian before using any medication for your pet.

When dogs have allergic reactions, the allergy frequently presents itself in the form of a sore on the dogs back or stomach. These sores often times force the dog to lick or claw at the infected area causing loss of hair. Food allergies as well as environmental factors can make your dog's life insufferable. Pin pointing the cause of the allergy will improve your pet's life immensely! - 31975

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Similar to people, dogs can suffer from the effects of allergies. By contacting your veterinarian, they can be controlled. In addition Joanne Gallagher recommends checking out Jakes Dog House for all natural, holistic dog treats, glucosamine dog food and organic dog biscuits.

Dog UTI Medication

By Geraldine Dimarco

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is not only common in humans. It is common in dogs, too. This is most common in female dogs because of their short urethra, but UTI in male dogs is also probable, although rarely. In its early stages of development, UTI in dogs may not necessarily be harmful and may not exhibit obvious signs. In addition, urinary tract infection in some dogs may resolve itself within a span of time even without medical intervention. But if UTI in dogs is not treated for a long period of time, it may cause further infection and damage to the dog?s urinary system.

Dogs do not have the gift of speech and, therefore, cannot tell their human owners that they are suffering from a discomfort. As an owner, it is up to you to tell if the dog is suffering from a symptom of UTI. Symptoms of UTI in dogs include fatigue, lethargy, fever, bloody urine, a foul-smell in the urine, tenderness of the lower stomach area, constant licking of the genital area, incontinence and urinating in inappropriate places, and straining to urinate. Once any of these signs are noticed, it is wise to bring the dog to the veterinarian.

The following are signs of female puppy UTI: 1. Frequent urination. A female puppy suffering from UTI may tend to urinate more often. This constant urination may be caused by an inflammation in its bladder. If inflammation has worsened, this frequent urination may lead to incontinence or the inability for the puppy to control the flow of its urine. 2. In contrast to frequent urination, a puppy with UTI may urinate less than usual. This condition could be caused by a blockage in the female puppy?s urethra or bladder. The blockage may be caused by the formation of stones or plugs. Although blockage is most common in male puppies, it could also happen in females. If left untreated, a complete blockage may occur and put the puppy?s life in extreme danger. 3. Excessive thirst. Female puppies with UTI may also tend to drink more water. This increase in thirst may be a sign of dehydration which may be caused by constant urination or excessive excretion of liquid from its body. 4. Bloody urine. In its advanced stage, UTI in a female puppy may result to bloody urine. This can be extremely painful to the puppy. 5. Straining to urinate. The puppy may strain to urinate but produce only trickles of urine. The puppy may also whimper when trying to urinate because of the pain that goes along with the process. 6. Lethargy. If you notice that your puppy is getting lethargic more often, or is feverish, chances are it may be suffering from female puppy UTI in its advanced stage. Treatment is a must in this condition.

Urinary tract infection is a painful experience for the dog. Now that you have an idea of why and how UTI in dogs happens, it is vital that you take precautionary measures to prevent your dog from contracting another case of dog UTI. Prevention of UTI in dogs is as simple as ABC, as long as you take regular action of the following tips: ? Give your dog ample amount of clean water everyday. ? Give your dog a regular bath, taking note to especially wash its genital area. ? Give your dog a regular dose of homeopathic remedy. ? Wash the dog?s food and water bowl with clean water regularly. ? Regularly take the dog out for a morning or afternoon walk. Exercise can help stimulate its bladder. ? Encourage your dog to urinate regularly. Regular urination is essential to flush out the bacteria that may have accumulated in the dog?s bladder.

The first thing a veterinarian would do when you bring your dog for check-up would be to perform physical examination on the dog. A urinalysis and blood test may also be taken. X-rays and radiographs are taken to determine if stones are present in the dog?s bladder. Once the cause of the urinary tract infection is determined, the vet may then perform proper medication to the dog. Antibiotics may be given to alleviate the pain and suppress or stop the infection from spreading and causing more harm to the dog?s internal system. The veterinarian may also prescribe a special diet to help increase the dog?s immunity against infection. - 31975

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If you are looking for a solution to canine UTI or searching for a remedy for dog incontinence, look to the experts.

Ridding Dog Fleas

By Matt Adams

Pet owners everywhere are at one time or another faced with the issue of how to get rid of fleas! When your pet gets infested with fleas it can be a terribly frustrating experience for both the owner and pet. Our local pet food store sells an assortment of flea collars, flea powders and flea shampoo including Frontline for fleas. Even though the staff are helpful, it is pretty hard to know which product to use and almost impossible to know all of the active ingredients of these dog flea products. There can be some hazardous side-effects of those well known but potentially highly harmful dog flea products. The chemicals used in some of the household name products and major national popular brands on the market may be poisoning our pets and marginalizing our own family?s health at the same time. So the question is, how to get rid of fleas safely?

More recently, dog owners are seeking homeopathic or all-natural alternatives to the issue of how to get rid of fleas. Some of the more popular all-natural dog flea remedies are outlined as follows:

1. Household salt solution. Sprinkle table salt all over your house. Pay particular attention to where Fido takes his nap. Let the salt sit for at least one week and then look at the results. Fleas don?t seem to like salt. Your dog will lie down on the rugs, etc and the salt will also get on to his fur?fleas don?t like this. A few days later the fleas are gone.

2. Talcum powder to treat dog fleas. Cover your dog or cat with baby powder and this will smother the fleas. This remedy is often recommended for puppies or kittens who are too young to be treated with any flea chemical. You can also use baking soda.

3. For the dog fleas on adult dogs, you could try an olive oil bath. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the fleas just drown in it and fall out. Start from the dog?s head and work your way back so the fleas don't move to the face where it's really hard to pluck them off. Then you just shampoo the oil out and the dog fleas will wash down the drain.

4. Other people think garlic is the only way to go in the battle against dog fleas. Use fresh garlic diced in a food processor or by hand. You can put a dab of oil into it in order to make it more paste-like plus the oil will make for a nice shiny coat. Some people use a garlic pill supplement while others use freshly chopped garlic and mix it into the food.

There seem to be many all-natural alternatives to treating dog fleas. Some are bound to work better than others. These treatments will likely work best for a small infestation. For a really major case of fleas you might want to try a stronger dog flea remedy available at the pet store or vet?s office. In figuring out how to get rid of fleas its best to do some homework. However, with all matters pertaining to the health of your dog, please check with your vet about potential bad side effects. - 31975

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For more tips on how to kill fleas safely visit this site for articles and tips on organic and natural ways to kill fleas.

Find Out How To Get Rid Of Fleas

By Matt Adams

Pet owners everywhere are at one time or another faced with the issue of how to get rid of fleas! When your pet gets infested with fleas it can be a terribly frustrating experience for both the owner and pet. Our local pet food store sells an assortment of flea collars, flea powders and flea shampoo including Frontline for fleas. Even though the staff are helpful, it is pretty hard to know which product to use and almost impossible to know all of the active ingredients of these dog flea products. There can be some hazardous side-effects of those well known but potentially highly harmful dog flea products. The chemicals used in some of the household name products and major national popular brands on the market may be poisoning our pets and marginalizing our own family?s health at the same time. So the question is, how to get rid of fleas safely?

As people become more aware of issues pertaining to their health, dog owners are seeking all-natural alternatives to the question of how to get rid of fleas. Some of the more common and popular all-natural dog flea remedies are sketched out below:

1. Household salt. Sprinkle it all over the house and let it sit for a week or more. Apparently fleas don?t seem to like salt. Your dog will lay on the carpet and the salt will get on his coat. A short time thereafter the fleas are gone.

2. Baking Soda to get rid of fleas. Cover your dog with baking soda. The baking soda will smother the fleas and kill them. This all-natural flea remedy is often recommended for puppies and kittens who are too young to be exposed to any flea remedy chemical. You can also use talcum powder or baby powder.

3. Olive oil solution. For the fleas on adult dogs, you might want to try an olive oil solution. Start from the dog?s head and work your way to his tail so the fleas don't move to the face. People say that the fleas just drown in the olive oil and fall out. Then just shampoo the dog fleas down the drain. This can be a pricey solution and your dog will smell like a salad..

4. Some people think garlic is the best all-natural dog fleas remedy. Use freshly diced garlic. You can put a dab of oil into it in order to make it smoother plus the oil will make for a nice shiny coat. Some people use a garlic pill supplement while others use freshly chopped garlic and mix it into the food. The fleas don?t like the scent emitted by the dog after ingesting garlic.

It would appear that there are many natural alternatives to treating dog fleas. These treatments will likely work best at the point of initial infestation. For a really bad cases of fleas you might need to try a stronger dog flea remedy such as Frontline. In figuring out how to get rid of fleas its best to do your research. However, with all matters pertaining to the health of our dogs and cats, please check with your doctor about potential side effects. - 31975

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For more tips on killing fleas, click to visit this site for articles and ideas on natural and not so natural ways to kill fleas.

What to Give a Dog for Urinary Tract Infection

By Geraldine Dimarco

Urinary tract infection (UTI) in dogs has become common. This condition arises when bacteria gains access inside your dog?s body and overcomes its immune system. As a responsible dog owner, it is our responsibility to ensure that our dog is in top shape and free from health risks such as this.

There are several ways to tell if your dog is suffering from urinary tract infection. It is important that as a dog owner, you be alert and knowledgeable enough to know the telltale signs of urinary tract infection in your dog. Some symptoms may include blood in the dog?s urine, a foul smell in the dog?s urine, a change in its urinating pattern, and an abrupt change in its behavior. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian so your dog would immediately be given proper medication.

If you are hesitant to bring your dog to a veterinarian for financial or whatever reasons, you may use natural remedies to try to minimize your dog?s infection or better yet, cure it. There is a very effective natural remedy for urinary tract infection in dogs.

Homeopathy is a natural remedy for urinary tract infection in dogs. Unlike antibiotics or the conventional mode of treatment, it is 100% safe and has no danger of side effects. Moreover, it is affordable and can prevent recurrence of infection.

Using natural substances or herbal medicines to help cure urinary tract infection not only works well for humans but for dogs as well. Herbal medicines are as effective as the best antibiotics in the market. A number of herbs that have beneficial properties and effects for dogs and which are excellent natural remedies for urinary tract infections for canine patients are the following: 1. Staphysagris 2. Berberis vulgaris 3. Uva ursi 4. Cantharis 5. Goldenrod 6. Juniper berry

A dog with UTI may live for a long time without feeling any symptoms at all. There may be even times that the infection will just disappear on its own without being treated. However, a dog may become very ill if it is left in this condition for a very long time without medical attention. Dog urinary tract infection could lead to more severe infections if left untreated for so long. You can tell if your dog is suffering from UTI by checking for any of these symptoms: ? A change in your dog?s behavior ? A change in your dog?s urination habits ? A foul smell in your dog?s urine ? Blood in your dog?s urine ? Fever ? Fatigue ? Straining when urinating ? Tenderness of the lower area of the stomach

Other than the herbal methods mentioned above, another natural remedy for urinary tract infection in dogs is to give your dog ample amount of clean water to drink everyday. Water flushes out bacteria and prevents them from staying and causing further damage to the gall bladder. Also, give your dog a regular bath. This will prevent the bacteria from spreading into the dog?s urethra and thus minimizes the spread of infection. Giving your dog dietary supplements which could boost its overall health and well-being is also a great way to help reduce the risk of spreading the infection. Dietary supplements rich in vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids could help improve your dog?s immune system. Examples of these are apple cider vinegar and citrus juices such as lime juice and orange juice. Cider vinegar and citrus juices neutralize bacteria in the urine and in the process, prevent them from causing more harm.

Indeed, UTI is a rising health problem for dogs in our modern society. However, there are ways to prevent this condition from occurring in your dogs. One way is to give your dog enough water to drink everyday. Water helps to flush out bacteria our of your dog?s system. Another way is to bathe your dog regularly. Regular bathing helps to ward off bacteria from entering your dog?s body. As the famous saying goes, ?prevention is always better than cure?. - 31975

About the Author:

Trying to find a solution to urinary tract infection in dogs or searching for a remedy for canine incontinence, look no further.

Is Holistic Dog Health the Answer?

By Geraldine Dimarco

Alternative health care for dogs, such as holistic healthcare, is quickly becoming the way for owners to make sure that their beloved pets are healthy, playful, and living long, happy, full lives.

In considering a dogs health,maybe nutritional needs are the most important aspects,a dogs nutritional needs are somewhat different from a humans and need a certain balance of nutrients,vitamins,and minerals to make sure everything from their digestive systems to the skeletal system, joints,and organs also the skin and coat are kept as healthy as possible. Holistic dog diets usually require proteins, veggies, and grains minus extra fillers and over-processed foods.

Your Dog's Health and Herbal Remedies.

Using a variety of essential oils, plant extracts, herbs and flowering essences, people have treated numerous ailments and conditions over the past thousands of years. As more and more owners of dogs are looking for more safe and healthy ways of treating their pets, ancient healing practices have found their way into the field of pet healthcare in the recent times.

Some of the plant life that's used for treating dogs include both calendula and chamomile for promoting the healing of wounds, and the latter is often used for the treatment of respiratory ailments as well. For dogs suffering from constipation or bowel disorders, crushed flaxseed mixed with plenty of water may do the trick. For dry, itchy skin, oats are as soothing to a dog's skin as they are to a human's, and if your pup is having trouble sleeping, smelling some lavender may help them to relax and finally fall soundly asleep.

Before concocting any type of herbal remedies of your own, make it a point to do plenty of research and be absolutely certain that what you're giving your dog isn't toxic or harmful in any way, as not all herbs and flowers are safe for pets, or even people for that matter. Also, ask your veterinarian for their input and recommendations when it comes to holistic dog health and using all-natural remedies for their care.

Holistic Veterinary Care.

Nowadays, many veterinarians are developing faith in a holistic dog fitness approach, and are using it as a way to augment their practices. A veterinarian who practices holistic pet care treats animals as a whole, rather than identifying a certain problem and prescribing one type of treatment related to that specific injury or illness.

As an example, if your dog presents with a skin rash displaying symptoms like itching, irritation, redness, and possible infection with concomitant fur loss, a presciption from a "traditional" vet would certainly include an antibiotic and maybe an ointment for the itching.

A holistic veterinarian will place more emphasis on determining the cause of the rash as the source of the infection before prescribing those two remedies. Before coming to a conclusion or offering treatment, the dog's entire lifestyle are taken into account; his living environment, nutrition, exercise and all habits.

With all the growing problems with recalls of pet food, decisions as to wether or not to vaccinate pets, possibility for excessive amounts of immunizations, or if we are giving pets too much medication - both as individuals and as a society - owners of dogs are still trying to find good ways to keep their pets healthy and content for as long as they can. - 31975

About the Author:

If you're interested in holistic dog health as a means to improving the health of your dog, the top holistic dog health resource is www.HealthyHappyDogs.com

Puppy Teeth Cleaning - How to Do It Effectively

By Geraldine Dimarco

Dog teeth cleaning is something which should become a daily part of your routine of caring for your pet. Just like us, dogs can develop tooth disease; making it very important to make sure that you care for your pet's health by keeping their teeth clean and tartar free.

Dental Health and Hygiene in Dogs

Dogs can be subject to the same diseases of the mouth, gums and teeth as can their owners. Since you dog has no way of telling you that is has a toothache, dog owners must take care to look after the dental health of their dog. An untreated tooth infection can lead to very serious problems with your pets' vital organs.

You dog's diet has a real impact on their dental health. Dog food and treats which are fortified and made specifically to keep your dogs' teeth in good shape are a healthy choice for your pet. While you can have your dogs' teeth cleaned by your vet, this is very expensive and since your dog must be anesthetized for this to be done, can actually be dangerous for your pet! Professional cleaning should only be done in extreme cases.

Getting Your Pet Used to Dog Teeth Cleaning

With patience and perseverance, you can get your dog to become comfortable with tooth brushing. You adult dog or puppy can learn to have their teeth brushed by using your finger and a canine favorite; peanut butter!

Your pet will lick your finger (and the peanut butter). You can start rubbing their teeth and gums while praising your dog. After a few days you r dog will become accustomed to this and you can start trying it with a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. Rub the teeth and gums with your finger just as you would with a toothbrush. When your dog gets used to this procedure, you can start using a real toothbrush.

You should not use toothpaste which is made for humans, as this will cause your dog to have an upset stomach. There is toothpaste designed for dogs which have a taste and smell which appeal to your pet. Let your dog lick a little off of the brush and then add more and start brushing.

You'll need to lift up your dogs' gums to be able to reach their upper teeth -the canines especially. To get the best results, hold the brush at a 45 degree angle; this lets you clean teeth and gums simultaneously. Use a circular motion and pay special attention to your pets' back teeth, which are especially subject to tooth disease.

Make dog teeth cleaning a happy occasion for your dog. Keep low key to prevent your dog from getting too excited to hold still. You should only need abut a minute to get your dogs' teeth clean and make sure that they stay healthy and happy. - 31975

About the Author:

Canine teeth cleaning is imperative to dog health, and canine teeth cleaning can be done in several ways. You can keep your dog's teeth clean by brushing your dog's teeth, by a healthy diet, and by adding a canine teeth cleaning agent to your dog's drinking water. All can play a part in keeping your dog's teeth healthy.

Dog Health Symptoms Information

By Jennefer Poultson

When you are concerned, making sure that you are looking the right dog health symptoms can tell you a lot of important information about your dog's health and what you need to do about it. If you are a concerned pet owner you may find yourself wondering if your dog is experiencing something normal, or if he is having a problem that might need immediate veterinary attention. If you are worried about your dog, take a look at some basic things to watch out for.

When considering dog health symptoms, remember that the best thing that you can do to be attentive to your dog's normal behavior. The better you know your dog, the better off you will be when it comes to trying to help him heal. Think about whether your dog is outgoing and patient or more nervous and restive. You'll find that a change in behavior can signify a great deal. For instance, if your dog is typically very friendly but has gone into hiding and whines at being petted, this could be a sign that he is in trouble.

When it comes to dog health blood in urine is something that you should keep an eye out for. This can be be an indication of kidney disease or kidney failure, and as such, requires immediate veterinary assistance. If you notice that there is blood in your dog's urine, you'll find that you should take him to the veterinarian immediately. Quick action at this point can save your dog's life, so don't delay.

Another common complaint among pet owners is vomiting. Dogs will do this mildly when they have eaten something that does not agree with them. Like the time my mini-pin ate a battery. However if you notice repeated vomiting with fever or pain symptoms it is more than likely a health issue. Nausea and vomiting can be a sign of stomach ulcers or a more serious ailment. No matter the cause, the effect on your pets' health can be devastating since she could dehydrate very quickly. In severe cases, pets have died from dehydration.

When looking for symptoms of poor health in your dog do not overlook their coat. A dogs coat should feel thick and look relatively glossy. If you reach down to pet your dog and find that the coat is oddly dry and brittle or there are bald patches you should check into the cause. One common cause of a bad coat is worms; this parasite robs the dog of nutrition and therefore leaves the coat unhealthy. Of course, if you have a dog whose hair is naturally coarse, like a wirehaired terrier then this rule does not apply.

These are only a few basic health problems that your dog might be facing, so take the time to figure out what is normal for your dog and what is not; this is the best way to figure out how healthy he is! - 31975

About the Author:

To find out about dog health symptoms and dog health diagnosis to maintain your dog's health, visit HealthierDogs.com

Tips On Canine Training

By Dave Quaid

When considering adding a new dog to the home, there are many factors to think about. When making this new addition, make sure to prepare for proper training and have the right tools on hand to make the transition easier for the puppy and yourself. While it's possible to train a dog yourself, for those without experience in dog ownership a dog training course with your puppy will be well worth the investment.

If you already have a dog, perhaps you have seen the show "It's Me or the Dog" and thought - that sounds like me! If your dog is running your house, perhaps you should consider dog training school. Many times dogs misbehave not because they are bad, but because the owners don't know how to train them properly. Investing in a training program for you and your pooch will create a happy and peaceful relationship.

What are the biggest reasons you should choose dog training school as opposed to doing it yourself?

Often, pet owners get caught in a power struggle with their dog. Learning the right body language, tone of voice, and reward system for your dog are essential to keep you in control. Owning a dog is like being a parent, and some well given advise can save the day.

Dog training also allows dogs to learn how to socialize with other people and other dogs. Learning how to behave around others is imperative when taking your dog out. A dog obedience course provides friendships for both dogs and their owners.

Owners who take a class with their dogs with a formal setting will be learning commands in the ultimate environment. Here, the instructor knows how to teach the owner to "speak dog" and use body language that will get the appropriate responses. Often times there are simple things that work well with dogs that the general public might not know. Having an instructor handy will give them the opportunity to watch how well you work with your dog, and to give you pointers to correct things.

By working in a classroom environment, the dog will be learning commands with distractions. While this may initially seem like a disadvantage, it actually makes it better. The skill sets will be remembered easier at home once the distractions are removed. This is more effective than trying to get a dog to remember his manners with distractions, when he has only learned them in a controlled environment.

Taking your dog through obedience training will provide a satisfying relationship. A well trained dog is more secure, better behaved, and confident. Being able to trust the owner and expectations will provide a long lasting relationship with your loyal friend. Dogs that have been through obedience training are safer around friends and children, while preventing unacceptable behaviors.

A dog that is trained well will allow you to fully enjoy the benefits of dog ownership. Dogs will also give fringe benefits as well - lower incidences of illness, a source of exercise, and an outlet for social interaction. This benefits both owner and dog! - 31975

About the Author:

David is an expert on pet health and care. Keeping your cat healthy and happy is a responsiblility of every owner. See his site for information on Cat Disease. For dog owners see Dog Health.

Dog Bad Breath - What to Do About It

By Geraldine Dimarco

Dog teeth cleaning should be something which is done regularly as a part of your pet care routine. If possible, your dog's teeth should be brushed daily, or least every other day. Dogs are just as susceptible as we are to tooth disease, so it is important to make sure that our dog's teeth are kept clean and free of tartar.

Dental Health and Your Dog

Dogs can be subject to the same diseases of the mouth, gums and teeth as can their owners. Since you dog has no way of telling you that is has a toothache, dog owners must take care to look after the dental health of their dog. An untreated tooth infection can lead to very serious problems with your pets' vital organs.

Your dog's diet definitely has a direct effect on their dental health. Choosing foods and treats that are fortified and designed to keep their teeth and gums healthy are an easy way to implement dental hygiene into your dog's life. Although professional cleaning by a veterinarian is an option, this should only be considered in extreme cases as unnecessarily having your dog anesthetized is not only expensive, but it also puts undue stress on your pet.

Cleaning Your Dog's Teeth

Even if your dog is no longer a puppy you can train them to accept having their teeth brushed with some patience and perseverance. Both dogs and puppies alike can be acclimated to having the toothbrush in their mouths simply by starting out using your finger and a dab of peanut butter.

Your dog will lick your finger - this will let you start rubbing their teeth and gums. Be sure to offer plenty of praise while you do this. Soon, your dog will be used to this and you can move on to a finger wrapped in gauze. Rub the teeth and gums in a circular motion, just as you would with a toothbrush. When your pet becomes accustomed to this, you're ready to move in to the real thing.

You should not use toothpaste which is made for humans, as this will cause your dog to have an upset stomach. There is toothpaste designed for dogs which have a taste and smell which appeal to your pet. Let your dog lick a little off of the brush and then add more and start brushing.

Lift the sides of your dog's gums so you can access their upper teeth, aptly called the canines, and hold the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle for the best results. This allows you to clean the gum line as well as the teeth to keep the gums equally as healthy. Brushing two to three teeth at a time, brush in a circular motion anywhere from eight to ten times or so in order to get each area clean. A dog's upper back teeth tend to be the most susceptible to decay and periodontal disease, so if anything, focus your efforts there first.

Make dog tooth cleaning time a happy time for your dog. Stay calm so your dog won't get too excited. It should only take about a minute a day for effective dog teeth cleaning and maintain their good health. - 31975

About the Author:

Canine teeth cleaning is imperative to your dog's health, and dog teeth cleaning can be done in several ways. You can keep your dog's teeth clean by brushing your dog's teeth, with healthy food, and by adding a dog teeth cleaning agent to your dog's drinking water. All can play a part in keeping your dog's teeth healthy.

Do You Need a Dog Health Diagnosis?

By Geraldine Dimarco

Holistic dog health is quickly becoming the way for owners to make sure that their beloved pets have a reliable dog health diagnosis for any health issue that arises, and that they remain healthy and playful, and that they live long, happy, and full lives.

Perhaps the most important aspect for a dog's health would be a unique blend of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to make sure the joints, organs, and digestive systems make work in harmony. The skin and coat of your dog is probably the first sign either of health or illness in a dog. A great diet for your pet dog is holistic in approach, with meals consisting primarily, though not exclusively, of meat. The most important thing is to avoid processed foods.

Once you have a dog health diagnosis, you can go the conventional treatment way, or use a combination of various essential oils, flowering essences, plant extracts, and certain herbs. You can consult with a holistic veterinarian, or you could do your own research on holistic dog health care and run your ideas past your vet before embarking upon a holistic treatment regime. These ancient healing practices have in recent years found their way into pet care and are now becoming increasingly popular as more and more dog owners are looking for safer, healthier, and less invasive alternatives to treating their pets.

Calendula and chamomile may be recommended for promoting the healing of wounds, with the latter often being used for the treatment of respiratory ailments also. If your dog is suffering from constipation or a bowel disorder, crushed flaxseed mixed with plenty of water may be helpful. Dry, itchy skin, can be soothed with oats, and if your dog is having trouble sleeping, you may well find that lavender essential oil may help your to relax fall asleep just as well as it will work for yourself if you suffer from insomnia.

Ask your veterinarian for his or her input and recommendations when it comes to holistic dog health and using all-natural remedies for their care, but if your vet is not open to alternative health methods, do your own research, and you might even want to consider switching to a vet who is more open to alternative methods.

In recent years, thousands of veternarians have made holistic dog health diagnosis a greater part of their practice. A vet practicing holistic pet medicine cares for the whole animal instead of just finding a specific problem and prescribing a single therapy for that particular trauma or disorder.

For example, your dog has suddenly come down with a red, irritating rash and has started losing some fur. A "regular" vet would most likely prescribe a topical ointment and an antibiotic medication to stop the infection and itching.

While a "regular" vet would probably prescribe an antibiotic to treat most skin irritations and infections, as well as a topical ointment to address the itching, a holistic veterinarian will probably place more emphasis on finding out what could have caused the rash to occur in the first place, which, of course, was the root of the infection. With holistic care, the dog's indoor and outdoor environment, his daily lifestyle, eating habits and nutritional intake are all taken into consideration before attempting to diagnose or treat the animal. - 31975

About the Author:

Discover the facts about holistic dog health and dog health diagnosis for maintaining peak health in your dog, visit HealthierDogs.com

Bed Bug Detection For Your Home

By Jack Hanley

Prior to World War II bed bugs were common in the United States. Then with the introduction of DDT, bed bugs were almost completely eradicated in the U. S. Although they did remain in other parts of the world. Since DDT has been banned (for good reasons) bed bugs are becoming more common once again in the States. Their rise has made it important that you know the signs of bed bugs and about bed bug detection.

Bed bugs are approximately the size and somewhat lighter in color than an apple seed. They live in beds, sofas, and practically any upholstered furniture that will allow them to sneak out in the dark to enjoy the only thing that they eat human or animal blood. As soon as they finish their meal, the scurry back into hiding until the next night.

Bed bugs can travel into your home by means of your clothing, luggage or used furniture. They may have found their way onto your person at the office or at a movie theater. Once one bug gets into your home she may lay hundreds of eggs over her lifetime. Her offspring may also reproduce many other bugs. In a short time your entire home may become infested. With bed bugs, keeping a clean home does not seem to matter. All bed bugs need is a meal on your blood. If you are not available, they will feast on your pets. Try to put all clothing that has been in a hotel room immediately into the laundry. Store luggage sealed in plastic bags away from your bedroom until the next trip.

Once a home is fully infested with bugs, you may note a foul musty odor. There are dogs that have been trained to detect bed bugs by their smell that are often used in hotels. There are also other signs that you can look for that will get the problem under control before it becomes a full fledged infestation.

Since bed bugs like to hide during the daytime, it is important that you check out cracks and creases on the bed. Look along rails and behind the headboard. Look for rusty or brown colored stains on mattresses and bedding to be sure that you do not have a problem with bed bugs.

You may also see signs such as discarded skins or egg shells. Your box spring has many hiding places where the bugs can hide. Most of their lives may be spent inside the springs hidden by the mesh dust cover.

If you find bed bugs in your home, you should take immediate action to get rid of them. Wearing insect repellent will not stop the bugs from biting you. One possible method is to encase infested mattresses and box springs in specially made plastic enclosures that zip shut so the bugs cannot escape. Without meals of blood, they will die.

Many people feel that it is simpler to discard of an infested bed and replace it, however, you must also remove all clutter from the room and be sure that the bugs have been removed from the home before bring in a new bed that will also become infested. - 31975

About the Author:

Looking to find the best deal on bed bug detection, then visit www.nebedbugdetection.com to find the best advice on bed bug detection Connecticut for you.

Learn More About Invisible Dog Fences

By Jammeson Tyler Davidmire

If you are having a problem with your dog constantly running away, whether they are wandering into th neighbors yard and making a mess or just disappearing randomly, there is a tool that can help you train your pet to stay put and keep them from running away. This amazing dog training tool is called an electric or wireless dog fence.

How does this invisible fence work? It will simply teach your do where it is and isn't acceptable to play. By teaching your pet their boundaries you will be keeping them safe. You will also be teaching them that it is important to obey the rules that your set for them.

A perk, for your pet, of these invisible fences is that they will not have to be leashed. After all, how much fun and running can they do if they are constantly being snagged by a cumbersome leash. This device will keep them on your property without keeping them tied down.

How much will you need to spend on a sophisticated train tool like this one? Wireless dog fences run anywhere from just under a hundred dollars to quite a few hundred. The difference in price depends on the quality. You may also need to buy a more expensive invisible fence if you have a larger property as those with a wider range are a bit more pricey.

What exactly is an invisible dog fence. Well it is a simple device that is comprised of two main parts, the transmitter and the receivers. The transmitter is a simple device that broadcasts a specific signal and the receivers receive that signal. The receiver then sits on a dog collar that you place around your pet's neck like any traditional collar.

Whenever your dog run off and tries to leave your property they will hear a warning sound. This warning is to let them know that they are playing where they shouldn't be playing. If they continue to disobey your rules they will receive a correction. This is a painless, more of a loud snap, way to let them no that it isn't acceptable to go any further. They will then turn back and the learning process will begin.

You can have your invisible dog fence up and running in just a few minutes. Simply, turn on the transmitter and turn on the receivers and place them on your pets. There is no need to place the transmitter anywhere in particular as the signal, like radio waves, can not be distorted by walls or doors. It's that simple.

Here is what can be expected by using a wireless dog fence. Your pets will learn their boundaries with little to no supervision. You will be able to let your dogs roam freely around your property without worrying about them running off or getting hurt. You may notice that your pets are more well behaved and more receptive to your commands.

There is something else you may notice while using the electric dog fence and that is that over time your pet will no longer wander near the edges of your property. This means that the training is working and you may soon no longer even need to put the receiver on your pet when you let them out to play. Your dog or dogs will truly be trained. - 31975

About the Author:

Want more info on this topic, stop by Invisible Dog Fence. A site devoted to wireless dog fences.

Naural Arthritis Remedy - MSM for Dogs

By Jennefer Poultson

Dog arthritis can be caused by injury, congenital defects, or ageing. Surprisingly, injury is a major cause of arthritis in dogs, and therefore affects many younger dogs. Quite minor injuries can result in the condition. A predisposition to conditions such as hip dysplasia can cause early onset of an arthritic condition in dogs. Older dogs who have never suffered an injury are likely to develop arthritis as they age.

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

Dog arthritis begins as a gradual limpness in the affected limb or limbs and may progress to lameness. An advanced case will reveal itself as a dog that is less active in play, on walks and generally has difficulty walking. The stiffness and pain are more likely to be pronounced in the morning or after a nap ? when the dog has been sleeping in the same position for some time. During the day when the dog is most active, the pain is generally minimal.

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

There is arthritis medicine for dogs that will help treat the inflammation. However, many dog owners find that natural treatments for arthritis in dogs are more helpful. Glucosamine for dogs and MSM for dogs are two popular natural ingredients for dog arthritis treatments (and arthritis treatments for humans, as well). In fact, many experts are of the view that there are three essential ingredients for an effective natural arthritis treatment - glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM.

Glucosamine is naturally occurring in the body (it is an amino sugar). The process of aging tends to reduce the body's capacity to produce this important sugar. Not found in any important food source, Glucosamine can be derived from the shells of shellfish. Its anti-inflammatory properties can be helpful in treating osteoarthritis both in humans and in animals.

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

However, arthritis remedies of various sorts may be needed along with a change of diet in order to manage the pain and other symptoms of dog arthritis. - 31975

About the Author:

Conventional veterinary medicine has limited solutions for treating dog arthritis, but the good news is that there are natural alternatives that can even reverse canine renal failure.

Dogs and Kidney Disease

By Geraldine Dimarco

A serious and common disease affecting a number of dogs is kidney disease. In older dogs it is probably one of the leading causes of death. Acute or chronic are the two forms that this disease can take. While the acute form happens very suddenly the chronic form starts slowly and gets worse with time. For the owner getting the news of either one is an upsetting thing.

This disease causes a loss of approximately seventy percent of normal kidney function and it is these organs that act as the body's filtration system. If these do not work properly, toxins and waste products slowly build up in the blood. This can lead to a variety of problems, and sadly, eventual death. This unfortunately is the harsh reality of canine kidney disease.

Kidney failure in dogs stops the ability of the body to function properly. Toxins begin to build up in their bodies and once this starts, a number of symptoms and warning signs will more than likely become apparent. These two chronic diseases show different symptoms, the acute form can appear more suddenly. Often, dogs suffering from this type of kidney disease will possibly have become dehydrated. For the owner to test for hydration, gently pull on the skin of your dog's stomach. This should spring back. If it doesn't, there may be a possibility that your dog is dehydrated.

Another telltale sign of the acute kidney disease is the extreme reduction or total stoppage of urine. Your dog would suddenly stop urinating. It is a very excruciating process as the kidneys become quite painful. This is the most obvious sign. You would notice your pet's arched back or stiff leg movement. In such a case, you would need to rush your precious pet to a veterinarian immediately.

There are different symptoms shown with chronic kidney disease. Where they would usually gulp food they may begin to show signs of a decrease in appetite so drastic they do not want to eat. They could even stop eating all together. Weight loss will occur in time. An increase in thirst and the amount of water they drink will increase which is one of the first warning signs that the disease has begun. This signs are common with the condition. There may be an increase in the frequency of urination as the dog can lose bladder control. In some cases urination can become painful and often impossible with blood showing up in the urine. Any signs of urine symptoms, vomiting, lethargic or depressed in your pet should be treated as a warning sign and you should call your vet immediately since canine kidney disease is serious and can be deadly. It could be possible to get control over the disease if it is caught soon enough.

If the veterinarian suspects kidney disease he will usually follow four steps to decide if the dog has the disease or not. A thorough physical examination is what he will normally do first. The dogs relevant history will be gone over with the owner next, things such as their home behavior and symptoms. A blood test and urinary test are the two steps he will take after the first two steps are done. Both tests have to be done to make sure of a correct diagnosis. Whether or not your dog has acute or chronic kidney disease will be confirmed by both of these tests. - 31975

About the Author:

Conventional veterinary medicine has limited solutions for treating kidney failure in dogs, but there are natural alternatives that can even reverse canine renal failure.

Dog Training Tips

By David Perron

When considering adding a new dog to the home, there are many factors to think about. When making this new addition, make sure to prepare for proper training and have the right tools on hand to make the transition easier for the puppy and yourself. While it's possible to train a dog yourself, for those without experience in dog ownership a dog training course with your puppy will be well worth the investment.

If you have heard horror stories from dog ownership, or viewed the show "It's Me or the Dog", make sure this doesn't become you. Whether a new dog, or one you own that has been running your house instead of you, then perhaps you are good candidates for dog training school. Often a dog will misbehave, not because it is a "bad" dog, but because of lack of training. Putting your pooch through a reputable training program will help make your relationship happy and peaceful.

What are the biggest reasons you should choose dog training school as opposed to doing it yourself?

Pet owners tend to get caught in a power struggle with the dog. Dog training includes learning the right body language and tone of voice, as well as a reward system for your dog that still leaves you in control. Owning a dog is like having a child, and sometimes some outside advice can be a lifesaver.

Dog obedience school will provide both puppies and grown dogs the chance to socialize with other canines. Learning to interact with other dogs properly is important when taking your dog out for a walk. Going through a course will also introduce the owner to other owners for the opportunity to develop friendships, and possibly even find a playgroup for your dog.

Dog owners that participate in a class with a formal setting will be taught commands in the premium environment. The instructor will be able to teach the owner to speak so the dog understands, and will be able to model body language needed to get results from your dog. There are tips that while simple, are often not well known to the general public. An instructor will be able to watch you work with your dog and to modify things that need work.

When working in a class setting, your dog will have the advantage of learning with distractions. This is an advantage, since once the dog goes home where there are not the distractions, the skill set should transfer easily. This works better than adding distractions after a skill is learned, where the distraction will actually make the dog forgetful.

By enrolling your dog in a dog training program, you are on the way to a long, satisfying friendship. A well trained dog will ultimately be more secure, well behaved and confident. Being able to trust his owner will give consistent results in behavior. Dogs will also be more predictable around visitors and children when the owner is in charge.

Once your dog is well trained, enjoy the benefits of pet ownership. Owning a dog will reduce your risks of illness, and provides a great outlet for exercise and social interaction as well. That will benefit you and your dog! - 31975

About the Author:

David is the owner and designer of several pet sites. See his dog site for more information on Dog Health Questions. For information on kitties see Cat Health, Cat Care

Dog Training

By Dave Sam

Are you thinking about bringing home a new canine addition to the family? If so, you will want to make sure you are prepared for the proper training and tools necessary to make sure the addition transitions well. While you can opt to train your dog yourself, if you don't have experience it may be well worth taking a dog training course with your puppy.

If you have heard horror stories from dog ownership, or viewed the show "It's Me or the Dog", make sure this doesn't become you. Whether a new dog, or one you own that has been running your house instead of you, then perhaps you are good candidates for dog training school. Often a dog will misbehave, not because it is a "bad" dog, but because of lack of training. Putting your pooch through a reputable training program will help make your relationship happy and peaceful.

What are the biggest reasons to use a dog training program instead of trying it yourself?

Pet owners tend to get caught in a power struggle with the dog. Dog training includes learning the right body language and tone of voice, as well as a reward system for your dog that still leaves you in control. Owning a dog is like having a child, and sometimes some outside advice can be a lifesaver.

Dog obedience school provides young puppies and fully grown dogs the opportunity to socialize. Learning to interact with other canines is an important skill when you take your dog out. By going through a dog obedience course, owners will develop friendships for themselves and their dogs.

Dog owners that participate in a class with a formal setting will be taught commands in the premium environment. The instructor will be able to teach the owner to speak so the dog understands, and will be able to model body language needed to get results from your dog. There are tips that while simple, are often not well known to the general public. An instructor will be able to watch you work with your dog and to modify things that need work.

When working in a class setting, your dog will have the advantage of learning with distractions. This is an advantage, since once the dog goes home where there are not the distractions, the skill set should transfer easily. This works better than adding distractions after a skill is learned, where the distraction will actually make the dog forgetful.

Putting your dog through obedience school is the beginning of a long and satisfying relationship. Having a dog that is well trained results in one that is more secure, confident and well behaved. Trusting its owner and his expectations will result in consistent behavior. Dogs that have gone through obedience school are also safer around children and visitors, and it also prevents undesirable behaviors.

A dog that is trained well will allow you to fully enjoy the benefits of dog ownership. Dogs will also give fringe benefits as well - lower incidences of illness, a source of exercise, and an outlet for social interaction. This benefits both owner and dog! - 31975

About the Author:

Dave has been writing articles on pet care and pet responsibility for over a decade. He also is the designer of several pet sites. Get additional ideas on cat and dog care here Dog Training Products and Cat Care

Your Dog's Misaligned Teeth

By Catherine V. Testaratti

There is a condition prone to puppies called malocclusion, which means that their bit does not fit right. This misalignment of the teeth is common and usually does not affect the dog's ability to eat. However, as the dog grows older, the condition can get worse or could correct itself.

Puppies have very sharp teeth and by the time they are 6 months old, they will have about 28 teeth. Into adulthood, your dog will have 42 teeth. Puppies are notorious for those sharp pointy teeth so it is best to monitor your small child's playtime with the puppy to avoid any accidents.

One of the side effects of this problem is that the dog might have problems picking up or chewing food. Best to have your vet check it out to assure you that your puppy does not run the risk of a fracture or wear on the teeth. Many times this condition has minimal effect with the dog eating.

While there are many breeds with this affliction naturally, the overbite and underbite are the most common malocclusion. Most dogs seem to be unaffected by this problem. The scissor bite is also most common, except in the flat nose breeds.

The scissor bite is not something that you will find in all dogs. Boxers, Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos are some of the most common of the flat nose breed. Something you need to know when you are purchasing a purebred dog from this family.

Smaller gaps in puppies can usually correct themselves. If a dog is older than 10 months, then the gap is already set and you will need to seek the help of your vet to correct it. If it were not affecting the dogs eating or picking up, then I would not worry.

Your dog's overbite may worsen as the permanent teeth come in because they are larger and can damage the soft parts of the mouth. Teeth extractions are sometimes necessary. Just check with your vet if you are concerned or notice that the dog is not eating.

Depending on the severity, you might just want to consult your vet for their opinion. I have heard of situation where puppies have been fitted with braces, but I do not think I am ready for that. What will they think of next; contact lenses?

Many dog owners consider their dog a big part of their family. Be sure that they are vaccinated regularly to keep them protected from disease. They deserve to live a long and happy life with the rest of the family. - 31975

About the Author:

Have a Pet that you Care For? Check out Catherine's recommended Pet Supplies for Dogs online store that uses nature's best ingredients. They have the most wonderful Natural Organic Dog Shampoos on the market.

Dog Arthritis Medicines - what Are the Choices?

By Jennefer Poultson

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

Dog arthritis comes in various forms. Just as in humans, arthritis is an inflammation in the joints. A dog may develop arthritis anywhere that they have a joint. The cartilage in the joint may be inflamed or it may be synovial fluid which is at issue in some cases. The most common types of dog arthritis are osteoarthritis, infective, immune mediated and idiopathic arthritis.

Dog arthritis symptoms usually involve a gradual onset of limpness in the limbs. In other words, lameness will result to the point where the dog finds it difficult to walk. Most often a dog will also be less likely to be active in activities such as walks, playing, or even going up stairs. The stiffness of the limbs is likely to be more pronounced in the mornings or after long naps, but the stiffness often disappears through the day.

A dog afflicted with arthritis will tend to feel pain if their limbs are touched near to where the joint is inflamed. There is usually swelling as well, and you may be able to feel this.

Dogs with arthritis can be treated with medications which are available to help manage the inflammation. However, a lot of dog owners prefer to take a more natural route for the treatment of their pet's arthritis. In a lot of cases, these treatments are more effective for the animal. The most popular natural remedies for arthritis in dogs are Glucosamine and MSM. Many experts believe MSM, Glucosamine and Chondroitin to be the three essential ingredients in a dog arthritis treatment regimen.

Glucosamine is naturally occurring in the body (it is an amino sugar). The process of aging tends to reduce the body's capacity to produce this important sugar. Not found in any important food source, Glucosamine can be derived from the shells of shellfish. Its anti-inflammatory properties can be helpful in treating osteoarthritis both in humans and in animals.

In many cases, a change in diet may be sufficient to alleviate arthritis in dogs. Some arthritic conditions will respond to this step in conjunction with exercise. Obesity can be a factor in the development of arthritis, so by keeping the animal at a healthy weight, the aches and pains of arthritis can be taken away, as well as keeping the dog in a better overall state of health.

However, arthritis remedies of various sorts may be needed along with a change of diet in order to manage the pain and other symptoms of dog arthritis. - 31975

About the Author:

Veterinary medicine has limited answers for treating dog arthritis, but there are natural alternatives that can even reverse canine arthritis.

Arthritis in Dogs

By Jennefer Poultson

Dog arthritis can be due to a number of causes, chief among them congenital abnormalities, injuries and of course, the effects of the aging process. Even minor injuries can result in arthritis in dogs. Certain conditions, such as hip dysplasia are more common in some dogs than others and this predisposition can also indicate a higher likelihood of arthritis in dogs. Of course, older dogs who have never suffered an injury may develop the ailment as they get older.

Dog arthritis comes in various forms. Just as in humans, arthritis is an inflammation in the joints. A dog may develop arthritis anywhere that they have a joint. The cartilage in the joint may be inflamed or it may be synovial fluid which is at issue in some cases. The most common types of dog arthritis are osteoarthritis, infective, immune mediated and idiopathic arthritis.

Arthritis in dogs is usually first manifested as a slow and gradual limpness in the limbs. Lameness will be the result and may reach the point where the dog has a hard time walking. This will lead in most cases to the dog being less active in play, walks and even moving about the home. Stiffness is likely to be more severe in the morning or after a nap but the stiffness is often minimal in the daytime, however.

A dog with arthritis will also feel pain in the joints when you touch their limbs near the affected area. Another symptom may be swelling of the limb around the joint. This may not be visible to the naked eye, however.

Dogs with arthritis can be treated with medications which are available to help manage the inflammation. However, a lot of dog owners prefer to take a more natural route for the treatment of their pet's arthritis. In a lot of cases, these treatments are more effective for the animal. The most popular natural remedies for arthritis in dogs are Glucosamine and MSM. Many experts believe MSM, Glucosamine and Chondroitin to be the three essential ingredients in a dog arthritis treatment regimen.

Glucosamine is an amino sugar that occurs naturally in the body. However, the ageing process is thought to diminish the body's ability to produce sufficient glucosamine for the body's needs. Glucosamine is not found in any primary food source, but is derived from the shell of shellfish. It has anti inflammatory properties that can be very effective in managing osteoarthritis in both humans and animals.

In many cases, a change in diet may be sufficient to alleviate arthritis in dogs. Some arthritic conditions will respond to this step in conjunction with exercise. Obesity can be a factor in the development of arthritis, so by keeping the animal at a healthy weight, the aches and pains of arthritis can be taken away, as well as keeping the dog in a better overall state of health.

However, arthritis remedies of various sorts may be needed along with a change of diet in order to manage the pain and other symptoms of dog arthritis. - 31975

About the Author:

Conventional veterinary medicine has limited answers for treating arthritis in dogs, but there are natural alternatives that can even reverse canine renal failure.

Glucosamine for Dogs

By Jennefer Poultson

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

Dog arthritis comes in various forms. Just as in humans, arthritis is an inflammation in the joints. A dog may develop arthritis anywhere that they have a joint. The cartilage in the joint may be inflamed or it may be synovial fluid which is at issue in some cases. The most common types of dog arthritis are osteoarthritis, infective, immune mediated and idiopathic arthritis.

Dog arthritis symptoms usually involve a gradual onset of limpness in the limbs. In other words, lameness will result to the point where the dog finds it difficult to walk. Most often a dog will also be less likely to be active in activities such as walks, playing, or even going up stairs. The stiffness of the limbs is likely to be more pronounced in the mornings or after long naps, but the stiffness often disappears through the day.

A dog afflicted with arthritis will tend to feel pain if their limbs are touched near to where the joint is inflamed. There is usually swelling as well, and you may be able to feel this.

Arthritis medicine is available for dogs who suffer from the condition ? this can treat the inflammation. Many dog owners instead opt for more natural methods of treatment for their pet, finding them more helpful in many cases. Glucosamine and MSM are two popular natural dog arthritis treatments (they are also used in humans with arthritis). A lot of experts in the field think that arthritis is best treated by a combination of MSM, Glucosamine and Chondroitin.

Glucosamine is an amino sugar which occurs naturally in the body ? but part of the effects of aging is the loss of the ability to produce enough of this sugar for the body's needs. Glucosamine is not found in any significant food source, but can be obtained from the shells of shellfish. The anti-inflammatory effects it offers are very useful in the treatment of arthritis, in humans and in animals alike.

In many cases, a change in diet may be sufficient to alleviate arthritis in dogs. Some arthritic conditions will respond to this step in conjunction with exercise. Obesity can be a factor in the development of arthritis, so by keeping the animal at a healthy weight, the aches and pains of arthritis can be taken away, as well as keeping the dog in a better overall state of health.

For some dogs, arthritis remedies must be used in conjunction with a change in the animal's diet to best treat the symptoms of dog arthritis. - 31975

About the Author:

Conventional veterinary medicine has limited answers for treating arthritis in dogs, but the good news is that there are natural alternatives that can even reverse canine arthritis.